Organized 1885

Official Organ of the Sailors' Union of the Pacific

Volume LXVII No. 10 SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA Friday, October 22, 2004 John Kerry for President MarAd receives MSP

he American Union extend affordable health care to the Bush administration has applications — APL and T movement is united and 95 percent of Americans so they turned a record budget surplus mobilized to elect John get the same coverage as mem- projected at $1.3 trillion for Matson apply for slots Kerry, President of the United bers of Congress. Health experts 2001-2004, into a record bud- States, and his running mate John have asserted that Kerry’s plan get deficit. Bush’s tax cuts were Edwards, Vice President. s of the October 15, Matson Navigation Company deadline for submitting applied for operating agreements Throughout his 18-year A for three “handy-sized, self-sus- applications to the Senate career, Kerry has Maritime Administration for taining ships.” It is expected that voted for labor’s position 91 participation in the new Mari- these vessels will be used in the percent of the time. time Security Program, 25 com- company’s Guam service. For Kerry supports workers’ panies have submitted applica- more information, see the right to organize and have tions for 142 vessels to be en- President’s Report on page 9. card-check recognition in or- rolled, although only 60 ships In addition to APL and ganizing drives. He opposes are authorized under the en- Matson, the other companies President Bush’s plan to elimi- abling legislation. vying for MSP slots are AHL nate overtime pay, supports The new program goes into Shipping Company; American ergonomic safeguards on the effect on October 1, 2005, but Auto Carriers, Inc.; Central job, has co-sponsored legisla- a decision on the applications Gulf Lines, Inc.; Farrell Lines, tion to outlaw striker replace- will be made no later than 90 Inc.; Fidelio Limited Partner- ment and wants to index the days after October 15, 2004. By ship; Fine Line LLC; Great minimum wage to inflation that date (January 13, 2005) the American Lines (USA), Inc.; and extend and improve un- Secretary of Transportation, in Horizon Lines, LLC; Keystone employment benefits. conjunction with the Secretary Shipping Company; Liberty Kerry’s record is not per- of Defense, shall announce the Global Logistics, LLC; Liberty fect. In the past he has sup- approval of the applications. Shipping Group, LLC; Lykes will lower private health insur- responsible for $620 billion of ported the free trade policies of APL Marine Services, Ltd., Lines Ltd., LLC; Maersk Line, ance costs and expand the num- that deficit, including $290 bil- both the Clinton and Bush ad- a new subsidiary of American Ltd.; Marine Transportation ber of people covered. Lower- lion in 2004 alone. Bush’s tax ministrations that have been so President Lines/Neptune Orient Corporation; Ocean Shiphold- ing the cost of care will help the cuts benefitted the richest one devastating to the nation’s manu- Line, submitted applications for ings, Inc.; OSG Shipholdings organized labor retain health percent of U.S. households. facturing base and its good blue- nine operating agreements or Group, Inc.; Patriot Shipping, coverage for its members. collar jobs. However, Kerry’s Bush has used “national secu- “slots.” The nine slots cover the LLC; Seabulk International, position has evolved. He is com- Kerry is very concerned about rity” and the September 11 trag- APL China, APL Korea, APL Inc.; TOS-II, LLC; U.S. Ship mitted to voting against the Cen- the outsourcing of American edy to justify an attack on Philippines, APL Singapore, Management, Inc.; Waterman tral American Free Trade jobs. He has vowed to stop tax American workers’ collective APL Thailand, President Steamship Corporation and Agreement and the Free Trade breaks to companies that send bargaining rights and civil lib- Adams, President Jackson, Wy’East Shipping Company. Agreement of the Americas un- American jobs overseas and cre- erties. During consideration of President Polk and President The number of operating agree- less these agreements include ate tax incentives to keep good the Homeland Security bill, Truman which are currently op- ments each of these companies meaningful labor, environmen- jobs at home. Kerry also advo- Bush insisted on unprecedented erated by American Ship Man- applied for was not released by tal and human rights provisions. cates denying government con- power to strip collective bargain- agement (ASM). As the West MarAd and probably will not be known until January 13, 2005. On the critical issue of health tracts to companies that move ing rights from hundreds of Coast Sailors goes to press, APL The new program expands the care coverage, Kerry plans to offshore. thousand of federal worker. representatives were non-com- The American labor move- Bush allies even had the audac- mittal as to whether APL would size of the fleet from the cur- ment cannot survive another ity to attack Senator Max operate the vessels, continue to rent 47 to 60 privately-owned, four years of George W. Bush Cleland (D-GA), a Vietnam War have ASM operate them, or en- militarily-useful U.S.-flag com- and his band of megalomaniac gage a third party operator. mercial vessels operating in for- advisors. In less than four years, continued on page 2 eign commerce. While MSP payments to ves- sel operators have remained fro- Second class postage paid at San Francisco, CA (USPS 675-180) Pro-U.S.-flag tonnage tax bill sent to White House zen at $2.1 million per ship since Major corporate tax legisla- ing and enhancing maritime em- eign shipping income of a con- 1996, the new MSF program au- tion (The American Jobs Cre- ployment opportunities for trolled foreign corporation that thorizes an annual per vessel pay- ation Act) containing a key pro- American mariners. is affiliated with a U.S. com- ment of $2.6 million in fiscal vision to the U.S. maritime in- The legislation allows compa- pany. This provision, like the years 2009, 2010 and 2011. In dustry was sent by Congress to nies to elect a U.S. tax regime tonnage tax provision, further fiscal years 2012, 2013, 2014 and President Bush on October 11. based on the “net tonnage”— or enhances U.S. companies com- 2015, the amount is increased to The “tonnage tax” provision weigh in tons— of their U.S.- petitiveness in the foreign $3.1 million per vessel. spearheaded by Representative flag fleet, in lieu of regular in- trades. It includes a provision As with the current program, William Jefferson (D-LA) and come tax. This is an approach that eliminates the 4.3 percent the new program is subject to Representative James McCrey like that used in many major excise tax on diesel fuel imposed annual Congressional appropria- (R-LA) in the House and John trading nations and is aimed at on the towing and railroad in- tion. If funds are not authorized, Breaux (D-LA), Trent Lott (R- aiding U.S.-flag shipping com- dustries. This tax placed an un- vessel owners and operators are MS) and Gordon Smith (R-OR) panies competitiveness in the equitable and unnecessary eco- permitted to flag-out their ships. global market. in the Senate, will benefit U.S.- nomic burden on critical com- For more information on flag shipowners engaged in the This also includes a provision ponents of the nation’s transpor- MSP, see the November 2003 international trades by preserv- that defers U.S. tax on the for- tation industry. West Coast Sailors. Election Endorsements: Pages 4 & 5 VOTE NOVEMBER 2 ESU NEWS: Pages 6 & 7 Page 2 WEST COAST SAILORS Friday, October 22, 2004 SUP Honor Roll Final Departures Voluntary contributions from the membership to the following funds: Ronald Charles Christensen, Book Ruppert Griffith, Book No. 2008. No. 4766. Born in California in 1939. Born in Canada in 1915. Joined SUP in Organization/ Political Fund Joined SUP in 1966. Died in California, 1934. Died in Camano Island, Washing- General Fund Rogelio Berioso ...... 10.00 August 25, 2004. (Pensioner) ton, September 9, 2004. (Pensioner) Donald Diedrickson, Book No. 2375. *In lieu of dues increase. Bredan Bohanan ...... 50.00 Mike Boyle ...... 20.00 Born in New York in 1927. Joined SUP Jose Angeles ...... 15.00 in 1946. Died in San Francisco, Califor- Stephen Campbell ...... 100.00 Bredan Bohanaan ...... 20.00* nia, August 8, 2004. (Pensioner) Dave Connolly ...... 50.00 Christopher Bujnowski ..... 10.00 Raymond P. Caderao, Book No. Earl Eastmark ...... 70.00 Mike Duvall ...... 20.00* 4743. Born in California in 1932. Joined Dale Gibson ...... 20.00 “Tattoo” Gardiner ...... 20.00* SUP in 1957. Died in Harbor City, Cali- Joseph Ginez ...... 10.00 John Gouveia ...... 50.00 fornia, September 14, 2004. (Pensioner) Published monthly by the Sailors Union of John Gouveia ...... 100.00 John Lewis, Book No. 4045. Born in the Pacific (an affiliate of the Seafarers Interna- Duane Hewitt ...... 20.00* , Chris Haluska ...... 70.00 Mississippi in 1923. Joined SUP in 1951. tional Union of North America, AFL-CIO) Hannu Kurppa ...... 60.00* Headquarters, 450 Harrison St., San Fran- John Hamann ...... 20.00 Died in Hattieburg, Mississippi, Septem- cisco, CA 94105. Phone: 415-777-3400. Gabriel McDonald ...... 10.00 Jill Holleman ...... 15.00 ber 14, 2004. (Pensioner) FAX: 415-777-5088. Dispatcher: 415-777- Carlos Medina ...... 20.00* Sedek Idris ...... 20.00 3616. Website: www.sailors.org. Second David Mercer ...... 20.00* John Kerry for President class postage paid at San Francisco. (USPS Patrick Kuhn ...... 40.00 675-180). Printed by Howard Quinn Co., a Emmanuel Rezada ...... 100.00 Larry Loe ...... 10.00 from page 1 Union shop. Francisco Rosales ...... 50.00 John Lundborg ...... 200.00 veteran and triple amputee, for being soft Gunnar Lundeberg, Whitey Secrest ...... 50.00 on terrorism when he disagreed with this President/Secretary-Treasurer Gunnar Lundeberg ...... 50.00 J. Thompson in memory of wholesale theft of rights. Teresa Anibale, Editor Vince O’Halloran ...... 100.00 In the wake of the September 11 trag- P. Caldwell...... 20.00 Donald Persian ...... 40.00 BRANCH OFFICES Tom Tynan ...... 20.00* edy, Bush pushed the so-called Patriot Act Seattle, WA 98106 O. Ryan ...... 25.00 through Congress. The Patriot Act allows Justin Williamson ...... 10.00 2414 SW Andover St. (206) 467-7944 James Savage ...... 20.00 the FBI to investigate American citizens Bldg. F, Ste. 105 FAX: (206) 467-8119 J.B. Winterling ...... 100.00 Gregory Schauf ...... 20.00 and residents based in part on their exer- Wilmington, CA 90744 Greg Smith ...... 20.00 cise of their First Amendment rights. The 533 N. Marine Ave. (310) 835-6617 West Coast FBI can spy on people because it doesn’t FAX: (310) 835-9367 Robert Vandermey ...... 20.00 Honolulu, HI 96813 Eric Weintraub ...... 20.00 like the books they read or the web sites 707 Alakea St. (808) 533-2777 Sailors they visit. It can spy on people who write Danilio Ycoy ...... 10.00 FAX: (808) 531-3058 Gerald Allen ...... 25.00 letters to the editor criticizing U.S. gov- Jacksonville, FL 32206 th Emo Aulelaua ...... 10.00 Dues-Paying ernment policy or on Union members who 349 East 20 St. (904) 598-9909 stand up for their rights. FAX: (904) 598-9910 Lee Cherry ...... 20.00 Pensioners Who can forget the Bush Cal Cunningham ...... 25.00 WELFARE OFFICE Romaine Dudley Book #2593 administration’s conduct during the West (415) 778-5490 Manoru Fukano ...... 25.00 Duane Hewitt Book #5748 Coast longshore negotiations in 2002? It PENSION PLAN OFFICE John Gouveia ...... 50.00 Knud Jensen Book #3940 threatened to take away the International (415) 437-6889 Clinton Gregg ...... 100.00 John Jewett Book #4291 Longshore and Warehouse Union’s col- lective bargaining rights. An administra- James Hearn ...... 25.00 Tony Jones Book #4305 tion official acknowledged that they were SUP Meetings Lani Kalama in memory of Kaj E. Kristensen Book #3120 prepared to use federal troops to replace Henry and our son These are the dates for the regularly Eli Lalich Book #4062 striking longshore workers. In an unprec- Henry E. Kalama ...... 100.00 scheduled SUP meetings in 2004: Gunnar Larsen Book #3516 edented move, the administration in- Hdqs. Branch Alberto Laurel ...... 10.00 Orson Larsen Book #4095 voked the Taft-Hartley Act against the November 8 15 Donald O’Halloran ...... 20.00 John McKeon Book #6456 ILWU in an employer lockout. December 13 20 Marselino Oliviez ...... 25.00 Joseph Napier Book #2299 Send George Bush back to Crawford, Ronald Pittman ...... 25.00 John Pedersen Book #3834 Texas by electing John Kerry, President. Armando Rodriguez...... 25.00 John Perez Book #3810 Veteran’s Day Francisco Rosales ...... 20.00 Cliff Rouleau Book #3144 Holiday Ted Soberberg ...... 20.00 Ralph Senter Book #7323 Vote Richard Walsh...... 10.00 Jack Stasko Book #7430 Thursday, November 11 November 2 All SUP halls are closed Friday, October 22, 2004 WEST COAST SAILORS Page 3 Honolulu to develop new cargo facility

Port management in Honolulu is push- about $200 million, the additional fa- ing a plan to develop approximately 70 cility could increase Honolulu’s con- acres of a military reserve into a new tainer capacity by half again. In the freight terminal, as strong cargo volumes meantime, the port’s two main opera- squeeze storage facilities at the port. The tors —Matson and Horizon Lines— are state is trying to advance plans so that taking their own steps to optimize space. the Kapalama Military Reserve might Matson has recently invested $31 mil- become a cargo facility by 2011, two lion to expand its container stacking years earlier than planned, according to capacity by 10 percent, and Horizon has a report in the Honolulu Advertiser. taken on extra land (about 10 acres) to After redevelopment, which will cost relieve pressure on space. Oregon pilots face consolidation The port of Portland is looking to consolidate the Columbia River Bar Pilots and Columbia River Pilots while laying off its own staff and cutting costs after losing calls from two of three container lines. The bar pilots are responsible for delivering ships safely through sandbars at the treacherous mouth of the Columbia River while the river pilots are responsible for completing the 86 nautical-mile trip to Portland. The bar pilots use helicopters to reach vessels waiting to enter the Columbia River, an operation that can take from two to six hours. At present there are 16 bar pilots Los Angeles/Long Beach Harbor Labor Solidarity Cruise, September 4, in the and 46 river pilots. Lane Victory: From left: Mr. & Mrs. John Makaiwi and son, Mr. & Mrs. Brian Masters, Cliff Rouleau, Mr. & Mrs. Ken “Sinbad” Delancey, Wilmington Branch The bar pilots are arguing that safety would be put in jeopardy by the consoli- Agent Keith Miller, Gabe McDonald & nephew, and Charlie Schwab, seated. dation and there would be very few savings. The shipping companies, on the other hand, are arguing that millions could be saved, making Columbia River ports more competitive. The two lines to leave the port are K line and Hyundai Merchant Marine. Whales cannot file lawsuits in U.S. Whales cannot file lawsuits in U.S. federal courts. Nor can porpoises or dolphins Sri Lankan sailors to crew Norwegian ships under a ruling handed down on October 20, by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals Sri Lanka is preparing to sign an agree- seafarers have been unable to find em- in California. ment with Norway that would help its ployment on Norwegian-registered ves- Hawaiian attorney Lanny Sinkin had brought suit against President George Bush seafarers get jobs on Norwegian-flagged sels. Presently, about 25,000 seafarers and Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld on behalf of cetaceans everywhere, vessels. The move follows talks between are registered with the Merchant Ship- urging the courts to halt the Navy’s use of Surveillance Towed Array Sensor Sys- shipping industry officials of the two ping Division but only 11,000 are be- tem Low Frequency Active Sonar during wartime or heightened threat conditions. countries that is expected to result in a lieved to have regular work. It is acknowledged that such underwater sonar systems do interfere with cetacean memorandum of understanding between Sri Lanka is keen to promote seafar- communication and navigation faculties. the Merchant Shipping Division of Sri ing as a career as it helps to earn foreign Writing for the three member court, Judge William A Fletcher opined that “ani- Lanka’s Ministry of Ports and the Nor- exchange, a Ports Ministry official said. mals are not authorized to sue in their own names to protect themselves.” Sinkin wegian Maritime Directorate. The agree- Sri Lanka has also held talks with Bel- had sued under the Endangered Species Act, the Marine Mammal Protection Act, ment will enable certificates of compe- gium for a similar agreement that would the National Environmental Protection Act, and the Administrative Procedure Act. tence issued by the Merchant Shipping enable its seamen to get jobs on Belgian- None of his clients could be reached for comment. Division to be recognized by Norwegian flagged vessels. shipowners, without which Sri Lankan Southern California casual system not working Casual workers will not solve the back- the two ports, but Arian says those work- Multiple wrecks block Iraq port access logs at the ports of Los Angeles and Long ers who are paid less than full-timers and Beach, according to one labor leader who do not get job benefits are not dedicated Access to Iraq’s ports is being blocked by over 280 wrecks, identified by a U.N. Development Program (UNDP) survey which says 40 major wrecks should be re- suggests making at least 1,000 part-tim- to the job. The casual labor strategy was moved immediately. The survey identified 282 wrecks in the areas around Umm ers registered or full-time employees. mutually agreed to by the ILWU and the Qasr and Al-Zubair, adding that hundreds of other ships lie submerged in the chan- Speaking to the Western Cargo Con- Pacific Maritime Association during the nels to the north of Umm Qasr and near Kuwait’s territorial waters. Many of these ference of freight forwarders and cus- summer as backlogs began to become a sunken vessels date from the Iraq-Iran war of 1980-88 and the two subsequent toms brokers, Dave Arian, president of problem. Now, with the issue not relent- actions against Iraq in 1991 and 2003. Local 13 of the International Longshore ing, the Union wants to convert some of the casuals to full-time union workers. The UNDP suggests that the individual cost for salvaging the 40 large wrecks and Warehouse Union (ILWU) stressed would be between $1 million and $8 million per ship, and estimates removal of the that the 2,000 part-time workers are not A big part of the problem with casuals, others and restoring prior depths at costing $34 million. Offsetting this would be getting the job done. Plans call for as everyone involved acknowledges, is that the $190 million that Iraq currently spends on importing goods over land rather many as 5,000 casual workers to be hired only about half turn up for work which than using its own ports. UNDP has spent $60 million to date on dredging and to augment full-time union stevedores at makes scheduling difficult. wreck removal. Coast Guard gets AIS frequencies Schwarzenegger signs bill to ban cruiseships Exclusive rights to one Automatic Identification System (AIS) frequency described from dumping within three miles of coast as the “key to the future” by communications vendor MariTEL will revert to the U.S. government. This decision was revealed on October 15, by the Federal Com- California Governor Arnold more than 250 passengers and from the munications Commission. The “memorandum opinion and order and notice of pro- Schwarzenegger signed legislation last dumping of graywater —shower, laun- posed rulemaking” will strip MariTEL of the exclusive rights for marine channel month that would ban cruiseships from dry, bath and washbasin draining— 87B and 88B so the Coast Guard can have full and unlimited use of the frequencies incinerating trash or dumping used within three miles of California. for AIS development. The frequencies will be used by the Coast Guard largely for shower and sink water within three miles “There has never been a bill like this the service’s maritime domain awareness program in conjunction with homeland of the California coast. graywater bill passed in any state,” said security. The order takes effect 75 days after being published in the federal register, California, often a U.S. state pioneer in Sam Haswell, a spokesman for environ- allowing time for comments and replies. environmental protection legislation, al- mental group Oceana. In its order, the FCC invites the Coast Guard and MariTEL to cooperate in finding a resolution to their conflict over the AIS system. Separate from the FCC ready regulates cruiseship release of haz- An aide said Schwarzenegger was also issue, a lawsuit between the Coast Guard and MariTEL is continuing in federal ardous waste and sludge into its waters. expected to sign a third bill that could court with the most recent ruling in August denying the Coast Guard’s request for The latest measure seeks to protect the ban cruiseship dumping of sewage near dismissal of the case. air from incineration on ships carrying the shore. Long Beach wants to use shore power in Myanmar mariners are the world’s cheapest Seafarers from Myanmar, (Burma) seafarers are the cheapest and, together lieu of onboard generators to cut pollution have been found to be the most cost com- with Vietnamese crews, are available on Long Beach, California port officials are looking to use shore power for visiting petitive, a study into new sources of easy employment terms. Ukraine and vessels as a partial solution for air pollution issues. Earlier this month the port com- crews by the Korean Shipowners’ Asso- Polish seafarers are ahead in terms of mission added $50,000 to an existing $350,000 study of ‘cold ironing’ —the process ciation has revealed. The study is based training and competence. The associa- of using shore power in lieu of onboard diesel generators to power visiting ships. on information gathered first hand by a tion will release the final report after The project focuses on the proposed Pier J, where the port commission recently team of experts that visited Myanmar, another inspection in November this rejected environmental studies of the project because plans for the new terminal Vietnam, Poland, Ukraine and Croatia. year. Employing foreign crew is re- didn’t afford sufficient relief from air pollution. Bowing to charges that vessels with While Ukrainian seafarers had an edge stricted in South Korea, but a number of running engines or generators are the largest stationary source of air pollution, the in terms of quality, a drawback in re- ships owned by Korean owners are nearby port of Los Angeles has already begun use of cold ironing on a few of its cruiting them was that they are available flagged in Panama and other flags of con- docks with an eye toward expanding the program. for only six months in a year. Myanmar venience registers. Page 4 WEST COAST SAILORS Friday, October 22, 2004 Washington State Labor Council AFL-CIO Endorsements

Statewide State Senate/House President: John Kerry Governor: Christine Gregoire 1st: Senate: Rosemary McAuliffe Vice Pres.: John Edwards Attorney General: Deborah Senn House 1: Al O’Brien; House 2: Mark Ericks Auditor: Brian Sonntag 2nd: Senate: Marilyn Rasmussen; House 2: Tom Campbell U.S. Senate Insurance Commissioner: Mike Kreidler 3rd: Senate: Lisa Brown Patty Murray Lands Commissioner: Mike Cooper House 1: Alex Wood; House 2: Timm Ormsby Lt. Governor: Brad Owen 4th: Senate: Tim Hattenburg Secretary of State: Laura Ruderman House 1: James Peck; House 2: Ed Foote State Treasurer: Mike Murphy 5th: Senate: Kathleen Huckabay Superintendent of Public Instruction: No action House 1: Barbara DeMichele; House 2: Jeffrey Griffin Supreme Court Pos. 1: Mary Kay Becker 6th: Senate: Laurie Dolan House 1: Don Barlow; House 2: Douglas Dobbins 7th: House 1: Jack Miller Ballot Measures 8th: Senate: John David Reject Referendum 55 - Charter Schools - A “Reject” vote House 1: Shirley Hankins*; House 2: Jerad Koepp will repeal controversial new legislation allowing mil- 9th: Senate: Gail Rowland; House 2: Eileen Macoll lions of public school dollars to be diverted to unaccount- 10th: Senate: Mary Margaret Haugen able private charter schools. House 1: Nancy Conard; House 2: Mark Norton Initiative 297 - Radioactive Waste - Adding new restric- 11th: Senate: Margarita Prentice U.S. House tions on hazardous waste disposal at Hanford Nuclear House 1: Zach Hudgins; House 2: Bob Hasegawa 1st District: Jay Inslee Reservation...... No 12th: House 1: Tony Zinman 2nd District: Rick Larsen Initiative 884 - Education Trust Fund - Reducing class sizes, investing in teacher retention and training, addition pre- 13th: House 1: Dale Hubbard 3rd District: Brian Baird school slots and expanding college enrollment through a 14th: House 2: Clarence Gipson 4th District: Sandy Matheson penny sales tax hike...... Yes 16th: Senate: Rebecca Francik; House 2: Bill Grant** 5th District: Don Barbieri Initiative 892 - Gambling - Expanding non-tribal gambling 17th: Senate: Paul Waadevig; House 2: Deb Wallace 6th District: Norm Dicks throughout the State of Washington and taxing the win- 18th: Senate: David Seabrook 7th District: Jim McDermott nings...... No House 1: Pam Brokaw; House 2: Brian Beecher 8th District: Dave Ross 9th District: Adam Smith 19th: Senate: Mark Doumit House 1: Brian Hatfield; House 2: Brian Blake 20th: Senate: Chuck Bojarski; House 1: Joel Staloch Oregon State 21st: House 1: Mary Helen Roberts; 2: Brian Sullivan 22nd: Senate: Karen Fraser AFL-CIO Endorsements House 1: Brendan Williams; House 2: Sam Hunt 23rd: Senate: Phil Rockefeller U.S. Senate House 1: Sherry Appleton; House 2: Terrell Ducheane President: John Kerry 24th: House 1: Kevin Van DeWege Vice Pres.: John Edwards Ron Wyden 25th: Senate: Jim Kastama U.S. Congress House 1: Ron Morris; House 2: Dawn Morrell State candidates Dist. 1: David Wu 26th: House 1: Patricia Lantz; House 2: Derek Kilmer Dist. 3: Earl Blumenauer 27th: Senate: Debbie Regala Secretary of State: Dist. 4: Peter DeFazio Ron Wyden House 1: Dennis Flanagan; House 2: Jeannie Darneille Bill Bradbury Dist. 5: Darlene Hooley 28th: Senate: Helen McGovern State Treasurer: House 1: Deborah Srail; House 2: Tami Green Randall Edwards State Assembly 29th: House 1: Steve Conway; House 2: Steve Kirby Attorney General: 30th: House 1: Mark Miloscia; House 2: Joseph Henry Hardy Myers 5. Peter Buckley 29. Chuck Riley 32nd: House 1: Maralyn Chase 6. John Doty 31. Betsy Johnson 33rd: House 1: Shay Schual-Berke; House 2: Dave Upthegrove 7. Shirley Cairns 32. Deborah Boone 34th: House 1: Eileen Cody; House 2: Joe McDermott State Senate 8. Paul Holvey 33. Mitch Greenlick 35th: House 1: Kathryn Haigh; House 2: Bill Eickmeyer 9. Arnie Roblan 34. Brad Avakian 36th: House 2: Mary Lou Dickerson 10. Jean Cowan 35. Larry Galizio 1. Bruce Cronk 37th: House 1: Sharon Tomiko-Santos; House 2: Eric Pettigrew 11. Phil Barnhart 36. Mary Nolan 3. Alan Bates 38th: Senate: Jean Berkey 4. Floyd Prozanski 12. E. Terry Beyer 37. Jim Morton House 1: John McCoy; House 2: Michael Sells 5. Joanne Verger 13. Robert Ackerman 38. Greg Macpherson 12. Hank Franzoni 14. Bev Ficek 39. Doug Neeley 39th: Senate: Susanne Olson 14. Ryan Deckert 15. Wesley Price 40. Dave Hunt House 1: Joel Selling; House 2: Pedro Gonzales 18. Ginny Burdick 16. Kelley Wirth 41. Carolyn Tomei 40th: Senate: Harriet Spanel 18. Jim Gilbert 42. Diane Rosenbaum 21. Kate Brown 41st: Senate: Brian Weinstein; House 2: Judy Clibborn 19. Brian Grisham 43. Chip Shields 23. Avel Gordly 42nd: House 1: Robin Bailey; House 2: Kelli Linville 25. Laurie Monnes Anderson 22. Betty Komp 44. Gary Hansen 27. Ben Westlund 23. Dick Reynolds 45. Jackie Dingfelder 43rd: House 1: Ed Murray; House 2: Frank Chopp 28. Ross Carroll 27. Mark Hass 46. Steve March 44th: House 1: Hans Dunshee; House 2: John Lovick 29. David Nelson 28. Jeff Barker 47. Jeff Merkley 45th: House 2: Larry Springer 48. Mike Schaufler 46th: House 1: Jim McIntire; House 2: Phyllis Kenney 50. Jim Buck 47th: House 1: Geoff Simpson; House 2: Patrick Sullivan Ballot Measures 51. Kathryn Firestone 48th: House 1: Ross Hunter; House 2: Debi Golden 54. Judy Stiegler 49th: Senate: Craig Pridemore Measure 34: Overturn Oregon Foresty Plan: Oppose 58. Bob Jenson Measure 35: Medical Malpractice: Oppose 59. Jack Lorts House 1: Bill Fromhold; House 2: Jim Moeller Measure 37: Property Takings: Oppose *limited endorsement Measure 38: Abolish SAIF: Oppose **conditional enforsement Friday, October 22, 2004 WEST COAST SAILORS Page 5 California Labor Federation AFL- CIO Endorsements

13. Fortney “Pete” Stark 44. Louis Vandenberg 19. Gene Mullin 50. Hector de la Torre 14. Anna Eshoo 45. John Thomas 20. Alberto Torrico 51. Jerome Horton U.S. Senate 15. Mike Honda 46. Jim Brandt 21. Ira Ruskin 52. Mervyn Dymally 16. Zoe Lofgren 47. Loretta Sanchez 22. Sally Lieber 53. Mike Gordon Barbara Boxer 17. Sam Farr 48. No endorsement 23. Joe Coto 54. Betty Karnette 18. Dennis Cardoza 49. Mike Byron 24. Rebecca Cohn 55. Jenny Oropeza 19. No endorsement 50. Francine Busby 25. No endorsement 56. Rudy Bermudez 20. Jim Costa 51. Bob Filner 26. No endorsement 57. Ed Chavez 21. No endorsement 52. No endorsement 27. John Laird 58. Ron Calderon 22. No endorsement 53. No endorsement 28. Simon Salinas 59. Dan Harden 23. Lois Capps 29. No endorsement 60. Patrick Martinez 24. Brett Wagner State Assembly 30. Nicole Parra 61. Gloria Negrete-McLeod 25. Tim Willoughby 31. Juan Arambula 62. Joe Baca, Jr. 1. Patty Berg 26. Cynthia Matthews 32. Marvin Armas 63. No endorsement 2. Barbara McIver 27. Brad Sherman 33. Tom Hutchings 64. Robert Melsh 3. Robert Woods 28. Howard Berman 34. Maggie Florez 65. Rita Ramirez-Dean 4. Todd Schwenk 29. Adam Schiff 35. Pedro Nava 66. Laurel Nicholson 5. Sandra Carey 30. Henry Waxman 36. No endorsement 67. David Silva U.S. Congress 6. Joesph Edward Nation 31. Xavier Becerra 37. Ferial Masry 68. Al Snook 7. Noreen Evans 1. Mike Thompson 32. Hilda Solis 38. No endorsement 69. Tom Umberg 8. Lois Wolk 2. Mike Johnson 33. Diane Watson 39. Cindy Montanez 70. Carl Mariz 9. Dave Jones 3. Gabe Castillo 34. Lucille Roybal-Allard 40. Lloyd Levine 71. Bea Foster 10. No endorsement 4. Bill Kirby 35. Maxine Waters 41. Fran Pavley 72. Ross W. Johnson 11. Joe Canciamilla 5. Robert Matsui 36. Jane Harman 42. Paul Koretz 73. Kathleen Calzada 12. Leland Yee 6. Lynn Woolsey 37. Juanita Millender-McDonald 43. Dario Frommer 74. Karen R. Underwood 13. Mark Leno 7. George Miller 38. Grace Flores Napolitano 44. Carol Liu 75. Karen Heumann 14. Loni Hancock 8. Nancy Pelosi 39. Linda Sanchez 45. Jackie Goldberg 76. Lori Saldana 15. Elaine Shaw 9. Barbara Lee 40. J. Tilman Williams 46. Fabian Nunez 77. Chris Larkin 16. Wilma Chan 10. Ellen Tauscher 41. No endorsement 47. Karen Bass 78. Patty Davis 17. Barbara Matthews 11. Gerald McNerny 42. No endorsement 48. Mark Ridley-Thomas 79. Juan Vargas 18. Johan Klehs 12. Tom Lantos 43. Joe Baca 49. Judy Chu 80. Mary Ann Andreas State Senate

1. Kristine Lang McDonald 21. Jack Scott Hawai’i State 3. Carole Migden 23. Sheila James Kuehl AFL-CIO Endorsements 5. Michael Machado 25. Edward Vincent 7. Tom Torlakson 27. Alan Lowenthal U.S. Senate: Daniel Inouye 9. Don Perata 29. No endorsement U.S. Congress: Neil Abercrombie 11. Joe Simitian 31. Marjorie Musser Mikels President: John Kerry 6. Joshua Green 30. Dennis Arakaki 13. Elaine Alquist 33. Randall Daugherty Vice Pres.: John Edwards 7. Cindy Evans 31. Glen Wakai 15. Margaret Pinard 35. Rita Siebert 8. Joe Souki 33. Blake Oshiro 17. Jonathon Daniel Kraut 37. Pat Johansen 9. Bob Nakasone 34. Mark Takai 19. Paul Graber 39. Christine Kehoe 10. Kameo Tanaka 35. Alex Sonson 36. Roy Takumi California Ballot Propositions 11. Chris Halford 12. Kyle Yamashita 37. Ryan Yamane 1A. Protection of Local Government Revenues No Rec. 13. Sol Kaho’ohalahala 38. Marilyn Lee 59. Access to Government Information Yes 14. Hermina Morita 39. Marcus Oshiro 60. Primary Elections (No Open Primaries) Yes 15. Ezra Kanoho 40. Carolyn Golojuch 60A. Surplus Property Sales No 16. Bertha Kawakami 41. Jon Karamatsu 61. Children’s Hospital Projects Yes 17. Richard Halverson 42. Rida Cabanilla 62. Primary Elections (Open Primaries) No Daniel Inouye 18. Lyla Berg 43. Romeo Mindo 63. Mental Health Services expansion and funding Yes 19. Michael Abe 44. Michael Kahikina 64. Limitations on Enforcement of Unfair State Senate 20. Calvin Say 45. Maile Shimabukuro Business Competition Laws No 1. Lorraine Inouye 21. Scott Nishimoto 46. Michael Magaoay 65. Local government funding and State mandates No 2. Steven Fox 22. Scott Saiki 47. Charles Tanouye 66. Limitations on “three strikes” law Yes 5. Roz Baker 23. Rex Saunders 48. Kenneth Ito 67. Telephone Surcharge for Emergency and 6. Kalani English 24. Kirk Caldwell 49. Dwight Chong Medical Services No Rec. 7. Gary Hooser 25. Brian Schatz 50. Edward Clayton 68. Tribal Gaming Compacts (Racetracks and 12. Robert Brooks 26. Sylvia Luke 51. Thomas Waters Card Clubs Measure) No 16. David Ige 27. Stephanie Sakamoto-Sato 69. Collection of DNA samples for State DNA 17. Ron Menor 28. Kenneth Hiraki database No 18. Clarence Nishihara 29. Felipe Abinsay 70. Tribal Gaming Compacts (Agua Caliente measure) No 21. Colleen Hanabusa 71. Stem Cell Research and Funding No Rec. 22. Robert Bunda Board of Education 72. Referendum petition to Overturn Amendments to 23. Clayton Hee Hawaii Herb Watanabe Health Care Coverage Requirements Honolulu Denise Matsumoto (Health Insurance Act of 2003) YES State House 1. Dwight Takamine Leeward OahuBreene Harimoto Editor's note: 2. Jerry Chang Kauai Margaret Cox The West Coast Sailors is publishing labor's recommendations 3. Clifton Tsuji At Large (3) Lei Ahu Isa for the November 2 election from California, Hawai’i, Oregon 4. Helene Hale Cecil Heftel and Washington states. Members who reside in the other 46 states 5. Bob Herkes Garrett Toguchi Neil Abercrombie should request the labor-endorsed slate of candidates from their local labor council or state federation of labor. Page 6 WEST COAST SAILORS Friday, October 22, 2004

ESU Office Assignments For the month of November, Thomas ESUESU NEWSNEWS Thompson will be in the Seabrook of- fice and Leo DeCastro will be in the OCTOBER 2004 Benicia office. Official Publication of the Exxon Seamen's Union BP takes delivery of Alaskan Frontier 2004 election of ESU officers underway In August NASSCO shipyard delivered provide flexibility for oil deliveries from allots and campaign statements for the 2004 ESU election of Union officials the Alaskan Frontier, the first of four Alaska to West Coast ports, including BP were mailed to the membership in early October. The positions up for elec- Alaska-class double-hull oil tankers be- refineries in Los Angeles, Calif., and B tion this fall are Vice President, Secretary Treasurer, Engine Department ing built for BP Oil Shipping Company, Cherry Point, Washington. Trustee, Steward Department Trustee, Deck Department Trustee and four Ship USA. BP is scheduled to receive deliv- Once completed, the four BP ships will Representative positions. The voting period began on October 11, and will con- ery of the other three vessels by the end be operated by the Alaska Tanker Com- clude on December 9, when the ballots are due at the American Arbitration Asso- of 2006 to replace older vessels. pany of Beaverton, Oregon, which op- ciation office in New York. Following notification to the ESU Seabrook office on According to NASSCO, the Alaskan erates BP-chartered tankers used in the December 10, the results will be promptly announced to the membership. Frontier’s double hull construction has Alaska North Slope trade. Alaska Tanker On the official ballot, all candidates are listed in alphabetical order. This year the been designed for a life expectancy of Company is 25% owned by BP. candidates running for Union office are listed as follows: 35 years and the deck structure has a life Another competitor in the ANS trade, Vice President Secretary Treasurer of 50 years even in the rigors of the Gulf ConocoPhillips took delivery of the Po- of Alaska. lar Adventure recently from Northrop William “ Bill” Davis Rudy Benavides This vessel has a diesel-electric propul- Grumman Ship Systems in Avondale, La. John Straley Ilidio “Leo” DeCastro sion system, with redundant engines, The Polar Adventure is the fourth of five Steward Department Trustee Robert “Bob” Knight shafts and screws, significantly increases double-hulled vessels that are operated Robert “Reid” Decker Ship Rep. S/R American Progress reliability and reduces air emissions and by Polar Tankers, Inc., a wholly owned Brenda Johnson Charles “Chuck” Bell maintenance downtime. The ship also uses subsidiary of ConocoPhillips. Classed by seawater instead of oil to cool and lubri- the American Bureau of Shipping, Polar Gerard Nelson Ed Caldwell cate the propeller shafts, thus eliminating Adventure is an Endeavour Class tanker Donald Picou Eric Lindsey the possibility of accidental oil leaks. The in the ConocoPhillips U.S. flag fleet and cargo piping is inside the cargo tanks, is specifically designed to carry crude oil The following candidates ran unopposed for the following Union offices: which should reduce the risk of small from Alaska to the West Coast and Ha- Engine Department Trustee Deck Department Trustee spills. The Alaska Frontier is 941 feet in waii. The vessel’s sister ships, Polar William Ackley Pat Campbell length with a beam of 164 feet and a cargo Endeavour, Polar Resolution and Polar Ship Rep. S/R Long Beach Ship Rep. S/R Puget Sound capacity of 1.3 million barrels of oil. The Discovery, were commissioned in 2001, Joseph “Joe” Graca Michael Harrsion design of the Alaska Class of tankers will 2002 and 2003, respectively. There was no candidate for the Ship Representative position on the S/R Alaska Tanker Company, Polar and Seabulk TAPS Trade Hinchinbrook. This vessel’s OPA 90 life will run out during 2005 and the Board Tankers — Present and Future will address the need for a regular ship representative here until the vessel is taken OPA90 out of service. Current Ship Rep. Danny Jones has been on sick leave but we expect Hull Year Built/ Phase-Out his return in the very near future. Operator Vessel Name Type Rebuilt Date DWT(000) Ballots were addressed individually to each eligible voter and should be arriving ATC Denali DB 1978 10/2006 124,999 about the time this edition of the ESU News is released. Remember, an eligible ATC Kenai DH 1979 N/A 123,113 voter is one whom has been a member in good standing at least 90 days prior to the ATC Marine Columbia SH 1974 11/2006 124,999 start of the election. ATC Overseas Chicago DB 1977 6/2005 92,091 Additional ballots will be available onboard all vessels. Member on leave and ATC Overseas New York DB 1977 12/2005 91,843 finding themselves in need of a ballot should contact either ESU office. ATC Overseas Washington DB 1978 3/2006 91,967 ATC Price William Sound DH 1975 N/A 122,941 The ESU thanks all the candidates involved for their support and willingness to ATC Tonsina DH 1978 N/A 124,751 serve the membership. At a minimum, their willingness to serve should be recog- ATC Alaskan Frontier DH 2004 N/A 124,999 nized by every member casting a ballot during this important election for our Union. ATC Alaskan Explorer DH 2004-2005 N/A 124,999 ATC Alaskan Navigator DH 2005 N/A 124,999 ATC Alaskan Legend DH 2006 N/A 124,999 Three ESU members retire Polar Polar Alaska DB 1979 12/2007 124,999 The Union has been notified that three longtime ESU members have elected to Polar Polar California DB 1980 7/2008 124,999 retire. This group of retirees represent all three departments; Steward, Deck and Polar Polar Texas DB 1973 11/2004 91,393 Engine. Polar Polar Endeavor DH 2001 N/A 124,999 Hal Fitch, Pumpman – Hal will become disability retired as of November 1. Polar Polar Resolution DH 2002 N/A 124,999 After working approximately four (4) years in Wyoming with Exxon Minerals Com- Polar Polar Discovery DH 2003 N/A 124,999 pany, U.S.A., he transferred to Exxon Shipping boarding his first vessel, the Exxon Polar Polar Adventure DH 2004 N/A 124,999 Jamestown more than thirty-one (31) years ago. Polar Polar Enterprise DH 2005 N/A 124,999 Seabulk Seabulk Artic DH 1998 N/A 46,094 Hal is presently looking forward to a move with his wife Sandra to the state of Seabulk Seabulk Pride DH 1998 N/A 46,094 Arkansas where has chosen to spend his retirement years. Source – Pacific States/British Columbia Oil Spill Task Force Prevention Project. Margarita Leca – Also retiring to long-term disability November 1, 2004, Margarita boarded her first vessel in the Utility position aboard the Exxon Galveston SeaRiver relocates Houston office in 1986. In the intervening years Margarita worked herself up through the Steward Department ratings and will retire as a Fleet Chef. On October 18, 2004, SeaRiver Mari- to the #1512 post office box of the change Margarita looks forward to spending time with her children and grandchildren in time, Inc. relocated their main office to in address. Mail sent to the old address Massachusetts and Florida during her retirement. the Exxon building at 800 Bell Street in will be subject to lengthy delays. Robert (Bob) Harden – Electing to retire after more than thirty (30) years of Houston, TX. As was mentioned in the Coinciding with the move, all mem- service and membership in the ESU, Bob joined his first company vessel, the Exxon last edition of the ESU NEWS, the new bers need to be aware that several im- Baltimore in the winter of 1974 as an Ordinary Seaman and retires as an Able mailing address for fleet mail is as follows: portant telephone numbers have changed. Seaman. New mailing address: SeaRiver Ocean SeaRiver will be mailing new wallet size or Tug Fleet, P.O. Box 4353, Houston, phone cards with all updated phone num- Bob will retire to his home in Valdosta, Georgia and enjoy the good life. TX 77251-4353. For overnight packages: bers in the near future. The Exxon Seamen’s Union has been fortunate to have had three such loyal and SeaRiver Ocean or Tug Fleet, 4300 SeaRiver Maritime Phone Numbers for supportive members and all three are going to be sorely missed from the member- Dacoma, Room 132, Houston, TX 77092. Fleet Personnel: ship rolls of the ESU. However, the Executive Board and the members of this Union extend to Hal, Margarita and Bob a sincere, “job well done” and wish all If you need to send mail to SeaRiver Human Resources 877-290-1422 office personnel (i.e. Fleet Manning or three a long, healthy and happy retirement. Travel Services 888-462-8953 Medical) the mailing address is as follows: Benefits/Payroll 800-262-2363 Name/SeaRiver Maritime, Inc., SRM- EMB- 4.044, PO Box 1512, Houston, Savings Plan 877-966-4015 New Seabrook office e-mail address TX 77251-1512. Medical Department 800-233-1846 Please note that the ESU Seabrook office has a new e-mail address. The new The Union encourages members to Fleet Manning Emergencies Only address is: [email protected] notify all parties that send mail presently 713-656-1969 (24 Hour) Friday, October 22, 2004 WEST COAST SAILORS Page 7 ESU News Open enrollment for BCBS Medical & Dental plan S/R Puget Sound departs SeaRiver’s Fleet Quick response required 262-2363) and request a Blue Cross Health At press time the exact dates for Blue and/or Blue Cross Dental plan form and Cross/Blue Shield (BC/BS) Medical and return by the announced deadline. Ben- Dental plans open enrollment period have efits can mail or fax a form to you. not been announced, however it is an- Pre-tax spending plan ticipated that it will be from the last week As announced in the September issue of October and into the second week of of the ESU News/West Coast Sailors dra- November. Though the specific dates matic increases in employees’ contribu- have not been made available, it is un- tions to the BC/BS Medical plan are an- derstood that the “window of opportu- ticipated. At press time the Union and nity” for members to make additions to its Insurance Consultant, Mr. Harry their health care plans will only be ap- Chapman of Chapman-Schewe Benefits proximately fourteen (14) days. Consulting continue to investigate a num- Notifications will be mailed by Ben- ber of funding issues and plan cost cut- efits of the exact dates, however it is im- ting measures delaying a final announce- perative that members wishing to make ment of rates. The S/R Puget Sound ended its service with SeaRiver Maritime the middle of October. Here pictured arriving at the Richmond Long Warf, Richmond, CA. changes to their health care designations In light of the significant increases ex- preparing to make a port call. Photo credit: C/E Scott Bailey in respect to adding family members to pected it is highly recommended that the policy(s) or adjusting the amounts of members who have not in the past taken their Pre-Tax Spending contribution advantage of the Pre-Tax savings plan, he S/R Puget Sound has entered ables us to further optimize this segment amounts will have to respond quickly to enroll this year. At a minimum partici- Tlay-up in Orange, Texas, and is of our fleet. Having just completed an meet the deadline, when announced. pants should declare the amount of their slated to be turned-over to its extensive scheduled shipyard period, the Unlicensed seamen in the SeaRiver contributions to the premiums for your owners, Overseas Shipholding Group S/R Galena Bay will replace the S/R Ocean Fleet and their eligible dependents Medical and Dental coverage. If you are (OSG) in the near future, ending service Puget Sound (its sister-ship) in the cross- who are not currently enrolled in the Blue expecting additional out of pocket ex- in the SeaRiver Maritime fleet. The Gulf clean fuels trade. Due to the previ- Cross Health or Dental Plans would be penses for medical or dental services you 50kDWT vessel, acquired in the fall of ously mentioned ANS tonnage demand eligible to enroll during the open enroll- can deduct that amount too and in es- 2000, was formerly named the Potomac decreases and full coverage of clean/spe- ment period. In addition, unlicensed sence, pay with un-taxed dollars. Trader and was at the time SeaRiver ini- cialty demands by three ships, the S/R Ocean employees who are currently en- Information packets will be mailed to tiated the charter owned by Attransco, Inc. Puget Sound has entered lay-up and this rolled on a grandfathered basis in the all employees home addresses and to the In May of 2003 the double-bottomed bareboat in-chartered vessel is currently Kaiser Health plan may also transfer to vessels. Upon members receiving the re- tanker was purchased from Attransco, projected to be returned to its owner in the Blue Cross Health Benefits plan dur- quired information as to both the enroll- Inc. by OSG who indicated at the time the 4Q04.” ing this period. If you wish to enroll in a ment period and premium rates members that the bareboat charter agreement with The vessel was lay-berthed in Orange, Blue Cross plan, call the Benefits Admin- are urged to respond quickly to assure SeaRiver would continue to be honored. Texas in early October while clean-up istration office (713-680-5858 or 1-800- meeting the open enrollment deadline. This charter to SeaRiver is believed to and other tasks were performed before have been through February of 2010. The the giveback to OSG is completed. Dur- vessel, built in 1983 had an Oil Pollu- ing its service within the SeaRiver Fleet Ship reports tion Act of 1990 (OPA 90) “drop-dead” the vessel traded in both the west coast date of May 10, 2013 and can continue ANS trade and most recently in the Gulf in U.S. trade until that date in respect to of Mexico clean oil trade. S/R American Progress Daniel McBride took over the Ship Rep. regulatory compliances. With the departure of the S/R Puget ESU Executive Board visit conducted position from Tom Mckee. Crew com- SeaRiver management, in a fleet com- Sound SeaRiver’s fleet size has now been on October 5, at the ExxonMobil Docks plaints about the previous Captain sand- munication dated October 15, stated in reduced to eight (8) vessels. Most of these in Beaumont, TX. Fleet Chef Don bagging on the stores order and run- part that, “Three vessels are projected vessels are facing mandatory “drop-dead” Picou filling in for regular Ship Repre- ning out of supplies. Will be addressed to cover the anticipated demand for clean dates. Below is a compilation of SeaRiver sentative Chuck Bell and doing an ex- shoreside. Vessel will make a couple / specialty service. The re-deployment of vessels and their dates of mandated dis- ceptional job of communicating with the of back to back trips to Hawaii. the S/R Galena Bay to the U.S. Gulf en- continuation under OPA 90 regulations: ESU offices. Several onboard issues S/R Long Beach being worked by Executive Board in- cluding the bilge entry grievance and Board officer boarded the vessel at Vessel Hull Type Built OPA 90 Date use of the MS to supplement the Stew- the Longwharf in Richmond, CA, on S/R Hinchinbrook Double Bottom 1977 October 2005 October 4. Regular Ship Representative ard Department as per agreement. S/R Columbia Bay Double Bottom 1978 March 2006 AB Joe Graca on board and reports ev- S/R Baytown erything is going reasonably well. Ques- S/R Mediterranean Single Hull 1986 December 2009 Board officer boarded the vessel in tion about Steward department overtime S/R Long Beach Single Hull 1987 January 2010 Martinez, CA, on October 13. Vessel and was addressed on the vessel. S/R Galena Bay Double Bottom 1982 October 2012 has made a couple of discharges in the S/R Mediterranean S/R Baytown Double Bottom 1984 August 2012 San Francisco bay area. Ship Repre- S/R Wilmington Double Bottom 1984 April 2014 sentative Mark Myser on board. Ques- Ship Representative Frank O’Malia tions were raised about medical sign has been relieved to paid leave and John S/R American Progress Double Hull 1997 No OPA “Drop Dead” on form and an apparent double stan- Munich is filling in during Frank’s ab- Source: Colton & Co./ABS Record dard on shoreside transportation. Board sence. John is communicating frequently with the Union offices. officer will address issues shoreside. At press time the Union has received And in the same communication S/R Columbia Bay S/R Puget Sound no updates from the company as to any SeaRiver commented concerning the un- Vessel has been trading between Vessel visit conducted September 30 acquisition of additional tonnage through certain future of the S/R Mediterranean, Anacortes and Valdez. Eric Lindsey at the lay-up berth at the City Docks, pending new build projects or the buy- saying that, “While currently projected filling in as Ship Rep. and called in from Orange, Texas. ESU Representative ing or leasing of existing tonnage. In the to continue operation in the middle/far Valdez on October 15. Everything is Michael Harrison was onboard. Com- October 15, communication to fleet per- east crude trade, we continue to evalu- going well here. Ship is preparing for pany has announced that vessel will be sonnel the company commented on fu- ate the longer term disposition of the S/ a CAIP survey around the first part of “turned-over” to its owners (see article) ture tonnage plans by stating, “Tonnage R Mediterranean, including its potential November. and all members are scheduled to be dis- options to replace OPA-90 phase-outs in sale or transfer in 2005.” charged from the vessel by October 18. S/R Galena Bay 2005 and 2006 continue to be assessed.” S/R Wilmington Vessel last visited at the Magellan Dock in Galena Park, Texas on Sep- Ship visited by Executive Board Of- tember 18. Former Executive Board ficer on October 11, while at the EXXON SEAMEN'S UNION Officer Kevin Conroy serving as Tem- ExxonMobil Docks in Baytown, Texas Founded March 28, 1941 porary Representative for Ship Repre- after completing Panama Canal transit. Affiliated with the Sailors' Union of the Pacific sentative George Taylor. Vessel has Bob Knight assumed the Temporary 1320 5th Street, Suite A P.O. Box 792 assumed the S/R Puget Sound trans-gulf Ship Representative duties from Bob Seabrook, TX 77586 Benicia, CA 94510 trade, Tampa to Corpus Christi. Ross who went to paid leave while at Tel (281) 474-2430 Tel (707) 746-5713 S/R Hinchinbrook Baytown. Vessel to resume its east Fax (281) 474-2463 Fax (707) 746-7859 coast/gulf coast specialty cargo trade. E-Mail: [email protected] E-Mail: [email protected] Board officer boarded the vessel at No shipboard beefs reported. President Jerry Patterson Amorco in Martinez, CA on October 7. Vice President John Straley Deck Trustee Patrick Campbell Secretary/Treasurer Leo DeCastro Engine Trustee William Ackley Recording Secretary Thomas Thompson III Steward Trustee Gerard Nelson The ESU News is written and edited by the Exxon Seamen’s Union. Page 8 WEST COAST SAILORS Friday, October 22, 2004 Sailors’ Union of the Pacific/ Welfare Notes Training Resources, Ltd. October 2004 Schedule of Course Offerings for 2004 Coverage for medical treatment is something we all think of especially dur- The following dates are tentative. Contact Steve Messenger ing an election year as it becomes a campaign issue. Active SUP members are (415 778-5490) for more information. eligible for both medical and dental coverage. Please be sure that you are enrolled for a medical and dental plan. If you have not enrolled for coverage, STCW 95 Basic Safety Training contact the plan office for enrollment information. We encourage you to use your dental plan as an important part of maintain- Basic Fire Fighting • Basic First Aid • ing your overall health. Many of the preventive and minor services covered Personal Survival • Personal Safety and Social Responsibility • under the dental plans are performed without any co-payment due from you. Nov 1-5 Nov 15-19 Dec 6-10 Dec 13-17 When going to your dentist for extensive treatment, however, it is advisable to get information on the proposed treatment before the work is performed. LMSR Vessel Training (MSC approved) The dentist can give you an itemization of the services including an estimate of any co-payments that may be due from you. Nov 2-12 Nov 30-Dec 10 You can check the proposed dental treatment plan with your information to make sure any co-payments that will be charged are correct. You may also Small Arms Training (MSC approved) contact the SUP Plan office for any questions or to change dentists within your plan. Nov 15-17 Dec 13-15 Pensioners can also submit dental charges for reimbursement under the Pensioner’s annual allowance benefits. In any case, it is a good idea to get a Able Seaman (AB) treatment plan that includes costs which may be due from you before the ser- vices are performed. Nov 1-13 Nov 29-Dec 11 The SUP Welfare Plan staff is here to help you. Survival Craft (Lifeboatman) Michelle Chang, Administrator Steve Messenger, Training Representative Patty Martin Nov 15-18 Dec 13-16 Brian Farmer Training Information and Enrollment Virginia Briggs Contacts Michael Jacyna Steve Messenger, SUP Training Rep. Dave Connolly, SUP Vice President SUP Welfare Plan SUP Welfare Plan c/o Andrew Furuseth School of Seamanship 450 Harrison St., San Francisco, CA 94105 450 Harrison St., San Francisco, CA 94105 450 Harrison Street, San Francisco CA 94105 Tel: (415) 778-5490 Tel: (415) 777-3400 Telephone Numbers: Fax: (415) 778-5494 Fax: (415) 777-5088 Main...... (415) 778-5490 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Eligibility active members/dependents ...... (415) 778-5491 SUP Money Purchase Plan, SUP 401(k) Plan, Pensioner Medical Benefits...... (415) 778-5493 Toll Free Number ...... (800) 796-8003

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Retracing epic Kon-Tiki voyage from Peru to Polynesia to begin next year by Heyerdahl’s son Trip will study environmental threats to ocean Nearly 60 years after Thor Heyerdahl tradition, said team leader Torgeir sailed his Kon-Tiki balsa raft across the Saeverud Higraff, a teach and journalist Pacific to prove a theory about ancient at the Kon-Tiki Museum in Oslo. How- The annual Labor Day parade in Wilmington, CA, September 6, in Banning mariners, a team that includes his grand- ever, changes in the environment had Park. From left standing: Chris Skorodynski & son, Mr. & Mrs. Carl Schou, son, plans to recreate the 101-day epic caused one of the greatest challenges to Gabe McDonald, Duane Nash, Bill DeBenedictis, Cliff Rouleau, John Folcarelli, voyage on a craft equipped with solar the $900,000 expedition even before it Tom Riley, Wiling Branch Agent Keith Miller. In front: Charlie Schwab, John panels, a satellite navigation system and started. The rain forest in Peru where Makaiwi & son, Ernie Jalomo. Photo: Mrs. Skorodynski a link to the Internet. Heyerdahl harvested his balsa logs is In 1947, Heyerdahl and his team sailed gone, he said, and the river he used to Editor’s Note: For those who want to receive the West Coast a raft with the most basic of equipment float them to the sea has slowed to a Sailors in a more timely manner, subscriptions via first-class mail 4,900 miles from Peru to Polynesia to trickle. The team plans to cut balsa trees are now available (one-year intervals only) for $25 per year. demonstrate that prehistoric explorers in a nearby forest, starting in December. may have migrated across vast stretches The crew plans to take the same amount Subscribe to the of ocean. Heyerdahl, who died at the age of time as the Kon-Tiki and, as on the of 87 in 2002, documented the harrow- first trip, the sailors will include five Nor- West Coast Sailors ing voyage in the best-selling book “Kon- wegians, a Swede and a parrot. Tiki” and in an Oscar-winning documen- The team wants to honor Heyerdahl via First Class Mail tary film. and to draw attention to environmental The new team, backed by Norway’s threats on land and at sea. They plan to Environment Ministry and endorsed by take scientific samples along the way, test Name (print) Book No. the Kon-Tiki Musesum, hopes to follow new theories on ancient navigational the route of it the epic voyage aboard a “I had to say yes, to satisfy my sense Address balsa raft named Tangaroa, the of adventure,” said Olav Heyerdahl, the Polynesian god of the ocean. late adventurer’s 27-year-old grandson, City Although the Tangaroa will be primi- who spoke near the original Kon-Tiki raft tive, expedition member Inge Meloey said at the museum. The younger Heyerdahl State Zip Country it would showcase modern technology. —a carpenter, building engineer and The cabin roof will have solar panels af- diver— will be responsible for construct- Subscriptions are $25.00 per year. fixed to it to generate electricity, he said, ing the raft. Send check or money order to: and the raft will have satellite navigation At a news conference, Thor Heyerdahl West Coast Sailors and communications and be able to trans- Jr. said his father would have been de- 450 Harrison Street mit internet updates throughout the voy- lighted by the project, and “his own age, set to start April 28, 2005. San Francisco CA 94105 grandson being part of it would have They wanted to carry on Heyerdahl’s made him very happy.” Friday, October 22, 2004 WEST COAST SAILORS Page 9 SUP President's Report

October 12, 2004 The dislocation of an established labor pool with an not, cross over because AMSEA has collective bar- excellent performance record is one thing, but the gaining agreements with different labor unions than forced exacerbation of a mariner shortage that poten- those of Patriot, and our union members would, there- MILITARY SEALIFT COMMAND: tially hinders the timely delivery of equipment to the fore, lose the pension and medical benefits provided LMSR AWARD war fighter is quite another. Accordingly, we urge through the labor organizations to which they belong. you to assess the impact of the award on the opera- Furthermore, two years ago, when a contract was tional performance of these critical ships with spe- awarded by the MSC for the operation of another eight In the wake of the Military Sealift Command’s (MSC) cific regard for the negative effect on the surge mari- LMSRs, the justification for continuing with the exist- misguided decision of August 31, that awarded nine ner pool. ing operator then was to avoid the risk of disruption of Large Medium Speed Roll-On/Roll-Off (LMSR) ves- On the political front, at the request of Leader Pelosi planned military operations. In that case, two experi- sels to American Overseas Maritime Corporation for further information, the SUP, MFOW, MEBA and ence bidders, one of whom was Patriot, were rejected (AMSEA), a subsidiary of General Dynamics, and two MM&P sent her the following letter on September 28: even though their bids were substantially lower, by $18 other LMSRs (USNS Gilliland and USNS Gordon) to a million. In the interest of patriotism and the national company named 3PSC, the SUP in conjunction with The Honorable Nancy Pelosi interest, these lower, but highly competent and proven the MFOW, MEBA and MM&P, has successfully Minority Leader operators, withdrew their protest at the time, despite mobilized congressional support to make MSC think House of Representatives the support of a stay of performance order from the twice about transferring the vessels from Patriot Con- 2371 Rayburn House Office Building General Accounting Office (GAO). Now, in the midst tract Services. Washington, DC 20515 of actual combat operations, this rationale is discarded., House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi of San Fran- Dear Congresswoman Pelosi: with no reasoning to sustain it, in favor of minimal cisco has spearheaded the effort. Her inquiries, the We are writing to express our serious concern with cost differences on paper. (It should be noted that within activism of her staff, and her letter of September 13, the award to American Overseas Marine Corporation the past week Patriot Contract Services formally pro- (see the September West Coast Sailors) to the Secre- (AMSEA) of a contract to operate nine large, me- tested with GAO the AMSEA contract). tary of Navy without a doubt played a significant role dium speed, roll-on/roll-off (LMSRs) sealift vessels. Thus, not only does this contract award to a new in MSC’s September 30 decision to extend Patriot’s This award by the Military Sealift Command (MSC) operator raise the issue of risk of diminished sealift LMSR contract into the second quarter of 2005. on September 1 is for $23.5 million for one year; how- readiness and performance in time of war, but there As reported last month, Patriot filed a comprehen- ever, with its four one-year options, the full value of are clear questions of consistency and double stan- sive protest over the award on September 17 with the this contract is $122.6 million. This contract award dard that require clarification as well. Additionally, if Government Accountability Office (GAO). The com- raises a number of critical issues that require further this contract award is sustained, fully 61 percent of pany requested that the GAO sustain the protest and clarification. the U.S. Government’s surge sealift fleet (or 17 of 28 direct MSC to terminate the awarded contract, re-evalu- These are highly complex vessels requiring crews vessels) will be in the hands of just one vessel opera- ate proposals, and award the contract to Patriot. In the that have received specialized training unique to the tor, AMSEA. This concentration will diminish rather alternative, Patriot requested that the GAO direct MSC operation of these ships and to their mission in sup- than enhance the strength of our Nation’s merchant to restate its requirements and either modify the exist- port of American forces engaged in the worldwide war marine management and personnel base. ing solicitation for the LMSRs or issue a new one. The against terrorism. The current operator of these nine In view of these issues and to ascertain how this GAO must issue a decision on the merits of the protest vessels, Patriot Contract Services of Walnut Creek, contract award decision was made, we met with Vice no later than December 27, 2004. The details of Patriot’s California, and the mariners from our unions, have Admiral David Brewer, the MSC Commander, on Sep- protest will be published in this month’s West Coast a demonstrated record of experience operating these tember 8. In a lengthy meeting in which all of these Sailors. vessels that has been commended by the MSC. Both issues were raised and discussed in detail, Admiral At last month’s (September 8) meeting between the Patriot and our unions have invested substantial sums, Brewer was entirely unresponsive. We are, therefore, affected Unions that stand to lose hundreds of jobs be- time, and effort in special, sophisticated crew train- seeking your assistance in this extremely important cause of MSC’s decision and Vice Admiral David L. ing to ensure that these highly complex vessels are matter that affects the California maritime economy Brewer, Commander of MSC, there seemed to be a operated efficiently and effectively. They are putting and 1,500 merchant mariner jobs; our ability to main- belief on the part of Agency that those employed in the this experience to use every day, with exemplary per- tain a strong, broad maritime industry base of man- LMSRs would remain aboard when AMSEA assumed formance, providing sealift for America’s Armed agement and personnel; and, the Nation’s need to operation of the vessels. Although the Unions ham- Forces in Iraq. have reliable sealift for our Armed Forces and for the mered home the point, the MSC operatives appeared Despite this record, and despite the fact that AMSEA national defense of the United States of America. clueless to this basic fact. and its projected crew have no experience operating We would greatly appreciate your assistance in this To ensure that those responsible for the transporta- these LMSRs, the MSC has chosen to drop Patriot, urgent and critical matter. tion of assets for U.S. forces were clear on the nature with the probable loss of a trained labor pool of 1,500 Sincerely, of Patriot’s pool of mariners, your secretary on Sep- mariners on the West Coast and principally in Cali- tember 27, wrote the following to General John W. Ron Davis, President, Marine Engineers’ Beneficial fornia. MSC has chosen to ignore what we believe Association Handy, Commander of the United States Transporta- are the clear overall national security advantages of Captain Timothy Brown, President, International Or- tion Command (TRANSCOM): retaining the vessels’ existing operator and crews and ganization of Masters Mates and Pilots General John W. Handy has instead chosen to award the contract to AMSEA Commander reportedly for economic reasons. MSC says that there Gunnar Lundeberg, President & Secretary-Treasurer, Sailors’ Union of the Pacific USTRANSCOM will be a savings of $700,000 for the first year, or $6 Henry “Whitey” Disley, President & Secretary-Trea- 508 Scott Drive million over the five-year potential scope of this con- tract. However, this savings itself may prove illusory, surer, Marine Firemen’s Union Scott Air Force Base, IL, 62225-5357 as it does not factor in the estimated $1 million per RE: LMSR Manpower vessel cost to the MSC of changing from Patriot to Working with Leader Pelosi’s staff and Gloria Tosi, Dear General Handy: AMSEA or the cost increase of operating these ves- President of the American Maritime Congress, an ad- A sense of duty compels us to inform you of a po- sels, as is the case now, in Full Operating Status for a vocacy organization for MEBA and its contracted com- tentially serious logistical problem developing out of greater length of time than projected in the new con- panies, your secretary traveled to Washington and spent the recent award of nine LMSR ships to American tract. Given Patriot’s management and its crews’ dem- October 4, 5 and 6 on Capitol Hill seeking support for Marine Overseas Corp., (AMSEA) on August 31, onstrated proficiency, the true cost of each bid should the Union position on MSC’s LMSR Award from the 2004, which displaced the incumbent Patriot Contract be re-examined to take these factors into account. California delegation. Only Democrats were contacted Services. However, the issues raised by this award go beyond as most, if not all, of the Republican members had Patriot’s contracted labor pool is for the most part the dollar difference of each bid. We are now in the received substantial campaign contributions from Gen- independent and non-transferable to the new opera- middle of a war wherein “changing horses in mid- eral Dynamics and thus viewed as less likely to be re- tor. That’s because the mariners presently onboard stream” would appear to be unwise, particularly given sponsive. those ships are most likely to remain with the organi- the competence, training, and experience of Patriot As a result of the intense lobbying effort, Leader zations where they have their health, pension, and and its crews and the relatively small difference on Pelosi sent the following letter on October 8, to David seniority benefits. To exclude these trained and vetted paper in cost between the two bids. M. Walker, Comptroller General of the United States, mariners from continued participation in the ongoing This goes beyond proven competence. AMSEA sim- who oversees the GAO. The letter was co-signed by 26 sealift mobilization is wasteful, imprudent, and as these ply does not, and will not have, the base of trained, of her colleagues in the House of Representatives. mariners seek other work, causes long-term degrada- competent, and available personnel to perform this The Honorable David M. Walker tion to sealift readiness. contract with all nine vessels in operation. We believe Comptroller General of the United States Moreover, all this happens at exactly the wrong time. that AMSEA’s bid is based on the false premise that U.S. Government Accountability Office In light of impending activations of most or all of members of our unions who possess the necessary these ships to full operating status, the shortage will qualifications will cross over to work for the unions 441 G Street, NW become acute, and could cause disruptions in the Mili- contracted with AMSEA. This, in fact, is not the case. Washington, DC 20548 tary Sealift Command’s ability to supply our troops We have contacted and polled our membership and Dear Mr. Walker: overseas. our members will not transfer to perform this con- tract under AMSEA. Our members will not, and can- continued on next page Page 10 WEST COAST SAILORS Friday, October 22, 2004

President’s Report continued zen. Informed sources indicate that many companies ture, including a proposal to create a defined contribu- Thank you for your dedication to making the fed- will be vying for these new operating agreements with tion plan in which participants make contributions (co- eral government more effective and responsive. the Defense Department having final approval as to the pays) of their own as opposed to the present structure Attached is a letter from four West Coast maritime type of militarily useful vessels it wants enrolled in the is a defined benefit plan. In fact, SUP members have unions, representing union members who have been program. Of the remaining 52 “slots,” 47 are reserved made contributions to the Plan since many welfare con- working under a contract from the Military Sealift Com- or “grandfathered” for those operators participating in tribution rates dating back to 1949 were derived from mand to Patriot Contract Services of Walnut Creek, the current MSP program and five “slots” are for U.S.- and were allocated out of negotiated wage packages in California to operate eleven large sealift vessels. Many built, U.S.-flag and U.S.-crewed tankers operating in order to supplement Marine Hospital benefits and ben- of these masters and mates, sailors, marine engineers, the foreign trades. efits for dependents. The Union trustees called the pro- and marine firemen are our constituents. Sullivan proposed that if Matson was successful in posal misguided and out of order, given that any changes to the collective bargaining agreement must be negoti- In spite of its stellar performance, Patriot Contract obtaining MSP—which would provide a payment to ated by the bargaining parties, not the trustees. Services did not win renewal of the contract to oper- offset crew costs of $2.6 million per vessel beginning Before they would agree to make the necessary con- ate nine of these vessels (two were set aside in the new on October 1, 2005, and escalating to $3.1 million for tributions, the employers argued that the Union trust- round of bidding for small business contracts). The fiscal years 2012-2015—wages and crew complement ees must first agree to changes to the eligibility sys- enclosed letter expresses serious concerns over the for the new Guam vessels would be the same as the tem. Without agreeing to any changes, various sce- manner in the new contract for the nine vessels was Manukai-type CV2600 vessels. But if MSP was not narios were discussed, and the Plan consultants were awarded. On September 17, Patriot requested that the forthcoming, the company proposed an IBT Moku Pahu wage structure. authorized to examine the potential cost savings of re- GAO investigate the process, result, and justification structured eligibility. The Union trustees continue to In addition, the company proposed work rule changes for the contract award for these nine sealift vessels. maintain that the necessary contributions are non-ne- for each Union. Matson’s wish list for the SUP in- We are writing to ask you to consider the request gotiable and notified the employers that delinquency for an investigation. We believe it is in the best inter- cluded no strike language under any circumstances, proceedings will commence if additional necessary est of our constituents that the circumstances of the the extension of the Shoreside Maintenance Agreement contributions are not forthcoming. Will keep the mem- case be thoroughly investigated and evaluated as rap- from June 30, 2005, until June 13, 2013, permanent bership informed as this issue develops. idly as possible. bosuns selected by the company in the Guam ships, and the elimination of mandatory washdowns in all Thank you for your consideration of this request. AMERICAN SHIP MANAGEMENT We look forward to learning your views on the Pa- company vessels. triot case. Needless to say, the company’s proposals were re- Sincerely, jected. The Unions pointed out that Matson was cur- On September 27, the SUP was notified by Ameri- rently operating three C-9 type vessels (Mahimahi, can Ship Management that it requested to “enter into NANCY PELOSI, House Democratic Leader Manoa, Mokihana) in the Guam trade without govern- collective bargaining with regards to the parties’ cur- ment assistance, that the new vessels would be their rent collective bargaining agreement, at the earliest In addition to Leader Pelosi’s letter, Representative replacements, that the Guam trade is profitable to possible date.” Ellen Tauscher whose district includes Patriot’s head- Matson and appears to be a growth market in the near Following in the wake of the September 24 SUP Wel- quarters in Walnut Creek, California, sent a separate future given the projected redeployment of U.S. forces fare Plan Trustees meeting, it was presumed the com- letter on October 1, to Secretary of the Navy Gordon in the Pacific, and that the company had given no com- pany wanted to discuss its obligations under Section 29 England requesting that the LMSR Award to AMSEA/ pelling economic justification for Union concessions. of the General Rules to fund guaranteed benefits as well General Dynamics be suspended pending a full investi- Sullivan was adamant in stating that the company as issues related to ASM’s desire to continue operating gation. It should be noted that Secretary England served required a “competitive” agreement as proposed and APL’s MSP fleet after September 30, 2005. as Executive Vice President of General Dynamics prior that Matson would “never build or buy another vessel” In a response sent the same day, your secretary re- to being appointed by President Bush. without negotiating new agreements. minded the company that the General Rules, including The Union will continue to aggressively pursue all Sullivan also raised the threat of Matson running a Section 29 are bargained by the SUP, MFOW and SIU- avenues in order to maintain our work in the LMSRs. double-breasted operation in the Guam trade, a tactic A&G Marine Cooks jointly, not by the SUP alone. As Will keep the membership fulling informed. that was successfully employed over the Manukai in of today’s meeting, there have been no further com- 2003, by stating that the company as a “preference to munications from the company on the issue. MATSON NAVIGATION COMPANY go with its existing Unions” but if an agreement could It should be noted, however, that under normal cir- not be reached an option would be to “continue Guam cumstances ASM would be notified 90 days prior to service in the form of a time-charter arrangement.” the September 30, 2005 expiration of the current agree- As reported last month, the SUP, MFOW and SIU- ment of the Unions’ desire to commence bargaining. The Unions again warned Sullivan that duplicitous A&G Marine Cooks met with representatives of Matson The position the Unions and the company are face with, and unfair bargaining would trigger appropriate action on August 18, to discuss the company’s proposal to is anything but normal. by the Unions. Although no further meetings were negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement for scheduled, anticipate Matson will request one. Under the new Maritime Security Program enacted vessels Matson is considering buying to call Guam in in July of this year, APL will not be obligated to use a anticipation of the end of the APL/Matson Alliance in Section 2 citizen company, such as ASM, to operate its February, 2006. SUP WELFARE PLAN U.S.-flag ships enrolled in the program. In fact, APL The parties met again at Headquarters on October 5, will become the actual owner of the MSP operating and 8, to resume discussions. At the October 5 meet- As reported in July, the SUP Welfare Plan continues agreements on October 1, 2005, and must make appli- ing, the Unions were represented by MFOW President to struggle with the skyrocketing costs of health care. cation to the Maritime Administration by October 15, Whitey Disley, SUP Vice President Dave Connolly, Annual increases in premiums paid to HMO’s and to secure its nine “grandfathered” slots. A decision on MFOW San Francisco Port Agent Tony Poplawski, and PPO’s have averaged over 20% for the past 3 years. the application will be made and announced no later SIU-A&G Assistant Vice President Nick Celona. The Because of these out-of-control costs, the regular or than 90 days after October 15. By that date (January company was represented by Captain Jack Sullivan, Vice “guaranteed” account shows a projected deficit. This 13, 2005), the Secretary of Transportation, in conjunc- President of Vessel Operations and Offshore Labor regular account is funded by American Ship Manage- tion with the Secretary of Defense, shall announce the Relations and Tom Percival, Manager Labor Relations ment and Matson Navigation Company in accordance approval of applications and shall explain in writing and Vessel Operations. The same people were present with Section 29 of the General Rules of the respective why applications were not approved. for the October 8 meeting but with the addition of SIU- collective bargaining agreements. The regular account Given these circumstances, it is expected that ASM A&G West Coast Vice President Nick Marrone, com- was established as the U.S. Public Health Replacement will request bargaining at some point in order to make pany attorney Martin Oppenheimer and your secretary. Program for active seamen in 1981 after President an economic proposal to APL. At the August meeting, Sullivan stated that the com- Reagan eliminated funding for the Public Health Ser- pany was looking for two or three self-sustaining 1,100 vice Hospitals (marine hospitals). The language adopted BURGESS v. SUP teu vessels to service Guam and the Northern Marianas at that time in Section 29 obligates the employers “to provide hospitalization, medical and dental benefits, Islands from Honolulu. He also estimated the cost Wayne Burgess has filed two charges against the Union purchasing these foreign-built ships at $22 million which are reasonably comparable to the curtailed or eliminated services that have been provided to active with the National Labor Relations Board in Los Ange- per vessel. seamen by the USPHS.” The regular account still pays les alleging that the Union “breached its duty of fair However, at the October meetings, Sullivan said the for a large part of the health care premiums for active representation” by failing to process Burgess’ griev- company had altered its projections for Guam Service members and their dependents as well as some pen- ance regarding his firing as standby sailor in the Matsonia Replacement Vessels and now desired to buy four 1,700 sioner benefits. Other SUP-contracted employers also in Long Beach on August 12, and that the Union teu self-sustaining ships and operate them from the West make per manday contributions as a result of negotia- breached its duty of fair representation in the dispatch Coast directly to Guam. He estimated that foreign-built tions, to the Welfare Plan, but the funding by ASM of a standby bosun from the Wilmington Branch. vessels of this capacity would cost approximately $40 and Matson is guaranteed. The Union denies both charges and has retained Glenn million apiece. Furthermore, Sullivan stated that Matson At the September 24, 2004 meeting of the Board of Rothner of the law firm of Rothner, Segall & Green- will apply to the Maritime Administration by October Trustees of the SUP Welfare Plan, the Union trustees stone to represent the SUP in this matter. 15 for Maritime Security Program (MSP) operating (Dave Connolly and your secretary) repeatedly de- agreements for the vessels. manded, as they have for the past three meetings, that ACTION TAKEN Whether or not Matson is successful in obtaining MSP the employer trustees (Tim Gill for ASM and Tom “slots” for the vessels is problematic as there are only Percival for Matson) immediately remedy the deficit M/S to accept the balance of the President’s report. eight “slots” available for Section 2 citizens as defined problem with increased contributions. This demand was by the Shipping Act of 1916, or vessels owned by a met with continued resistance from the employers. The Carried unanimously. documentation citizen and operated by Section 2 citi- employers pressed for wholesale changes in Plan struc- Gunnar Lundeberg Friday, October 22, 2004 WEST COAST SAILORS Page 11

Wilmington report continued Jacksonville report continued Vice President's Report minimum call out for tie-up. Ewa did not sequent visit. The practices have since lay up on the September 14 and is still stopped and we are now working within October 2004 running. President Grant: OK, Rhudean the provisions of our agreement. LMSR update Musgrove, delegate. USNS Seay-Boarded in Philadelphia, PA on September 12. Paul Harsany is Since there is no indication that past performance or technical ability was the On September 4, the Maritime Trades the bosun/delegate. Only one AB and one determining factors in the LMSR award, and since the price difference was not Department of Southern California Ports OS aboard due to ROS status. No beefs. meaningful, there is a strong possibility that the LMSR contract decision was made Council was honored to be the host of USNS Yano-Boarded in Baltimore, MD on a political basis. In response, the Union rallied its political forces to fight fire the Los Angeles/Long Beach Harbor on September 13. John Drolla is the del- with fire. In his report, President Lundeberg recounts the highlights of a trip to Labor Solidarity Cruise 2004, on the his- egate and Steve Huggins is the bosun. Washington that ranks among the most significant in the recent history of the Union. toric vessel SS Lane Victory. Your sup- There were problems with the receipt of It was his ability to access and connect with our friends in Congress that helped port and participation was crucial in funds for M&R work and very limited initiate a stay of turnover and launched an investigation into the specifics of the making this event a success for 750 guests OT. Funds have since been received af- award. But if we are to continue the effort to protect our work, we must raise money (approximately 150 of them school chil- ter contacting Patriot. for the contributions that are an elemental part of the system. Accordingly, I urge dren). This was an unforgettable day of all members to regularly give whatever they can to the SUP Political Fund. labor history. There was reserved space USNS Shughart-Boarded in Baltimore, for each participating local union affili- MD on September 14. Kendrid Jackson Elections ates and their invited guests. Our cruise was the delegate and Brian Yost the bo- As everyone knows, this may be the most important election of our lifetimes. Any started at Pier 94 at the Los Angeles Har- sun. Vessel just berthed after transit from member in the San Francisco Bay Area that wants to help influence the outcome can bor, to the Port of Long Beach and con- Middle East. Great morale onboard. contact me for work in precinct walking and phone banking in the critical get-out- tinued up the California Coast where Gang did a remarkable job throughout the-vote effort. guests were provided with lunch and en- transit repairing and maintaining equip- Merchant Marine Document renewals tertainment. Our list of guest speakers ment damaged by the fire. No beefs. Ship In response to numerous questions on the Coast Guard’s MMD renewal process included various unions that lectured on remaining in FOS pending transfer to we make the following recommendations. their work in the harbor and their unions shipyard on East Coast yet to be deter- 1. Start early. The expedited process is a three week minimum. It can be much role in shaping it as well as other com- mined. longer depending on the REC. When your z-card expires you are ineligible for munity leaders. Guests/school children All to frequently, some LSMR sailors work. You have a one year grace period to get it renewed without losing your learned about the maritime labor, long- are willing to work outside of our negoti- endorsements, but when it expires you are ineligible for work on inspected vessels shoremen, pile drivers, oil workers and ated agreement for what they perceive as or uninspected vessels greater than 100 tons. other union members, who continue to some kind of benefit derived. There is 2. If you have a record, do a background check on yourself beforehand. After 9/ build the world’s greatest harbor. never any benefit to be had from a “Sweet 11 all MMD renewals must have a background check, so just because something in September 6 was the annual labor day Heart” deal. First, you always lose money your past did not come up in the last renewal does not protect you this time. There parade in Wilmington, California. SUP because you are willing to forfeit OT in are at least two ways to get this done—request your file from the FBI or pay for a and MFOW members assembled at our order to oblige your trade-offs. And sec- private company to do a check. One such company is called Choicepoint at hall at 8:00 a.m. for a continental break- ond, you undermine your union’s posi- www.choicepoint.com. Then make sure that you account for any and all convic- fast, then to Broad and E streets to begin tion and set precedents which are diffi- tions on the application. If you miss one, you could have your MMD suspended for the march at 10:00 a.m. All the water- cult to overturn. Do not agree to work one year for fraudulent statements. front unions and others in the L.A. area outside of the negotiated agreement and 3. Maintain your documentation. Certificates, training records, sea service, class- including longshore workers, mariners, well all fare better. All members aboard room time, medical records, background checks, character references, drug testing teachers, teamsters, bikers and low rid- these vessels are staunch in their support results—these will all assist in your renewal. You are responsible for your paper- ers and antique cars proceeded down of our union. Thanks to President Gunnar work, and having more of it is almost always better than having less. Avalon Boulevard to Banning Park, Lundeberg, Vice-President Dave where the festivities began. There was Ships checked Connolly and the SUP’s leadership in food, speakers, and a blues band, and their fight to garner congressional sup- Washington Voyager— Earl Eastmark, delegate: Discussion on possible proposals we handed out lollipops to children along port and for all of their efforts to retain for next round of negotiations. the way. Everyone involved behaved in our jobs. For all SUP members residing Colorado Voyager— Ron Gill, delegate: Running smoothly. top form. Thanks to Ken “Sinbad” in Florida we hope you fared well through Maui— Grey Schauf, delegate: Clarificaiton on lodging, delayed sailing. Delancey for running around during the Hurricanes Charley, Ivan and Frances. APL Singapore— Dave Sylstra, delegate: In good shape. parade with his truck moving and bring- Don’t forget to check your documents for Dave Connolly ing tables and chairs and elderly and currency and get registered. handicap members to the park and set- Bud Yost, East/Gulf Coast Rep. ting up. Thanks to Bill O’Brien for ar- ranging a continental breakfast, buying Seafarers killed in the food and setting up. Ships are still backed up in the harbor lifeboat drill in Oz on the hook as many new longshoremen, 3000, were taken in the ranks of the Two Filipino crewmen were killed and ILWU as casuals. Having the same beef three injured on October 8, during a life- of customs not clearing APL ships for boat exercise aboard the Hong Kong- launch service. A letter was sent by Capt. flagged Capesize bulk carrier Lowlands Grace at Port Hedland in Australia. One David Boatner, MMP Agent, Al of the injured crew members has been Camelio, MEBA Agent, John Cox, SIU treated and released from the hospital, Agent, Bill O’Brien, MFU Agent, and but two remain hospitalized. myself, to Capt. Grant Stewart of ASM on this issue on October 1. Awaiting a Senior Sergeant Barry O’Meara from the reply, will keep you informed. local police station said that five crew members were on a lifeboat as it was be- Keith Miller ing lowered in a routine training exercise Branch Agent at about 1500 local time. For a reason still to be determined, the boat fell approxi- mately 90 feet into the sea, capsizing and Support the trapping the men underneath. A nearby SUP Political Fund Australian naval patrol vessel was able to render assistance to the trapped crew. Record of SUP Shipping September 2004

Hdqs..... Seattle ...... Wilm ...... Hono ...... Total Bosun ...... 5...... 4 ...... 5 ...... 1 ...... 15 Maint. Man...... 3...... 0 ...... 0 ...... 1 ...... 4 A.B. Dayworker 0...... 0 ...... 9 ...... 6 ...... 15 A.B ...... 15...... 16 ...... 14 ...... 4 ...... 49 O.S...... 0...... 3 ...... 2 ...... 0 ...... 5 Standby ...... 22...... 7 ...... 61 ...... 28...... 118 TOTALS ...... 45...... 30 ...... 91 ...... 40 ...... 206 Page 12 WEST COAST SAILORS Friday, October 22, 2004 SUP Branch Reports Seattle Wilmington Honolulu Jacksonville

September 20, 2004 September 20, 2004 September 20, 2004 September 2004 Shipped the following: 6 Boatswains Shipped the following during the pe- During the month of August, 2004, For the month of September three AB’s filled by 3 A and 3 B cards; two went to riod: Bosun: 6; B: 13; AB Maint.: 8; dispatched the following: 1 bosun, 1 AB, were dispatched to USNS ships. These Navy bottoms and one was a relief job. OS: 4 and Standby: 71 for a total of 102 2 AB maints., 5 ABD, 1 ABD relief, jobs were filled with two B cards and a 18 Able Seaman berths filled by 5 A, 6 jobs shipped. and 1 OS. These jobs were filled by 5 A C card. Shipping is slow in Jacksonville B, 6 C and 1 D registrant. Of these jobs Registrations: A: 41; B: 20; C: 3 and members, 4 B members, and 2 C mem- because all but three of the USNS ships one was a return, four were relief’s, six D: 5. bers. Also shipped 31 standby jobs, filled are in Reduced Operating Status. Hope- went to commercial buckets and seven Ships checked by 5 B members, 12 C members, 12 D fully, this will change in October. went to Navy ships. 4 Ordinary Seaman registrants, and 2 MFOW members, for APL Singapore: OK, Frank Salvatierra, Ships checked jobs shipped to Navy ships; taken by 3 B a total of 42 jobs shipped. delegate. Manukai OK, Jim Clay, del- USNS Fisher-Boarded in Mobile, AL members and one D registrant; and 14 egate. Job order in for BB-winches to be During the month of August, registered on September 1. Jonn Reed was the del- standbys filled by 2 A, 9 B, 1 C and 1 D moved away from bitts, and motor speed 5 A members, 6 B members, 3 C mem- egate and Anthony Brantley was the bo- registrant. work done, from captain. Mokihana: bers, and 1 D registrant. To date regis- sun. AB Kevin Sheen volunteered to fill Registered: 15 A cards for a total of OK, Art Pond, delegate. APL Korea: tered are 12 A members, 10 B members, a billet on the Bob Hope so that she had 35; 23 B cards for a total of 58; 10 C payoff beef. Shipped not cleared and no 7 C members and 6 D registrants for a a full complement to sail, on September cards for a total of 25. launch service available on Friday. At total of 35 registered. 7, as the Violet, LA based ships were Ships checked 0800 Saturday, customs and 3 new crew Ships checked put to sea to avoid Hurricane Ivan. After President Polk, President Truman and members came aboard, and the 3 old Maui, Lurline, Lihue, Matsonia, returning to Violet, he returned to the President Jackson back from the Far-East crew members were still aboard from Kauai, Ewa, R.J. Pfeiffer, and Manukai. Fisher in Mobile. Thanks Kevin, your with little or no trouble. Kauai and Maui midnight to 0800 and they did not want All with few or no beefs. MV Maunawili willingness to answer the call for help is in twice and running smoothly. Along to pay them for the day. They were ad- through on maiden voyage in good hands appreciated. with SUP members Wil Williamson and vised not to pay off or sign off until they with Mark Hurley delegate and Mike USNS Gilliland-Boarded in Newport Mike Boyle, I attended the Washington received the days pay which they even- Freng bosun. Potable water problem. News, VA on September 10. John State Labor Council Convention where tually got. All work assignments should Paint and rigging gang running smoothly Rawlins is the delegate and Lou we put forward a resolution on Short Sea be posted on the board after 1700 includ- with Monte Kalama as bosun. Hathaway is the bosun. Gang has endured Shipping, asking for continued support ing bunkering. Paul Calais, delegate. On September 15, attended the Hawaii continual air conditioning outages from our elected officials so that all ves- Manoa: Bill Henneberry, delegate. OK. ports maritime meeting. Invited captain the throughout a very hot month of Septem- sels engaged in this trade be built and Matsonia: OK, Paul Barbour, delegate. port Timothy Skuby to address problems ber. Patriot notified numerous times crewed by U.S. workers; and we pre- Gave the sheets to Dave Gillis. on the issuance of MMD’s at the Hono- about the problem. sented a resolution from the Deep Sea Maunawilli: OK. Mark Hurley, delegate, lulu REC. He related most of the delay is USNS Gordon-Boarded in Norfolk, VA Fisherman’s Union regarding displaced no beefs. In L.A. from Philadelphia ship- due to national maritime center policies on September 10. Dennis Belmonte is the skippers and crew resulting from the yards. APL Philippines, Richard and is out of his hands. He did give us delegate and William Cornelius is the bo- governments North Pacific Fisheries al- Crowell, delegate. Third mate doing sail- office access to help on priority matters. sun. Master refused to pay draws against lotment buy-outs. SUP pensioner Tony ors work, bolting on tank tops, put bo- wages. Checked with Patriot and found Jones, who sits on the Pierce County On September 20 and 21, Honolulu sun and two men in for 2 hours 01'. Also, out what was on the books for each mem- Labor Council as a delegate to the Hotel hosted a merchant marine personnel ad- sailors tighten lashings, that is our work, ber needing a draw. Captain Faulkner and Restaurant Workers Union assisted visory committee (MERPAC) meeting at otherwise OK. R.J. Pfieffer, Va’a Tautala ended up paying the draws at 1900 on a in getting the resolutions moved and the Bishop museum. This committee is gave the sheets to Jim McGee. The ashes obtaining input from maritime industry Friday to all needing money. passed. After several tough months at the of Brother Ron Lempriere were spread bargaining table, the UFCW voted over- people on issues of training, STCW re- USNS Mendonca-Boarded in Philadel- off Diamond Head approximately 1600 quirements and medical standards of sea- phia, PA on September 12. Bill Brannon whelmingly to ratify a three-year con- on Friday 8:27:04. APL China, Gabe tract with their employers wherein they men. The SUP positions have been sub- is the delegate and Dan Dinsmore is the Sipin, delegate. When watches are in ef- mitted at previous mainland meetings but bosun. Because of past practices which held fast against a two tier wage and ben- fect in OT hours at call out, the watches efits proposal submitted by the compa- I would like to thank Brothers Tony were outside of our negotiated agreement time starts when the gang hits the deck. nies. This attack on working families was Mendez and Shermaih Iaea for their two there are ongoing issues of getting dis- In wash downs on Friday, you do not aimed at union health care benefits that day attendance, note taking and commit- puted OT paid. Meal relief OT, penalty knock off the gang on weekends or use the Wall Street big shots wanted the large tee input. Had a nice industry turnout in meal hours and early call outs were part of them and continue on Monday Grocery Chains to eliminate. Hawai’i. redlined. Despite my discussion with the unless there is foul weather. Watchdown The national elections are here and I master on August 25, that the sailors President Gunnar Lundeberg attended is all-hands every day until it is over. trust everyone is registered to vote. This would work within the contract and the September Seattle Branch meeting President Wilson: Lawrence Gately, del- anti labor administration must go if we would be paid for work performed, some where he gave his report and answered egate, food beef. APL Thailand: Vince want to maintain a decent standard of liv- of the practices continued until my sub- questions regarding the situation with the Estrada, delegate, OK. When ships at an- Military Sealift Command. Members trav- ing. For you Hawai’i voters most of the chor are awaiting to be cleared by cus- continued on page 11 eled from as far as Portland, Spokane and maritime unions have made an open en- toms for launch services or pratique, they the Canadian border for this meeting and dorsement for U.S. House District 2 are not at a regular anchorage or in port. Dispatcher's President Lundeberg did an excellent job which means no recommendation for ei- Sea watches are still in affect and when answering the membership’s concerns re- ther Ed Case, the anti-Jones Act guy or vessels sails to the dock it is not consid- Report garding the LMSR contract award pro- Mike Gabbard the republican who has ered a shift but just a regular two hour Headquarters—Sep. 2004 test; the Money Purchase Plan benefits no problem with the Jones Act. Deck changes; Work Rule issues; the Matson continued on page 11 Mike Duvall, Branch Agent Navigation Company proposals; and Bosun ...... 5 American Ship Management’s upcoming Carpenter ...... 0 San Francisco Business Agent MM...... 3 negotiations with American President AB ...... 15 Lines. The meeting continued into over- October 12, 2004 President Wilson— Larry Gatley, del- OS ...... 0 time and no question went unanswered. Kauai— Tony Fague, delegate: Van egate: Voyage pay off. Laid at anchor a Standby ...... 22 This Agent encourages all to vote in carrier. Island run. No disputes. few days in San Pedro; ran out of food Total Deck Jobs Shipped ...... 45 the November national and Washington Total Deck B, C, D Shipped...... 13 Lihue— Manny Roxas, delegate: due to poor storage. State elections and to vote for the Labor Coastwise to Island. Will make two more APL China— Gabriel Sipin, delegate: Engine/Steward candidates that support our jobs and our QMED ...... 0 trips. Disputed time was payable. Voyage pay off. Dispute settled with working conditions; John Kerry for Presi- Wilmington Agent. Pumpman ...... 0 dent, Patty Murray for U.S. Senate, and Lurline— John Gabourel, delegate; Oiler...... 0 APL Korea— Augusta Silva, delegate: Christine Gregoire for Governor. Danny Gonzales relief bosun: Running Wiper ...... 0 smoothly. Joe Eckert, bosun: Long lay over in San Vince O’Halloran, Branch Agent Steward ...... 0 Manoa— John Fernandez, delegate; Pedro; no problems. Cook ...... 0 ASM Shoregang—Running smoothly. Messman ...... 0 SUP member joins Charles Duke, bosun: Voyage pay off. No disputes. Good gang. Reminder: New crewmembers who Total E&S Jobs Shipped ...... 0 sign on articles must have one year’s dis- Total E&S B, C, D Shipped ...... 0 pension ranks Maui— Chuck Maringer, delegate: Total Jobs Shipped - All Depts. ... 45 charges in the last five with them when The following SUP member joined the Coastwise from Seattle, John Hamann Total B, C, D Shipped-All Depts. . 13 rank of pensioner, bringing the total num- new bosun. boarding a ship. Total Registered “A” ...... 77 ber of SUP members to 820: Pres. Jackson— Patrick Tite, delegate: Also worked in the front office during Total Registered “B” ...... 75 Edward R. Sabo, 62, Book No. 7447, In from Seattle; delayed sailing; last trip the month. Total Registered “C” ...... 8 joined SUP in 1964, 27 years seatime. not payable on overtime when called. William Berger Total Registered “D” ...... 9