Tanker Liberty Christened Jones Act Vessel Means New Jobs for SIU Members

FEBRUARYFEBRUARY 2017 2014 VOLUME VOLUME 76 o NO.79 NO. 2 2

Union shipyard General Dynamics NASSCO recently christened the SIU-contracted tanker Liberty, which will sail in the Jones Act trade. The vessel is pictured at the San Diego facility. It is part of an eight- ship new build order for two separate SIU-contracted companies. Page 2. (Photos courtesy General Dynamics NASSCO)

Tacoma Seafarers Back Military Families In Yearly Outreach

The Christmas season marked another outstanding effort by Seafarers in the Tacoma, Washington, area who participated in the annual Santa’s Castle outreach. SIU members, officials, friends and family members teamed up for approximately $10,000 worth of donations to U.S. enlisted military families. Most of the goodies are pictured at left, at the SIU hall in Tacoma. It was the tenth straight year the SIU has taken part in Santa’s Castle. That story and additional photos are on Page 24 (back page). Also, check out Page 6 for more highlights of SIU members’ holiday philan- thropy.

Transportation Secretary Backs Mariners SIU Election Results Tax Tips for 2017 Page 2 Page 3 Pages 12-14

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG.indd 1 1/26/2017 6:03:02 PM President’s Report

U.S. Troops Rely on U.S. Mariners Secretary of Transportation nominee Elaine Chao made a vital point about the U.S. Merchant Marine’s role in supporting our troops during her confirmation hearing in the United States Senate. While answering a question last month in the nation’s capital, Secretary Chao noted that, in times of conflict, the vast majority of materiel needed by our men and women in uniform is delivered by civilian Debora Denning breaks the ceremonial cham- mariners on American-flag ships. Recertified Bosun Carlos Loureiro (left) and SIU Port pagne bottle, christening the Liberty. (Photo cour- For those of us who work in the maritime in- Agent Jeff Turkus attend the christening. tesy General Dynamics NASSCO) dustry, of course, that’s common knowledge. But I think it was valuable and important to have those comments on the record, for the benefit of those less familiar with the crucial work performed by Union Shipyard Christens ECO Class Vessel Seafarers and other U.S. mariners. Let’s face it: We’ve all spent time in conversation explaining The domestic fleet of SIU-contracted ships got a advanced design achieves 33 percent increased fuel ef- the basics of the U.S. Merchant Marine, often boost before the New Year with the christening of a ficiency through several features. clearing up misconceptions in the process. tanker on the West Coast. As part of an eight-tanker program for two separate The pro-maritime segments of the confirmation On Dec. 17, union shipyard General Dynamics SIU-contracted customers, American Petroleum Tankers hearing reminded me of comments made last year NASSCO christened the Liberty, the third ECO Class and SEA-Vista LLC, the construction and operation of Michael Sacco by General Darren McDew, commander, United tanker under contract with SEA-Vista LLC (following the new ECO Class tankers are aligned with the Jones States Transportation Command. During a hearing the Independence and the Constitution). SEA-Vista is a Act. The Jones Act mandates that cargo moving between on the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) – partnership between SEACOR Holdings Inc. and Avista U.S. ports must be carried on vessels that are flagged, one of the key components of our industry – General McDew stated, Capital Partners. built, crewed and owned American. The Jones Act is re- “The nation is still a maritime nation…. I can deliver an immediate SIU Port Agent Jeff Turkus and Recertified Bosun sponsible for more than 500,000 good-paying jobs coun- force anywhere on the planet tonight. But to deliver a decisive force Carlos Loureiro were in attendance in San Diego at the trywide and is considered a key element in the nation’s it takes a fully-fledged, competent maritime fleet. And that’s what the ceremony. SIU mariners will crew the Liberty when the defense capabilities. MSP provides us.” vessel enters service. In 2016, NASSCO shipbuilders processed more than The general went on to describe the privately operated, U.S.-flag Mrs. Debora Denning, wife of SEACOR Vice Presi- 60,000 tons of steel and delivered six vessels. international fleet as “vital to moving military goods and hardware” dent Tom Denning, christened the ship with the tradi- “NASSCO is the only major shipyard on the West and added, “without mariners, we don’t have a capability.” tional break of a champagne bottle on the side of the hull. Coast of the United States conducting design, new con- These are some of the messages we will be amplifying March 1 at Designed for improved fuel efficiency, the 610-foot- struction and repair of commercial and U.S. Navy ships,” the annual Maritime Congressional Sail-In. As many Seafarers know, long, 50,000 deadweight ton, LNG-conversion-ready the yard reported. “In the past decade, NASSCO deliv- during this yearly outreach event, representatives from all segments ECO Class tanker symbolizes the emerging direction of ered 30 oceangoing ships to government and commercial of our industry team up for a full day of meetings with senators, con- the shipping industry in the U.S. toward cleaner modes of customers—including the world’s first LNG-powered gressional representatives and their staffs. Whether we’re meeting transporting product, according to NASSCO. The ship’s containerships.” with a freshman or an old friend who’s been on Capitol Hill for years, we promote the laws and programs that keep the U.S. Merchant Ma- rine afloat. Most importantly, we promote YOU – the rank-and-file SIU-Crewed Bowditch Makes International News mariner. Parts of those discussions are history lessons, very much in line with Secretary Chao’s comments last month. She specifically cited In Scientific Drone Incident in South China Sea the Persian Gulf War and then Operation Iraqi Freedom as examples of times when our mariners ably and reliably delivered the goods for An SIU-crewed vessel was in the news in mid-De- facts with the Chinese through the appropriate diplo- our troops. And of course, there are many other examples dating all cember during a brief but tense incident that sparked matic and military channels, and have called on Chi- the way back to our nation’s founding. From the Revolutionary War international headlines along with a social-media com- nese authorities to comply with their obligations under to World War II to Korea and Vietnam to the present day, we’ve al- ment by then President-Elect Donald Trump. international law and to refrain from further efforts to ways been there, ready, willing and able to sail into harm’s way. With On Dec. 15, the USNS Bowditch was performing part impede lawful U.S. activities.” a nod to our World War II mariners, “Damn the submarine! We’re the of a planned scientific mission in the South China Sea. The drone was returned to the U.S. on Dec. 20, after men of the merchant marine!” (You youngsters can look up the lyric The vessel, a Pathfinder-class oceanographic ship oper- American officials condemned the seizure as unlawful if you’re not familiar with it.) ated by USMMI on a Military Sealift Command (MSC) (and also after President-Elect Trump said in a Twitter The way we’ll stay ready to back our armed forces is by main- contract, was surveying 50 nautical miles off the Subic comment the Chinese could keep it). taining the MSP and the Jones Act and cargo preference laws. We Bay when a Chinese warship intercepted one of the The Pentagon emphasized that the United States also need to take the shackles off of the U.S. Export-Import Bank. Bowditch’s deployed “ocean glider” scientific drones. “remains committed to upholding the accepted prin- And heaven knows, it’s past time to sensibly ease the regulatory After establishing bridge-to-bridge contact with the ciples and norms of international law and freedom of burdens on our women and men who go down to the sea in ships. Chinese vessel, the crew of the Bowditch instructed the navigation and overflight and will continue to fly, sail, As I’ve mentioned, no one is asking for a return to the days when a Chinese to return the drone, to which the only response and operate in the South China Sea wherever interna- z-card was good for life and the only physical exam involved being was: “We are returning to normal operations.” The war- tional law allows, in the same way that we operate ev- able to fog a mirror. But all the red tape nowadays – however well- ship then left the area. erywhere else around the world.” intended – is hurting our industry. There isn’t an overnight cure but The drone in question is a small, torpedo-shaped The SIU crew members aboard the USNS Bowditch we will continue to seek a better balance that is less burdensome on craft that glides beneath the waves to collect various during the incident were advised by the U.S. Navy not Seafarers. data. Such drones are often used for weather research to comment on the event, in the interest of national se- Meanwhile, we look forward to continuing our service as Ameri- but have a variety of roles. According to multiple news curity. ca’s fourth arm of defense. That role has never been more important, reports and comments from the United States govern- The SIU crew included Bosun Thomas Weber, and I want all of our military members and their families to know, ment, it was clearly labelled, and the Bowditch was a ABs Tracy Austin, Mark Bolitho and Melvin Ken- you can count on us! mere 500 yards from the drone when it was seized. nedy, OSs Blake Braye and Frederick Murray, QE3 “This incident was inconsistent with both interna- Mervin Cruzat, QE4 Eric Cunanan, GVAs Ronnie FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 o NO. 2 tional law and standards of professionalism for conduct Rankin and Camilo Villafania, Steward/Baker Elston between navies at sea,” Pentagon press secretary Peter Yu-Mateo, MDR Leonard Renaud, CSKS Dorine Cook said in a statement. “The U.S. has addressed those Kendall and Steward Assistant Joseph Allen.

Volume 79 Number 2 February 2017 Secretary Chao Backs Jones Act, U.S. Mariners The SIU online: www.seafarers.org During her confirmation hearing Jan. 11 before Earlier in the hearing, Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Mis- the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, sissippi) described Jones Act as “a vitally important The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the and Transportation, Elaine L. Chao voiced strong part of our maritime industry.” Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, support for the U.S. Merchant Marine and the Jones Addressing Secretary Chao, Wicker stated, “I AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) Act. hope you will be a strong supporter of the Jones Act 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. A longtime backer of the American maritime in- and advocate for our domestic maritime sector as POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. dustry, Secretary Chao – the Transportation Secre- a bipartisan majority of this committee has always Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; tary designee – stated during the hearing, “The Jones done.” Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Act is a very important program that secures national Also at the hearing, Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) Editor, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; security. We have seen two wars now in the last 25 said the Jones Act is “the foundation of the domestic Administrative Support, Misty Dobry; Content Curator, years…. If we did not have the merchant marine U.S.-flag maritime industry and it is also essential to Mark Clements. assets to assist the gray hulls (U.S. Navy ships) on our national security.” He noted the steadfast sup- Copyright © 2017 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. these campaigns, our country would not have been port of the nation’s freight cabotage law from “every able to supply our troops, bring the necessary equip- Secretary of Defense, every Secretary of the Navy The Seafarers International ment. All of that is not done on the gray bottoms, but for generations.” Union engaged an environ- rather the merchant marine bottoms.” The Jones Act helps sustain an estimated mentally friendly printer She added, “The national security of the merchant 500,000 American jobs, according to a study by for the production of this newspaper. marine fleet is part of the way that we are able to be PricewaterhouseCoopers. It requires that cargo effective overseas and protect this country. So, I am moving between domestic ports be carried on a great proponent of the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine vessels that are crewed, built, flagged and owned fleet.” American. Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG February 2017

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG_X2.indd 2 1/30/2017 2:52:07 PM Members of the union’s election tallying committee took a break from their duties Jan. 6 at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Maryland to pose for this photo. Joining the rank-and- file group on the occasion were SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez (standing fourth from right in the second row); SIU Asst. VP Ambrose Cucinotta (second from right, second row); SIU VP Contracts George Tricker (second row, far right) and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (seated fourth from right in the front row.) Committee Announces Results of SIU Election Michael Sacco is Reelected President of Seafarers International Union A committee of rank-and-file members n Nick Celona, Atlantic Coast assistant recently released its official report on the vice president; voting for national officers of the Seafarers n Ambrose Cucinotta, Gulf Coast assis- International Union’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes tant vice president; and Inland Waters. Voting took place Nov. 1 n Bryan Powell, West Coast assistant through Dec. 31, 2016. vice president; The union’s tallying committee consisted n Mike Russo, Southern Region, Great of 20 Seafarers (two members elected from Lakes and inland waters assistant vice presi- each of the SIU’s 10 constitutional halls). dent; The group certified the reelections of Mi- n Chet Wheeler, Government Services chael Sacco as president of the SIU; Augie and fishing industries assistant vice presi- Tellez as the union’s executive vice president; dent; David Heindel as secretary-treasurer; n Pat Vandegrift, Piney Point port agent; and George Tricker as vice president of con- n Mark von Siegel, New York/New Jer- tracts and contract enforcement, among other sey port agent; results. n Joe Baselice, Philadelphia port agent; The tallying committee’s report will be n Georg Kenny, Baltimore port agent; submitted for approval by the membership at n Jimmy White, Mobile port agent; union meetings in March. n Chris Westbrook, New Orleans Port According to the report, the two contested Agent; races for office were decided by large mar- n Kris Hopkins, Houston port agent; gins. The committee disclosed the election of n Nick Marrone II, Oakland port agent; the following officers, who will serve four- n Chad Partridge, St. Louis port agent; year terms: n Todd Brdak, Detroit-Algonac port n Michael Sacco, president; agent. n Augie Tellez, executive vice president; The committee arrived on Jan. 4 to begin n David Heindel, secretary-treasurer; their work by the constitutionally required n George Tricker, contracts and contract date of Jan. 5. They met during that week enforcement vice president; and weekend at the union’s headquarters in Committee members and authorized employees from the secretary-treasurer’s office com- n Joseph Soresi, Atlantic Coast vice Camp Springs, Maryland, and at the SIU- mence their work Jan. 5 in Camp Springs, Maryland president; affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. n Dean Corgey, Gulf Coast vice presi- Serving as co-chairmen of the tallying dent; committee were John Cain and John Wo- Pereira, Jeffery Eckhart, Chester Pias- the cooperation and assistance given to us by n Nick Marrone, West Coast vice presi- zunk, both of whom credited their fellow kowski, Robert Fitzhugh, George Price, the union’s legal department and its techni- dent; Seafarers for being thorough and efficient Richard Grubbs, Scott Smith, Rolando cal and clerical staff. Finally, the members n Tom Orzechowski, Southern Region, (and for remaining flexible when inclement Guity, Cleveland West, Romalies Jones of the union tallying committee wish to con- Great Lakes and inland waters vice president; weather threatened to disrupt the schedule). and Glenn Williams. gratulate the elected officers and jobholders. n Kermett Mangram, Government Ser- Joining them on the committee were Sea- Unanimously approved by the committee, We extend our best wishes for the next four vices and fishing industries vice president; farers Ritche Acuman, Michael Keogh, the report consists of more than 7,000 words. years. We hope that you will carry on the tra- n Archie Ware, contracts and contract Earl Castain, Mark Kotajarvi, Cleofe The committee members concluded that they dition of our union and advance the strength enforcement assistant vice president; Castro, Ann Mensch, Peter Crum, Rafael “wish to express [our] deep appreciation for of the maritime industry.”

tinue to exemplify APT’s continued com- worker, one machine operator, one ship- petroleum products. The Tier II 50,000 Philly Shipyard mitment to American shipping and the builder, and two interns. dead weight ton (dwt) vessel is based on a Jones Act,” said SIU Vice President Con- Steinar Nerbovik, PSI’s president and proven Hyundai Mipo Dockyards (HMD) Hosts APT Tanker tracts George Tricker. “These state-of-the- CEO, remarked, “Within the last 17 years design which incorporates numerous fuel art ships help maintain the well-earned of building great ships, we’ve also built efficiency features, flexible cargo capabil- reputation of Jones Act shipping as safe, great teams and a best-in-class workforce. ity and the latest regulatory requirements, Keel Laying reliable and environmentally conscious.” The shipyard is a place where you can be according to PSI. Keeping with long held shipbuilding tra- a part of something big, and we are always Philly Shipyard has delivered 25 ships in Signaling confidence in the Jones Act dition, coins were placed by representatives looking for additional skilled men and its 17-year history, including the first prod- and new jobs for Seafarers, Philly Ship- from Philly Shipyard and Kinder Morgan women to join our family. The new hires uct tanker for APT in December 2016. The yard, Inc. (PSI) on Jan. 12 conducted a (APT’s parent company) on one of the keel participating in today’s keel laying have three remaining product tankers for APT keel-laying ceremony for the final vessel in blocks as a sign of good fortune and safe joined over 1,100 other shipbuilders to are currently under construction and have a four-ship order placed by SIU-contracted travels, before the 650-ton unit was lowered continue the proud legacy of building and planned deliveries throughout 2017. Also American Petroleum Tankers (APT). into place in the dry dock. Philly Shipyard delivering ships right here in the city of under construction at the shipyard are two The union shipyard is building the ship representatives included the 15 new hires brotherly love.” 3,600 TEU containerships for Seafarers- so it eventually may be converted to lique- that began orientation the previous week. When completed, the product tanker contracted Matson Navigation Company, fied natural gas (LNG) propulsion. This first orientation class of 2017 included will be 600 feet long and capable of car- Inc. with planned deliveries in 2018 and “Once completed, this vessel will con- 10 new apprentices, one transportation rying 50,000 tons of crude oil or refined 2019.

February 2017 Seafarers LOG 3

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG_X.indd 3 1/27/2017 7:01:42 PM Canadian Unions March Across Country USCG Schedules To Protect Cabotage Laws, Mariner Jobs Third and Final

Canadian union members El Faro Hearing took to the streets to make their voices heard loud and clear. The U.S. Coast Guard Marine Their message: Don’t let CETA Board of Investigation has scheduled take away Canadian maritime the final hearing on the loss of the jobs. SIU-crewed El Faro to begin on Feb. “I am so proud of all the 6 in Jacksonville, Florida. union members who marched This third hearing will examine all across Canada calling on additional data included in the in- members of parliament to reject vestigation, primarily the informa- provisions that would give good tion gathered from the retrieval of Canadian jobs to foreigners,” de- the vessel’s voyage data recorder clared SIU of Canada President (VDR). The data extracted from the Jim Given. “We put maritime VDR that will be discussed during and its issues front-and-center the hearing will include the tran- all across the country.” script of bridge audio recordings, Thousands of union mem- which was released in December bers and supporters marched on 2016 by the National Transportation Jan. 12 in Toronto, Montreal, Safety Board (NTSB). Vancouver, Victoria, Prince The NTSB, which is conduct- Rupert (British Columbia) and ing its own investigation, will par- St. John’s (Newfoundland) ticipate in the upcoming hearing. In under the banner of the Cana- dian Maritime & Supply Chain addition to reviewing information Unionists show their support for the Canadian cabotage laws in St. John’s, Newfoundland. Coalition (CMSCC). Given is from the VDR, the hearing will also CMSCC chair and also serves include mariner witnesses, repre- as a Maritime Trades Depart- national economy. otage laws regarding domestic Operating Engineers, IUPAT, sentatives from the vessel’s owner ment, AFL-CIO Eastern Area Additionally, the CMSCC maritime transportation without Transport and General Work- (TOTE Inc.) and officials from the executive board member. reported that documents leaked any regard to the economic and ers, Teamsters, and Canadian Coast Guard. The coalition was protesting from talks for the Trade in Ser- social outcome of the Cana- Union of Public Employees. According to the official an- language in the Canadian-Eu- vices Agreement between Can- dian merchant marine and the Given stated more actions nouncement, the hearing will take ropean Union Comprehensive ada and 22 other nations reveal 250,000 people employed in the and protests could be expected place at the Prime F. Osborn Conven- Economic Trade Agreement negotiators seeking to liberalize coastal trades. in the coming weeks, as several tion Center, 1000 Water Street, Jack- (CETA) that would open cer- market access to the country’s “This cannot stand unchal- European nations followed suit sonville, Florida 32204. For those tain domestic trading routes coastal trades. If implemented, lenged,” added Given. “All with farmers and other con- unable to attend, the Coast Guard to foreign and flag-of-conve- this would allow foreign- these actions affect our jobs cerned individuals protesting will be streaming the entire hearing nience shipping, which would crewed vessels access to cargo and our communities. That is in a Decentralized Day of Ac- online at livestream.com/USCGIn- risk Canadian jobs as well as that currently is handled by Ca- why all unions, not just those tion Against CETA on Jan. 21. vestigations, which also contains an the nation’s security and envi- nadian-flag, Canadian-crewed in maritime, have a stake in this While the trade agreement has archive of past hearings on the loss ronment. It noted the changes vessels. important fight.” received some approval, not all of the El Faro. proposed by CETA could result Finally, protesters were con- Among the unions taking countries involved have agreed Look for full coverage of the hear- in not only unemployment of cerned that the Canada Trans- part in the marches were the to support it. European Parlia- portation Act Review (also SIU of Canada, Steelwork- ment’s trade committee is ex- ing in the March issue of the Seafar- Canadian mariners, but also di- ers LOG and in the News section of minish the important role Cana- known as the Emerson Report) ers, ILA, UFCW, ILWU, Ma- pected to vote on the agreement dian-flag shipping plays in the calls for the elimination of cab- chinists, IBEW, UNIFOR, in the near future. the SIU website, www.seafarers.org

Heindel Promotes International Solidarity With All Japan Seamen’s Union

SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel was a guest speaker last November at the All Japan Seamen’s Union (AJSU) congress. Representing both the SIU and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (he chairs the latter organization’s Seafarers’ Section), Heindel discussed several important subjects including the Maritime Labor Convention and the International Bargaining Forum. He’s at the same podium in both photos – at right in the snapshot at the immediate right.

4 Seafarers LOG February 2017

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG.indd 4 1/26/2017 6:03:04 PM AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (left) makes a point during the gather- points out that unions are a sure way to protect ing in the nation’s capital. Directly in the background is ITF Maritime Coordi- Investigative reporter Ian Urbina plans to continue maritime workers. nator Jacqueline Smith. his series on crime on the high seas. Journalist Provides Look into Maritime Crimes MTD Hosts Forum Illuminating Important Work of NY Times Reporter Urbina The AFL-CIO’s Maritime Trades Depart- tional guests of the MTD. and those who look out for fish, dolphins and concerning shady manning agencies that prey ment (MTD) recently hosted a presentation Heindel, who chairs the ITF Seafarers’ eco damage,” he said, referring to the divided on those most desperate for a job. However, by New York Times investigative reporter Ian Section, reflected on the series and the truths attention of those trying to offer help in the stopping those manning agencies is no sim- Urbina, who in 2015 wrote an exhaustive, that it presents to the reader: “When you look region. He also spoke about the difficult task ple task, as Smith said: “There are hundreds in-depth series of articles covering crime at what goes on with the fishermen … it’s of singling out those perpetrating the crimes, – thousands – of manning agencies.” She and lawlessness on the ocean, particularly in hard to imagine that still goes on today.” specifically talking about the hundreds of explained that not every manning agency is Southeast Asian waters. The series, called “The Outlaw Ocean” manning agencies operating in that region. illegitimate, and making that distinction is During the Jan. 10 gathering in Washing- and currently consisting of eight install- Shuler noted the differences between the where at least part of the root of the problem ton, D.C., Urbina stated, “The contours of ments, is not complete, Urbina told those in workers featured in the series and American, lies. these stories have been told before, but never attendance. He shared a few stories from his unionized workers. “It’s the fundamental The ITF is planning to launch a campaign before in such detail.” Those details include travels and investigations, and offered his right of workers to be safe on the job,” she on unlawful shipping in the near future, with up-close views on human trafficking, inten- views on the problems with eradicating these said, “but no one can be safe without unions.” attempted enforcement to begin initially off tional dumping, poaching and indentured crimes. Smith spoke after Urbina’s presentation, the coast of Ireland. The federation already servitude, to name a few. Some of the report- “I found this real divide between those and discussed the ITF’s plans to help com- runs a decades-long, highly effective cam- ing also focuses on the dangers of so-called who care to protect labor and human rights, bat the rampant crime in that area, especially paign against runaway-flag shipping. flag-of-convenience shipping, also known as runaway-flag shipping. Throughout his reporting, Urbina showed Western readers the horrors of fishermen forced to work on boats for little or no pay, in deplorable conditions, with no practical way out of their situations. These men are “employed” by less-than-reputable manning agencies, who prey on migrant and down-on- their-luck men who are desperate for work. But indentured servitude or “soft slavery,” as Urbina described it, is just one of the multitude of crimes happening every day on the seas, including human trafficking, or his self-described “hard slavery.” The level of detail and accuracy in his reporting offers a first look for many readers into the world of shipping in Southeast Asian waters, while also shining a spotlight on these very seri- ous issues for those involved in the maritime industry. He was joined in the discussion by SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, AFL- CIO Secretary- Treasurer Liz Shuler, and International Transportation Workers’ Feder- ation (ITF) Maritime Coordinator Jacqueline Smith, as well as other national and interna- Attendees meet at AFL-CIO headquarters.

States Coast Guard (USCG) is exercising previous MMC, in accordance with cur- endorsement currently has a limitation USCG Issues Merchant its authority under Title 46, United States rent policy. The extension of validity of of “Not valid after Dec. 31, 2016” associ- Code, Section 7507, and is granting an expired credentials provides the oppor- ated with it. Mariner Credential extension of national endorsements for tunity for a mariner to work under the Mariner Medical Certificates: Mari- any mariner whose MMC expires on authority of that credential during this ners must continue to maintain a valid Processing Update or after December 1, 2016. This exten- period, so there is no loss of MMC valid- mariner medical certificate. Nothing sion is effective immediately and will be ity associated with this decision. stated in this bulletin is intended to re- Editor’s note: The U.S. Coast Guard’s valid until September 30, 2017. Mari- STCW Endorsements: The NMC is lieve mariners from their responsibility National Maritime Center issued the fol- ners, employers, and owner/operators are focusing on evaluating applications with to submit timely applications. Mariners lowing news release on December 28. encouraged to print a copy of the letter International Convention on Standards should continue to submit their renewal explaining the extension. All mariners of Training, Certification, and Watch- requests in time to receive a new MMC The National Maritime Center (NMC) sailing exclusively under the authority of keeping for Seafarers (STCW) endorse- prior to the expiration date of their cre- continues to experience a greater-than- their national endorsement on inland or ments. In accordance with Regulation dentials. Mariners who have already sub- average volume of applications for coastwise voyages are advised to carry a I/2 of STCW, we are unable to extend mitted renewal applications do not need Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC). copy of this letter with their expired cre- the validity of these endorsements. As to resubmit their requests for renewal. This bulletin outlines actions to be taken dentials and produce it upon the request a result, applications containing MMCs For additional information, please visit for U.S. mariners holding national and of USCG personnel or other officials. with STCW endorsements will be pro- the NMC website, call 1-888-IASKNMC STCW endorsements. Expiration dates of new MMCs will be cessed as quickly as possible. This in- (427-5662), or e-mail IASKNMC@uscg. National Endorsements: The United 5 years from the date of expiration of the cludes credential applications with an mil

February 2017 Seafarers LOG 5

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG_X.indd 5 1/27/2017 7:57:36 PM Many of the recipients are pictured in the larger group photo at left, while the photo above features children presenting a thank- you message to the Wheeler (which had already departed on its next mission). Wheeler Mariners Make Holiday Donations to Korean Orphanage

Editor’s note: This write-up and the phanage in Busan, Korea. The toys were MSCO-Korea with a “thank you” to the The USNS Wheeler’s American Mari- accompanying photos were submitted by presented to the children at the Military Wheeler. time Officers (AMO) crew consists of Capt. Glenn Macario, vessel master of the Sealift Command Office Korea Christmas The USNS Wheeler’s SIU crew consists Captain Glenn Macario, Chief Engineer USNS Wheeler (and its associated USNS party at Pier 8, Busan on Dec. 16, 2016. of Bosun Jesse Toves, ABs Brian Fred- Patrick Yarbrough, Chief Mate Patrick Fast Tempo). The vessels are operated by The Wheeler crew raised $1,700 and then erick, Al Bharrat, Jay Aki, and Lynne Leahy, 1 A/E Chris Blouch, 2/M Alfredo Tote Services. bought the toys during a special run to Winstanley, QMED Jasper McGirt, Noriega, 2 A/E Matt Farmer, 3/Ms Mark For the fifth year in a row, the USNS COSTCO in Busan. Unfortunately, the Wiper Julio Soriano, Chief Steward Jean Blom, James McLaughlin, and Tommaso VADM K.R. Wheeler crew raised money Wheeler had to depart for Saipan a month Favreaux and Chief Cook Michelle Tay- Giannetti, and 3 A/Es Jason Peters, Jeff and purchased toys for the Miewon Or- before the party, but the children presented lor. Polek, and John Melcher.

Seafarers Toy Drive in Fort Lauderdale

Here’s a sampling of donations by Seafarers in Fort Lauder- dale, Florida, that were given to Lifenet 4 Families, a local community support organization. “We know that a number of their assisted families will appreciate having something for a child at Christmas,” noted SIU Port Agent Kris Hopkins. “It’s important to help our neighbors.”

Petty’s Island Seafarers Brighten Christmas Holidays

Leading up to Christmas, SIU members employed at the Crowley terminal at Petty’s Island conducted a toy drive to benefit others in the region. Deep-sea member Vernell Cornell started the effort, with cooperation from Crowley Maritime and the SIU hall in Philadelphia. The organization receiving the donations (including monetary ones) is the Camden County (N.J.) Women’s Center. A number of the contributing Seafarers are pictured here, with some of the donations. That’s Cornell in front, with a representative from the shelter. Petty’s Island is located in the Delaware River between Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

6 Seafarers LOG February 2017

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG.indd 6 1/26/2017 6:03:05 PM SIU-Crewed ARC Vessels All Hands Safe as Mariners Extinguish Fire on Car Carrier Support Military Exercise SIU mariners sailing aboard the car (MEBA). carrier Alliance St. Louis recently put Calderon, a Seafarer for nearly 19 Three SIU-crewed ships recently played support- will set up operations in eight countries across cen- their firefighting skills to the test when years, said the crew remained coming roles in Operation Atlantic Resolve, a multina- tral and Eastern Europe, as U.S. Army Europe (USA- a malfunction left the vessel adrift off posed throughout the ordeal: “There tional military exercise. REUR) increases its presence across the region to help the coast of Louisiana. was concern, of course, and some Late last year, the MV Resolve, MV Freedom and strengthen NATO’s defense and deterrence measures. At 3:28 a.m. on Jan. 16, the U.S. of the people were nervous, but we MV Endurance – all part of Seafarers-contracted Operation Atlantic Resolve has been ongoing since Coast Guard first received news of weren’t panicked. Nobody was hurt. American Roll-On/Roll-Off Carrier’s (ARC) Amer- 2014. Cargo logistics are being coordinated by ARC the fire, which started in the engine Everybody is fine, and that’s the most ican-flag fleet – loaded more than 400,000 square with U.S. Transportation Command, Military Surface room of the Maersk Line, Limited- important thing. Thank God nothing feet of military rolling stock and other cargo over the Deployment & Distribution Command, and USA- operated, 653-foot car carrier. Thanks major happened.” course of one week in Beaumont, Texas. The vessels REUR’s 21st Theater Sustainment Command.” to the quick actions and response of All 12 of the SIU mariners had re- are operated by Tote Services for ARC. The three Seafarers-crewed ships carried more the crew and officers on board, the fire ceived thorough firefighting training When the cargo was being loaded in mid-De- than 2,700 vehicles and pieces of equipment. was quickly extinguished and no inju- during their respective times studying cember, ARC reported, “The 3rd Armored Brigade Comprehensive information about Operation At- ries were reported. at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center Combat Team (ABCT) of the 4th Infantry Division lantic Resolve is available on the Department of De- “About five minutes until 3 a.m., for Maritime Education and Training. is deploying from the United States to Europe. The fense website at: the bridge got the ‘all call’ that there Officials from Maersk Line, Limited loading operation was coordinated by the Army’s https://www.defense.gov/News/Special-Re- was a fire in the engine room,” said were quick to credit the crew’s train- 842nd Transportation Battalion…. The 3rd ABCT ports/0514_Atlantic-Resolve Bosun Nicholas Smithling, who went ing as responsible for containing the on to describe the rapid loss of other blaze. critical systems. “We were dressed Smithling added, “After the fire, out and ready to fight within minutes, the crew had to work together to get The SIU-crewed but the blaze was out of control, and fuel from the 5 deck up to the main M/V Resolve is they had to dump CO2 four times to deck by block and tackle.” He went seen in the back- put out the fire. Both the unions - SIU on to describe the rest of the trip into ground of these and MEBA - worked together to gain Houston, on emergency power and photos taken in control over the fire.” running low on water. Tugboats were Bremerhaven, The SIU crew included Smithling, dispatched to tow the vessel into port, Germany, in ABs Vicente Mansilungan, Adiawor and it arrived in Houston on Jan. 24. early January. Otumfo, Norman Rodriguez, Dur- The bosun concluded by thank- In the photo at las Ruiz and Shawn Williams, QEE ing the crew for their efforts. “I’d like right, a group Herbert Hyde, Oilers Andy Illiscu- to thank everybody for helping keep of U.S. Army pidez and Malachi Tannis, Steward/ it together. We were running out of Bradley Fighting Baker Robert Seim, Chief Cook Leo- water, couldn’t shower, sweating in Vehicles await pold Calderon, and Steward Assistant our beds at night, but everybody re- loading onto Armando Castillo. The officers on ally came together,” he said. “It really railcars to shipboard are represented by the Marine made a good experience out of a bad ment to Poland. Engineers’ Beneficial Association experience.” In photo immediately below, Maj. Gen. Timothy McGuire, deputy commanding general, U.S. Army Europe, Maj. Gen. Duane Gamble, commanding general, 21st Theater Sustainment Command and German Maj. Gen. Josef Blotz, director of operations at NATO’s International Military Staff, speak to media and answer questions about the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. The remaining photo shows an M1A2 Abrams tank departing from the ship. (U.S. Army photos by Staff Sgt. Micah VanDyke)

Crew members are pictured with SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo (far right in photo above) and Patrol- man Joe Zavala (standing in photo at left) after the vessel made it into port Jan. 24.

Spotlight on Mariner Health

Coronary Artery Disease Affects Healthful Recipe Sweet & Sour Mahi Mahi add the cornstarch slurry slowly to reach the Millions of People Around Country Servings: 25 desired thickness. Set aside and keep warm.

Coronary artery disease, also re- them rigid and more narrow. This Ingredients To cook the fish: Grill the fillets on a n 9 pounds mahi mahi fish, 6oz fillets well-oiled flattop grill for about 2 minutes ferred to as coronary heart disease, type of restriction does not allow n 3 tablespoons Mrs. Dash seasoning on each side. Cook halfway through. Place has affected millions of Americans. the blood to easily flow through n 2 cups red bell pepper, julienned into 2” hotel pan evenly. Drizzle olive oil It is caused by the buildup of plaque the blood vessels, and will begin n 2 cups green bell pepper, julienned over the fish. (cholesterol deposits and other sub- to slow down blood to the heart- n 1 cup red onion, sliced 1/4” thick stances) in the arteries of the heart. muscle wall. In turn, this starts to n 1 cup carrot, julienned Cook in a 350F oven for about 8-10 minutes This process is called athero- starve the heart muscle of oxygen n 2 cups rice wine vinegar until internal temp of 145F is reached and the sclerosis. The increase of choles- and cause chest pain (angina). The n 3 tablespoons soy sauce, low sodium fish is flaky. terol deposits will inflame the inner heart obviously is a vital organ and n 1 1/2 cups ketchup n walls of the blood vessels and make must have continuous oxygen in 1 cup honey Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked n 1/2 cup cornstarch fish evenly before serving. Garnish with fresh them sticky. Such a development order to function. n 1 1/2 cups cold water Thai basil/chopped parsley. can drastically increase the risk of Remember that the buildup of blood clot adherence, ischemia (an plaque starts at a very young age Season Mahi mahi fillets with Mrs. Dash Per Serving (excluding unknown items): inadequate blood supply to an organ and increases with age. Dietary seasoning. 81 calories; trace fat (1.1 percent calories from or part of the body, especially the factors, heredity, weight and other fat); 1g protein; 21g carbohydrate; 1g dietary heart muscles), and heart attacks. illnesses can contribute to the con- Make the sweet and sour sauce by first sau- fiber; 0mg cholesterol; 247mg sodium. Ex- A person’s arteries at birth start dition. téing the fresh vegetables together in a large changes: 0 grain (starch): 1/2 vegetable; 1 other out as very smooth and elastic. As In the months ahead, we will stock pot or steam kettle until just tender. carbohydrates. a person ages, plaque starts to form cover ischemia, heart attacks, and on the inner walls, which can make possible treatments. Add vinegar, soy sauce, ketchup, and Provided by the Paul Hall Center’s Harry honey to the pot; bring to a low boil then Lundeberg School of Seamanship

February 2017 Seafarers LOG 7

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG.indd 7 1/26/2017 6:27:53 PM THANKSGIVING IN HAWAII – The SIU hall in Honolulu hosted a pre-Thanksgiving gathering for members and guests, some of whom are pictured above and in the photo at the immediate left.

MTD MEETING ABOARD O’BRIEN – Climbing aboard the World War II-era Liberty ship Jeremiah O’Brien in San Francisco are (from left) QEE Thomas At Sea and Ashore With the SIU Flynn, SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone and Bosun Glenn Christianson. The O’Brien hosted a meeting of the Maritime Trades Department’s San Francisco Bay Area and Vicinity Port Maritime Council.

ABOARD PELICAN STATE – Pictured in Martinez, California, following a shipboard union meeting Dec. 19 are (from left) GVA San- HONORED BY ISLA BELLA SHIPMATES – tiago Ruiz, Bosun Anecito Limboy, QEP Oscar Garcia, QE4 Frank ABOARD PRIDE OF AMERICA – Pictured from left to Electrician John Walsh (left) recently received a Strong, Port Agent Nick Marrone II, AB Kenneth Cooper, AB Albad right are Paul Hall Center Phase II Apprentices Victor Rios retirement plaque from his shipmates aboard the Colon and AB Richard Swirtz. The ship is operated by Intrepid Per- Rodriguez, Jose Santos Montalvo, Nestor Costas Lugo, Tote-operated Isla Bella, his final vessel in an SIU sonnel and Provisioning. Christian Pagan Villanueva and Eduardo Centeno Rosario. career dating to 1976. He is pictured with vessel master Capt. Ray Thompson. The plaque (photo below) features a golden reefer plug.

WITH SEAFARERS IN SAN JUAN – Port Agent Amancio Crespo is at left in these three photos, taken at the union hall. In photo above, at left, Paul Hall Center Apprentice Pauline Crespo (Amancio’s sister) is ready to ship out for the second phase of the trainee program. Juan Guanill, center photo, proudly displays a certificate reflecting his recent completion of chief steward training in Piney Point, Maryland. In the remaining photo, SA Jonathan Perez holds paperwork for his first voyage.

ABOARD USNS MAURY – Chief Stew- ard Ed Ong (left in photo at immediate left) went all out with a Christmas dessert table for fellow mariners on the USMMI-operated ship, and didn’t let up with New Year’s ap- petizers (other photo). The LOG has an ABOARD MAERSK KINLOSS – Pictured from left are Recertified Steward Juan inside source who reported weight gain Vallejo, AB Ronmel Lopez, SA Melvin Ellis and Recertified Bosun Ferdinand Gongora. aboard the vessel, and we can see why.

8 Seafarers LOG February 2017

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG_X.indd 8 1/27/2017 7:01:53 PM At Sea and Ashore With the SIU

WELCOME ASHORE IN HOUSTON – Longtime WELCOME ASHORE IN JERSEY – Picking up their first pension checks, respectively, at the union hall are AB Osman Raji Seafarer Rogelio Ybarra (right, with Patrolman J.B. (left in photo directly above, with Patrolman Ray Henderson) and AB James Coleman (left in photo above, with Port Agent Niday) receives his first pension check at the union Mark von Siegel). hall. He sailed in all three shipboard departments.

WELCOME ASHORE IN JACKSONVILLE – Seafarer Ede Sinette Jr. (left) gets his first pension check from SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware. Sinette spent his entire SIU FULL BOOK IN JACKSONVILLE – QE4 Latiffe Brooks (right) FULL BOOK IN OAKLAND – AB Peter Mertz (left) receives career working for Crowley Towing and Transporta- picks up his full book at the union hall. At left is Patrolman his full B book and is sworn in by SIU VP West Coast Nick tion, most recently as a deckhand. Adam Bucalo. Marrone.

A-BOOK IN JERSEY – FOWT Myckal Sands (left) gets his A-book at the union hall. Con- gratulating him is Port Agent Mark von Siegel.

ABOARD PERLA DEL CARIBE – These snapshots from the Tote Services-operated vessel were taken in early De- cember and on New Year’s Day, respectively. The Decem- Mouthwatering Menu on MV Buffalo - AB Charlie English (far left in ber pic (directly above) features Chief Cook Bryan Alvarez group photo) reported a “phenomenal Christmas feast” aboard Ameri- (left) and Recertified Steward Antonio Mendez displaying can Steamship Company’s MV Buffalo. He’s pictured with (starting a main course. The photo below includes Chief Steward second from left) SA Nasr Almusab, Chief Cook Saleh and GUDE Ingrid Ortiz (left) and Alvarez. Ahmed Qasem. Photo credit to GUDE Walid Nasser. The menu included twice baked potatoes, deviled eggs, potato salad, macaroni salad, humus, eggplant dip, chef’s green salad, a cheese tray with crackers, smoked salmon, asparagus, dinner rolls, sashimi, guaca- mole, tabbouleh, grilled and seasoned filet mignon, seasoned lobster with butter, chilled shrimp cocktail with sauce, Virginia baked ham with fruit sauce and sweet potatoes, plus lamb and chicken kebobs. But wait, there’s more: Dessert offerings included mincemeat pie, apple pie, pumpkin pie, layered choc- olate cake, cherry cake, lemon cake, red velvet SHIPBOARD BIRTHDAY – OS Damon cake, chef’s own baklava, Zschoche is pictured on the USNS Seay late assorted Christmas cookies last year, on his birthday. Thanks to Bosun and candy, cheesecake and John Wells for the photo. basbousa.

February 2017 Seafarers LOG 9

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG_X.indd 9 1/27/2017 7:01:59 PM Pictured above is Recertified Bosun Billy Dowzicky. In the photo at right (from left) are Seafarers Tim Heil, De Carlo Harris, William How- ell, Robert Brown and Dowzicky with Port Agent Elizabeth Brown. Seafarers Activate Cape Wrath in Baltimore When Seafarers aboard the Cape Wrath received word yard for routine maintenance that takes place every five open, and encouraged them to always keep safety at the that the Baltimore-based vessel was being activated for a years or so.” forefront. voyage to Charleston, South Carolina, they wasted no time The bosun added that things were going well as Sea- While it isn’t known exactly how long the vessel will prepping the Crowley-operated ship in early January. farers and members of the Seafarers-affiliated American spend in the yard, it is expected to return to its home port One day before the vessel was scheduled to sail, the Maritime Officers got the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) in Charm City later this year. Cape Wrath was a scene of well-organized, high-tempo ship ready. According to the U.S. Maritime Administration, which activity in all three departments. “So far, it’s been great,” he said. “It’s a good crew and oversees the RRF, that fleet “was created in 1976 as a “We’re taking on stores and conducting safety drills everything is going smoothly.” sub-set of the National Defense Reserve Fleet (NDRF) and safety meetings” among other work, noted Recertified Recertified Steward Robert Brown pointed out, program to support the rapid worldwide deployment of Bosun Billy Dowzicky. “The vessel is headed to the ship- “The first few days of an activation are very challenging. U.S. military forces. As a key element of Department of There’s a lot to cover, most of it related to safety policies Defense (DOD) strategic sealift, the RRF primarily sup- (including fire and boat drills). Having an experienced ports transport of Army and Marine Corps unit equipment, ROS (reduced operating status) crew really helps to get combat support equipment, and initial resupply during the new people straight with what they have to do.” the critical surge period before commercial ships can During a pre-departure safety meeting, vessel master be marshaled. The RRF provides nearly one-half of the Capt. Rick Caudle discussed the weather forecast, the government-owned surge sealift capability.” scheduled route, habitability, upcoming safety drills and The agency also noted the outstanding reliability of more. He reassured the entire crew that his door is always RRF vessels, most of which carry SIU crews.

AB Erick Johnson

AB De Carlo Harris AB Tim Heil AB Ronnell Williams Electrician Chuck Searfass

The Cape Wrath is part of America’s Ready Reserve Force. SA Michael Bean Chief Cook Greg Blaylock Recertified Steward Robert Brown 10 Seafarers LOG February 2017

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG.indd 10 1/26/2017 6:03:11 PM 2/17

February 2017 Seafarers LOG 11

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG.indd 11 1/26/2017 6:03:11 PM employer, are likely to be considered date the tax was paid, whichever is n Benefits from government wel- Away At Tax Time n tax-deductible. later. However, it is recommended that fare programs What’s New for the $125,000 for married filing separately Tax Tips for Members Deducting Work-Related Car all records be kept for about 6 years. n Jones Act settlements for injuries, n $200,000 for all others Should Seafarers find them- Investment income reduced by deductions properly allocable to that preparers offer electronic filing in adad-- Expenses: Use of a personally owned Some records should be kept even pain, suffering, and medical costs How to Prepare n selves overseas and seeking IRS 2017 Tax Filing Season income is net investment income. Investment income includes income dition to their return preparation serser-- automobile in work-related travel can longer. For example, keep property Maintenance and Cure interest, dividends, annuities, royalties and rents and net gain from dispo- A Tax Return result in deductible expenses. Two records (your home, stocks) as long as n Workers’ compensation benefits, forms or assistance, U.S. embas- Following are some of the changes that took effect in 2016 and 2017, vices. Beginning in 2009, individuals sies and consulates are equipped sition of property, other than such income derived in the ordinary course Step 1. Get all records together. that prepare his or her own return can methods can be used to compute auto- they are needed to figure the basis of insurance, damages, etc. for injury or along with provisions that remain in effect from 2015. Please check of a trade or business. However, income from a trade or business that n Income Records. These include mobile expenses—either listing a stan- property. to provide some taxpayer-related www.irs.gov before filing your return. access most commonly used Federal sickness is a passive activity and from a trade or business of trading in financial n services. At a minimum, IRS any Forms W-2, W-2G and 1099 tax forms from the IRS website and dard mileage rate or determining actual Change of Address: If an indi- Disability retirement payments instruments or commodities is included in investment income. n Itemized deductions and tax cost. On the tax return, due April 18 of vidual has changed his or her address (and other benefits) paid by the Veter- forms are available at all U.S. Due date of return - File Form 1040 by April 18, 2017. Modified adjusted gross income for the purpose of calculating the website at www.irs.gov. Exemptions - The personal exemption and the dependency exemp- credits this year, the IRS is accepting a stan- from the one listed on that person’s last ans’ Administration embassies and consulates located additional Medicare tax is a person’s adjusted gross income with the n n in: Berlin, Germany; Caracas, tion increased to $4,050 for 2016. For tax year 2016, the phase-out is foreign earned income exclusion or foreign housing exclusion added Medical and dental payment dard mileage rate. The rate for 2016 is tax return, IRS Form 8822 should be Child support What Are Considered n Venezuela; London, England; reinstated at the higher threshold of $259,400 for single individuals, back in. records 54 cents. Parking fees and tolls can be filled out and filed with the agency. Gifts, money or other property $285,350 for heads of household, $311,300 for married filing joint, and Adoption credit - The maximum adoption credit has increased n Charitable contributions Deductions and Credits added when using the standard mileage Death of a Taxpayer: If a taxpayer inherited or willed Mexico City, Mexico; Nassau, $155,650 for married filing separately. to $13,460 per child with adjusted gross income phase out starting at n Real estate and personal property Personal Exemption Amount: rate. If using actual expenses, informa- died before filing a required return for n Dividends on veterans’ life insur- Bahamas; Ottawa, Canada; Paris, For tax year 2017, the phase-out will increase to $261,500 for single $201,920. For 2016, the credit is nonrefundable. Any unused credit can be tax receipts The deduction for each exemption— tion must be available on all operating- 2016, the taxpayer’s personal represen- ance France; Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; individuals, $287,650 for heads of household, $313,800 for married fil- carried forward for five years. In general, the adoption credit is based on n n Rome, Italy; Sao Paulo, Brazil; ing joint, and $156,900 for married filing separately. Interest payment records for for the individual, his or her spouse related costs for the vehicle, including tative (and spouse, in the case of a joint Life insurance proceeds received the reasonable and necessary expenses related to a legal adoption, includ- items such as a home mortgage or and dependents is $4,050 per person. insurance, licenses, maintenance, return) must file and sign the return for because of a person’s death Sydney, Australia; Tokyo, Japan. Standard Deductions – The standard deduction for married couples ing adoption fees, court costs, attorney’s fees and travel expenses. Income filing a joint return has remained $12,600 for 2016. The standard deduc- home equity loan A child cannot claim an exemption on repairs, depreciation, gas, oil, tolls and that person. A personal representative n Amounts received from insur- limits and other special rules apply. In addition to filling out Form 8839, n Records of payments for child parking. The IRS recommends keeping can be an executor, administrator or tion for single individuals and married couples filing separate returns has Qualified Adoption Expenses, eligible taxpayers must include with their his or her return or qualify for a higher ance because of loss of the use of a remained $6,300 for 2016. The standard deduction for heads of house- 2016 tax returns one or more adoption-related documents. care so an individual could work education credit if the child’s parents a log book or diary listing all expenses anyone who is in charge of the tax- home due to fire or other casualty to hold increased to $9,300 for 2016. The additional standard deduction for trade between ports in the same Child Tax Credit - The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 ex- Step 2. Get any forms, schedules or claim a dependency exemption for related to travel, for both the standard payer’s property. the extent the amounts were more than state if such withholding is pursuant people who have reached age 65 (or who are blind) is $1,250 for married tends the enhanced child tax credit of $1,000 maximum credit per child publications necessary to assist in fil- their child. mileage rate and actual cost method, the cost of normal expenses while liv- taxpayers or $1,550 for unmarried taxpayers. Which Income To Report to a voluntary agreement between through the end of 2017. ing the return. IRS Publication 17 titled Standard Deduction: The stan- to ensure accurate records. Only work ing in the home such seaman and his employer.” You can use the 2016 Standard Deduction Worksheet or see page For 2016 tax year, the child tax credit starts to be reduced when in- “Your Federal Income Tax for Individ- dard deduction, or dollar amount that related expenses not reimbursed by an In addition to wages, salaries, tips, n Certain amounts received as a 142 from Publication 17 which can be found on irs.gov to figure your come reaches the following levels: unemployment compensation, capital The law, however, does not ex- standard deduction. uals” is the most comprehensive guide reduces the amount that is taxed, rere-- employer can be claimed. scholarship empt seamen from paying state and n $55,000 for married couples filing separately the agency has issued this year. Most mained the same for married couples Deducting Work-Related Meals gains, dividend payments and other Itemized Deductions - For tax year 2016, the phase-out is reinstated n $75,000 for single, head of household, and qualifying widow(er) local taxes. Mariners, just like any at the higher threshold of $259,400 for single individuals, $285,350 for IRS offices and many local banks, post filing jointly in 2016 at $12,600. The When Traveling: You can use a spe- income listed on the federal tax return, Filing an Extension filers, and the following kinds of income must be Taxpayers can get an automatic other citizens of any given state, heads of household, $311,300 for married filling joint, and $155,650 for n offices and libraries have publications standard deduction for single individuindividu-- cial standard meal allowance if you $110,000 for married couples filing jointly reported: 6-month extension if, no later than must meet their obligations to the married filing separately. In the phase-out range, the child tax credit is reduced by $50 for each designed to provide individuals with als and married couples filing separate work in the transportation industry. For tax year 2017, the phase-out will increase to $261,500 for single n Jones Act settlements for lost April 18, 2017, Form 4868 will be government of the area in which $1,000 of income above these threshold amounts. information on correctly filing tax returns also remained the same in 2016 You are in the transportation industry they live. Each state has a set of individuals, $287,650 for heads of household, $313,800 for married fill- The child tax credit is generally nonrefundable credit that is limited returns. Also, you may access the IRS at $6,300. The standard deduction for if your work: wages filed with the IRS. It is important to ing joint, and $156,900 for married filing separately. n Amounts received in place of remember that a 6-month extension to criteria to determine whether an to regular tax liability plus alternative minimum tax liability. However, website at www.irs.gov for forms, in- heads of household increased to $9,300 Directly involves moving people individual is a resident of that state. High-income taxpayers are also subject to limits on exemptions and a portion of the credit is refundable for certain taxpayers (see Form 8812 wages from accident and health plans file does not extend the time to pay the deductions in 2016. The income threshold for the Pease and PEP (per- structions and publications. for 2016. or goods by airplane, barge, bus, ship, A seaman should check with a state and IRS Pub. 972). Step 3. Fill in the return. Personal Interest Deductions: For train, or truck, and (including sick pay and disability pen- taxes. Form 4868, when sent in, must sonal exemption phase-out) limitations is $311,300 of adjusted gross New changes for 2016: Taxpayers cannot claim the Child Tax tax office if he or she is unsure income (AGI) for joint filers and $259,400 for singles. The Pease limi- Step 4. Check the return to make 2016, personal interest cannot be dede-- Regularly requires you to travel sions) if employer paid for the policy be accompanied by all tax monies due Credit for any tax year if the individual or a qualifying child did not have n about residency status. tation reduces the value of charitable contributions; mortgage interest; sure it is correct. ducted. Personal interest includes interinter-- away from home and, during any sin- Life insurance proceeds from a to the U.S. government. an individual TIN issued on or before the due date of the return for that policy cashed in if the proceeds are For example, in California dur- state, local, and property taxes; and miscellaneous itemized deductions. tax year: For tax years beginning after 2015 – the Child Tax Credit is Step 5. Sign and date the return. est on car loans, credit cards, personal gle trip, usually involves travel to areas ing the early 1970s, a case before For 2016, this limitation is the lesser of 3% of AGI above the threshold Form 1040 is not considered a valid re- loans and tax deficiencies. eligible for different standard meal al- more than the premium paid Where Is My Refund not allowed for (1) two tax years after a final determination of reckless n If taxpayers have not received a the California State Board of up to 80% of the amount of the itemized deductions otherwise allowable. or intentional disregard of rules and regulations or (2) 10 tax years after turn unless signed. A spouse must also Interest on Secured Loans DeDe-- lowance rates. Canceled debts The PEP limitation reduces the total personal exemption by 2% for every n State income tax refunds refund check within 28 days from Equalization stated that a merchant a final determination of fraud. If the Child Tax Credit is denied due to sign if it is a joint return. ductible: In most cases, you can de- If this applies to you, you can seaman—despite the fact that he $2,500 of income above the same income thresholds with no upper limi- failure to supply required information to the IRS, no Child Tax Credit Step 6. Attach all required forms claim a standard meal allowance of n Rents the original IRS mailing date, infor- tations. That means it’s possible for some taxpayers to completely phase- duct all your home mortgage interest was on a ship for 210 days of the is allowed for any later tax year unless the taxpayer supplies the needed and schedules. Attach Copy B of depending on the date of your mort- $63 a day ($68 for travel outside the n Repayments mation can be accessed through the out of their personal exemptions. information. n Royalties website at www.irs.gov. To get the year—was a resident of the state for Medical Care Itemized Deduction Threshold - For 2016, the Forms W-2, W-2G and 1099-R to gage, the amount of the mortgage and continental United States) from Janu- tax purposes. The board took into Child and Dependent Care Credit - For 2016, there is a credit of the front of the Form 1040. Attach how the proceeds were used. Interest ary 1 through December 31, 2016. n Unemployment benefits refund status, taxpayers will need to threshold for the itemized deduction for unreimbursed medical ex- $3,000 for cost to care for one child under age of 13 or up to $6,000 for consideration the fact that the sea- penses remains at 10% of adjusted gross income for regular income tax all other schedules and forms behind paid on investments is also 100 percent Using special rates for transportation n Profits from corporations, part- provide the information from their tax two or more children so that the parents can either go to work or be in nerships, estates and trusts returns. You should know your Social man owned a home in California purposes. In years 2013 - 2017, if either the taxpayer or the taxpayer’s process of looking for work. There must be earned income in order to Form 1040 in order of the attachment deductible but limited to the amount of workers eliminates the need for you and maintained a bank account in a spouse has turned 65 before the end of the 2016 tax year, the threshold of sequence number. If tax is owed, at- investment income earned each year. to determine the standard meal allow- n Endowments Security Number (or IRS Individual take the credit (the credit amount has not changed). n Taxpayer Identification Number), California-based bank. Additionally, 7.5% of adjusted gross income applies. The American Opportunity Tax Credit - For tax year 2016, the tach the payment to the front of Form Any excess can be carried forward to ance for every area where you stop for Original Issue Discount Earned Income Credit (EIC) - The EIC is a credit for certain n Distributions from self-employed Filing Status (Single, Married Filing each state has established condi- maximum credit amount can be up to $2,500 and up to $1,000 of that 1040 along with Form 1040-V (origi- the next year. sleep or rest. If you choose to use the tions under which non-residents of people who work. The credit may give you a refund even if you do not credit amount may be refundable. The credit applies to the first 4 years plans Joint Return, Married Filing Sepa- owe any tax. The maximum amount of income you can earn and credit nal only). Write name, address, phone Union Dues Deduction: Union special rate for any trip, you must use that state must pay a portion of state of post-secondary education in a degree or certificate program. number, Social Security number and dues, including working dues, are the special rate (and not use the regular n Bartering income (fair-market rate Return, Head of Household, or available increased for 2016: The credit is calculated by taking 100% of the first $2,000 of quali- value of goods or services received in Qualifying Widow(er)) and the refund tax if such an individual earned n Credit of $6,269 if you have three or more qualifying children and form number on your check or money deductible only if they exceed 2% of standard meals allowance rates) for all income from a source based in that fied tuition and related educational expenses and 25% of the next $2,000 order. Payment also can be made by adjusted gross income. If they do, only trips you take that year. return for services) amount. It is important to enter the you earn less than $47,955 ($53,505 if married filing jointly) of such expenses. The credit is gradually reduced if your Modified AGI state. Many states allow a credit n Credit of $5,572 if you have two qualifying children and you earn credit card. You may use American the portion over the 2% is deductible. Dependent’s Social Security n Tier 2 and supplemental annuities refund amount exactly as it is shown is: under the Railroad Retirement Act on your return. in the amount an individual must less than $44,648 ($50,198 if married filing jointly) n $80,000 to $90,000 for Single, Head of Household, and Qualify- Express, Discover, Visa or Master- The self-employed may deduct union Number: Each dependent must have n Credit of $3,373 if you have one qualifying child and you earn n Lump-sum distributions pay the state if that person has al- ing Widow(er) cards. To pay by credit card, call the dues as a business expense. a Social Security number (SSN). In- ready paid taxes in another state. In less than $39,296 ($44,846 if married filing jointly), or n toll-free number 1-888-872-9829 dividuals may get a SSN for their de- n Gains from the sale or exchange Why Seafarers Must n $160,000 to $180,000 for Married Filing Joint Club Dues Deduction: No de- 2000, President Clinton signed into Credit of $506 if you do not have a qualifying child and you earn The American opportunity credit was made permanent for tax years or 1-888-729-1040 or visit websites duction is permitted for club dues; pendent by filing Form SS-5 with their (including barter) of real estate, securi- Pay State Income Tax less than $14,880 ($20,430 if married filing jointly) ties, coins, gold, silver, gems or other law the bipartisan Transportation beginning after December 18, 2015. www.officialpayments.com/fed or however, dues paid to professional or local Social Security Administration Federal law prohibits employers The maximum amount of investment income you can have and still New changes for 2016: Taxpayers cannot claim the American Op- property (capital gains) Worker Tax Fairness Act, a measure get the credit has increased to $3,400 in 2016. www.pay1040.com. There is a fee public service organizations are de-de- office or calling the Administration at from withholding state and local portunity Credit for any tax year if the individual or a student did not n Accumulation distributions from aimed at providing “equitable treat- For tax years beginning after 2015 – a TIN is not valid for EIC pur- charged based on the amount you are ductible for business reasons. 1-800-772-1213. It usually takes about taxes from the wages of mariners have a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) issued on or before the trusts ment with respect to state and local poses unless it was used on or before the due date of the return. paying. Deductions Subject to 2% of Ad-Ad- two weeks to receive a SSN. working aboard U.S.-flag ships. due date of the return for that tax year. For tax years beginning after n Prizes and awards (contests, income taxes for certain individuals Social Security and Medicare Taxes - The maximum amount of Rounding Off to Whole Dollars: justed Gross Income: These include Additional (Refundable) Child Specifically, the law [46 USCA 2015, the American Opportunity Credit is not allowed for (1) two tax raffles, lottery and gambling winnings) who perform duties on vessels.” wages subject to the Social Security tax for 2016 is $118,500. years after a final determination of reckless or intentional disregard of Cents may be rounded off to the near- investment advisory fees, trustee’s Tax Credit – This credit is for certain 11108(11)] provides that “no part of There is no limit on the amount of wages subject to the Medicare n Earned income from sources out- The law, which took effect Nov. rules and regulations or (2) 10 tax years after a final determination of est whole dollar on the tax return and administrative fees, legal expenses that individuals who get less than the full the wages due or accruing to a mas- tax. In 2016, hospital insurance tax in addition to the Medicare tax will side the United States 9, 2000, stipulates that pilots and fraud. If the American Opportunity Credit is denied due to failure to sup- schedules. To do so, raise amounts are paid to produce taxable income, amount of the child tax credit. The ad- ter, officer or any other seaman who be an additional 0.9% tax on wages that exceed the following threshold n Director’s fees other mariners “who perform regu- ply required information to the IRS, no American Opportunity Credit from 50 to 99 cents to the next dollar. unreimbursed employee expenses, safe ditional child tax credit may give you a is a member of the crew on a vessel amounts: $250,000 for married filing jointly and surviving spouses, n Fees received as an executor or larly assigned duties while engaged is allowed for any later tax year unless the taxpayer supplies the needed For example, $1.39 becomes $1 and deposit box rental and tax preparation refund even if you do not owe any tax. engaged in the foreign, coastwise, $125,000 for married filing separately and $200,000 for all others. information. Taxpayers must report the Employer Identification Number administrator of an estate as a master, officer or crewman on This additional assessment also applies to self-employed workers. For $1.50 becomes $2. fees. Student Loan Interest: Taxpayers intercostal, interstate or non-contig- (EIN) of the educational institution to which payments were made. n Embezzled or other illegal in- a vessel operating on the navigable 2017, the maximum amount of wages subject to Social Security tax is Fast Refund: Taxpayers are able Deducting Work-Related ExEx-- may be able to deduct up to $2,500 of uous trade shall be withheld pursu- Lifetime Learning Credit – For tax year 2016, the maximum credit come waters of more than one State” shall $127,200. amount per tax return can be up to $2,000. The credit is calculated by to request direct deposit of their tax penses: Travel to the union’s desdes-- interest paid for qualified education ant to the provisions of the tax laws be subject to state income tax only Self-Employment Tax Rate and Deduction – The FICA portion n Social Security benefits taking 20% of the educational expenses on the first $10,000 of qualified refunds by filling out lines 76b, 76c ignated medical facility to take the expenses for oneself, spouse or de- of any state, territory, possession in his or her residential state. If any of the self-employment tax is 12.4% in 2016. The Medicare portion of educational expenses. The credit is gradually reduced if your Modified and 76d on their Form 1040. Line required physical and drug tests are pendents. The deduction is allowed in the SE tax is 2.9% not including the 0.9% additional tax on the amounts Which Income or commonwealth, or a subdivision questions arise regarding residency AGI exceeds $55,000 ($111,000 if married filing joint return) and is 76b is for the bank’s routing number. examples of expenses which are work- figuring adjusted gross income. Need Not Be Reported of any of them, but nothing in this and state tax issues, mariners should above the applicable thresholds as noted above. As a result, the SE completely eliminated if your Modified AGI exceeds $65,000 ($131,000 Line 76c indicates the type of account, related but not reimbursed by the com- tax rate increased to 15.3%. The deduction is equal to one-half of self- The following kinds of income do section shall prohibit any such with- telephone the taxpayer assistance if married filing joint return). The credit cannot be claimed if your filing and line 76d is the taxpayer’s account pany. Members of the galley crew may Other Tax Information employment tax. not need to be reported on the federal holding of the wages of any seaman office in the state in which they status is “married filing separately”. number at the bank. When tax returns deduct the costs of knives and other Private Delivery Services: Tax Capital Gains and Losses - Continuing from 2012 you must report tax return: who is employed in the coastwise reside. There is no limit on the number of years for which the credit can be are filed electronically, a refund will equipment they personally own but use returns and extensions can be mailed your capital gains and losses on Form 8949 and report the totals on claimed for each student. Schedule D. If you sold a covered security in 2016, your broker will be received in about 3 weeks or in 2 when on a ship performing their work through private delivery services such Tuition and Fees Deductions – For 2016, you may be able to deduct as DHL Worldwide Express, Federal report the cost basis on your Form 1099-B. Refer to the IRS website at up to $4,000 for taxpayers with AGI of $65,000 or less ($130,000 for weeks if it is deposited directly into duties. The purchase of work-related Where To Get Information www.irs.gov/form8949 for additional information and other new devel- joint filers) and the maximum amount of the deduction will be reduced a savings or checking account. For a clothing and other gear, as long as it is Express and United Parcel Service. opments affecting this form and Schedule D. Forms of Payments: One can pay for taxpayers with AGI above $65,000 but less than or equal to $80,000 charge, many professional tax return truly for work and not paid for by the General Information: 1-800-829-1040 may be called touch tone phone, the number “9” will repeat the topic and Qualified Dividend and Capital Gains Tax Rate – In 2016, the tax ($130,000 and $160,000, respectively, for joint filers) for qualified edu- the Internal Revenue Service through rate on long-term gains and qualified dividends is 20% for income that for general information between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. your local the number “2” will cancel the topic. To listen to a directory cational expenses paid for yourself, spouse or dependent even if you do credit cards, debit cards, charge cards, time. of topics after the introductory message finishes, dial 123. exceeds the 39.6% tax bracket threshold amount of: not itemize deductions on Schedule A. bank check or money order. If you file n $466,950 for married filing jointly and surviving spouses Publications: Call 1-800-829-3676 to order current and You can also check the status of your refund. This telephone n Taxpayers cannot claim tuition and fees tax deduction in the same year Standard Deduction your return electronically you may be prior year forms, instructions and publications. service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. $441,000 for head of household they claim American Opportunity Credit or Lifetime Learning Credit. n $233,475 for married filing separately able to make your payment electroni- Walk-In Help: IRS representatives are available in Personal Computer: Access the IRS’s internet web- n Taxpayers who choose to claim the tuition and fees deduction must This is the standard deduction chart for most people. If a taxpayer is cally. many IRS offices around the country to help with tax site at www.irs.gov to: download forms, instructions and $415,050 for single fill out and attach Form 8917. The resulting deduction is reported on The rate goes down to 15% for lower tax brackets and then 0% for 65 or older or blind, there are additional standard deductions ($1,250 for questions that cannot be answered easily by telephone. publications; see answers to frequently asked tax questions; Form 1040 Line 34 or Form 1040A Line 19. a married person or “spouse” or $1,550 for an unmarried person). Note Which Records To Keep To find the location of an IRS office, look in the phone search publications on-line by topic or keyword; figure your 10%-15% tax brackets. In 2016, capital gain income will be subject to Expanded Definition of Qualified Expenses for Qualified Tuition an additional 3.8% Medicare tax for income that exceeds the threshold that the personal exemption deduction is $4,050. Keep records of income (such as re- book under “United States Government, Internal Revenue withholding allowances using their W-4 calculator; check Programs – Qualified higher education expenses generally include Service.” the status of your refund; send the IRS comments or requests amounts listed above. tuition, fees, and related expenses such as books and supplies. The ex- ceipts), deductions (for example, can- Medicare Tax on Investment Income – In 2016, a tax equal to Filing Status Standard Deduction celed checks) and credits shown on the Telephone Help: The IRS is prepared to answer ques- for help via email; and sign up to receive local and national penses must be for the student pursuing a degree, certificate, or similar tions by phone. Through the agency’s taxpayer information tax news by email. 3.8% of the lesser of the individual’s net investment income for the year program, at an eligible educational institution. An eligible educational Single and Married filing separate ...... $ 6,300 tax return, as well as any worksheets or the amount the individual’s modified adjusted gross income (AGI) service, publications covering all aspects of tax-filing can Send IRS Written Questions: Written questions regard- institution includes most colleges, universities, and certain vocational Married filing joint return or qualifying widow(er) with dependent chil-chil- used to figure them, until the statute be ordered. The federal Tele-Tax system has recorded tax ing the tax returns can be sent directly to an IRS District exceeds the threshold amount. The threshold amounts for the additional schools. dren...... $12,600 of limitations runs out for that return, Medicare tax are as follows: information covering about 150 topics. 1-800-829-4477 is Director (listed on the tax form). Include a Social Security n $250,000 for married filing jointly and surviving spouses Head of household...... $ 9,300 usually 3 years from the date the return the IRS’s automated Tele-Tax system. When calling from a number with the letter. Continued on Page 14 was due or filed, or 2 years from the

12 Seafarers LOG February 2017 February 2017 Seafarers LOG 13

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG_X.indd 12 1/27/2017 7:02:00 PM 37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG_X.indd 13 1/27/2017 7:02:00 PM Various Changes Greet Tax Filers During 2017 Season Continued from Page 12 copy of the revocation with their return. age through the Health Insurance Marketplace deadlines that fall on a Saturday, Sunday or legal Repayment of First-Time Homebuyer may be eligible for this refundable credit. holiday are timely satisfied if met on the next Educator Expenses – The Protecting Amer- Credit - If you have to repay the credit, you may Individuals who are eligible for PTC need to business day. April 15, 2017 is on Saturday, and icans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015 permanently be able to do so without attaching Form 5405. meet the following requirements: the Emancipation Day holiday will be observed extends the above-the-line deduction for eligible Repayment is reported directly on Form 1040, n Purchased coverage in the Marketplace for in the District of Columbia the following Mon- elementary and secondary school teachers of up line 60b. someone in their tax family (taxpayer, spouse, if day. Therefore, most individuals will have until to $250 per year ($500 if you and your spouse Mortgage Insurance Premiums – Mort- married filing jointly and dependents for which a Tuesday, April 18, 2017 to file their 2016 Forms were both eligible educators) for expenses paid gage insurance premiums for qualified mortgage personal exemption is claimed) for a month that 1040. or incurred for books, certain supplies, com- insurance on debt to acquire, construct, or im- person was not eligible for minimum essential Tax Rates for 2016 - President Bush puter and other equipment, and supplementary prove a first or second residence can potentially coverage (other than coverage in the individual Era tax rates were made permanent in 2013 materials used in the classroom. The Act also be treated as deductible qualified residence inter- market). with a 39.6% bracket (for single individuals modifies the deduction by indexing the $250 est. This provision was extended for premiums n Have household income at least 100%, but at $415,050, head of household at $441,000, ceiling amount to inflation beginning in 2016. paid or accrued before 2017. no more than 400% of the federal poverty line married filing jointly at $466,950 and married For tax years beginning after 2015, eligible Nonbusiness Energy Property Credit – for taxpayer’s family size. Exception: In some filing separately at $233,475). Trust and estates expenses also include expenses for professional The nonbusiness energy property credit has been cases, taxpayers with household income less will hit the 39.6% bracket at $12,400. The rate development courses the educator takes related extended through December 31, 2016 with same than 100% of the federal poverty line can take for capital gains and qualified dividends is to the curriculum he teaches or to the student he $500 lifetime cap. the credit. 20% if the income is in excess of the threshold teaches. Residential Energy Efficient Property n If married, individuals must file a joint amount: State & Local Sales and Use Tax Deduc- Credit – This credit remains unchanged, and return. Note: Exceptions apply to victims of n $415,050 for single individuals tion – In 2016 the taxpayer can elect to deduct equals 30% of what a homeowner spends domestic abuse or spousal abandonment and to n $441,000 for heads of household state and local general sales and use taxes in- on qualifying property such as solar electric individuals who are considered unmarried. n $466,950 for married filing joint stead of state and local income taxes as an item- property, solar water heating property, fuel cell n Cannot be claimed as a dependent by an- n $233,475 for married filing separately ized deduction. property, small wind energy property, and geo- other person. Exclusion of Cancellation of Indebted- Individual Retirement Accounts thermal heat pump property. Generally, labor The PTC is based on a sliding scale. Those ness on Principal Residence – Cancellation of Education IRAs (Coverdell Education costs are included when calculating this credit. with lower incomes get a larger credit. The PTC indebtedness income is generally includible in Savings Account) - Taxpayers can contribute Also, no cap exists on the amount of credit avail- for the year is the sum of the monthly credit income. However, the Tax Relief Act excludes up to $2,000 each year to an Education IRA for able, except in the case of fuel cells. Unused amounts. The credit amount for each month is from income cancellation of debt on a principal a person under age 18. The contribution is not portion of this credit is carried forward to next the lesser of: residence of up to $2 million. The Mortgage deductible. Earnings on the contribution will be year’s tax return. The credit is extended through n The premiums for the month for one Forgiveness Tax Relief Act of 2015 extends the distributed tax-free provided that they are used 2021, but with a reduction of the percentage or more qualified health plans in which the provision through 2016. to pay the beneficiary’s postsecondary education used starting in 2020. taxpayer or any individual in his tax family en- Uniform Definition of a Qualifying Child expenses. Standard mileage rates - The standard rolled; or -To be claimed as a qualifying child, the person Traditional IRAs - For 2016, the contribu- mileage rate for 2016 is 54 cents per mile for n The monthly premium for the taxpayer’s must meet four criteria: tion limit to a traditional IRA is the lesser of business miles driven and was decreased to 19 applicable second lowest cost silver plan less his n Relationship - the person must be your $5,500 or your compensation. For taxpayers cents per mile for medical or moving expenses. monthly contribution amount. child, step child, adopted child, foster child, age 50 or older as of year-end, an additional The rate for providing services for a charity is set Health coverage tax credit (HCTC) – The brother or sister, or a descendant of one of these catch-up contribution of up to $1,000 is al- by statute and equals 14 cents per mile. health care tax credit is a tax credit that pays a (for example, a grandchild or nephew). lowed. Thus, the 2016 contribution limit for Deduction for corrosive drywall – You percentage of health insurance premiums for cer- n Residence - for more than half the year, the these taxpayers is the lesser of $6,500 or your may be able to claim a casualty loss deduction tain eligible taxpayers and their qualifying fam- person must have the same residence as you do. compensation. For the deduction, the Modified for amounts you paid to repair damage to your ily members. The health coverage tax credit is a n Age - the person must be under age 19 Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) phase-out range home and household appliances that resulted separate tax credit with different eligibility rules at the end of the year, or under age 24 and be a in 2016 is $61,001-$71,000 for single and head from corrosive drywall. Under this procedure, than the premium tax credit. You may have re- full-time student for at least five months out of of household, $98,001-$118,000 for married you treat the amounts paid for repairs as a casu- ceived monthly advance payments of the health the year, or any age and totally and permanently couples filing jointly or qualifying widow(er), alty loss in the year of payment. The deduction coverage tax credit beginning in July 2016. disabled. and less than $10,000 for married individuals fil- is limited if you have a pending claim for reim- Affordable Care Act – Several very im- n Support - the person did not provide more ing separate returns when a taxpayer is covered bursement (or intend to pursue reimbursement) portant provisions of the Affordable Care Act than half of his or her own support during the by an employer’s retirement plan at any time through property insurance, litigation, or other (ACA) that affect individuals and businesses year. during the year. means. first became effective in 2015. The Employer Consumer Alert - The IRS warns taxpay- Roth IRAs - The maximum total yearly Personal Casualty & Theft Loss – This loss Shared Responsibility provision of the Afford- ers to be on the alert for emails and phone calls contribution that can be made by an individual remains unchanged from 2015. The loss is lim- able Care Act requires employers with 50 or they may receive which claim to come from the to a Roth IRA is the lesser of $5,500 (increased ited to the excess of the loss over $100. The 10% more full-time equivalent employees to either IRS or other federal agencies and which mention to $6,500 for taxpayers age 50 or older at year of AGI limit still applies. offer minimum essential coverage that is “af- their tax refund. end) or your compensation. Roth IRAs are Foreign Earned Income Exclusion – For fordable” and that provides “minimum value” to These are almost certainly a scam whose pur- subject to income limits. The maximum yearly tax year 2016, the maximum foreign earned their full-time employees and their dependents, pose is to obtain personal and financial informa- contribution is phased out for single and head income exclusion amount is $101,300. This or potentially make an employer shared respon- tion — such as name, Social Security number, of household taxpayers with an Adjusted Gross amount is up $500 from tax year 2015. sibility payment to the IRS. bank account and credit card or even PIN num- Income (AGI) between $117,000 and $132,000, The Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) Cadillac Tax – In December of 2015, bers — from taxpayers which can be used by the for joint filers and qualifying widow(er) with an Exemption – AMT exemptions have been Congress passed and the President signed a scammers to commit identity theft. The emails AGI between $184,000 and $194,000, and mar- permanently extended and indexed for inflation. two-year delay of the 40 percent excise tax on and calls usually state that the IRS needs the ried filing separate filers with an AGI between Exemption amounts help prevent some middle high-cost employer-sponsored health plans. information to process a refund or deposit it into $0 and $10,000. Although the contributions are income earners from being subject to the AMT, This delay was part of a year-end governmental the taxpayer’s bank account. The emails often not deductible, the distributions may be tax-free and help keep any AMT adjustments less than funding package and changes the effective date contain links or attachments to what appears to depending on when and why they are made. they otherwise might have been. from 2018 to 2020. Originally the tax was non- be the IRS website or an IRS “refund application Special Charitable Contributions for Cer- For tax year 2016, the alternative minimum deductible, but in 2015 Congress made the tax form.” However genuine in appearance, these tain IRA Owners - The Protecting Americans tax exemption increases to the following levels: deductible for employers who pay it. phonies are designed to elicit the information the from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act of 2015 perma- n $83,800 for married couples filing a joint Transit Benefits – The Protecting Ameri- scammers are looking for. nently extends the Qualified Charitable Distribu- return and qualifying widows and widowers, up cans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015 permanently The IRS does not send taxpayers emails tions. It offers older owners of IRAs a different from $83,400 in 2015. extends transit benefits. These include van pool about their tax accounts. Also, the IRS does not way to give to charity. An IRA owner age 70 n $41,900 for married couples filing sepa- benefits, transit passes and qualified parking. Be- request detailed personal information through and one-half or older can directly transfer, tax- rately, up from $41,700. ginning in 2016, the inflation adjusted monthly email or ask taxpayers for the PIN numbers, free, up to $100,000 per year to eligible charities. n $53,900 for singles and heads of house- exclusion amount will be $255 (up from $250 passwords, or similar secret access information Known as a qualified charitable distribution hold, up from $53,600. in 2015). for their credit card, bank, or other financial (QCD), this option is available for distributions Health Care Coverage – In 2016, individu- Earned Income Credit and Additional accounts. If you receive an unsolicited email from IRAs, regardless of whether the owners als must have health care coverage, to qualify Child Tax Credit – IRS Refund Claim – Begin- claiming to be from the IRS, forward the itemize their deductions. Distributions from for a health care coverage exemption or make ning with 2016 returns, the IRS has additional message to: [email protected]. You may also employer-sponsored retirement plans, including shared responsibility payment with their tax time to review refund claims based on the report misuse of the IRS name, logo, forms SIMPLE IRAs and simplified employee pension return. Earned Income Credit or the refundable portion or other IRS property to the Treasury Inspec- (SEP) plans, are not eligible to be treated as a Coverage Exemptions: An individual may of the additional Child Tax Credit in order to tor General for Tax Administration toll-free qualified charitable distribution. be exempt from the requirement to maintain reduce fraud and improper payments. No credit at 1-800-366-4484 or TTY/TDD 1-800-877- To qualify, the funds must be contributed di- minimum essential coverage and thus will not or refund for an overpayment shall be made to 8339. You can forward suspicious emails to rectly by the IRA trustee to an eligible charity. have to make a shared responsibility payment if, a taxpayer before February 15th following the the Federal Trade Commission at: spam@uce. Amounts so transferred are not taxable and for 2016, he: close of the tax year, if the taxpayer claimed the gov or contact them at www.ftc.gov/idtheft or no deduction is available for the transfer. n Has no affordable coverage options be- Earned Income Credit or additional Child Tax 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338). Visit IRS. Not all charities are eligible. For example, cause the minimum amount he must pay for Credit. For 2016 returns claiming refunds due gov and enter “identity theft” in the search box donor-advised funds and supporting organiza- the annual premiums is more than 8.13% of his to the Earned Income Credit or the additional to learn more about identity theft and how to tions are not eligible recipients. Remember to household income; Child Tax Credit, no refund will be made before reduce your risk. check eligibility of the charity before requesting n Has a gap in coverage for less than three February 15, 2017. If your tax records are affected by identity a QCD. consecutive months or Form 1098-T Required to Claim Certain theft and you receive a notice from the IRS, All QCDs from an IRA to eligible charities n Qualifies for an exemption for one of sev- Education Incentives – Taxpayers must receive a respond right away to the name and phone are counted in determining whether the owner eral other reasons, including having a hardship form 1098-T, Tuition Statement, from educational number printed on the IRS notice or letter. If has met the IRA’s required minimum distribu- that prevents him from obtaining coverage, or institutions to claim the American opportunity your tax records are not currently affected by tion. Where individuals have made nondeduct- belonging to a group explicitly exempt from the credit, the Lifetime Learning tax credit or the above identity theft but you think you are at risk due ible contributions to their traditional IRAs, a requirement. the line deduction for qualified tuition and fees. to a lost or stolen purse or wallet, questionable special rule treats QCD amounts as coming first If the taxpayer, spouse or any of the depen- Rollovers to SIMPLE IRAs – For rollover credit card activity or credit report, etc., contact from taxable funds, instead of proportionately dents did not have minimum coverage for any contributions made after December 18, 2015, the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at from taxable and nontaxable funds, as would be month in 2016, a payment needs to be computed distributions from employer sponsored retire- 1-800-908-4490 or submit Form 14039. For the case with regular distributions. and reported on Form 1040, line 61. ment plans and traditional IRAs may be rolled more information, see Publication 4535, Iden- Foreign Financial Assets - If you had for- For 2016, the annual payment amount is the over into a SIMPLE IRA, as long as the SIM- tity Theft Prevention and Victim Assistance. eign financial assets in 2016, you may have to greater of: PLE IRA has been open for at least two years. Victims of identity theft who are experiencing file Form 8938 with your return. In addition, n 2.5% percent of the household income that Olympic and Paralympic medals and economic harm or a systemic problem, or are a separate FBAR document must be e-filed is above the tax return filing threshold for tax- USOC prize money – If you receive Olympic seeking help in resolving tax problems that by April 18, 2017 if the aggregate value of the payer’s filing status, or and Paralympic medals and United States Olym- have not been resolved through normal chan- foreign accounts exceeds $10,000 in any given n The family’s flat dollar amount, which is pic Committee prize money, the value of the nels, may be eligible for Taxpayer Advocate month of the year. $695 per adult and $347.50 per child, limited to medals and the amount of the prize money may Service (TAS) assistance. You can reach TAS Divorced or Separated Parents – A custo- a family maximum of $2,085. be nontaxable. by calling the National Taxpayer Advocate dial parent who revoked their previous release Premium Tax Credit – Individuals with Extended Filing and Payment Deadline helpline toll free case intake line at 1-877-777- of a claim to a child’s exemption must include a low to moderate income who get health cover- – Section 7503 states that filing and payment 4778. 14 Seafarers LOG February 2017

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG.indd 14 1/26/2017 6:03:12 PM February & March Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea Membership Meetings December 15, 2016 - January 15, 2017

Piney Point...... Monday: February 6, March 6 Total Registered Total Shipped Registered on Beach Algonac...... Friday: February 10, March 10 All Groups All Groups Trip All Groups Port A B C A B C Reliefs A B C Baltimore...... Thursday: February 9, March 9 Deck Department Algonac 31 12 1 1 2 1 0 49 15 2 Guam...... Thursday: February 23, March 23 Anchorage 2 0 0 2 2 0 2 2 1 0 Honolulu...... Friday: February 17, March 17 Baltimore 4 1 0 6 2 1 3 6 4 2 Fort Lauderdale 23 10 4 13 6 2 5 30 21 4 Houston...... Monday: February 13, March 13 Guam 2 1 0 2 0 0 0 4 5 0 Harvey 14 0 2 7 0 1 4 23 3 6 Jacksonville...... Thursday: February 9, March 9 Honolulu 6 2 1 7 6 1 5 18 10 1 Houston 49 3 8 47 7 9 28 99 10 14 Joliet...... Thursday: February 16, March 16 Jacksonville 42 15 11 26 12 8 20 63 25 20 Mobile...... Wednesday: February 15, March 15 Jersey City 39 15 3 26 10 2 19 69 20 4 Joliet 7 3 2 4 0 1 2 6 6 2 New Orleans...... Tuesday: February 14, March 14 Mobile 10 2 2 6 2 1 0 9 5 7 Norfolk 20 13 3 20 9 3 11 32 32 1 Jersey City...... Tuesday: February 7, March 7 Oakland 18 6 2 14 3 2 5 26 7 1 Norfolk...... Thursday: February 9, March 9 Philadelphia 5 5 0 4 4 0 5 5 6 0 Piney Point 0 2 0 1 2 0 1 1 2 0 Oakland...... Thursday: February 16, March 16 Puerto Rico 7 2 1 6 1 1 0 11 13 1 Tacoma 32 11 3 24 7 2 15 66 15 4 Philadelphia...... Wednesday: February 8, March 8 St. Louis 1 0 0 2 0 2 0 4 4 3 Wilmington 31 6 2 23 5 1 5 50 24 5 Port Everglades...... Thursday: February 16, March 16 TOTALS 343 109 45 241 80 38 130 573 228 77 San Juan...... Thursday: February 9, March 9 Engine Department St. Louis...... Friday: February 17, March 17 Algonac 3 4 0 0 0 0 0 4 6 1 Anchorage 1 0 1 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 Tacoma...... Friday: February 24, March 24 Baltimore 3 5 0 1 4 0 0 7 5 2 Wilmington...... *Tuesday: February 21, Monday: March 20 Fort Lauderdale 5 5 3 7 3 0 3 11 8 3 Guam 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 Harvey 1 3 1 1 0 0 0 2 3 1 Honolulu 5 1 0 6 5 0 0 16 9 0 *Wilmington change created by Washington’s Birthday ob- Houston 23 5 1 12 8 1 8 31 9 4 servance. Jacksonville 24 14 2 17 11 2 8 37 27 4 Jersey City 14 6 1 12 3 1 5 25 14 3 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m Joliet 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 5 1 0 Mobile 4 3 0 4 4 1 2 6 2 1 Norfolk 11 7 1 12 10 1 5 17 18 2 Oakland 11 2 1 8 2 0 4 18 6 2 Philadelphia 3 1 0 3 0 1 0 2 2 0 Piney Point 1 2 1 0 2 0 2 2 3 1 Puerto Rico 1 3 1 3 2 0 2 8 11 2 Tacoma 10 4 1 12 2 0 4 34 13 1 St. Louis 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 2 1 0 Wilmington 13 5 2 9 9 1 5 17 13 2 TOTALS 136 72 16 111 66 9 48 244 152 30

Steward Department Algonac 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 4 3 0 Anchorage 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Baltimore 2 1 0 4 1 0 3 3 0 0 Fort Lauderdale 12 3 1 5 3 1 4 18 4 1 Guam 3 2 0 0 1 0 0 3 2 0 Harvey 5 0 0 1 0 0 0 9 1 0 Honolulu 10 0 1 8 3 1 4 16 5 1 Houston 13 4 0 15 2 1 5 39 8 1 Jacksonville 15 4 0 10 4 1 3 30 8 1 Jersey City 8 2 0 1 2 0 0 21 7 1 Joliet 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 Mobile 2 1 1 2 1 0 0 4 3 1 Norfolk 11 10 0 10 7 0 8 17 17 0 Oakland 13 3 0 10 2 0 6 33 8 4 Philadelphia 5 1 1 1 0 0 1 5 2 1 Piney Point 1 5 0 2 1 0 1 7 4 0 Puerto Rico 4 4 0 3 1 0 1 6 8 0 Tacoma 15 4 0 7 1 1 6 27 4 0 St. Louis 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 Wilmington 17 3 3 19 5 3 11 35 5 1 TOTALS 140 48 7 100 34 8 53 280 90 12

Entry Department Algonac 5 12 2 1 0 1 0 6 20 4 Anchorage 0 2 3 0 0 2 0 0 2 5 Baltimore 0 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 4 Fort Lauderdale 0 2 6 1 3 2 2 0 4 8 Guam 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 Harvey 1 0 3 1 0 0 0 2 1 7 Honolulu 0 7 4 0 3 4 0 2 9 11 Houston 5 6 6 2 10 1 3 10 11 10 Jacksonville 1 9 19 2 7 14 1 3 28 39 Jersey City 1 16 0 1 3 3 1 5 36 6 Joliet 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 Mobile 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 Norfolk 0 12 10 0 8 8 0 1 27 25 Oakland 0 7 3 1 6 9 3 4 14 10 Philadelphia 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 0 Piney Point 0 0 1 0 0 2 1 0 3 0 Puerto Rico 0 0 3 0 0 1 0 8 0 2 Tacoma 9 7 9 2 7 5 2 10 20 11 St. Louis 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 Wilmington 0 16 15 3 7 11 5 3 28 35 TOTALS 24 105 87 14 56 63 18 56 214 180

GRAND TOTAL: 643 334 155 466 236 118 249 1,153 684 299

February 2017 Seafarers LOG 15

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG.indd 15 1/26/2017 6:03:13 PM Seafarers International Union Directory Inquiring Seafarer

Michael Sacco, President This month’s question was answered by SIU members Dec. 12 in Houston, just before the dedication of the Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer new hiring hall. George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Question: What do you think of the new hall? Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Carlos Avila John Cain AB Kermett Mangram, Shoregang Bosun Vice President Government Services I’m new in this environment and It’s fantastic, beautiful and unit’s very nice. It looks very good, believable. I love everything about and the space – there’s more room HEADQUARTERS it. I’m proud they let us do it. It’s a along with the parking lot. Also, the 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 nice hall for the future here in Hous- officials here are very knowledge- (301) 899-0675 ton. We really did quite well. able. ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 Kervin Guevara BALTIMORE AB Azad Davani 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 It looks awesome. It’s bigger and QMED I love it. It’s nice. I just came (410) 327-4900 well-organized. I like it. The parking is a lot better and the screen for back about two weeks ago, and I GUAM jobs…. There’s a bus stop right in think it’s beautiful. It’s neat and P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 front if you don’t have a vehicle. It’s clean and there’s a lot of room. I’m Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B close to my house, too. very happy with it. 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON Verleshia Robinson Andy Lopez 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 Chief Steward OMU (Retired) (713) 659-5152 It’s beautiful and very organized. It’s great – a real nice place. It’s a It’s an increase in space, and the JACKSONVILLE lot better than downtown. I grew up parking space is a tremendous in- 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 in this neighborhood. This location crease. It feels very secure. Less (904) 281-2622 is better and we have better parking. traffic is the biggest difference, and It was hard trying to park by the old JERSEY CITY the area has a better feel. I believe hall. 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 members are more comfortable here. (201) 434-6000

JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE Pics From The Past 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS Charlotte Cannon-Richardson submitted these snapshots of her late husband, 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 Chief Steward Bert Richardson, who passed away last year. Brother Richardson became a union member in the late 1960s, originally sailing as a member of (504) 328-7545 the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MC&S), which later merged into the SIU. Bert NORFOLK Richardson was part of the first group of African American MC&S members to 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 become chief stewards. The Mississippi native sailed until 1998. SIU Assistant (757) 622-1892 Vice President Nick Celona notes that Bert Richardson also played a vital role in helping launch and sustain the union’s San Francisco/Oakland area Thanks- OAKLAND giving celebration, a popular event for the 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 past 26 years. “Bert was an outstanding (510) 444-2360 union member and an even better individual,” Celona stated. PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000

If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to [email protected]

16 Seafarers LOG February 2017

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG_X.indd 16 1/27/2017 7:02:05 PM Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland water- ways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead.

DEEP SEA EDWARD FRENCH his last, the USNS Algol. Brother occasions, he took enhance his skills Brother Edward French, 65, Mitchell, a native of California, advantage of edu- often at the Paul was a member of the engine cational opportuni- Hall Center. He AARON ANDERSON joined the union in 1990. He first shipped aboard the USNS Assur- department. He attended classes ties available at the last sailed on the Brother Aaron Anderson, 65, ance. Brother French attended often at the maritime training Paul Hall Center. Resolve. Brother began sailing with the SIU in classes in 1992 at the union- center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Williams’s Stanus was a 2003 in Houston. He originally affiliated school in Piney Point, Brother Mitchell resides in Lo- most recent trip member of the shipped on the Maryland. He worked in both the mita, California. was on the USNS deck department. Green Dale. steward and deck departments. Antares. He lives in Jacksonville, He lives in Box Elder, South Brother Ander- Florida. Dakota. Brother French concluded his WILFREDO PALACIOS son enhanced his career on the Performance. He skills often at the Brother Wilfredo Palacios, 67, settled in Roanoke, Virginia. GUILLERMO ZAPATA BRUCE WILLIAMS SIU-affiliated donned the SIU colors in 2001 school in Piney during the SIU/ Brother Guillermo Zapata, 65, Brother Bruce Williams, 63, Point, Maryland. BILLY HILL NMU merger. began shipping with the union started shipping He was born in Brother Billy Hill, 59, became a He worked in in 1999. He originally worked with the SIU in Clarksburg, West Virginia, and Seafarer in 1976 in Houston. The all three depart- with Tugz Company. Brother 1993. He was sailed in the engine department. deck department ments. Brother Zapata upgraded primarily em- Brother Anderson’s last vessel member initially Palacios was born frequently at the ployed with G&H was the Cape Trinity. He lives in sailed with Tran- in Honduras. His maritime training Towing. Brother Bacliff, Texas. seastern Shipping. most recent ship center in Piney Williams sailed in On numerous oc- was the Maersk Point, Maryland. the engine depart- Missouri. Brother Palacios up- He sailed in the ment. He is a resi- EUFRACIO ARZU casions, Brother Hill upgraded graded in 2003 at the Paul Hall deck department. dent of Fall Creek, Oregon. Brother Eufracio Arzu, 78, at the Paul Hall Center. He makes his home in Prior to his retire- signed on with the SIU in 2001 Houston. ment, Brother Za- Center. He last JOSEPH ZOLADEK during the SIU/NMU merger. He shipped aboard the Maersk Cali- pata shipped aboard the Overseas upgraded in 2001 and 2006 at the Texas City. He is a resident of Brother Joseph Zoladek, 66, fornia. Brother Hill calls Livings- RONNIE RICHARDSON maritime training center in Piney ton, Texas, home. Plantation, Florida. joined the SIU in 1972 in Phila- Point, Maryland. Brother Arzu Brother Ronnie Richardson, 65, delphia. He initially worked with was a member of both the engine began shipping with the union in INLAND Gellenthin Barge Lines. Brother and steward departments. His GARETH HUNT 1979. He enhanced his skills on Zoladek was born in Germany. last trip was aboard the Meteor. Brother Gareth Hunt, 69, began three occasions He was last employed with Penn Brother Arzu now calls Houston ALLAN BIGNER his seafaring career in 2003. He at the maritime Maritime Inc. Brother Zoladek home. initially sailed training center Brother Allan Bigner, 62, joined makes his home in Pennsylvania. aboard the TSgt. in Piney Point, the SIU in 1970. He initially Maryland. Brother sailed on the Bradford Island. GREAT LAKES DANIEL CAMPBELL John Chapman. Brother Hunt was Richardson Brother Bigner worked in the en- Brother Daniel Campbell, 66, originally worked gine department. born in Washing- DANIEL BENSONI started sailing with the Seafar- ton and worked in aboard the Santa He upgraded in ers in 1981. He was initially the deck depart- Maria. He sailed 1970 and 1972 at Brother Daniel Bensoni, 65, started employed on the ment. His final in the steward de- the Piney Point sailing with the union in 1973. He Trans Colorado. ship was the Pride partment. Before his retirement, school. Brother first shipped with Brother Campbell of America. He makes his home Brother Richardson sailed on Bigner’s final Great Lakes As- was born in New in Port Angeles, Washington. the Blue Ridge. He lives in San trip was aboard sociates. Brother Jersey and worked Francisco. the Mississippi Bensoni was a deck in the engine Queen. He calls department mem- department. He ROSS LYLE Tickfaw, Louisiana, home. ber; he upgraded attended classes KYLE SCHULTZ Brother Ross Lyle, 61, started in 1983 in Piney on three occasions sailing with the SIU in 1978. Brother Kyle Schultz, 56, joined Point, Maryland. at the Paul Hall Center in Piney RODNEY MCCASLIN He first shipped the SIU ranks in 1978. He origi- Prior to his retire- Point, Maryland. Brother Camp- aboard the Erna nally worked aboard the Great Brother Rodney McCaslin, 58, ment, he worked aboard the Charles bell’s most recent trip was aboard Elizabeth. Brother Land. Brother Schultz attended started sailing with the union in E. Wilson. Brother Bensoni calls the El Morro. He is a resident of Lyle attended classes at the Paul Hall Center on 1986. He initially shipped with Saginaw, Minnesota, home. Jacksonville, Florida. classes on numer- two occasions. He finished his Moran Towing of Texas. Brother ous occasions career on the Ocean Crescent. McCaslin was an The New York native was a engine department ROBERT GOLLA DAVID CARTER at the Paul Hall Center. He sailed member of the deck department. member. He up- Brother Robert Golla, 65, began Brother David Carter, 70, joined in the deck depart- Brother Schultz calls Sequin, graded numerous his seafaring career in 1999. He the SIU in 2001 when the NMU ment. Brother Lyle’s final trip to Texas, home. times at the Piney initially shipped merged into the Seafarers Inter- sea was on the Cape Victory. He Point school. aboard the In- national Union. Brother McCaslin diana Harbor. lives in Livingston, Texas. WILLIAM SULLIVAN On two occasions, most recently Brother Golla he took advantage Brother William Sullivan, 65, worked on the sailed as a mem- of educational op- YUSEF MAISONET started sailing with the SIU in Integrity. He makes his home in ber of the steward portunities avail- Winslow, Maine. Brother Yusef Maisonet, 65, 1974. He first shipped aboard department. His able at the Piney became a union member in a Hudson Wa- most recent trip Point school. 1992. He started his career work- terways vessel. was on the Al- Brother Carter MARIO MORANTE ing aboard the Brother Sullivan pena. Brother Golla settled in sailed in the en- Diamond State. upgraded in 1991 Brother Mario Morante, 59, Duluth, Minnesota. gine department; his final ship Brother Maisonet and 1992 at the signed on with the SIU in 1995 in was the Philadelphia Express. sailed in the deck union-affiliated Jacksonville, Florida. He mostly He makes his home in Neptune GARY LAPCZYNSKI department. In school in Piney shipped with Crowley Towing & Beach, Florida. 2002, he took Point, Maryland. Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Gary Lapczynski, 62, advantage of edu- He worked in the Brother Morante worked in the donned the SIU colors in 1972. engine department. Brother Sul- deck department. In 2000 and ROBERT CULLIFER cational opportu- He was initially employed nities available at livan’s final trip to sea was on 2002, he attended classes at the aboard the Steel Brother Robert Cullifer, 70, the Piney Point school. Brother the Dodge Island. He resides in Seafarers-affiliated school in T. Crapo. Brother donned the union colors in 2003 Maisonet’s most recent trip was Ocean City, New Jersey. Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Lapczynski sailed in Norfolk, Virginia. His first on the Bonny. He is a resident of Morante is a resident of Orange in the steward ship was the USNS Dahl; his Park, Florida. department, most Mobile, Alabama. BRUCE WILLIAMS most recent, the Patriot. Brother recently on the Cullifer is a native of Norfolk. Brother Bruce Williams, 65, be- Burns Harbor. In ROGER STANUS He upgraded several times at DANIEL MITCHELL came a union member in 1969. He 2007 and 2015, the Piney Point school. Brother Brother Daniel Mitchell, 69, started his career working aboard Brother Roger Stanus, 62, began he upgraded at the Cullifer worked in the deck designed on with the SIU in 1979. the Steel Fabricator. Brother Wil- his SIU career in 1985. He was Piney Point school. Brother Lap- partment and now resides in Surf His first ship was the Point Julie; liams sailed in both the engine originally employed with Z Nor- czynski is a resident of Alpena, City, North Carolina. and steward departments. On two folk Baltimore. Brother Stanus Michigan. February 2017 Seafarers LOG 17

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG.indd 17 1/26/2017 6:03:15 PM Final Departures

DEEP SEA ship vessel. He shipped in member. Brother Mull began North Carolina. siana. He went on pension in the deck department. Brother receiving his pension in 2002 1973 and lived in Seattle. JOHN BURGER Stevens last sailed in the in- and called Elkton, Florida, HERBERT KERLEY land division with Dravo Basic home. SWITHIN MCWILLIAMS Pensioner John Burger, 70, Materials Company. He began Pensioner Herbert Kerley, 86, passed away September 29. He died October 2. A native of Pensioner Swithin McWilliams, collecting his retirement pay in JIMMY PAYNE became an SIU 2009. Brother Stevens resided Crossville, Ten- 94, died September 12. Born in member in 1988. in Frisco City, Alabama. Pensioner Jimmy Payne, 75, nessee, he donned Trinidad, Brother McWilliams Brother Burger died October the SIU colors started receiving his pension in initially worked 14. Brother in 1963. Brother 1987. He resided in Staten Is- on the Pfc De- JOHN TRENT Payne started Kerley mainly land, New York. wayne T. Wil- Pensioner John Trent, 75, died sailing with the sailed with Amer- liams. He sailed October 14. Brother Trent was SIU in 1971. ican Steamship DAVID MOORE in the deck de- a native of New- He mainly Company. He partment. Brother port, Arkansas. worked aboard worked in the en- Pensioner David Moore, 85, Burger’s final ship was the A member of the G&H Towing gine department. Brother Kerley passed away September 27. He Nedlloyd Holland. He became a engine depart- Company ves- wrapped up his sailing career in was a native of Mississippi. pensioner in 2011 and settled in ment, he first sels. Brother Payne sailed as a 1986. He continued to make his Brother Moore began collecting Hilham, Tennessee. sailed on the member of the engine depart- home in Tennessee. his pension in 1988. He lived in Collins, Mississippi. Trans Hartford ment. He retired in 2002 and NATIONAL RICHARD MULLEN in 1964. Brother resided in Kemah, Texas. Trent last worked MARITIME UNION ANGEL RIVERA Pensioner Richard Mullen, 86, aboard the Overseas New Or- BOBBY SIMMONS Pensioner Angel Rivera, 87, died died August 27. Brother Mul- leans. He started receiving his len started his Pensioner Bobby Simmons, JOSEPH BRIDGES October 22. Brother Rivera was pension in 2006. Brother Trent Pensioner Joseph Bridges, 90, born in Puerto Rico. He went on seafaring career was a resident of Davie, Florida. 73, passed away October 12. in 1967. His first He became a union member in passed away August 19. Brother pension in 1966 and continued to ship was the INLAND 1967. Brother Bridges was born in Florida and make his home in Puerto Rico. Transhatteras. Simmons ini- started receiving his pension in Brother Mullen JOSEPH BETHEL tially worked in 1993. He lived in Rome, Geor- JOSEPH RIVERA gia. was born in Cali- Pensioner Joseph Bethel, 76, the deep sea di- Pensioner Joseph Rivera, 78, fornia and sailed passed away September 19. vision with Sea passed away September 30. Born in the engine Brother Bethel was born in Transport Inc. HARRY CHAN in Bronx, New York, Brother department. He last shipped Pennsylvania. He was born in Pensioner Harry Chan, 94, Rivera started receiving his pen- aboard the Independence. He started ship- Newton, Texas, died October 5. Born in China, sion in 1995. He was a resident Brother Mullen began receiving ping with the and sailed in Brother Chan became a pen- of Beaumont, Texas. his pension in 1996 and was a SIU in 1965, and both the deck and steward de- sioner in 1968. He settled in resident of Susanville, Califor- first sailed on a partments. Brother Simmons Brooklyn, New York. MERLE REYNOLDS nia. Taylor Marine last shipped aboard a Crowley Towing and Transportation of Pensioner Merle Reynolds, 94, Towing Com- MAHFOUD FAYED died October 6. Brother Reyn- ALAN NELSON pany vessel. Jacksonville vessel. He went on pension in 1999 and lived Pensioner Mahfoud Fayed, 65, olds was born in Oklahoma. He Brother Alan Nelson, 65, passed Brother Bethel’s retired in 1988 and resided in last boat was operated by Moran in Clearwater, Florida. passed away September 28. away October 5. Brother Nel- Brother Fayed was a native of Prague, Oklahoma. son originally Towing of Philadelphia. He worked in the deck depart- DONNIE WILLIAMS Yemen. He began collecting his shipped aboard retirement pay in 2006. Brother PAUL STURGILL the Newark, in ment. Brother Bethel became Pensioner Donnie Williams, a pensioner in 2002 and lived Fayed resided in Dearborn, Pensioner Paul Sturgill, 92, 1968. He sailed 75, died September 13. Michigan. in the engine Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania. Brother Wil- passed away August 10. The department. liams signed on Kentucky native became a pensioner in 1969. Brother Sturgill Brother Nelson’s WALLACE CUMBEST with the SIU THEODORE GREEN most recent ves- in 1966, origi- Pensioner Theodore Green, 95, called Sandy Hook, Kentucky, Pensioner Wallace Cumbest, home. sel was the USNS 66, died October 31. He began nally working died September 20. Brother Stockham. He made his home in with Virginia Green was born in Bishopville, sailing with the union in 1977. MITCHELL WILAMOSKI Baltimore. Brother Cumbest Pilots. He was South Carolina. He went on primarily shipped a deck depart- pension in 1986. Brother Green Pensioner Mitchell Wilamoski, SPIRIDON PERDIKIS with Crowley ment member. made his home in Rosenberg, 98, died October 15. Brother Brother Williams was last Texas. Pensioner Spiridon Perdikis, Towing and Wilamoski was born in Erie, Transportation of employed aboard a Northeast Pennsylvania. He started col- 84, died October 29. Born in Towing Company vessel. He Greece, Brother Jacksonville. He RAMON HERNANDEZ lecting his pension in 1967 and was a native of started collecting his retire- was a resident of St. Petersburg, Perdikis joined ment pay in 2003. Brother Pensioner Ramon Hernandez, the union in Ray City, Geor- 89, passed away September Florida. gia, and worked Williams was a resident of 1959. He initially Frisco, North Carolina. 15. Brother Hernandez started worked with En- in the deck department. Brother receiving compensation for his Name Age DOD terprise Steam- Cumbest retired in 2007 and GREAT LAKES retirement in 1969. He was a Carcamo, German 82 Oct. 18 ship Company. made his home in Old Town, resident of Edison Township, Ennis, John 93 May 24 Brother Perdikis Florida. JOHN CHURCH New Jersey. Jackson, Charles 95 Oct. 17 shipped as a McDuffie, Marilee 92 Sept. 23 Pensioner John Church, 74, Smith, Irbin 88 Sept. 25 member of the engine depart- CHARLES MULL passed away October 19. JAMES HOPSON ment. Prior to his retirement in Pensioner Charles Mull, 80, The North Carolina native Pensioner James Hopson, 92, 2002, he sailed aboard the Over- passed away October 17. Born began his SIU career in 1969. seas Chicago. Brother Perdikis died September 21. Brother in Ashville, North Carolina, Brother Church was a mem- Hopson was born in Alabama. called Port St. Lucie, Florida, he donned the SIU colors in ber of the deck department. home. He became a pensioner in 1971. 1962. Brother His first ship Brother Hopson called Dixon Mull initially was the Bob-Lo Mills, Alabama, home. LEWELLYN STEVENS worked in the Island; his last, Pensioner Lewellyn Stevens, deep sea divi- the St. Clair. TERIA MCNEAL 78, passed away October 5. sion with Seat- Brother Church Brother Stevens signed on with rain Lines Inc. went on pension Pensioner Teria McNeal, 89, the union in 1957, originally He was a deck in 2007 and set- passed away October 8. Brother working on a Waterman Steam- department tled in Lenoir, McNeal was born in Hilly, Loui-

18 Seafarers LOG February 2017

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG.indd 18 1/26/2017 6:03:16 PM The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Digest of Shipboard Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ Union Meetings minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication.

MAERSK ATLANTA (Maersk neth Powell, Steward Delegate Edy- Line, Limited), October 22 – Chair- son Chaniago. Chairman advised man Thomas P. Flanagan, Secre- Seafarers to keep all documents With Union Members on M/V Corsica tary Glenn Williams, Educational current. Secretary urged members to Director Enrique Velez. Chairman make sure beneficiary information SIU, MEBA and MM&P reminded crew departing vessel to on file with Seafarers Plans is up-to- members are pictured leave room clean and supplied with date. Educational director advised aboard the Chesapeake fresh linen. He thanked everyone mariners to enhance skills at mari- Crewing-operated M/V Corsica while the ship for a safe and productive trip. Mari- time training center in Piney Point, heads back to the U.S. ners were reminded to check and Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT from the Middle East. update credentials as needed. Crew reported. Crew members made sug- Back row, from left: Chief discussed the importance of voting gestions regarding vacation and pen- Steward Marc Newbold, as it will impact all their futures. sion benefits for upcoming contract Bosun William Britton, Secretary asked everyone to put all negotiations. Next ports: Charleston, 2nd Mate Jon Lotz, 3AE dirty linen outside their rooms and South Carolina and Houston. Evan Knoch, QMED Van give captain back coveralls (old and Dixon, Capt. Bruce Mat- new). Educational director urged MAERSK DETROIT (Maersk Line, thews, (middle row, from members to enhance their skills at Limited), November 8 – Chairman left) 3AE Tyler Brady, 3rd the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Thomas W. Grosskurth, Secre- Mate Tucker Weisleder, Training and Education in Piney tary Michael Kozak, Educational 2AE Helbert Esquivel, CE Point, Maryland, to excel in their Director Dennis R. Baker, Deck Al Tine Jr., CM Rudy Nor- positions. Treasurer reported $827 Delegate John Mbelwa, Steward mann, (front, from left) Ap- in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed Delegate Jose Burgos. Chairman prentice Morgan Hayes, OT reported. It was noted that dish- reviewed requirements for STCW GVA Peter Durangparang, washer and grill need to be fixed. Basic Training when renewing mer- AB William Davis and AB chant mariner credential after Janu- Orin King. MAERSK IDAHO (Maersk Line, ary 1, 2017. Educational director Limited), October 15 – Chairman talked about improvements to dental Ronald Mena, Secretary Zein benefits. He asked crew to report reported. Crew suggested increasing food budget and pension benefits. families of El Faro crew members. Z. Achmad, Educational Direc- worn extension cords and plugs that vacation days. Request was made for Suggestion was made to increase tor Tesfaye Gebregziabher, Deck need repairing. No beefs or disputed a new coffee machine. MAERSK PITTSBURGH (Maersk pension benefits. Delegate Atm Reza. Bosun thanked OT reported. Recommendation was Line, Limited), December 24 – fellow crew members for a smooth made to increase pension benefits. MAERSK KINLOSS (Maersk Line, Chairman Konstantinos Prokovas, OVERSEAS ANACORTES (OSG), voyage. Secretary reminded every- Mariners were reminded to close Limited), December 16 – Chair- Secretary Darryl K. Goggins, Edu- December 10 – Chairman Felsher one that paper cups should be used washer and dryer doors. A vote of man Rufino J. Giray, Secretary cational Director Jan Morawski, Beasley, Secretary Brad A. Fes- while in port and paper plates used thanks was given to the steward de- Juan Vallejo, Educational Direc- Deck Delegate James Armer, ter, Educational Director Cary G. for night snacks. Educational di- partment. tor Albert Riollano, Deck Del- Engine Delegate Roger Nesbeth, Pratts, Deck Delegate David N. rector advised members to keep all egate Maruf Syarifudin, Steward Steward Delegate Stanford Drakes. Bernstein, Engine Delegate Julio necessary paperwork up-to-date. MAERSK OHIO (Maersk Line, Delegate Richard Oliva. Chairman Chairman thanked crew for a safe Zapata. Chairman stressed the im- Treasurer reported $2,450 in ship’s Limited), November 26 – Chairman urged mariners to keep documents trip. Secretary reminded crew mem- portance of taking care of your body fund. No beefs or disputed OT re- James L. Joyce, Secretary Charles up-to-date and focus on safety. He bers getting off vessel to leave fresh and staying healthy. Educational di- ported. Request was made for new Brooks, Educational Director An- thanked steward department for linen for next mariner. Educational rector recommended training at the chairs, mattresses and refrigerators toine L. Rainey, Deck Delegate good food. Crew thanked SIU Presi- director discussed importance of up- Piney Point school and keeping all for crew rooms. Suggestion was Fontaine Barber, Steward Del- dent Michael Sacco and Executive grading skills at the Paul Hall Center necessary seafaring documents up- made to increase vacation pay. egate Edward Smigielski. Bosun Vice President Augie Tellez for their in Piney Point, Maryland. Seafarers to-date. Treasurer reported $300 in urged mariners to continue working hard work on Capitol Hill. Secretary were given instructions to request ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT CHARLESTON EXPRESS (Crow- together safely. Deck department asked members leaving ship to clean their sea time. Discussion was held reported. Members would like bet- ley), November 27 – Chairman was reminded to wear cold-weather rooms and separate garbage. Educa- regarding information available on ter quality mattresses and pillows. George F. Price, Secretary Ronald gear. Educational director discussed tional director recommended train- SIU website. No beefs or disputed Crew recognized Bosun Beasley for Tarantino, Educational Director importance of upgrading skills at ing at the Piney Point school. No OT reported. Vote of thanks was upcoming retirement (look for photos Ronald Westerfield, Deck Delegate the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, beefs or disputed OT reported. Rec- given to the deck and engine depart- in a future edition of the LOG). Next Saidu Sesay, Engine Delegate Ken- Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT ommendation was made to increase ments. Crew discussed donations to port: Port Everglades, Florida. Matson Consumer Crew Honors Memory of the Late ‘Capt. Jay’ Recertified Steward Brian Burchette as chief mate and eventually as captain. shipmates, and your ship becomes your with the captain, the entire crew turned submitted this recent photo from the Burchette also said that in speaking home away from home. When you find out for the memorial (except for those Matson Consumer, taken during a me- with others who sailed with Jay, “All re- others that have a passion for their job on watch). Everyone signed a life ring morial service for vessel master Capt. member him as a sailor who cared about and their ship, it truly is a rewarding ex- for the captain’s family “just to let them Jay Thomas, who passed away last year. the ship and the crew. When you spend perience.” know that his work here meant something Burchette noted that “Captain Jay” spent eight months a year on board a ship, you Although only a few of the mariners to others, and he will be remembered and the last five years aboard the vessel, first get to know (for better or worse) your on board the vessel late last year sailed missed.”

Among those pictured in the photo above are the crew members who sailed with Captain Jay: Burchette (center-right, holding the life ring), Recertified Bosun Paul Cadran (standing second from right) and Chief Cook June Reyes (standing at far left).

February 2017 Seafarers LOG 19

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG.indd 19 1/26/2017 6:03:17 PM SHBP Makes Scholarship Funds Available to Members, Dependents The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan First, as has been the case in the past, pro- included as part of the application package. A arrangements should be made by applicants (SHBP) anually makes scholarships avail- spective applicants may request these book- high-quality photograph and a certified copy who have not done so to take these tests no able to qualified individuals who are looking lets via mail by completing and mailing the of the applicant’s birth certificate are also re- later than February 2017. Doing so will virtu- to further their education beyond high school. form provided below. Secondly, they may quired and should accompany the package. ally assure that the results reach the evaluation Eight awards totaling $132,000 are avail- obtain the booklets by visiting any SIU hall. A scholarship selection committee, con- committee in time for review. able for the the 2017 program. Three scholar- Finally, applicants may obtain the booklet sisting of a panel of professional educators, Seafarers and dependents who previously ships will be designated for Seafarers while online by visiting www.seafarers.org, going will examine the high school grades of all applied for the scholarship program and were five will be targeted for spouses and depen- to the Member Benefits tab, navigating to the applicants as well as evaluate scores from not selected are encouraged to apply again this dents. One of the endowments reserved for Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan menu and their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) and year, provided they still meet the eligibility re- Seafarers totals $20,000 and is intended to selecting Scholarship Booklet 2017 (PDF). American College Tests (ACT). Accordingly, quirements. help defray the costs associated with attending Once the scholarship booklet has been a four-year, college-level course of study. The received, applicants should check the eligi- remaining two are in the amount of $6,000 bility criteria. They should also begin col- each and are designed as two-year awards for lecting and assembling the remainder of the Please send me the 2017 SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility infor- study at a postsecondary vocational school or paperwork needed to submit with the full ap- mation, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. community college. Each of the five schol- plication, which must be received by April Name ...... arships for spouses and dependents is for 15, 2017. Street Address ...... $20,000. Items that need to be incorporated in the City, State, Zip Code...... Now is an ideal time to begin the appli- final application package include transcripts Telephone Number ( ) ...... cation process. The first step is to obtain a and certificates of graduation. Since some scholarship program booklet. This package institutions respond slowly in handling tran- This application is for: Self Dependent contains eligibility information, procedures script needs, requests should be made as early Mail this completed form to: Scholarship Program for applying for the scholarships and an appli- as possible. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan cation form. Union members and their depen- Letters of recommendation – solicited from 5201 Auth Way, dents now have three avenues through which individuals who know the applicant’s charac- Camp Springs, MD 20746 2/17 they may obtain this booklet. ter, personality and career goals – should be

HEALTH BENEFITS FOR PENSIONERS

If you are considering retirement, you should Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan if retiring on a tinuation coverage if you were eligible for SHBP more individuals who are not eligible for Medi- be aware that the health benefits that the Seafar- Disability Pension, and benefits at the time you retire, but you do not care). If you are eligible for Medicare but your ers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) provides to n At least 60 days of covered employment in meet the eligibility requirements for pensioner’s spouse is not, you must pay a $100 premium for eligible pensioners and their families are different each of the 2 six-month eligibility periods immedi- health benefits. If you qualify for COBRA, the your spouse’s coverage, or $200 for your spouse from those that are offered to active employees and ately preceding the date in which you become eli- Plan will send you a COBRA election notice that and dependent children. If you give the Plan writ- their families. gible for and apply for pension benefits, or will explain these rights in more detail. ten permission to make this deduction, the Seafar- If you are eligible for health benefits as an active n 125 days of covered employment in the calen- Even if you are eligible for pensioner’s health ers Pension Plan will deduct this premium from employee at the time you retire, you will continue dar year immediately preceding the year in which you benefits you will also be eligible for COBRA your pension benefit, so that you do not have to to receive those benefits until your eligibility runs become eligible for and apply for pension benefits. continuation coverage when your eligibility for send monthly payments. Please note, if you de- out. For more detailed information about pension- Covered employment under the Seafarers active benefits ends. You may purchase COBRA cide to opt out of the Pensioner health coverage, ers’ benefits, you may view the SHBP Guide for Health and Benefits Plan does not include “Extra benefits if you want your dependents to continue you cannot opt back in at a later time. Retirees under the Member Benefits tab at www. Service Credit” or “Supplemental Service” earned to have outpatient and prescription benefits if seafarers.org; or you may contact the Plan at 1-800- under the Seafarers Pension Plan. These days do not you are at the Core-Plus benefit level. COBRA Premium benefit for Pensioners 252-4674 to request a printed copy of this guide. count for eligibility under the Seafarers Health and allows you to continue to receive the same health Eligible for Medicare This notice contains important information Benefits Plan. In addition, days for which a partici- benefits that you received prior to retirement for If you are eligible for any form of pension about the eligibility rules for pensioner’s health ben- pant may receive more than one day’s credit for one a certain period of time set by law (usually 18 with SHBP medical benefits, and you are Medi- efits, and the right to purchase COBRA continuation day worked and/or credit received for Vacation days months, but sometimes longer). Once the COBRA care-eligible, you must enroll in Medicare Parts coverage when you retire. Please read this notice are not counted towards eligibility under the Seafar- period ends, if you met the requirements for pen- A and B to remain eligible for health benefits carefully. ers Health and Benefits Plan. sioner’s health benefits, you will begin receiving from SHBP. Once you do so, the Plan will pay Under the Seafarers Pension Plan Rules, a par- those benefits. you an additional benefit of $50 a month to help Eligibility Requirements ticipant may qualify for a Normal Pension Benefit, pay your Medicare premium. Your spouse must In order for a pensioner to be eligible for pen- an Early Normal Pension Benefit, or a Disability Premium for Pensioners and Dependents not also enroll in Medicare Parts A and B when he or sioner health benefits from the SHBP, they must Pension Benefit, but not satisfy the covered employ- Eligible for Medicare she becomes Medicare-eligible. Provided that you meet the following eligibility requirements: ment requirements under the Seafarers Health and If you are not eligible for Medicare at the time are also enrolled in Medicare, the Plan will pay n 5,475 days of covered employment under the Benefits Plan for pensioner health benefits. you retire, you are required to pay a monthly pre- another $50 benefit to help with your spouse’s Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan if retiring on a mium to receive Pensioner health coverage. The Medicare premium. However, if your spouse dies Normal Pension or Early Normal Pension COBRA Rights amount of this premium is $100 for individual before you, their $50 benefit will end upon their n 4,380 days of covered employment under the You have the right to purchase COBRA con- coverage, or $200 for family coverage (for two or death.

Know Your Rights

FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitu- Augustin Tellez, Chairman capacity in the SIU unless an official union SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its tion of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and In- Seafarers Appeals Board receipt is given for same. Under no circum- proceeds are used to further its objects and land Waters District/NMU makes specific 5201 Auth Way stances should any member pay any money purposes including, but not limited to, fur- provision for safeguarding the membership’s Camp Springs, MD 20746 for any reason unless he is given such re- thering the political, social and economic money and union finances. The constitution ceipt. In the event anyone attempts to re- interests of maritime workers, the preser- requires a detailed audit by certified public ac- Full copies of contracts as referred to are quire any such payment be made without vation and furthering of the American mer- countants every year, which is to be submitted available to members at all times, either by supplying a receipt, or if a member is re- chant marine with improved employment to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers quired to make a payment and is given an of- opportunities for seamen and boatmen and A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file Appeals Board. ficial receipt, but feels that he or she should the advancement of trade union concepts. members, elected by the membership, each not have been required to make such pay- In connection with such objects, SPAD sup- year examines the finances of the union and CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU con- ment, this should immediately be reported ports and contributes to political candidates reports fully their findings and recommenda- tracts are available in all SIU halls. These to union headquarters. for elective office. All contributions are vol- tions. Members of this committee may make contracts specify the wages and conditions untary. No contribution may be solicited or dissenting reports, specific recommendations under which an SIU member works and lives CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND received because of force, job discrimina- and separate findings. aboard a ship or boat. Members should know OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Con- tion, financial reprisal, or threat of such con- their contract rights, as well as their obliga- stitution are available in all union halls. All duct, or as a condition of membership in the TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU tions, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the members should obtain copies of this consti- union or of employment. If a contribution is Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters are proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, tution so as to familiarize themselves with made by reason of the above improper con- administered in accordance with the provisions at any time, a member believes that an SIU its contents. Any time a member feels any duct, the member should notify the Seafar- of various trust fund agreements. All these patrolman or other union official fails to pro- other member or officer is attempting to de- ers International Union or SPAD by certified agreements specify that the trustees in charge tect their contractual rights properly, he or prive him or her of any constitutional right mail within 30 days of the contribution for of these funds shall equally consist of union she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. or obligation by any methods, such as deal- investigation and appropriate action and re- and management representatives and their al- ing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all fund, if involuntary. A member should sup- ternates. All expenditures and disbursements of EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEA- other details, the member so affected should port SPAD to protect and further his or her trust funds are made only upon approval by a FARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG tradi- immediately notify headquarters. economic, political and social interests, and majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial tionally has refrained from publishing any American trade union concepts. records are available at the headquarters of the article serving the political purposes of any EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are various trust funds. individual in the union, officer or member. guaranteed equal rights in employment and NOTIFYING THE UNION. If at any It also has refrained from publishing articles as members of the SIU. These rights are time a member feels that any of the above SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s ship- deemed harmful to the union or its collec- clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and rights have been violated, or that he or she ping rights and seniority are protected exclu- tive membership. This established policy in the contracts which the union has negoti- has been denied the constitutional right of sively by contracts between the union and the has been reaffirmed by membership action ated with the employers. Consequently, no access to union records or information, the employers. Members should get to know their at the September 1960 meetings in all con- member may be discriminated against be- member should immediately notify SIU shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are stitutional ports. The responsibility for Sea cause of race, creed, color, sex, national or President Michael Sacco at headquarters by posted and available in all union halls. If mem- farers LOG policy is vested in an editorial geographic origin. certified mail, return receipt requested. The bers believe there have been violations of their board which consists of the executive board If any member feels that he or she is de- address is: shipping or seniority rights as contained in the of the union. The executive board may del- nied the equal rights to which he or she is contracts between the union and the employers, egate, from among its ranks, one individual entitled, the member should notify union Michael Sacco, President they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board to carry out this responsibility. headquarters. Seafarers International Union by certified mail, return receipt requested. The PAYMENT OF MONIES. No mon- SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIV- 5201 Auth Way proper address for this is: ies are to be paid to anyone in any official ITY DONATION — SPAD. Camp Springs, MD 20746

20 Seafarers LOG February 2017

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG.indd 20 1/26/2017 6:03:18 PM Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information

The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Title of Start Date of Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland, for the next several months. Course Date Completion All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promot- ing the American maritime industry. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at Marine Refer Tech March 18 April 28 the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Pumpman April 8 April 21

Title of Start Date of Welding February 25 March 17 Course Date Completion April 1 April 21 Gap Closing Courses Steward Department Courses

Engineroom Resource Management February 18 February 24 Advanced Galley Ops April 22 May 19 June 3 June 9 April 22 June 19

Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next Leadership and Managerial Skills February 25 March 3 class will start February 13. June 10 June 16 Chief Steward April 22 June 2

Deck Department Upgrading Courses Galley Operations March 25 April 21 May 20 June 16 Able Seafarer Deck April 22 May 19 June 17 July 14 Galley Assessment Program (GAP) March 18 April 28 May 27 July 7 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Stu- dents will be advised of dates once accepted. ServSafe February 11 February 17 May 6 May 12 ARPA February 25 March 3 June 3 June 9 Steward Recertification March 11 April 3

Crane Familiarization April 8 April 14 Safety Upgrading Courses

ECDIS April 8 April 14 Basic Training w/16hr FF March 11 March 17 March 18 March 24 Fast Rescue Boat May 20 May 26 April 10 April 14

GMDSS May 6 May 19 Basic Training Revalidation February 17 February 17 September 2 September 15 February 24 February 24 March 10 March 10 Lifeboat March 11 March 24 April 8 April 21 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation March 11 March 17 May 6 May 19 June 24 June 30 June 3 June 16 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting March 4 March 10 Radar Observer May 20 June 2 April 29 May 5 June 10 June 16 RFPNW March 25 April 21 May 21 June 16 Government Vessels February 18 February 24 February 25 March 3 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Medical Care Provider March 11 March 17 BAPO March 25 April 21 April 22 April 28 May 21 June 16 June 17 June 23

FOWT February 25 March 24 Tank Barge - DL April 15 April 21 April 22 May 19 June 17 July 14 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL/LG March 18 March 31 Junior Engineer March 4 April 28 June 3 June 16 May 6 June 30 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG February 25 March 3 Machinist March 18 April 7 June 17 June 23

UPGRADING APPLICATION COURSE START DATE OF DATE COMPLETION ______Name______Address______Telephone (Home)______(Cell)______Date of Birth______Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o ______If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. ______Social Security #______Book #______Seniority______Department______LAST VESSEL: ______Rating: ______Home Port______E-mail______Date On: ______Date Off:______Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held______SIGNATURE ______DATE______o o Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? Yes No NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if If yes, class # and dates attended______you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are ______reimbursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five to (301) 994-2189. (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Train- Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. ing and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this applica- who are otherwise qualified, or any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with ap- tion, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application plicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply activities. 2/17 for any benefits which might become due to me. February 2017 Seafarers LOG 21

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG.indd 21 1/26/2017 6:03:18 PM Paul Hall Center Classes

Welding – Four upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Dec. 16: Ryan Bran- dle, Bobby Conner II, Kyle Miller and James Sieger. Class instructor Chris Raley is at the far right.

Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Apprentice Water Survival Class #819 – Eighteen apprentices completed this course Dec. 30. Graduating (above, in Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the alphabetical order) were: Phillip Borders, St.Claire Browne Jr., Demar De Bruce, Ashley Burke, Christian Canci, Michael admissions department immediately so arrangements can be Dusek, James Geiger, Dustin Harrison, Tyriq Mills, Durell Mitchell, Rainiel Natividad, Dillon Nelson, Matthew Palmer, Spen- made to have other students take their places. cer Rathman, Nicholas Sperry, Nicholas Tran, Bryan Velazquez and Brian Wendler.

Marine Refrigeration – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) completed the enhancement of their skills in this course when they graduated Dec. 16: Christopher Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Eleven upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) gradu- Eason, Mohammed Elazzouzi, Derek Ivory, Ann Mensch, Danielle Smith, Brett Van Pelt and ated from this course Dec. 9: Linnell Coleman Jr., Brian Corbett, Brian Dillon, Michael Pavis Whitley. Their instructors, Jay Henderson and William Dodd, are at the far left and far Hodges, Peter Hokenson, Nat Lamb, Detrell Lambey, Douglas McLaughlin, Arthur Pat- right, respectively. terson, Pedro Venerando Ramos and Penny Taylor.

Pumpman – Graduating from the course Dec. 16 (above, in alphabetical order) were: upgraders Arkady Bichevsky, Oscar Agustin Cordero, Kabir Garcia Santiago, Todd Lander, Nicholas Panagakos, Michael Robinson, Lateef Ojomu Sanusi, Steven Sup- ARPA – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Dec. plee, Bernard Wade II and Charlie Wescott. Class instructors Keith Adamson and Vance 9: Ali Mohsen Alhamyari, J.K. Mansfield Borden, Joseph Bowen, Peter Malone, Saleh Mohamed Sanderson are at the far left and far right, respectively. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Mothana, Harry Phillip and Sean Wilson. Their instructor, Susan Fagan, is at the far left.

Crane Familiarization – Four individuals completed their requirements in this course Medical Care Provider – Eight upgraders completed this course Dec. 9. Graduating (above, in alphabetical Dec. 9. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Benja- ECDIS – Graduating from this course Dec. 9 (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ibrahim Awadalla Abdelkarim, min Anderson III, John Daunoras, Ahmed Fadel Mohamed, Rod- order) were upgraders: Terrence Bader, Luke Belford, Caliph John- Ato Aikins, Oliver Manibog Balico and Godu- ney Passapera, Mykola Smirnov, Justin Mario Violanti, James son II, and Dexter Madrona Turija. Instructor Patrick Schoenberger cel Pascua. Stan Beck, their instructor, is in Williamson and Joshua Zelinsky. is at the far left. the back row at the far right.

Government Vessels – Nineteen upgraders finished their requirements in this course Dec. 9. Graduating (photo at right, in alphabetical order) were: Vince Adolph, Wadeea Saleh Alnasafi, Richard Barnes, Alexander Cancino Bermudez, Melvin Coo- per, Gregory Crowder, Roberto Alcance Firme, Logan Gatton, Christian Haber, Enchantress Charmaine Johnson, Ronald Pattiasina, Michael Antonio Ribeiro, Aresha Rivers, Verleshia Robinson, Jerry Semper Jr., Scott Snodgrass, Olive Stewart-Paul, Ruel Antigro Torres and Ronell Williams. Their instructor Tom Truitt, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG February 2017

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG_X.indd 22 1/27/2017 7:02:08 PM Paul Hall Center Classes

Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Dec. 16: Marcelo Alicea Jr., Jane Altieri, Gregory Kakra Attawora, Shelby Curtis, Kim- Basic Training Revitalization – Eleven upgraders completed this course berly Dawson, Joseph Franta, Logan Gatton, Sabbah Yahya Ghaleb, Christian Haber, Jeffrey Hamer, Dec. 9. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Tammy Bingisser, Grady Ingram III, Eric Johnson, Mackenzie Latta, Charles Mitchell, Bryan Moreira, Thomas Nelson Jr., Wilshire Cortez, Cirilo Villapaz Jumamil, Christopher King, James Luttrell Samuel Parkinson, Ronald Pattiasina, Michael Ribeiro, Paul Smetana, Eddie Taylor, Benjamin Thuringer Jr., Gary Newbegin Jr., Francisco Aragona Ocado, Michael Presser, Rob- and Joshua Zelinsky. Instructors John Thomas and Wayne Johnson Jr. are at the far left and far right, ert Resurreccion, Frank Sambula and Kareim Wright. Mike Roberts, their respectively. (Note: Not all are pictured.) instructor, is at the far left.

Basic Training (Basic Firefight- ing) – The following upgraders (photo at left, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Dec. 2: Robert Coddington, Ibrahim Abdelrauf Elsayed, Roberto Al- cance Firme, Detrell Lambey, Pedro Vene- rando Ramos, Lateef Basic Training Revitalization – Graduating from this course Ojomu Sanusi, Penny Dec. 16 (above, in alphabetical order) were: Joseph Bowen, Taylor and Norma Peter Hokenson, Enchantress Johnson, Douglas McLaughlin West. Class instructor and Clive Steward. Their instructor, Mike Roberts, is at the far Wayne Johnson Jr. is right. at the far right.

Certified Chief Cook – Stew- Combined Basic & Advanced Firefighting – Six individuals completed ard Department upgrader Is- their requirements in this course Dec. 2. Graduating (above, in alpha- rael Lingat Coronel (above) betical order) were: Chris Badouin, Brian Luba, William Matthews, Ahmed completed his requirements Chief Steward – Three upgraders recently completed the enhancement Fadel Mohamed, Mykola Smirnov and Jason Young. John Thomas, their and graduated from Module 6 of their skills in this course. Graduating Dec. 16 (above, from the left) instructor, is at the far left. of this course Dec. 16. were Charles Davis, Juan Guanill and Christopher King.

Advanced Galley Ops – A pair of steward department mariners improved their skills by Certified Chief Cook - Steward department upgraders Monserrate Blas Jr. (above, left) graduating from this course Dec. 30. They are Prasert Yowaka Mastrototaro (above, left) and Masha Maria Blas are not related, but still have more in common than just surnames. and Brian Magill. Both enhanced their skills recently when they graduated from this course Dec. 12. February 2017 Seafarers LOG 23

37554_FEBRUARY2K17LOG.indd 23 1/26/2017 6:03:21 PM FEBRUARYFEBRUARY 2017 2014 VOLUME VOLUME 76 79 o NO. 2 2 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 22-23

GUDE Sakr Kassem, AB Mark Villa, Administrative Assistant Brenda Flesner, Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, Santa’s Castle VP Anita Vargo, SA Rupert Henry, (standing in truck) Santa’s Castle President Amy Luekenga, Safety Director Ben Anderson and Seafarers and other volunteers load toys into a truck. AB Francis Miller Santa’s Castle Holiday Tradition Sails on in Port of Tacoma The latest chapter in the union’s rich able to donate to the military families here. It up to the challenge. “Our toy drive and tradition of supporting America’s military was their (Tacoma Seafarers) donations that holiday luncheon is the best time of year members eloquently was penned during the put us over the top and saved the day. for us here in Tacoma,” he said. “This 2016 Christmas holiday season at the Port “We always look forward to receiving year, not unlike other years, we planned of Tacoma, Washington. the backing and support of the Seafarers,” and portioned our luncheon menu and And some chapter it was, as Seafarers Vargo concluded. “They truly are an amaz- converted our business-as-usual hiring hall continued their philanthropic practice of ing group of men and women.” into a festive venue where we got to thank backing the annual Santa’s Castle Project. SA Rupert Henry is one of the mari- the armed forces and give back to our com- Santa’s Castle is a nonprofit charity organi- ners to whom Vargo was referring. A natu- munity and in particular to the men and zation that’s dedicated to providing Christ- ralized American citizen, Henry was born women of Joint Base Lewis-McChord and mas gifts to military families, primarily in Jamaica. He donned the SIU colors in their families. You can never say thank you those in the rank of E-4 and below, who 2006 and calls Tacoma his home port. enough, especially to our war fighters and are experiencing financial hardship. Seafar- “I think Santa’s Castle is a very good peace keepers.” ers last year made donations to the project thing because it helps soldiers who receive Vincenzo concluded by noting that he that approached the $10,000 mark. low wages because of their ranks provide had many people to thank for making the In addition to making cash contribu- for their kids during the holidays,” he said. most recent Santa’s Castle experience the tions, mariners donated a virtual boatload “Although I was not blessed with any huge success that it was. of toys and other gifts to the all-volunteer kids of my own, I still enjoy giving. It’s “I want to thank Crowley and in par- endeavor including: 25 bicycles; two a pleasure for me to give whenever I can ticularly Director of Labor Relations Lee motorized Mini Coopers; Hot Wheels; afford it. Egland and Captain Scott Craig for again dozens of dolls; musical instruments; “I made up my mind to spend at least partnering with us and for making the trip remote-controlled cars and helicopters; $600 toward this project each year,” Henry down to join in the festivities,” he said. books; board games and much more. Ac- continued. “So far, I’ve given six bicycles “They also brought along three more bi- cording to SIU Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, to the project each year since its inception. cycles.” who coordinates the union’s participation The only time I have not supported the Vincenzo then singled out members for in the undertaking, Tacoma Seafarers to project is when I am working overseas dur- recognition including SA Henry QMED date have given upwards of $75,000 to ing the holidays.” Electrician Kevin McCagh, who donated Santa’s Castle and to the men and women Noting the critical jobs handled by mili- two motorized Mini Coopers. of our armed forces, particularly those tary personnel, Henry continued, “Mem- “I [also] want to thank Shore Gang stationed at nearby Joint Base Lewis- bers of our armed forces help to protect us Bosun Ken Clinton in particular for mak- Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, Crowley Captain Scott Craig, McChord. from all kinds of evil in the world, and the ing cash donations and for bringing in a Santa’s Castle VP Anita Vargo, Santa’s Castle Presi- “Joe and his team are amazing in terms cost of freedom is not cheap. I appreciate total of six bicycles. Recently retired shore dent Amy Luekenga and Lee Egland, Crowley director of helping us in our efforts,” said Santa’s what they do for all of us. Like them, I’m gang crew members AB Dana Cella and of Labor Relations Castle Purchasing Vice President Anita a part of this nation, and as an American Jimmy McParland also deserve credit,” Vargo, who has been with the project for Merchant Marine, I’ll do anything for it in- he said. the past six of its 21-year existence. “They cluding fighting and dying if necessary. In addition to the foregoing members, consistently make donations that are in the “Whatever I can do to support the Vincenzo said a host of others also made $10,000 to $12,000 range. armed forces and its cause, I’ll gladly do donations, and volunteered their time in a “If it were not for them and their generos- it,” Henry concluded. number of other important areas including ity, I really don’t know where the project Reflecting on the role Seafarers played shopping for toys and assisting during the would be,” she continued. “Last year we in the 2016 iteration of Santa’s Castle, luncheon. “To each and every one of them, were really falling short of our goals in terms Vincenzo said he was proud of the fashion I want to say thank you from the bottom of of having an adequate supply of toys avail- in which his brothers and sisters stepped my heart,” he said.

SA Rupert Henry poses with the six bikes he donated.

Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, GUDE Sakr Kassem, “Michelle”, Administrative Assistant Brenda Flesner, QMED Earl Olson, GUDE Faisal Almraisi, AB Benjamin Picar, Safety Director Ben Anderson, AB John Villa, QMED-El Jose Bonita, AB Mark Villa, AB Mark Hallberg, SA Rupert Henry, AB Francis Miller, AB Robert Couvillon, (Kneeling) AB Mitchell French, SREC Mrs. Aletha Villa and newborn son Cedric, family of AB Shawn Fujiwara, GUDE Armando Amante. John Villa

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