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Volume 67, Number 7 July 2005

SIU Job Growth Continues With Pride of America NCL America’s Newest Vessel Christened

The union welcomed more new jobs in the cruise-ship sector as the SIU-contracted Pride of America was christened June 17 in . At right, crew members are introduced during the ceremony at Pier 88. Left (from left), U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Thomas Gilmour, SIU President Michael Sacco, Chairman Tan Sri Lim Lok Thay and NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch observe as U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao (the vessel’s god- mother) formally christens the ship. The secretary’s father, James Chao, is at far right. Pages 2, 3, 12, 13.

The Seafarers-contracted Great Lakes fleet recently expanded with the addition of the Burns Harbor, pic- tured at right. Climbing the gangway to the vessel are (left photo, from left) AB Ronald Lamere, GUDE Eric Hernandez and GUDE James Cedeno. Page 3.

Seafarers Crew Up SHBP Scholarship USNS Lewis and Clark Detroit Princess Winners Announced Christened in San Diego Page 3 Pages 2, 7 Page 6 28631_P1,6,10,2cx.qxd 6/24/2005 4:30 PM Page 2

President’s Report Final Agreements Set Christening Success Viewed as a stand-alone event, the Pride of America christening last month in New York was a great success. Everything about not only the ceremony but real- For 10 New Tankers ly the entire day aboard NCL America’s newest Kvaerner Ship- Seafarers-contracted was first class. yard, Inc. (KPSI) early last month In the bigger picture, the christening went far Ten new beyond a simple public relations success. For those announced that “final definitive agreements” now are in place tankers like the of us who make our living in this industry—for one at left are those of us who’ve fought tooth and nail to help with SIU-contracted Overseas scheduled for revitalize the U.S. Merchant Marine—the official Shipholding Group, Inc. for the delivery from launch of the Pride of America symbolizes much bareboat charter of 10 Veteran 2006-2010. The more than one new ship. It represents continued MT-46 class Jones Act product Michael Sacco ships will be hope for the future. It signifies a huge victory for tankers which will be built at the crewed by SIU supporters of the U.S.-flag fleet. It reinforces what shipyard. members. I’ve said all along: Namely, that the opportunities are virtually limitless The 10 double-hulled vessels for the American-flag deep sea cruise ship industry. will be constructed over the next Of course, I’m not overlooking the immediate practical gains for our five years. KPSI will transfer the union. Like NCL America’s first ship—the Pride of Aloha, launched last vessels to leasing subsidiaries of year—the Pride of America means hundreds of new jobs for Seafarers. American Shipping Corporation, Also like the first ship, the newer vessel is solid proof that SPAD (our shipyard. “The bareboat union’s voluntary political action fund) helps the SIU have a voice on an affiliate of KPSI, which will, “I am extremely pleased with charters of the 10 new-build Capitol Hill, where much of our industry’s fate is determined. in turn, bareboat charter the ves- the completion of these agree- Jones Act product tankers by Ultimately, that’s what the SIU is all about: securing and maintaining sels to subsidiaries of Overseas ments which assure a strong OSG represent a significant mile- good jobs for the membership. Shipholding for initial terms of future for KPSI and the approxi- stone in the company’s participa- Still, last month’s christening at Pier 88 seemed especially moving. five or seven years, with exten- mately 800 men and women em- tion in the U.S.-flag business,” Seeing a U.S.-flag cruise ship in New York reminded me of my early sion options for the life of the ployed at the yard,” said Dave said Morten Arntzen, president days as a mariner. Glancing at the New York City skyline, I thought vessels. The vessels are sched- Meehan, KPSI president and and CEO of OSG. “With these back to the tragedies of September 11, and how the city has recovered uled to be delivered from 2006 chief executive officer (CEO). charters, OSG will have the and moved forward, even while always remembering the victims and through 2010. “This project represents a com- largest and most modern Jones heroes from that day. The same is true of our entire nation. The preliminary agreement on mitment to this shipyard by Act product tanker fleet. The Along those lines, there’s a saying that for every action, there’s an these charters, as well as the Kvaerner and OSG and is a clear addition of these vessels also rep- equal and opposite reaction. The attacks of September 11 put a tempo- announcement for the new vessel statement of support for the Jones resents increased employment rary end to the deep sea U.S.-flag cruise industry. Some said we’d never construction contracts, was made Act and the entire opportunities for our highly qual- bounce back. But we refused to stay down. We did bounce back. We ified U.S. crews.” found a terrific partner in NCL America. We lobbied with pro-maritime April 14 during ceremonies at the maritime industry.” members of Congress from both parties and the administration and other allies to get the Stars and Stripes flying again in this segment of our and Shipbuilding Company industry. 3rd Tanker ‘Floated Out’ (NASSCO) hosted a keel-laying ceremony for Hull 487, the fourth It worked. The Pride of America, Pride of Aloha and the ship due th next year, the Pride of , are one component of the equal and Keel Laid for 4 Alaska-Class Vessel vessel in the class of Seafarers- opposite reaction to the attacks on our country. They are floating testi- contracted vessels operated by Progress continues on the Diego for BP Oil Shipping Alaska Tanker Company for BP. monials to the American spirit. So are the SIU-crewed Delta Queen, next two Alaska-class double- Company, USA. Mississippi Queen and American Queen—world-class riverboats that hull oil tankers being built in San On April 18, the National Steel Eight days earlier, the third also found renewed life in the wake of September 11. ship was “floated out” of the I congratulate every Seafarer who has sailed aboard either of NCL shipyard’s graving dock. That America’s first two ships. You’re part of history—part of what will turn vessel is scheduled for delivery out as one of the greatest chapters in the story of the SIU. And I know you’ll keep up the great work. later this year, while the fourth is Congratulations also to NCL America for sticking with your commit- slated for a 2006 delivery. ment to make these vessels a reality. As I said at the christening, it’s true Seafarers already sail aboard that we sailed over some rough seas at the beginning—but only for a the first two ships in the series— relatively brief time. “Growing pains” were inevitable, as we all learned the Alaskan Explorer and the many years ago when the SS Independence and SS Constitution came Alaskan Frontier. home. Equally certain is the long-range success of every SIU-crewed Each vessel is 941 feet long, ship in your fleet. with a beam of 164 feet and a More on Health Care capacity of 1.3 million barrels of I am no less confident in America’s capability to solve the health oil. The tankers deliver to West care crisis—but it’s becoming more and more clear that something must Coast ports including BP refiner- be done right away to address this mess. ies in Los Angeles and Cherry The SIU-crewed Alaskan Explorer is pictured earlier this year in Without bogging down in statistics, did you know that since the year Point, Wash. 2000, the average cost of health care premiums for families in the U.S. Juneau, Alaska. has gone up by about 60 percent? Think about that for a moment. A 60 percent increase! Fortunately, even with the recent adjustments announced by the Scholarship Committee Selects 3 Seafarers, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, SIU members have it better than most. For example, roughly 90 percent of the people in this country who have family medical insurance pay some or all of their premiums. In 5 Dependents for Monetary Awards in 2005 other words, they have to pay just to maintain the coverage—on average When the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan penter, Charles County (Md.) Community College; about $2,600 per year. SHBP participants don’t have to pay to carry (SHBP) scholarship program was introduced in Dr. Charles Lyons Jr., American Association of their coverage. 1953, it was considered one of the most progressive Colleges and Universities; Dr. Keith Schlender, Nationwide, the biggest problem of all—economically and morally and forward-looking measures to be adopted by any Medical College of Ohio; Professor Louis —may be the number of uninsured Americans. More than 45 million trade union. At that time, four full college scholar- Fernandez, provost and vice president of academic have no coverage whatsoever, and that figure grows by thousands each ships in the amount of $1,500 each were awarded to affairs, California State (San Bernardino) and Dr. and every day. A new report states that on average, an individual with children of Seafarers or to Seafarers not over 35 Henry Toutain of Gustavus Adolphus College in insurance pays about $900 extra each year in premiums to cover the years of age who qualified in competitive examina- Minnesota. cost of providing treatment for the uninsured. tions. See page 7 for brief descriptions of the back- Enough is enough. It’s time for real solutions, and the SIU will con- For more than half a century, the SHBP has con- grounds and educational goals of the eight college- tinue making this a top priority, particularly through our affiliation with tinued to award scholarships to deserving Seafarers bound students. the AFL-CIO. as well as to spouses and dependents of SIU mem- bers, changing the eligibility slightly. Volume 67, Number 7 July 2005 This year, the Plan has selected three Seafarers The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org and five dependents as recipients from the more than 40 who applied—for a total monetary value of $132,000. The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published month- Chief Cook Kristen Swain is the Seafarer select- ly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth ed for the four-year scholarship. Brandon Maeda Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899- and Jeanette Montgomery both were awarded two- 0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland year scholarships. The five dependents of SIU 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the members are Adam Burton, son of Ross Burton; Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Ashleigh Coppola, daughter of Patrick L. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Coppola; Stefan Nikolic, son of Desire Z. Nikolic; Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Jim Anthony Sabatini, son of Anthony J. Sabatini and The selection committee met in in May to Guthrie; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Misty Ronald Viernes, son of Leopold A. Viernes. choose each of the 2005 scholarship winners. From Dobry. The scholarship recipients were selected by a the left are Dr Henry Toutain, Dr. Trevor Carpenter, Copyright © 2005 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD panel of professional educators: Dr. Michael Glaser, Dr. Gayle A. Olson, Dr Michael Glaser, Dr. Charles All Rights Reserved. St. Mary’s College of Maryland; Dr. Gayle A. Lyons Jr., Professor Louis Fernandez and Dr. Keith Olson, University of New Orleans; Dr. Trevor Car- Schlender. 2 Seafarers LOG July 2005 28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/24/2005 4:39 PM Page 3

Pride of America Christened NCL America’s 2nd Ship Continues ‘Huge Success Story’ The rebirth of the U.S.-flag cruise ship industry. I’m proud American workers.” deep sea cruise ship industry con- that we are crewing the Pride of She further noted that both the tinued June 17 as the SIU-crewed America with the best-trained and Pride of America and NCL Pride of America was christened safest professionals in the world.” America’s first ship, the Pride of in New York City. He also offered thanks to Aloha, “will be joined next year In many ways, the afternoon Secretary Chao and the adminis- by the Pride of Hawaii. These proved glorious. The stirring cer- tration “for helping make this cer- three ships will employ nearly emony, the magnificent ship, the emony possible. Your steadfast 4,000 American seafarers.” pleasant weather and the appre- support of the U.S. Merchant Tan Sri Lim Lok Thay said ciative crowd combined to make Marine is vital to America’s that the vessel was built at a cost the christening memorable. national and economic security, of $400 million—mountainous For the SIU, the Pride of whether we’re talking about the evidence that the company has America means more new ship- cruise-ship sector or commercial “committed ourselves to the board jobs along with the bolster- cargo ships or civilian-crewed rebuilding of a vibrant U.S.-flag ing of an important sector of the military support vessels. They’re sector” of the industry. He also U.S. Merchant Marine. Both SIU all part of the merchant marine, credited the crew members for President Michael Sacco and U.S. and they’re all good for their outstanding work and noted, Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao, America.” “We are in this for the long haul.” U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao (fourth from right) visited with SIU who served as the vessel’s god- Gilmour conveyed his con- officials as well as apprentices from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime mother, addressed the latter point See pages 12-13 for gratulations on the christening Training and Education following the christening. Pictured from left to right are SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, Unlicensed in their respective remarks at the more photos from the and complimented the company christening. Apprentices Matt Green, Patrick Devlin and Isaac Garrido, Secretary Also addressing the audience christening ceremony Chao, Apprentice Natalie Tremblay, SIU President Michael Sacco and Continued on page 10 Apprentice Bob Light. (consisting of hundreds of guests and some crew members) were A longtime backer of the U.S. NCL America President and CEO Merchant Marine, Chao gave the Colin Veitch, Star Cruises keynote address and christened SIU-Crewed Lakes Fleet Grows Chairman Tan Sri Lim Lok Thay, the ship. She pointed out that the and U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Pride of America is the largest Thomas Gilmour. U.S.-flag cruise ship ever built “NCL America is a huge suc- (921 feet long, with 15 decks and As Burns Harbor Joins ASC cess story,” Sacco stated. a passenger capacity of more than The union last month welcomed new shipboard jobs when SIU-contracted American Steamship “Working in partnership with the 2,100) and “the first newly con- Company added the Burns Harbor, a 1,000-foot self-unloading vessel. shipboard employees and their structed oceangoing U.S.-flag “This is an addition to the fleet, rather than replacement tonnage,” noted SIU Vice President Contracts unions, NCL America has led the cruise ship in 50 years. It will Augie Tellez. “We welcome the chance to work aboard this vessel and I’m confident as always that the SIU rebirth of the deep sea U.S.-flag provide thousands of jobs for crew will do a fantastic job.” The ship primarily sails between Duluth, Minn. and Burns Harbor, Ind. It mainly carries steel and steel byproducts. “We anticipate a very busy season here on the Lakes,” noted SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski. “The vessel is scheduled to run all season long. It’s a great addition to the fleet.” The Burns Harbor was built in 1979 in Sturgeon Bay, Wis. The ship can carry approximately 80,000 tons of cargo.

The Pride of America is the second vessel in NCL America’s SIU-con- The Burns Harbor (above left) is the SIU’s newest ship on the Lakes. Pictured above right are the unlicensed tracted fleet. mariners aboard the American Steamship Company vessel. New Riverboat in Detroit Brings Additional Union Jobs Hundreds of new jobs for Seafarers Members of the engine and deck depart- cooks, dishwashers and experienced bar- through some pretty rough weather, were added in April when the union’s most ment were hired to work aboard Detroit’s tenders, belong to an SIU affiliate, the including four hurricanes. When the recent contracted vessel, the Detroit newest attraction under an SIU contract. Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades oceangoing vessel arrived in Toledo last Princess, began operations. Other crew members, including waitstaff, Union (SEATU). fall to undergo dry dock inspection and The 222-foot-long riverboat was repairs, there were a few broken windows launched in 1993 by Harrah’s as a and a very tired crew. Every inch of the boat on the Mississippi River in Illinois. five-deck converted casino boat was When Harrah’s replaced it, it was sent to washed and painted and thoroughly Texas, where Capt. John Chamberlain, a cleaned both inside and out. It then trav- riverboat entertainment producer, bought it eled to Detroit where it first tied up at the to provide a unique setting for lunch and Nicholson Terminal in Ecorse and later dinner cruises on the Detroit River. He is docked at Hart Plaza. very optimistic about the entertainment Chamberlain noted that the vessel, possibilities of the vessel in Detroit, which is designed to look like a 19th including weddings, anniversaries, re- century river sternwheeler (although the unions, conferences, large group cruises paddlewheel was removed by Harrah’s) and more. The boat cruises are generally is better equipped than many freighters. two or three hours long, journeying from There are enough dining rooms on Hart Plaza past the Ambassador Bridge to the four entertainment decks to feed Belle Isle, and back to the dock. Already 1,600 people. And, unlike other riverboats scheduled are big band shows, comedy on the Detroit River, the Princess murder mysteries, moonlight cruises and has its own kitchen and cooking staff and musical revues featuring music from the does not rely on shoreside caterers. 1920s, ’30s and ’40s. The trip from Texas to Detroit proved It is wheelchair accessible and has the seaworthiness of the Princess. Since it elevators, air conditioning and heating was too tall to clear bridges in Chicago, it for year round comfort. had to steam through the Gulf of Mexico, The Detroit Princess is owned by CJC Formerly a casino riverboat owned by Harrah’s, the SIU-crewed Detroit Princess now pro- around Florida and up the East Coast to the Catering L.L.C., and its investors are vides lunch and dinner cruises on the Detroit River. Great Lakes, traveling nearly 7,000 miles Chamberlain and many of his friends. July 2005 Seafarers LOG 3 28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/22/2005 3:33 PM Page 4

USNS Lewis and Clark Christened in San Diego The USNS Lewis and Clark, the first ship in the ing the end of their service lives. U.S. Navy’s new T-AKE Class, was christened May The T-AKEs are 689 feet in length and 105.6 feet 21 at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company in beam, with a design draft of 29.9 feet. The ships (NASSCO) in San Diego. will carry almost 7,000 metric tons of dry cargo and The vessel will be crewed by members of the ammunition and 23,500 barrels of cargo fuel. They SIU’s Government Services Division. can travel at 20 knots and have expected lives of 40 Chairman of the House Appropriations years. Committee, Congressman Jerry Lewis (R-Calif.), Construction on the Lewis and Clark began in delivered the ceremony’s principal address. September 2003 and delivery is scheduled for early Congressman Randy “Duke” Cunningham (R- next year. The second T-AKE, to be named the Calif.) introduced Congressman Lewis. Other fea- USNS Sacagawea, is now in full production for tured speakers included Adm. Vernon Clark, the delivery in 2006. Overall, the new class of ships Navy’s chief of naval operations; Rear Adm. includes eight vessels with options for four addi- Charles Hamilton II, program executive officer for tional ships. ships; and Richard Vortmann, president of NASS- The T-AKEs are 689 feet in length and 105.6 feet CO. in beam, with a design draft of 29.9 feet. The ships The T-AKE is a dry cargo/ammunition ship that will carry almost 7,000 metric tons of dry cargo and will be operated by the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift ammunition and 23,500 barrels of cargo fuel. They Command, providing logistic lift from sources of can travel at 20 knots and have expected lives of 40 supply either in port or at sea. The ships will trans- years. fer cargo—ammunition, food, fuel, repair parts, and The name Lewis and Clark was selected to honor expendable supplies and material—to station ships the two legendary explorers who led a visionary and other naval forces at sea. project from 1804 to 1806 to explore the American The T-AKE vessels are expected to substantially West. Two descendants from the families of Capt. upgrade the Navy’s ability to maintain its forward- Meriwether Lewis and then-Lieutenant William deployed forces, replacing aging T-AE ammunition Clark—Jane Lewis Sale Henley and Lisa The USNS Lewis and Clark is the first in a new class of vessels to be ships and T-AFS combat stores ships that are near- Clark—served as sponsors of the ship. crewed by members of the SIU’s Government Services Division. USNS Mercy Returns from Relief Mission SMU Members Vote for SIU Members of the Seafarers Maritime Union (SMU) recently voted The Seafarers-crewed USNS preventative and public health change of ideas among people for representation by the Seafarers International Union, Atlantic, Gulf, Mercy on June 8 returned to its training that will benefit resi- from all countries to further their Lake and Inland Waters District/NMU. home port at the U.S. Naval Base dents of the region for years to capabilities for the future,” said Generally, because of the SMU’s relatively small size and the fact San Diego following a five- come. Capt. Mark Llewellyn, MC, that many of its members already had dual membership in the SIU’s month tsunami relief and human- Civil service mariners aboard commanding officer of Mercy’s AGLIWD/NMU, the effects of the vote are expected to be positive and itarian assistance mission in vessel, many of whom are mem- Medical Treatment Facility. relatively seamless. All contracts and benefits essentially remain Southeast Asia and the Pacific bers of the SIU Government As was reported earlier in the unchanged. When the former SMU contracts that just became SIU Islands. Services Division, also con- Seafarers LOG, the hospital ship agreements expire, the new ones will be negotiated by the SIU. During its deployment, the tributed to humanitarian relief on Jan. 5 steamed out of San Voting took place aboard SMU-contracted vessels, where members U.S. Military Sealift Command efforts, repairing infrastructure Diego in support of Operation said they look forward to the increased stability they expect to enjoy (MSC) hospital ship’s on board and medical equipment in hospi- Unified Assistance, the United with the SIU. Medical Treatment Facility staff tals, clinics and other public States’ response to the Dec. 26 treated more than 100,000 buildings. tsunami that struck Southeast patients and performed 466 surg- “A major focus of our effort Asia. The ship first sailed to the eries. In addition, the Mercy’s throughout the region was to region’s most devastated area, medical teams distributed 4,041 work together with host-nation Banda Aceh, Indonesia. From eyeglasses, performed 6,000 medical providers in the spirit of Feb. 6 to March 16, the ship’s dental procedures and provided cooperation, promoting the ex- combined U.S. Navy and non- governmental organization Pro- The ject HOPE medical staff treated Seafarers- crewed more than 9,500 patients ashore USNS Mercy and afloat, and performed 19,512 earlier this medical procedures, including year helped 285 surgical and operating room provide relief SIU Patrolman Michael Russo (second from left) is pictured with crew for tens of cases. members aboard the Advantage shortly after the mariners voted for thousands of After completing operations SIU representation. people over- off the coast of Banda Aceh, the seas. Mercy began its voyage home, stopping at several ports along the way to provide humanitarian assistance and demonstrations of SIU VP Corgey Appointed the U.S. government’s commit- ment to the region. In Alor, To Houston Ethics Committee Indonesia, and Dili, East Timor, SIU Vice President Gulf Coast the Mercy’s medical teams treat- Dean Corgey recently was ed more than 8,000 patients in appointed by the Houston City six days. Council to serve on the council’s When an 8.7 magnitude earth- ethics committee. His term runs quake struck Nias Island, through 2006. Indonesia, March 28, the Mercy Corgey was recommended for sailed to assist. From April 5-29, the position by the Harris County the vessel’s medical teams treat- Mariners aboard the Independence in Corpus Christi, Texas chose SIU representation. AFL-CIO. The council approved ed earthquake victims and other him unanimously. residents of the island, perform- The ethics committee reviews ing more than 19,000 medical Notice: Ft. Lauderdale Becomes Full inquiries about employees and procedures. elected officials, and makes rec- Registration and Shipping Port Following the ship’s opera- ommendations to other govern- As reported last month at all SIU membership meetings, the Seafarers tions in Nias, the Mercy conduct- ment entities when appropriate. SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey Appeals Board, acting pursuant to its authority provided for in the SIU Corgey also currently serves as ed a final humanitarian mission Shipping Rules will initiate action that effective August 1, 2005 will convert the Port of Dania/Ft. Lauderdale into a full registration and shipping port. The port a member of the U.S. Department in Madang, Papua New Guinea, before heading home. will be responsible for all vessels in the area from Ft. Lauderdale south to of Homeland Security’s Area Maritime Security Committee for the , including Tampa. Port of Houston/Galveston. Additionally, he is a vice president of the When the Mercy sailed into Any member currently registered in Jacksonville via the previous arrange- Texas AFL-CIO; secretary-treasurer of the West Gulf Ports Council of San Diego, the ship and its crew ment through the port may opt to remain registered in Jacksonville. However, the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department; and serves on the execu- had traveled 36,000 nautical such registration only will be valid for Jacksonville. Upon registering in Ft. tive board of the Harris County AFL-CIO. miles during their mission. Lauderdale, any Jacksonville registration will be voided. 4 Seafarers LOG July 2005 28631_P2,5,12_14,24.qxd 6/27/2005 4:57 PM Page 5

IMO Continues Efforts to Bolster Security The International Maritime security and search and res- IMO goal-based standards tions technology to identify ves- would charge member nations for Organization’s (IMO) Maritime cue operations. In addition to are: broad, over-arching sels that transit near or into their access to vessel information. Safety Committee (MSC) from addressing the LRIT issue, safety, environmental and/or territorial waters. Under a pro- Under pending proposals, indi- May 11-20 held its 80th Meeting at the working group approved security standards that ships posed IMO rule, all costal nations, vidual ships not bound for inter- IMO headquarters in London. the training and certification are required to meet during not just the U.S., would identify ested member nations could with- Following opening remarks requirements for Company their lifecycle; the required ships moving within a 2,000 nau- hold identifying data. Information and a welcome to attending dele- Security Officers as an MSC level to be achieved by the tical-mile range of their shores. from such a system would also be gates by IMO Secretary General circular. The Subcommittee requirements applied by Such a system for years has been available to owners and operators Efthimios E. Mitropoulos, the on Standards of Training and class societies and other rec- discussed and would be under the as well as flag states, the comman- meeting’s packed agenda got Watchkeeping was instructed ognized organizations, ad- authority of the IMO, which der said. under way, according to Bill to use this developed training ministrations and IMO; clear, Eglinton, director of training at as a template for training demonstrable, verifiable, the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall guidance for Port Facility longstanding, implementable Ports to Add Radiation Monitors Center for Maritime Training and Security Officers. and achievable, irrespective Education in Piney Point, Md.  of ship design and technolo- The nation’s busiest seaports efforts to thwart terrorists from Passenger Vessel Safety— will have complete Radiation smuggling weapons of mass “Three working groups were des- The working group agreed to gy; and specific enough in ignated in conjunction with the order not to be open to dif- Portal Monitor (RPM) coverage destruction into the United States. a definition for “casualty by the year’s end, according to The machine also will scan for meeting’s very busy plenary ses- threshold” and revised the fering interpretations. sion,” said Eglinton, who attended reports. illegal narcotics and other contra- term “time to remain habit- In other developments during Department of Homeland band. the meeting. able” to become “time for the MSC session, the body Delegates assembled in desig- Security (DHS) Secretary Michael “The Eagle is yet another tool orderly evacuation and aban- approved draft amendments to the Chertoff last month announced in CBP’s technological arsenal nated locations to voice concerns, donment.” A three-hour STCW Code, Part B, on engine address pertinent issues and pre- that Los Angeles/Long Beach, designed to help prevent terrorists timeframe would ensure that, room resource management and sent their respective recommenda- Calif. will have the high tech sys- and terrorist weapons from enter- in cases where casualty crew training in launching/recov- tem in place and operational by ing the United States,” said tions. threshold for return to port is In addition to holding member- ery operations of fast rescue boats. December. Three terminal loca- Bonner. “It is important to remem- exceeded, there will be suffi- The group also endorsed STCW to tions, at Piers 400, 300 and Trans ber that Customs and Border ship on the U.S. National Mari- cient time for the safe and time Security Advisory Com- develop the competencies for both Pacific, within the Port of Los Protection employs a wide range orderly abandonment of the deck and engine ratings. In con- Angeles are scheduled to go on- of technology and a layered strat- mittee, Eglinton also serves as a ship. The MSC endorsed the member of the U.S. delegation to sideration of the increased rate of line by the end of June. A total of egy to defend the homeland. working group’s recommen- lifeboat accidents involving on- 90 RPMs, which will screen all There is no arguing the strategic the IMO’s Maritime Safety dation that an additional Committee. The three working load release mechanisms, the international container traffic and importance of the Port of casualty scenario, for design MSC requested that the Ship vehicles exiting the facility for Baltimore, and, in the weeks groups referenced by Eglinton and purposes, should be devel- their respective areas of focus Design and Equipment Sub- nuclear materials or hidden ahead, I look forward to working oped by the Fire Protection committee develop additional sources of radiation, will be oper- closely with Governor Ehrlich to were: and Stability and Load Lines  safety recommendations. ational by December. provide the maximum security for Maritime Security—The Subcommittees. The sce- RPMs are detection devices the Washington-Baltimore area.” major issue discussed was In a final MSC action, the new nario would support the con- harmonized Safety of Life at Sea that provide U.S. Customs & The Eagle, a self-propelled the U.S. proposal on estab- cept that the ship will remain Border Protection (CBP) officers imaging system, can rapidly lishing a Long Range (SOLAS) Chapter 11-1, Parts A, B viable for at least three hours and B-1 were adopted. These new with a non-intrusive means to inspect trucks and cargo contain- Identification and Tracking to allow for a safe and order- screen containers, vessels or vehi- ers, even when loaded with dense (LRIT) system for ships. damage stability regulations will ly evacuation and abandon- enter into force Jan. 1, 2009. cles for the presence of nuclear cargo. This group met for four days ment. and radiological materials. These Elsewhere, Senators Barbara and engaged in much heated The MSC is the IMO’s senior  Goal-Based New Ship Con- technical body on safety-related systems do not emit radiation but A. Mikulski and Paul Sarbanes debate—for and against— are capable of detecting various (both D-MD) recently announced the development of a LRIT. struction Standards (GBS) matters. A number of subcommit- —Several items from MSC tees assist the main committee in types of radiation emanating from that the nation’s 2006 Homeland Basically, such a system nuclear devices, dirty bombs, spe- Security Appropriations bill would enable ships to trans- Session 79 were continued its work. during this working group’s In a related development, the cial nuclear materials, natural includes key funding for Mary- mit LRIT information to sources, and isotopes commonly land’s security. tracking stations worldwide. meeting. The five-tier system U.S. last month denied claims by on which the development of an unidentified IMO official that it used in medicine and industry. The legislation addresses sev- The system would apply to “By applying advanced tech- eral high priority items, including passenger ships, cargo and GBS is being based consists wanted to expand its vicinity of of five levels: goals (tier I), authority to 2,000 nautical miles nology, we will soon be able to grants for firefighters, first tank vessels over 500grt on screen every vehicle and contain- responders and port security, and a functional requirements (tier under the LRIT system for ships. international voyages and to er entering the nation’s busiest major project for the Coast Guard mobile off-shore drilling II), verification of compli- The U.S. does not wish to ance criteria (tier III), techni- seaports for nuclear and radiolog- Yard at Curtis Bay. units. The most contentious “extend its area of influence” to ical materials, without disrupting “As a nation fighting a war on issue, according to Eglinton, cal procedures and guide- 2,000 nautical miles from shore lines, classification rules and the free flow of trade,” said terrorism, we need to be safer, was the U.S. proposal that said a senior U.S. Coast Guard Secretary Chertoff. “Complete stronger and smarter so that we the system would have a industry standards (tier IV) officer, claiming that statements and codes of practice and and efficient coverage at the are able to better detect, prevent range off-shore of at least published in a recent edition of the LA/Long Beach seaports is a and respond to acts of terrorism,” 2,000 miles. The working safety and quality systems Fairplay Daily News by an for shipbuilding, ship opera- major step forward for national said Senator Mikulski. “This leg- group’s recommendations unnamed IMO official were “flat- security and a model for other islation gets us one step closer to were to be forwarded to the tion, maintenance, training, ly wrong.” manning, etc. (tier V). The ports.” meeting those goals by standing IMO’s Subcommittee on Cmdr. Cindy Stowe, a member The DHS is implementing a up for our first responders and Radiocommunications and MSC agreed in theory with of the U.S. delegation to the IMO the basic principles of goal- multi-layered strategy for screen- making sure that if terror strikes, Search and Rescue (COM- Maritime Safety Committee, said ing cargo shipped to the U.S. One measures are in place to protect SAR) for developing a based standards and with the that the United States and a host of tier I goals developed by the such layer is the installation of and save lives. I will keep fighting mechanism for collecting other maritime nations want only RPMs at seaports, land border to make sure that resources are in LRIT info from ships for working group. Basically, to use existing ship communica- the agreement states that ports of entry and crossings the federal checkbook for our nationwide, to include rail cross- homeland security.” ings, international airports, and “In Maryland and across the international mail and express nation, state, local and regional consignment courier facilities. authorities continue to struggle to Manulani Christened at Kvaerner According to the department, the make their communities safer The SIU-contracted Manulani was christened with delivery scheduled for spring 2006. ultimate aim is to screen 100 per- from potential terrorist activities,” May 21 at Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard by Gov. Felix Camacho, who delivered the cent of all incoming goods, peo- said Senator Sarbanes. “In many Guam’s First Lady Joann Camacho. The new keynote address, said, “The Manulani signifies ple, and conveyances for radia- cases, these communities have vessel is the third diesel-powered containership the expansion of a great company and its com- tion. taken exhaustive measures to built for Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation mitment not only to the island of Guam, but also Los Angeles/Long Beach identify their areas of greatest vul- Co. at the Philadelphia shipyard. One additional throughout the Asia-Pacific Region.” receives approximately 44 percent nerability, and have made signifi- containership currently is under construction, of all sea cargo destined for the cant advances in enhancing their United States. More than 4.3 mil- own preparedness and response lion foreign cargo containers capabilities—at considerable cost. arrived at the port last year—an The federal government must step average of one container every up and help our states and locali- Pictured at the christen- seven seconds. ties in protecting our domestic ing ceremony are (from In a related development, U.S. left) retired Lt. Gen. Ken homeland and this funding mea- Wykle, Matson’s Mike Customs and Border Protection sure helps local communities to Garvin, Brig. Gen. Mark (CBP) Commissioner Robert meet those needs.” Scheid, SIU President Bonner and Maryland Governor The bill includes $200 million Michael Sacco, MSC’s Robert Ehrlich Jr. on June 2 for the Port Security Grant pro- Rick Haynes and SIU VP unveiled a highly sophisticated gram, a $50 million increase over Contracts Augie Tellez. cargo inspection system at the last year. These funds are granted Baltimore seaport. to localities to finance security The system, called the Eagle, is enhancements at critical national designed for inspecting cargo con- seaports. tainers and trucks at seaports and The bill will now move to the other areas of entry. The CBP will Senate floor for a vote, which has use the Eagle primarily in its not yet been scheduled. July 2005 Seafarers LOG 5 28631_P1,6,10,2cx.qxd 6/24/2005 4:31 PM Page 6

Chef Romeo Dies at 82 Whether Cooking or Teaching, Lupinacci Gave His All Romeo V. Lupinacci, the for- teaching and professional devel- icated to his work. mer executive chef and chef- opment of steward department “Romeo’s greatest asset was instructor at the Seafarers-affiliat- students and upgraders at the Paul that he was a highly gifted teacher. ed Paul Hall Center for Maritime Hall Center. During his tenure, as He communicated well with the Training and Education in Piney the school’s premier chef, students and made them feel spe- Point, Md., died suddenly June 5. Lupinacci freely shared his cial,” Sacco said. “I will miss not He was 82. knowledge and vast experience in only the wonderful meals he used A Pennsylvania native, Lupi- the culinary arts with those under to prepare, but his loyal friendship nacci in 1946 launched his culi- his instruction. as well.” nary career as an apprentice cook “He was a special person who “Romeo was a real blessing for in his hometown of Sewickley. He prided himself in his cooking, his the school right from the time he later held positions as chef, baker, upbringing and how he advanced signed aboard,” said Paul Hall saucier, broiler cook, sous chef to the top of his profession,” said Center Vice President Don Nolan. and executive chef. SIU President Michael Sacco “His vast knowledge and experi- In 1980, Lupinacci joined the upon learning of Lupinacci’s ence in life and in the culinary arts SIU family and for the next 20- abrupt demise. “He was a good benefited everyone tremendously, plus years dedicated himself to the family man and one who was ded- especially the thousands of stu- dents he taught over the years. Romeo truly will be missed. Our Romeo Lupinacci (left) and SIU President Sacco in July 2000 stood in prayers and thoughts are with his front of the sign designating the Paul Hall Center’s primary galley Memorial Fund Established family.” instruction facility as the Romeo Lupinacci Culinary Lab. Lupinacci sailed in the mer- In Memory of Sal Aquia chant marine (engine department) career. In 1982, he founded the A tribute has been planned in whose parents are too financially during World War II, although he Professional Culinary Seafarers almost didn’t survive his inaugur- memory of the late Salvatore challenged to make such Association, the first and only al voyage. In May 1943, his first chapter of the American Culinary Aquia, son of retired desires reality. Character, ship was torpedoed off the North SIU employee Sal desire and commitment Federation in the U.S. Merchant Carolina coast. Lupinacci later Marine, and in 1993 wrote a cook- Aquia. each will figure received an award for rescuing An extremely prominently in the book, “From Chef Romeo’s several shipmates from the wreck- Recipe Collection.” proficient and selection of indi- age; they spent nearly four days in highly regarded viduals who “The school has improved a lot a life raft before a destroyer’s over the years,” Lupinacci told amateur receive financial escort picked them up. He sailed those gathered in July 2000 during wrestler, Aquia backing from primarily aboard troop ships and the ceremony in which the Paul was killed dur- the memorial made the invasions at France and Hall Center galley training build- ing the early fund. Sicily. ing formally was named in his morning hours “At first, I After developing a distin- honor. “It’s a more dignified edu- of March 25 really did not guished post-war culinary career, cational institute. When the recer- after being want to be a part Lupinacci arrived at Piney Point tified stewards come back here, struck by both a of the scholarship specifically to help prepare for the everyone can see they’re great, tractor trailer fund,” shared the initial crewing of the passenger great chefs. It does my heart good. and a pick-up senior Aquia, who ship SS Independence. He quickly “I love it down here,” he con- truck on Interstate understandably is discovered that the school was a tinued. “The challenge was to Romeo Lupinacci, the late corpo- 795 near Baltimore. still traumatized by the good fit so he decided to remain teach young people who are very rate executive chef at the Paul Family, friends, the untimely loss of the there. grateful for their education. It’s Hall Center, prepares broccoli for entire Maryland younger of his A certified executive chef, fun doing that.” one of his many special dishes. Sal Aquia, son of the retired SIU Lupinacci held membership in Wrestling representative of the same name, two sons. During that same ceremony, Community and was an accomplished wrestler. “Losing my many associations, among them Sacco lauded Lupinacci for the the SIU still are son has been the Academy of Chefs, the Golden fashion in which he put his heart dent. It shows in his passion for mourning the extremely diffi- Toque and the Chaîne Des into the school. “When someone detail, his commitment to training tragic death of the gifted and cult for me and my family, espe- Rotisseurs. He was one of the first loves their work, it’s easy to spot,” and his pride in the students and loving athlete who was taken cially my wife,” he continued. 13 chefs in the world to be certi- Sacco said. “It comes across in the campus.” away at the age of 25. “But after thinking about it, fied as an executive chef with dis- everything they do. That’s exactly A mass of Christian burial was tinction by the American Culinary Aquia was a native of reflecting on the type of caring the case with Romeo. From the held June 19 for Lupinacci at St. Baltimore and lived in Rosedale. Federation. He also won numer- very beginning, his love for the Ferdinand’s Roman Catholic person Sal was and about the ous other awards throughout his He was a starter on the sport he loved so much, I school and union has been evi- Church, Cranberry Township, Pa. University of Maryland thought why not—it’s the right wrestling team during his fresh- thing to do. Right now I’m lov- man, sophomore and senior ing it because we’re doing some- U.S. Health Insurance Woes Continue years and ended his collegiate thing in his memory to help oth- career with a record of 51-32, ers achieve their dreams. I think Health care costs across the country continue to for family coverage in six states (New Mexico, West according to published reports. it’s wonderful.” surge as family premiums in employer-sponsored Virginia, Oklahoma, Montana, Texas and Arkansas) He graduated from Maryland in To help raise proceeds for the plans are reaching epidemic proportions. will cost at least $1,500 more this year because of 2002 and also had been a stand- fund, the inaugural Salvatore While part of the problem might manifest itself the cost of health care for the uninsured. Nationally, out performer in his high school. Aquia Memorial Golf Tourna- in other forms, the additional costs of providing the cost will be more than $43 billion this year and In 1997, he led Baltimore’s ment has been planned for Sept. health care for the more than 45 million Americans reach $60 billion in 2010, the report said. Archbishop Curley High to a 26 at the Rocky Point Golf without health insurance are contributors. These The cumulative effect of rising health care costs win in the state wrestling cham- Course in Essex, Md. Fees for added expenses largely are being paid by workers is taking a toll on workers. According to a 2004 sur- pionship. Aquia later won a the tournament will be $120 per with insurance. vey of 3,017 companies by the Kaiser Family national prep tournament while person and $480 per foursome. According to a report recently released by Foundation and the Health Research and attending Blair Preparatory An 8 a.m. shotgun start will sig- Families USA, premiums for employer-provided Educational Trust, at least 5 million fewer jobs pro- Academy in Blairstown, N.J. nal the event’s commencement. family health insurance are expected to cost an extra vided health insurance in 2004 than there were in The senior Aquia, who sailed In addition to some great golf, $922 (on average) this year. This equates to about $1 2001. on the high seas as an engineer the tournament will feature vari- in every $12 spent for employer-provided health In 2004, 63 percent of firms offered health bene- with MEBA, worked for the ous contests, prizes, raffles and insurance going to cover the costs of providing fits to workers, down from 68 percent in 2001, union in a number of capacities giveaways. health care to the uninsured. The study also esti- according to the report. since coming ashore some 15 mates that these added premium costs will rise to The average premium for a family of four grew years ago. Most recently, he At the conclusion of play, an awards banquet will be held at $1,502 in 2010. to $9,950 annually. The family premium for a pre- worked at the SIU hall in “The large and increasing number of uninsured ferred provider organization (PPO), the most com- Baltimore and in the manpower Cosmopolitan Bar & Grill at 2933 O’Donnell St. in Americans is no longer simply an altruistic concern mon type of insurance, hit $10,217—the first time it office at the Seafarers-affiliated on behalf of those without health coverage but a broke the $10,000 barrier. PPOs are plans that pro- Paul Hall Center for Maritime Baltimore. All correspondence, as well as donations for this matter of self-interest for everyone,” said Ron vide members with a network of discounted Training and Education in Piney Pollack, Families USA executive director. “The providers that charge a co-payment but also allows Point, Md. event, should be mailed to the same address listed below. Those stakes are high, both for businesses and for workers for the opportunity of using other doctors and hos- To honor the memory of his who do have health insurance because they bear the pitals. The average premium for single coverage with questions may call (410) late son, a collection of friends brunt of costs for the uninsured.” rose 9.2 percent to $3,383 annually. 563-5000. and well wishers from Mary- Most of the uninsured are workers and their fam- “Health insurance is becoming unaffordable. We Donations for the Salvatore land’s wrestling community cre- ily members who do not participate in employer- should expect the ranks of uninsured to grow,” said ated the Salvatore Aquia Aquia Memorial Wrestling provided insurance plans, forcing employees to seek Drew Altman, president of the Kaiser Family Memorial Wrestling Scholarship Scholarship Fund, which may be public health care assistance. Each Wal-Mart store, Foundation. Fund. Proceeds from this endow- sent under individual donors’ for example, costs taxpayers an average of $108,000 Altman noted that the hike in health premiums ment will be used to help finance names, should be sent to per year for its workers’ children who are enrolled in outpaced both the 2.2 percent growth in wages and the education of deserving junior Archbishop Curley High School, state health insurance programs. 2.3 percent growth in inflation by five times. league wrestlers who want to 3701 Sinclair Lane, Baltimore, The study states that health insurance premiums attend private high schools but MD 21213 c/o Salvatore Aquia. Continued on page 10 6 Seafarers LOG July 2005 7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:13 PM Page 7

8 Scholarships Awarded to Seafarers, Dependents ith three semesters of college He is the son of Harriet and Walready behind her, Chief Three SIU members and five dependents of offered. One Seafarer and five dependents each Desire Zeljko Nikolic, chief engi- Cook Kristen Swain is the recipi- Seafarers were selected by a panel of professional were awarded a $20,000 scholarship for study at neer aboard Great Lakes Dredge ent of the $20,000 scholarship educators to receive scholarships provided by the a four-year college or university, and two stipends and Dock’s Victoria Island, who award for SIU members. She Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. for $6,000 each were given to two Seafarers for joined the union in 1995. hopes to use the funds to attend For more than half a century, the Plan has con- study at a two-year college or vocational school. Butte College or Chico State tinued to award yearly scholarships to deserving On this page are brief descriptions of the back- College, both in California, in the Seafarers as well as to spouses and dependents of grounds and educational goals of the eight col- Born in San Diego, Calif., registered nursing program. SIU members. This year, a total of $132,000 was lege-bound students. Anthony Sabatini recently gradu- ated from high school in that city Born in Hawaii, Maeda, now Dependents with a 4.167 GPA. With his schol- 48, graduated from high school in Having just graduated this arship winnings, he hopes to Fayetteville, N.C. in 1974 and then spring from Little Cypress- major in business or computer sci- worked in the hotel/restaurant Mauriceville High School in ence at one of several California business until 1982. He currently Orange, Texas with a 4.93 GPA, universities (San Diego State, sails from the port of Jacksonville, Adam Burton is now ready to tack- University of California Irvine or Fla. le the demands of college. His State). In his application, Maeda states four-year, $20,000 scholarship that he went to sea for the first will certainly help him in his quest time in 1982 on one of the passen- for a degree in business and com- ger ships in Hawaii. It was there munications at one of the Texas that a friend encouraged him to universities to which he has upgrade at the union-affiliated applied. school in Piney Point. He finally made it to the Paul Hall Center in Kristen Swain 1991 and he says it became a turn- ing point in his life—“one of the Ashleigh Coppola best experiences I have ever had.” Swain, 32, grew up in He has since returned to the school Starting in her freshman year of Waterford, Mich., a town sur- many times for both upgrading high school, Coppola began work- rounded by several small lakes. and college-level courses and ing at a retail clothing business. She spent the summers of her graduated from the steward recer- Learning to balance the responsi- childhood on the water, swimming tification program there, the top bilities of a job along with school, and boating—and always had a curriculum available to mariners in she believes, helped her learn such Anthony Sabatini desire to travel. But she never his department. skills as time management. By her imagined that her journeys would Maeda would now like to take senior year, she had advanced in take her across the oceans of the on the challenge of becoming a her position, pay and responsibili- Throughout his high school world. After graduating from Mott registered nurse and hopes to con- ties. It was this job—and her man- years, Sabatini, 17, has been High School in Waterford, she tinue sailing aboard an SIU- ager there—that influenced her involved in music, academics and traveled around Europe for five crewed vessel. decision to pursue a career in the church. He participated in a Adam Burton months. While she was there, she “Becoming a nurse would field of business management. marching band, wind ensemble notes in her application form, she afford me the opportunity to give She is the daughter of Terri and and jazz band. Academically, he met someone who suggested that something back to the community Patrick Coppola, a deep sea has taken honors and AP courses she attend the training program in and to the Seafarers,” Maeda stat- He is the son of Lera and Ross member currently sailing on the and was a peer tutor in humani- Piney Point, Md. “I graduated ed. Burton, who joined the SIU in Overseas Philadelphia. He joined ties. He also has been very active from the program in 1993 in class 1996 in the inland division and the union in 1983. in his church’s youth group. 509 and knew I was home when I The third of the 2005 scholar- sails as a captain aboard Higman Although he does not plan to stepped aboard my first ship.” ships set aside for SIU members Towing Co. tugs. The 18-year-old Computers have been a strong major in music, Sabatini does Swain has since returned to the goes to Jeanette Montgomery Burton remembers always having influence in the life of Stefan intend to stay involved in it as a school a number of times to who, like the other two recipients, had a thirst for knowledge and Nikolic, 17. Born in New York, way to express himself. credits his parents with instilling in upgrade her ratings, and has com- also is planning a career in nursing. where he lived until he was nine, Sabatini is the son of Debra him a love for reading at an early pleted the assistant cook, cook and his family then moved to Durham, and Anthony Sabatini, a deep sea age, which has only grown baker, and the certified chief cook N.C., where he graduated last member since 1990 who currently stronger with time. programs. month from Durham Academy. sails as a recertified bosun aboard While in high school, Burton The recent birth of her son, the Alaskan Explorer. Cohen, made her realize her prior- participated in a rigorous academ- ities had to change for a little ic program and still found time for a number of extracurricular activi- while. She has been working With a strong desire to learn, ties. The honor student was a toward a general education at Ronald Paul Viernes graduated member of the high school choir Butte Community College for the from Kapolei High School in past few years, maintaining a 4.0 and band program (and is a talent- Hawaii with a 4.019 GPA. Besides grade average, and has decided to ed guitar player), participated on his excellence in academics, begin the prerequisites for a bach- the debate team and took part in elor’s degree in registered nursing. his local church youth ministry. including membership in the She believes a background in the In his application, Burton states National Honor Society, Viernes medical field will not only be a that he felt up to the challenge of has been looked upon as a leader in the classroom while still finding stable profession on land, but also Jeanette Montgomery university life and, in the future, will be beneficial while at sea. hopes to open his own business time for extracurricular activities Swain notes that “shipping has while using his communications such as the varsity tennis and vol- leyball teams and the hiking club. opened my mind up to so many Montgomery joined the union major to find a unique outlet for diverse experiences—some good, He was very active in the student in 1988 in the port of his writing. “Whether it is a maga- Stefan Nikolic some difficult—but in the end, while working aboard the SS zine, newspaper or my own per- I’ve learned so much from them. I Independence. She upgraded her sonal novel, I intend to do some couldn’t have asked for a better skills a number of times over the sort of writing as a part of my life- Nikolic notes that he enjoyed career.” years and received many endorse- long career.” mathematics and problem-solving ments, including recertified chief at an early age, and that soon Brandon Maeda is one of two steward in 2000. Ashleigh Coppola, 18, just developed into strong interests in Seafarers to receive a two-year In 2002, Montgomery was graduated from the Science and the sciences, calculus, logic and scholarship this year in the amount awarded a two-year, $6,000 schol- Technology Program at Eleanor computer programming. of $6,000. He, too, plans to study arship from the Seafarers Health Roosevelt High School in “At this point,” he wrote on his for a career in nursing and has and Benefits Plan. She used the Greenbelt, Md., a highly competi- application form, “I have built applied to the College of Southern award to start her schooling and is tive program which represents the them, programmed them and had Maryland. now finishing up her first year of top 5 percent of students from my own business for two years, nursing school. Since receiving Prince George’s County (Md.) running a server rental e-busi- that initial scholarship, she has public schools. She hopes to earn ness.” In addition to these acade- become a Washington state emer- a degree in business or business mic and entrepreneurial interests, gency medical technician and management from the University he played competitive soccer and received an associate in arts and of Maryland, Towson (Md.) was a member of his school’s Ronald Paul Viernes sciences degree. But she still has University or Pennsylvania State swim team. Nikolic also plays the more than four years of schooling University. trumpet and piano, writes poetry to complete before receiving a In addition to her rigorous and and studies philosophy. government, and in his sophomore master’s degree, which is her goal. challenging academic program, He plans to use his $20,000 year, he was selected for the In her application, Mont- Coppola also was involved in a scholarship to study electrical engi- school’s highest honor for best gomery says that her life revolves number of extracurricular activi- neering at Worcester Polytechnic exemplifying “caring, dignity and around sailing and schooling, and ties, including the National Honor Institute in Massachusetts, with a integrity” (the school’s motto). He “the ability to return to shipping Society and Italian Honor Society minor in philosophy—after return- also found time to volunteer for makes completing school a very as well as cheerleading and the ing from a planned six-week train various community causes: read- Brandon Maeda real possibility.” swim team. trip across Europe this summer. Continued on page 20 July 2005 Seafarers LOG 7 7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:20 PM Page 8

Appreciative Upgrader Ayotte Seizes School’s Opportunities Engine-department Seafarer STCW training, featuring unsur- Philip Ayotte had a simple but passed educational facilities and heartfelt message when he spoke peaceful surroundings that facili- at the June membership meeting tate learning. Among the in Piney Point, Md. school’s most beneficial training “Thank you.” tools are the bridge and engine Ayotte, 29, credited the Paul simulators, the Joseph Sacco Fire Hall Center for Maritime Train- Fighting and Safety School ing and Education as well as SIU (located on a nearby satellite officials with helping him find campus) and the culinary lab. the right career path. The Paul Hall Center offers The Paul Hall Center features entry-level training, upgrading and more. “I went through the unli- everything from entry training to censed apprentice program four license preparation to academic years ago, and since then I’ve support and more. Students at taken every upgrading course I the southern Maryland school could take,” said Ayotte, who is also may receive college credit enrolled in the marine electrician Seafarer Philip Ayotte says the recommendations for successful- Retired Steward Ware class. “I thank the teachers and Paul Hall Center helps him stay ly completing certain sanctioned the entire school, and also the at peak efficiency on the job. courses. Publishes First Book union officials who work so hard As vocational training for on (Seafarers’) behalf.” tremendous amount in the last U.S. mariners seemingly Retired Recertified Steward Lois Ware knows plenty about over- After the meeting, Ayotte four years.” becomes more important each coming obstacles and achieving goals. recalled his introduction to the Ayotte, who most recently year, the Paul Hall Center con- She is a cancer survivor. school. Four years earlier, he sailed on a Waterman ship, said tinues offering state-of-the-art She is believed to be the first woman to sail as a crew member on lived in New Orleans when an the school’s admissions depart- a U.S. West Coast-based freighter (the President Van Buren). SIU member recommended the schooling for mariners. An ment and instructors go out of overview of the courses avail- Now, she has added another title: published author. three-phase apprentice program. their way to help apprentices and Ware’s first book, “The Rose and the Sea: Sea Stories,” is avail- Ayotte enrolled and soon real- able at Piney Point (including upgraders alike. the 40-plus Coast Guard- able through the web site www.authorhouse.com. Produced in paper- ized he’d found a home. back, the book contains 88 pages and sells for $11.50. “Since then, I’ve made the More on the School approved classes) is contained in a four-page section in the A promotional release describes the book as providing “an overar- choice to come back here (to the Founded in 1967, the Paul ching look at her life, from her childhood and school experiences to school),” said the resident of Hall Center offers the most U.S. January 2005 issue of the Seafarers LOG. Course descrip- her lifelong love affair with the salty winds and on-board life of the Minneapolis. “I want to continue Coast Guard-approved courses of maritime industry.” tions also are listed on the web to learn and be the best I can be any maritime school in the In an interview last month with the Seafarers LOG, Ware, who site www.seafarers.org, in the on the job. The school helps me nation. Based in Piney Point, comes from a family of Seafarers, said that writing a book had been Paul Hall Center section. meet that goal—I’ve learned a Md., the school is a hub of a longtime goal. “I wanted people to know what life at sea is like,” she noted. “The book was more work than I expected. It seems like I rewrote it nine or 10 times, but I hope to write another one—maybe Seafarer Frey Earns GED a mystery or some poetry, if it’s worthwhile.” Ware sailed with the NMU in the early 1970s before signing on with the Marine Cooks and Stewards Union, which later merged into the SIU. She retired due to health issues in 1994. If writing was a labor of love, sailing couldn’t have been more natural for Ware, considering the Alabama native’s bloodlines. Her uncle, Thomas F. Ware, was one of the more than 1,200 Seafarers who gave his life in World War II. At various times, her son, nephew and brother all sailed with the SIU. “My life was going to sea,” she recalled. “I’ve always regretted having to leave the industry so soon…. To the people just entering this profession, I would say, set a goal and don’t listen to what peo- ple say you cannot do. You will achieve your goal and be success- ful.” Ware, who has been cancer-free for 10 years, last sailed aboard the President Truman. She said that the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a great asset for mariners who want to advance in their careers. “I love the school,” Ware stated.

Seafarer John Frey (center) received his GED during the June membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. SIU President Michael Sacco (left) and SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez congratulated Frey on the accomplishment. Frey graduated last year from the unlicensed apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, where he is enrolled the AB course. In addition to voca- tional training, the SIU-affiliated center offers academic support, a GED program, a college degree cur- riculum and more. More than 2,000 students have earned GEDs at the Paul Hall Center. Retired Recertified Steward Lois Ware is pictured at the Paul Hall Center holding a copy of her new book (left) and sailing aboard an SIU- contracted ship in the early Special Day for Steward 1980s (below).

When SIU President Michael Sacco (right) presented Lonnie Jones with an A-seniority union book last month, the recertified steward nearly was overcome with emotion. Jones, who first sailed with the SIU in 1988, said he takes his union membership to heart. He described receiving his A-book as an exciting, long- awaited moment and a special day.

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AFL-CIO Group Okays Sweeping New Policies Measures Aimed at Increasing Support for Organizing and Mobilization for Politics The AFL-CIO Executive Growing Labor Movement,” The officials asserted that their million per year. None of the fund planning and budgeting, and con- Committee—a 24-member advi- points to “30 years of corporate focus is not on a political party, will go to contributions to politi- solidating local labor federations. sory group made up of top union assault and government complici- but on supporting elected leaders cal candidates. The AFL-CIO will expand leader- leaders including SIU President ty” as a key factor in the erosion who support workers. The plan also calls for building ship development with grassroots Michael Sacco—on June 13 over- of unions’ strength. Under the new plan, the AFL- on the initial success of Working union organizations, and work to whelmingly approved a plan put Yet, more workers than ever CIO will move from a focus on America, the AFL-CIO’s new ensure diversity of representation forward by AFL-CIO President say they want unions, the resolu- biannual “get-out-the-vote” work community affiliate for non-union at every level of its structure. John Sweeney to dramatically tion points out. Fifty-three percent to building year-round capacity workers, by increasing members To fund the shift in resources shift the work of the labor federa- of non-union, non-managerial for mobilizing members for poli- to two million by the end of 2006. to organizing and political mobi- tion and unite unions for the twin workers say they would join a tics and legislation. The federa- The resolution prioritizes lization, the federation has already goals of increased organizing and union tomorrow if given the tion will fund this work by grassroots movement-building begun a review of all programs more member mobilization for chance, according to Peter D. Hart increasing the Member Mobiliza- and calls on the AFL-CIO to and a reorganization of its staff, politics and legislation. The group Research Associates—the highest tion Fund for legislative and polit- strengthen state and local labor which will be reduced by 25 per- also approved a new two-year percentage recorded since Hart ical action by approximately $7.5 movements by requiring strategic cent. budget that funds the program. began collecting this data in 1996. “Working people are under The new plan emphasizes Meanwhile, on June 7 the pro-worker organiza- attack as never before by corpo- unity among unions and union Major Religious Group tion American Rights at Work released a report titled rate and political forces, and movement-wide change, rather “Free and Fair? How Labor Law Fails U.S. today’s plans will help the union than change only at the Federation Backs Employee Free Democratic Election Standards.” The report offers a movement fight back with all our level. “Every union in every sec- detailed analysis of how fundamental principles gov- united strength,” said Sweeney. tor must change and work to build erning American elections are systematically denied “Union movement growth and a stronger movement in the spirit Choice Act/Card Check to those seeking union representation at work. workers’ political power are fun- of solidarity, mutual support and The AFL-CIO’s “Voice@Work” campaign recent- “No political challenger could get elected under damentally linked and we must mutual accountability that defines ly reported that the General Board of Church and these guidelines,” said University of Oregon strengthen both simultaneously.” us.” Society of the United Methodist Church on May 20 Associate Professor Gordon Lafer, the political sci- The officials, by a 17-7 tally, The plan calls for increased officially offered its support for the Employee Free entist who authored the report. “The system is so cor- voted to send to the AFL-CIO resources for helping more work- Choice Act and majority sign-up agreements (also rupt that it doesn’t remotely resemble the democratic Executive Council (which is sepa- ers form unions, or organizing, known as card-check). process we think of when we use the term ‘election.’” rate from the Executive Com- through (1) a ramped up effort to The General Board of Church and Society is the “Free and Fair?” measures the union representa- mittee) the updated plan, a version change public policies to help international social witness and advocacy agency of tion election process against democratic election of which was first introduced in restore workers’ freedom to form The United Methodist Church, charged by the standards established by the political philosophy and early March. The resolution will unions and (2) an accelerated ini- denomination “to speak its convictions, interpreta- published works of the Founding Fathers, the histor- be voted on by the Executive tiative to help more unions tions and concerns to the Church and to the world.” ical development of electoral law and jurisprudence, Council, a 54-member constitu- increase their capacity to orga- The United Methodist Church, through its Social and current statutes and regulations that define “free tional leadership body, at its meet- nize, especially outside the deeply Principles, recognizes and supports the freedom of and fair” elections. The report reveals a series of one- ing at the end of June. If flawed National Labor Relations workers to form unions of their own choosing and sided advantages extended to employers, as well as approved, the resolution will be Board (NLRB) process. Specific bargain collectively. significant barriers imposed upon pro-union workers presented to the AFL-CIO con- changes include creating a $22.5 In its recent statement supporting the campaign to and their unions. vention at the end of July. The million Strategic Organizing restore workers’ freedom to form unions, the board Lafer’s examination concludes that workers’ free Executive Committee vote on the Fund, establishing industry coor- calls on “all employers to abide by their employees’ speech rights are squelched on the job, and workers budget June 13 was also 17-7. dinating committees for more tac- decision when a majority has signed union authoriza- are restricted from openly distributing literature “Without growth, we cannot tical organizing, changing provi- tion cards or otherwise indicated their desire to be while employers have free reign to do so. He further sustain wins in the policy debates sions of the AFL-CIO constitution represented by a union, and to refrain from using concludes that employers deny essential employee and political contests that deter- (Articles XX and XXI) to support National Labor Relations Board hearings, elections, information to thwart pro-union workers’ access to mine the future for working peo- these committees’ work, training and appeals as a means for delaying or avoiding rep- their coworkers. ple,” asserts the resolution. “And 100,000 worksite stewards by resentation for their employees.” Additionally, employers and supervisors practice without a more hospitable, pro- 2008 to defend workers’ freedom The United Methodist Church has more than 8 various forms of economic coercion with the clear worker political environment, we to form unions, encouraging and million members in the United States and is the third- intent to grant or take away privileges based upon an cannot grow as fast as we must.” actively promoting mergers of largest denomination in the country. employee’s position on the union. At the same time, The resolution, titled “A Plan unions, and supporting a major By mid-June, the Employee Free Choice Act (S. existing and excessively permissive labor law allows to Help Workers Win: Uniting our global campaign against Wal- 842 and H.R. 1696) had 37 co-sponsors in the Senate employers to indefinitely delay recognition of a Power to Build a Stronger, Mart. and 187 in the House. union through a drawn-out appeals process. AOTOS Honorees Announced Gen. John The United Seamen’s Service know them best, international decorated officer, receiving many Handy (left), (USS) recently announced its hon- transportation leaders who under- major awards. Throughout his welcomed by orees for the 2005 Admiral of the stand very well the challenges tenure at TRANSCOM his repu- SIU President Ocean Seas (AOTOS) Awards. and issues which confront United tation is that of a “hands-on” Michael Sacco earlier this year According to the USS, States shipping and the American executive. He strongly supports at the executive AOTOS awards will be presented seafarers and recognize their the U.S. Maritime Security Pro- board meeting to Gen. John W. Handy, USAF, leadership in this area.” gram and has been enthusiastic in of the Maritime commander of the United States USS sought nominees from his praise for the U.S. Merchant Trades Depart- Transportation Command; Ron more than 150 maritime manage- Marine’s performance throughout ment, will Davis, president of the Marine ment, labor and government offi- the various stages of Operation receive an Admiral of the Engineers’ Beneficial Association cials. Iraqi Freedom. Ocean Seas (MEBA); and Anthony A. All proceeds from the awards Davis began serving as Award Nov. 4 in Scioscia, president of APM ceremony benefit “USS commu- MEBA’s president in 2002. He is New York. Terminals North America. nity services abroad for the U.S. a U.S. Navy veteran and former The ceremony, chaired by SIU Merchant Marine and those of regional official for MEBA. President Michael Sacco, is other free world countries,” the Scioscia was appointed presi- scheduled to take place Nov. 4 in organization noted in a news dent of APM Terminals North New York City, noted John release. “The recipients will share America in 1999. The organiza- Labor Unions for $400, Alex Bowers, chairman of the USS the evening with a group of tion, which is a Maersk company, AOTOS Committee and presi- American seafarers who will be For at least one moment, Recertified Steward Mike Gramer had operates 13 container terminals in the upper hand on the three Jeopardy contestants. dent of the International Long- honored for specific acts of brav- North America. Previously, shoremen’s Association. ery at sea.” The Seafarer tuned in to the popular TV game show June 2 and Scioscia was senior vice presi- noticed a second-round category called Labor Unions. The first “These three leaders represent An outspoken advocate of the dent of Sea-Land Service’s North the American maritime spirit in U.S. Merchant Marine, General answer: “The LOG is the monthly newspaper of a union of these.” America Operations Group and all the vital areas in our industry,” Handy was commissioned in Alas, none of the three players knew the question. One guessed that was a member of Sea-Land’s said Bowers. “Ron Davis, Gen- 1967, received his pilot wings in the LOG is a newspaper for lumberjacks; the others had no guess. eral Handy and Tony Scioscia all 1968 and has served in various Operating Executive Board. Topping it off, the show’s host said that the correct question was, understand that while being lead- high-ranking positions. Prior to The USS, a non-profit agency “Who are sailors?” rather than mariners. He added, “Remember, the ers in their own areas of labor, assuming his current post, the established in 1942, operates cen- captain fills out the (ship’s) log, or one of the officers does.” government and management, general was vice chief of staff at ters in nine foreign ports in Hey, it’s better than no mention at all, right? they must embrace and cooperate U.S. Air Force headquarters in Europe, Asia, Africa and in the Gramer later went online and looked up a question-by-question with each other to keep the the Pentagon. Indian Ocean, and also provides review of the show to double-check that he had heard correctly. He American transportation industry General Handy is a command seagoing libraries to American subsequently called it to the LOG staff’s attention. working.” pilot who has logged more than vessels through its affiliate, the Other unions mentioned in the labor category included the United Bowers added, “Our recipients 300 combat hours in Southeast American Merchant Marine Auto Workers, the California Correctional Peace Officers Association, have been selected by those who Asia. The general is a heavily Library Association. and the American Federation of Musicians. July 2005 Seafarers LOG 9 28631_P1,6,10,2cx.qxd 6/24/2005 4:32 PM Page 10

lights took place when Veitch Pride of America introduced (en masse) crew mem- CIVMAR News: Request for Relief Pilot Program Continued from page 3 bers from various departments, The Military Sealift Command has determined MSC has committed to ongoing discussions and a who then walked from the deck that it will implement a program and procedures program evaluation as the pilot program proceeds. It and the mariners for their com- above the stage down the stairs mitment to shipboard safety. He which may change the way leave, medical examina- is very important that CIVMARS keep in touch with and through the applauding crowd. tions and return-to-work assignments are scheduled the union about their experiences with this pilot pro- pointed out that modern safety Recertified Bosun Dan Mar- regulations set high standards for for CIVMARS. gram. Please send all comments and questions (both cus, who joined the SIU 33 years vessel and crew alike, and said he This program would require that CIVMARS com- positive as well as negative) to civmarsupport@sea- is confident that the Pride of ago, told the Seafarers LOG, plete additional forms and circulate them to their farers.org. If you have any questions or concerns and America will continue meeting “This is a historic time for the department head, MSO and purser prior to schedul- cannot reach the union via e-mail please call Chester ing leave. This new paperwork must be completed 60 Wheeler at (415) 861-3400, Maurice Cokes at (757) those standards. U.S. maritime industry, and this crew is one of the finest I’ve ever days in advance of the date that the CIVMARS 622-1892 or Kate Hunt at (718) 832-8767. Veitch called Sacco “our request their leave. MSC’s goal is to assign each strongest supporter and partner.” sailed with. Everyone has gone the extra two miles. We know CIVMAR to a new vessel, training class or medical He also complimented the crew, treatment facility directly from his or her home of Health Care Woes Continue describing them as “professional, how important it is for the mem- bership to have these jobs, and record. Mariners may be required to receive physi- Continued from page 6 ready and raring to go.” cals at naval medical facilities other than those at San One of the ceremony’s high- we’re committed.” Diego and Norfolk. “There is a great sense that there is just no This new pilot program is expected to begin soon. answer to this problem,” Altman added. MSC has advised the union that it will select two Employees in 2004 paid 28 percent of the fami- East Coast vessels and two West Coast vessels to ly premium, up from 27 percent a year earlier. New Law Covers start. Ships selected to participate in this program However, singles’ out-of-pocket costs for the pre- will have orientation meetings held by MSC repre- mium rose 9.8 percent to $558 annually while a Prescription Drugs sentatives. worker’s cost for a family premium increased 10.3 During the course of the negotiations about this percent to $2,661. This year, the federal government published regulations pilot program, the union raised many concerns. The Since 2001, employee contributions increased union’s primary concern was that this program puts to support a new part to the current to Medicare program 57 percent for single coverage and 49 percent for too much administrative burden on the mariner. The family coverage. offered to beneficiaries across the nation. Known as union also questioned what type of pay status the Overall, 56 percent of firms said they shopped Medicare part D, this new benefit will provide prescription CIVMAR will be placed in (base pay or leave with- for a new plan during 2004. Of those that looked, 31 drug coverage to individuals entitled to Part A or enrolled in out pay) if the mariner is at home waiting for a med- percent changed carriers while 34 percent switched part B of Medicare’s existing programs. This program is set ical exam. Currently, mariners have been experienc- the type of plan they offered. to begin on January 1, 2006. ing many delays associated with the MSC medical For the most part, employers are skeptical about examination process. whether tools such as disease management and con- The government has provided multi-employer trust funds This new process will also require extra coordina- like the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan with several sumer plans really lower costs. Only 42 percent of tion with a marine placement specialist. The union employers believed disease management and con- options regarding the administration of prescription drug noted that this might produce additional problems as sumer-driven plans were somewhat effective in frequently, due to time differences and other reasons, benefits for retirees under the new law. The Plan’s Board of lowering costs. Trustees is reviewing all of the options available under the marine placement specialists are unavailable to speak on the phone. The union is also concerned that “Such efforts nibble at the edges,” said Altman. new Medicare part D and will discuss these choices at their implementation of this program could lead to He said controlling health care costs was a vexing meeting this month (July). Once these important decisions increased disciplinary actions against a mariner problem because no one wants to pay more, but are made, SIU retirees will be notified as to which option for should there be any administrative errors or confu- people also aren’t willing to accept less service. drug coverage will be adopted. sion leading to the inability of the mariner to follow “I don’t see any solution in the short or immedi- all the new requirements. ate future,” he said.

A Do-It-Yourself BBQ on the Lihue

Matson’s Lihue recently came into service after a ment for upgrading at the Paul Hall Center, the SIU period of extended layup. The SIU steward depart- galley gang rose to the challenge and slaughtered the ment aboard the vessel pulled out all the stops for the two goats, dressed the carcasses, butchered the meat ship’s first barbecue en route from Oakland, Calif. to and prepared the meal. Honolulu. The stocktender aboard ship (a non-union The photos were provided by Recertified Steward employee responsible for taking care of livestock John Holtschlag. Holtschlag reports that there was being transported to Hawaii in special containers) no leftover goat at the end of the barbecue, which donated two live goats for the festive occasion. also included grilled steak to order, Hawaiian teriya- Although butchering live animals is not a require- ki chicken, mahi mahi and all the trimmings.

Clockwise from top left: Chief Cook Ahmed Quraish (top of ladder) hands off a live kid goat to SA Majed Alsunbahi (holding the goat in a bag on the ladder) to bring the animal on deck for slaugh- ter; Assistant Cook David Hilario (left) and Alsunbahi hold the first goat on deck for butchering while the second goat lies trussed awaiting its fate; Quraish and Alsunbahi go to work on the second goat carcass; Quraish and Hilario proudly dis- play their delectable finished product: a finely roasted kid goat; presentation is an important element at the Lihue’s bar- becue as Quraish and Alsunbahi prepare their scrumptious roast goat for the crew.

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Sailing on the Liberator For two unlicensed appren- cation at Piney Point, Md., the sailing to the North Atlantic tices, Samuel Thatcher and two members of Class 662 left Ocean and Mediterranean Sea Mark Fitzgerald, their first the school with Steward/Baker while visiting Spain and Italy. voyage on the Liberator was a Brandon Maeda (who sent the The vessel also traversed the totally new experience. LOG the photos accompanying South Atlantic Ocean on the way After completing their initial this article) to fly to Houston and down to ports in South Africa, 12-week training (Phase I of the board the Maersk Line Limited where Thatcher and Fitzgerald unlicensed apprentice program) vessel. experienced the pollywog to at the Paul Hall Center for For the first time, they got to shellback tradition when the Maritime Training and Edu- experience the excitement of containership crossed the equa- tor on its run to Capetown. “Both are great workers, good shipmates and have long careers in the SIU ahead of them if they so desire,” stated Maeda when Unlicensed apprentices Mark Fitzgerand and Sam Thatcher spent 90 the duo finished their 90 days days at sea aboard the Liberator, learning from their more experienced (Phase II) at sea. “It was great crew mates. From the left are Thatcher, QMED David Terry Jr., working with both of them on Fitzgerald, AB Bruce Howell, Bosun Ed O’Connor and AB Roy Payne. their first ship, and I wish them the best of luck becoming pro- fessional seamen. Like [President] Mike Sacco is always saying—the trainees are Melvin Ellis (left) what the union is all about—the works as an SA on future!” the Liberator; The Liberator currently is on Travell Love is an a U.S. to South Africa run. The AB/Watchman. Having gone through the shellback ceremony, Mark Fitzgerald (left) voyage starts in Newark, N.J. and Samuel Thatcher display the certificates that show that they and sails to Baltimore, Newport crossed the equator for the first time. News, Va. and Freeport, Bahamas before sailing for a couple weeks down the South Atlantic to Capetown, Durban and Port Elizabeth, South Africa before returning to the U.S. All in all, it’s about a 49-day trip.

Meeting with SIU’s Government Services Crew Members

On March 11, 2005, representa- tives from SIU’s Government Services Division (SIU Boston Port Agent Gerard Cooghey and Rep. Kate Hunt) attended an “all- hands” meeting with crew mem- bers from SIU-crewed NOAA ves- sels Albatross IV and Delaware II. During Phase II of the unlicensed apprentice program, students take a The meeting was held in Woods turn working in all three departments aboard ship. Above, Samuel Hole, Mass., where the vessels Thatcher gets some experience in the steward and deck departments are homeported. Also in atten- while, below, Mark Fitzgerald tries his hand at various chores. When dance were representatives from they return to the school for the third phase of the program, they will MEBA and MM&P as well as select the department in which they would like to receive specialized senior NOAA management training. (including Rear Adm. Richard R. Behn, director of NOAA’s Marine and Aviation Operations Centers, and Capt. Gary Bulmer, com- manding officer of Atlantic Marine Operations). Various personnel and operations matters were dis- Attending the NOAA meeting are (from left) Orlando Thompson, cussed, including the expected SIU delegate aboard the Albatross IV; Rear Adm. Richard R. addition of 10 vessels into the Behn, director of Marine and Aviation Operations at NOAA; and NOAA fleet over the next decade. SIU Government Services Rep. Kate Hunt.

Proud of His Nephew

Recently retired AB Arthur D. Machado Jr. (left) of Belle Chasse, La. is extremely proud of his young nephew, Daniel M. Preparing some Hathaway. Hathaway is a lance delicious meals corporal in the U.S. Marine aboard the Corps who currently is home on Liberator are leave. Stationed in North galley gang Carolina, Hathaway already has members (from served a tour of duty in Iraq and left) Steward/ will likely be going back in the Baker Brandon fall. Maeda, SA Melvin Ellis and Chief Cook Suki Suraredjo.

July 2005 Seafarers LOG 11 28631_P2,5,12_14,24.qxd 6/27/2005 4:40 PM Page 12 SIU Welcomes the Pride

Snapshots from Christening Of SIU-Crewed Pride of America The Seafarers-crewed Pride of America was christened June 17 in New York City, marking the continued rebirth of the deep sea U.S.-flag cruise ship industry. An article covering the event appears on page 3. On these pages are photos from the day. Additional photos from the christen- ing will be published in an upcoming issue of the LOG.

SIU President Michael Sacco congratulates crew members for helping the Pride of America get off to a strong start.

SIU President Michael Sacco (right) and Paul Hall Center U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao shakes hands with VP Don Nolan (left) chat with Recertified Bosun Dan Unlicensed Apprentice Isaac Garrido. The secretary visited Marcus. with several apprentices following the ceremony.

Seafarers in the preparation galley busily prepare pre-christ lunches for guests aboard the new vessel. Job Growth Continues with

SIU VPs Joseph Soresi (left) and Tom Orzechowski observe the christening. NCL America’s Newest Vessel

1st Cook Aaron Lanet

The Pride of America is the largest U.S.-flag cruise ship ever constructed. The four photos directly above, left to right, show some of the facilities an

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U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao points out that NCL America’s fleet will employ nearly 4,000 mariners. tes rica U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Star Cruises Chairman Tan Sri Lim NCL America President and CEO Thomas Gilmour notes that Lok Thay reiterates the commit- Colin Veitch describes SIU the Pride of America meets or ment of NCL America’s parent President Sacco as “our strongest exceeds the agency’s safety company to see the U.S.-flag ven- supporter and partner.” standards. ture succeed.

christening Oiler Curtis Tobey and QMED Don Lumpkins

Unlicensed Apprentices Karel Cain and Bob Light

Unlicensed Apprentice David Moses

es and décor aboard the 921-foot vessel. The Pride of America also features spacious meeting rooms, workout areas and other amenities.

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Lakes Task Force Honors 2 The SIU-affiliated Great Lakes Lakes economy in Congress. Both said Daniel L. Smith, president of Maritime Task Force recently recipients in early May received Great Lakes Maritime Task Force named U.S. Senator Debbie their awards during the task and national vice president, Great Stabenow (D-Mich.) and Con- force’s 10th annual informational Lakes, American Maritime Offi- gressman Mark Green (R-Wis.) to breakfast for the Great Lakes del- cers. receive its 2005 Legislator of the egation in Washington, D.C. Other speakers also lauded the Year Awards. “Perhaps no other senator has contributions of the Michigan The honors annually are ever made more contributions to senator. She was credited for hav- bestowed on legislators who best Great Lakes shipping in their first ing been a leader in the effort to advance the interests of the Great term than Debbie A. Stabenow,” stop the introduction of non- indigenous species into the Great SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR Lakes from oceangoing vessels and also for having authored leg- SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT SUPPLEMENTAL islation and sought funding to U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) receives a framed photo to signify her selection as one of two recipients of the Great Lakes BENEFITS FUND, INC find a solution to this worldwide Maritime Task Force’s 2005 Legislator of the Year Awards. Presenting problem. Stabenow was labeled the award is Dan Smith, president of the task force and a VP with the This is a summary of the annual and as a person who understands that American Maritime Officers. Others pictured are (from left) SIU Lakes report of the SIU Pacific District 4. Transactions in excess of 5 what’s good for Great Lakes ship- and Inland Waters Business Rep. Todd Brdak, Bill Yockey of the ILA Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., percent of plan assets. ping is good for Michigan. Her and SIU VP Lakes and Inland Waters Tom Orzechowski. EIN 94-1431246 for the year ended To obtain a copy of the full work to foster policies that benefit July 31, 2004. The annual report annual report, or any part thereof, both also was praised. “Representative Green has has been filed with the Department write or call the office of SIU In the area of free trade, the been an ardent supporter of Great of Labor, as required under the Pacific District Supplemental senator was hailed as one who Lakes shipping since being elect- Employee Retirement Income Benefits Fund, Inc., at 1422 Market believes that free trade must be ed to the House of Repre- Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Street, San Francisco, CA 94102; fair trade. “She supports fair trade sentatives in 1998,” said Smith. The Board of Trustees of SIU telephone number (415) 437-6832. in steel, but expects the federal The congressman was cited for Pacific District Supplemental The charge to cover copying costs government to react quickly to Benefits Fund, Inc. has committed will be $3.25 for the full annual his understanding that in a post illegal dumping,” a task force 9/11 world, having ships that are itself to pay all supplemental bene- report, or $0.25 per page for any official said. “She has stood with fits. part thereof. U.S.-owned, U.S.-built and U.S.- American shipyards….” crewed is not only a vital element You also have the right to “I am pleased and proud to be Basic Financial Statement receive from the plan administrator, of the country’s national security, recognized by the Great Lakes but also a foundation America’s The value of plan assets, after on request and at no charge, a state- Maritime Task Force for my leg- economic strength. Green also subtracting liabilities of the plan ment of the assets and liabilities of islative efforts on behalf of the Rep. Mark Green was $1,618,698 as of July 31, 2004, the plan and the accompanying Great Lakes economy,” Stabenow was recognized for his support of (R-Wis.) compared to $2,109,227 as of notes, or a statement of income and said. “The task force represents a Wisconsin’s shipyards and his August 1, 2003. During the plan expenses of the plan and accompa- broad constituency with a great work toward advancing ship con- Lakes shipping. It is the largest year, the plan experienced a nying notes, or both. If you request struction the United States. coalition to ever speak for the decrease in its net assets of a copy of the full annual report from stake in ensuring that we not only use the Lakes wisely, but that we “A vibrant shipping industry in Great Lakes shipping community $490,529. During the plan year, the the plan administrator, these two the Great Lakes means a healthier and draws its membership from plan had a total income of statements and the accompanying also bolster commerce in the Great Lakes and create jobs. Our economy in Wisconsin,” Green both labor and management rep- $9,392,124, including employer notes will be included as part of that said. “Since arriving in Congress I resenting U.S.-flag vessel opera- contributions of $9,359,818, earn- report. The charge to cover copying most recent challenge is to head off tolls on Great Lakes shipping, have fought alongside [the task tors, shipboard and longshore ings from investments of $30,506 costs does not include a charge for force] to protect the Great Lakes and other income of $1,800. the copying of these portions of the and I know we will continue to unions, shipyards, and other Great Plan expenses were $9,882,653. report because these portions are work together to bring commerce maritime industry and I’m proud Lakes interests. Among other These expenses included $490,522 furnished without charge. and jobs to our Great Lakes of the victories we’ve scored. I things, its goals include preserv- in administrative expenses, and You also have the legally pro- ports.” look forward to continuing my ing the domestic steelmaking $9,392,131 in benefits paid to par- tected right to examine the annual At the conclusion of Senator efforts with the task force.” infrastructure; protecting the ticipants and beneficiaries. report at the main office of the plan Stabenow’s remarks, the contribu- The Great Lakes Maritime nation’s cabotage laws; maximiz- at 1422 Market Street, San tions of Congressman Green to Task Force was founded in ing the Lakes overseas trade; and Your Rights to Additional Francisco, CA 94102, and at the the Great Lakes shipping commu- Toledo, Ohio, in 1992 to promote increasing funding for annual Information U.S. Department of Labor Wash- nity took center stage. domestic and international Great dredging of ports and waterways. You have the right to receive a ington, DC, or to obtain a copy copy of the full annual report, or from the U.S. Department of Labor any part thereof, on request. The upon payment of copying costs. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR items listed below are included in Requests to the Department should SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT PENSION PLAN that report. be addressed to Public Disclosure This is a summary of the annual report for SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, 94-6061923 for the fiscal year 1. An accountant’s report; Room, Room N5638, Employee ended July 31, 2004. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee 2. Financial information and Benefits Security Administration, Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). information on pay U.S. Department of Labor, 200 ments to service providers; Constitution Avenue, N.W., Basic Financial Statement 3. Assets held for investment; Washington, DC 20210. Benefits under the plan are provided by the Trust. Plan expenses were $11,791,666. These expenses included $884,889 in administrative expenses and $10,906,777 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 3,645 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all these per- sons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. IMPORTANT NOTICE: The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $135,749,137 as of July 31, 2004, compared to $137,395,691 as of August 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — $1,646,554. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets that is, the dif- ference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of COBRA NOTICE the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan hada total income of $10,145,112, including employ- er contributions of $31,186, losses of $1,132,505 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $11,242,953 HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION and other income of $3,478. Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have Minimum Funding Standards the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that An actuary’s statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to tem- Your Rights to Additional Information porarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. below are included in that report. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose 1. An accountant’s report; this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In 3. Assets held for investment; addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets; and to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pen- 5. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. sioner ineligible for medical benefits. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, who is the administrator, 1422 Market Street, San Francisco CA 94102, (415) 437-6850. The charge The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation cover- to cover copying costs will be $17.00 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. age if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the partic- You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the ipant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two longer a dependent under the Plan rules. statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may quali- above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished fy, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, without charge. they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, 1422 Market Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply Street, San Francisco, CA 94102 and the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her depen- Public Disclosure Room, Room N5638, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 dents’ rights. Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210.

14 Seafarers LOG July 2005 28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/22/2005 3:34 PM Page 15

Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea August & September 2005 MAY 16 — JUNE 15, 2005 Membership Meetings *TOTAL REGISTERED TOTAL SHIPPED **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups All Groups Trip All Groups Piney Point ...... Monday: August 8 Class A Class B Class C Class A Class B Class C Reliefs Class A Class B Class C ...... Tuesday: September 6* ...... (*change created by Labor Day holiday) Port DECK DEPARTMENT Algonac 1 2 0 0 0 1 0 2 7 1 Algonac ...... Friday: August 12, September 9 Anchorage 0 8 2 0 2 2 0 0 9 3 Baltimore 8 4 1 2 2 1 4 10 10 3 Baltimore ...... Thursday: August 11, September 8 Guam 3 5 1 1 2 2 0 4 9 2 Boston...... Friday: August 12, September 9 Honolulu 5 6 3 5 2 2 3 10 9 3 Houston 31 22 14 17 18 9 10 59 29 28 Duluth...... Wednesday: August 17, September 14 Jacksonville 38 43 13 23 25 8 27 62 66 28 Joliet 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 Guam ...... Thursday: August 25, September 22 Mobile 10 5 2 8 9 4 1 13 15 7 New Orleans 15 18 12 8 7 3 3 30 30 27 Honolulu...... Friday: August 19, September 16 New York 32 25 13 18 9 6 8 55 49 33 Houston ...... Tuesday: August 16* Norfolk 17 18 5 5 11 6 3 23 31 14 ...... Monday: September 12 Philadelphia 6 5 0 1 1 0 2 6 7 4 ...... (*change created by Paul Hall’s birthday holiday) Piney Point 0 5 0 1 10 0 1 0 12 0 Puerto Rico 15 11 1 7 16 0 13 17 9 1 Jacksonville ...... Thursday: August 11, September 8 San Francisco 14 12 4 14 8 3 9 27 19 7 St. Louis 0 4 0 1 1 0 1 0 6 4 Joliet ...... Thursday: August 18, September 15 Tacoma 41 34 9 22 24 4 19 60 54 31 Wilmington 22 26 13 16 12 3 11 45 42 30 Mobile ...... Wednesday: August 17, September 14 Totals 258 253 93 149 159 54 115 423 415 227 New Orleans...... Tuesday: August 16, September 13 Port ENGINE DEPARTMENT Algonac 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 New York...... Tuesday: August 9, September 6 Anchorage 0 4 2 0 3 0 0 0 2 4 Norfolk ...... Thursday: August 11, September 8 Baltimore 3 2 0 3 2 0 1 4 5 0 Guam 1 3 0 0 1 0 0 2 4 0 Philadelphia ...... Wednesday: August 10, September 7 Honolulu 7 6 1 5 4 2 1 9 7 2 Houston 14 15 4 7 8 3 10 25 18 9 Port Everglades...... Thursday: August 18, September 15 Jacksonville 23 29 9 17 13 6 8 31 47 16 Joliet 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 San Francisco ...... Thursday: August 18, September 15 Mobile 8 2 0 7 3 2 2 7 7 4 New Orleans 10 11 4 7 3 1 4 14 15 7 San Juan...... Thursday: August 11, September 8 New York 8 10 6 4 7 2 6 21 15 13 St. Louis...... Friday: August 19, September 16 Norfolk 5 10 4 5 8 1 1 11 16 6 Philadelphia 6 3 1 0 1 0 0 7 4 3 Tacoma ...... Friday: August 26, September 23 Piney Point 4 5 3 4 3 1 1 2 2 2 Puerto Rico 7 3 1 4 5 0 7 6 6 2 Wilmington ...... Monday: August 22, September 19 San Francisco 6 3 2 9 5 1 6 9 7 4 ...... St. Louis 1 3 0 2 2 0 0 2 6 1 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Tacoma 18 21 4 12 20 3 16 18 23 6 Wilmington 8 12 9 8 5 2 3 10 22 14 Totals 129 142 50 95 93 25 66 178 206 94 Port STEWARD DEPARTMENT Personals Algonac 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 Anchorage 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Baltimore 5 0 0 2 1 0 0 5 2 0 MANUEL OLVERA Guam 4 4 1 3 1 0 1 1 5 1 Please contact Wayne Korb at (702) 386-2803. Honolulu 11 5 0 3 5 0 1 21 6 1 (Manuel was bosun and Wayne was the dayman aboard Houston 13 6 2 7 7 4 6 31 5 3 the Citrus Packer in 1956.) Jacksonville 24 17 4 12 7 1 13 36 31 9 Joliet 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 GEORGE MAZZOLA Mobile 7 6 0 4 3 0 0 8 6 0 New Orleans 7 3 4 5 1 2 4 15 7 4 Please get in touch with James W. Bernachi at (618) New York 22 6 4 10 7 0 8 35 10 8 593-0936, or e-mail him at [email protected]. Norfolk 12 12 2 10 8 2 4 11 17 4 Philadelphia 4 2 0 3 1 0 2 2 2 0 PAUL BORG Piney Point 4 3 0 1 2 0 0 7 3 1 Tommy McCormack, who worked with you 35 years Puerto Rico 1 2 1 1 3 0 1 2 3 1 ago on ’American Archer, would like San Francisco 25 4 1 14 3 1 8 45 9 1 you to call him at (561) 357-0529. St. Louis 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 3 1 4 Tacoma 22 8 3 11 3 1 8 25 14 4 WILLIAM BEADLES Wilmington 17 8 3 20 5 2 9 33 12 4 Your godson, John Seaman, is trying to get in touch Totals 178 87 28 106 57 13 65 280 134 46 with you. Please call him at (415) 462-0841; or e-mail Port ENTRY DEPARTMENT [email protected]. Algonac 1 1 3 0 0 0 0 1 2 4 Anchorage 0 2 7 0 0 1 0 0 3 12 JAMES BUCKOWSKI Baltimore 0 3 3 0 2 2 0 0 2 4 Please contact your niece, Raven Giaquinto (Wendy’s Guam 0 1 4 0 0 2 0 0 4 6 daughter), regarding your mother. The family would Honolulu 3 6 4 1 3 2 0 9 17 11 love to hear from you. You may e-mail Raven at skyblaz- Houston 3 19 21 1 11 9 0 7 35 37 [email protected]. Jacksonville 4 12 23 5 8 4 0 4 29 47 Joliet 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 ANDRE ZENE Mobile 1 8 1 0 1 0 0 2 13 3 Dan Jones (your roommate at the Paul Hall School) New Orleans 3 6 6 2 5 0 0 4 11 20 would like to get in touch with you. Please e-mail him at New York 5 35 24 2 11 1 0 9 65 67 [email protected]. Norfolk 0 9 15 0 6 10 0 0 17 28 Philadelphia 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 Piney Point 0 5 23 0 9 20 0 0 9 16 Puerto Rico 0 3 0 1 2 0 0 1 5 1 San Francisco 1 13 7 2 4 1 0 5 20 14 St. Louis 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 Tacoma 4 14 12 3 8 5 0 9 32 27 Wilmington 0 13 14 1 2 8 0 3 16 22 Totals 25 150 168 18 72 65 0 54 282 323 Totals All Departments 590 632 339 368 381 157 246 935 1037 690

*“Total Registered” means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **“Registered on Beach” means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. July 2005 Seafarers LOG 15 28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/22/2005 3:34 PM Page 16

Seafarers International Union NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report Directory MAY 16 — JUNE 15, 2005 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED TOTAL SHIPPED REGISTERED ON BEACH John Fay, Executive Vice President All Groups All Groups Trip All Groups David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Group I Group II Group III Group I Group II Group III Reliefs Group I Group II Group III Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Port DECK DEPARTMENT Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Boston 5 1 0 5 0 0 0 6 3 0 Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Houston 9 1 3 6 2 2 4 33 6 12 Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Jacksonville 4 2 9 4 2 7 4 13 7 4 Kermett Mangram, New Orleans 6 4 4 5 1 0 4 14 7 20 Vice President Government Services New York 11 10 2 7 2 2 3 33 14 1 René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Norfolk 0 0 2 2 0 2 1 4 1 0 Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large Tacoma 0 0 5 0 0 4 1 1 0 5

HEADQUARTERS Wilmington 5 7 7 0 2 6 2 11 6 0 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 Totals 40 25 32 29 9 23 19 115 44 42 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC Port ENGINE DEPARTMENT 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 Boston 3 0 0 3 0 0 0 7 1 0 ALTON Houston 3 0 4 4 0 3 4 14 3 6 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 Jacksonville 1 5 9 1 3 9 3 5 10 5 (618) 462-3456 New Orleans 3 0 4 2 0 1 0 7 1 11 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 New York 5 3 2 4 1 2 1 13 7 0 (907) 561-4988 Norfolk 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 BALTIMORE Tacoma 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 Wilmington 3 0 3 2 0 3 6 5 1 10 (410) 327-4900 Totals 18 8 24 16 4 19 15 54 23 24 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 Port STEWARD DEPARTMENT (617) 261-0790 DULUTH Boston 3 0 0 3 0 0 0 6 0 0 324 W. Superior St., Suite 705, Duluth, MN 55802 Houston 4 5 3 2 1 2 4 8 7 8 (218) 722-4110 Jacksonville 4 4 3 4 3 3 0 8 3 0 GUAM New Orleans 4 0 4 3 0 0 0 5 1 13 P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E New York 7 2 0 8 5 0 2 15 14 0 Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 Norfolk 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 1 (671) 647-1350 Tacoma 1 0 2 0 0 2 1 1 0 2 HONOLULU Wilmington 1 2 9 2 1 9 4 3 2 1 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 Totals 26 13 21 23 10 16 11 48 27 25 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 Port ENTRY DEPARTMENT (713) 659-5152 Boston 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 Houston 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 (904) 353-0987 Jacksonville 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 JOLIET New Orleans 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 New York 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 (815) 723-8002 Norfolk 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 Tacoma 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 (251) 478-0916 Wilmington 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 NEW ORLEANS Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 Totals All NEW YORK Departments 84 46 77 68 23 58 45 211 94 91 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 With all the celebrations surrounding PHILADELPHIA the christening of the Pride of America, 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 this photo was of a christening 30 years (215) 336-3818 ago, that of the SIU-crewed J.A.W. PINEY POINT Iglehart. It is from the LOG archives and P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 was taken in 1965 in Cleveland. Jane (301) 994-0010 Purinton, granddaughter of J.A.W. PORT EVERGLADES Iglehart, did the honors.. 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 The cement carrier began life as the (954) 522-7984 ocean-going tanker Pan Amoco in 1936. SAN FRANCISCO By 1965, its ocean-going career was at 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 an end and it was sold to Huron Cement (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 for conversion to a self-unloading cement carrier—and a new life on the SANTURCE Great Lakes. 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 Today, the Iglehart continues much as (787) 721-4033 it did in 1965. The former Huron Cement ST. LOUIS fleet now operates under the banner of 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 Inland Lakes Management. The Iglehart (314) 752-6500 holds the distinction of being the oldest TACOMA turbine-driven vessel on the Great 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 Lakes. When the E.M. Ford and S.T. (253) 272-7774 Crapo were taken out of service in If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to WILMINGTON 1996, the Iglehart gained further distinc- share with the LOG readership, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 tion of being the oldest steam-powered Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. (310) 549-4000 laker in service with its original engine. Photographs will be returned, if so requested.

16 Seafarers LOG July 2005 28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/22/2005 3:34 PM Page 17

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

DEEP SEA shipped on the Constellation. He Brother Mawari attended classes Texaco Montana. Born in The deck lives in Kissimmee, Fla. at the Paul Hall Center in 1980. Providence, R.I., his last trip to department WAYNE BALLARD, 65, joined He makes his home in Dearborn, sea was aboard the Cape Ann. member’s the union in 1968 in the port of CHARLES Mich. most recent San Francisco. Brother Ballard KAHL, 67, voyage was was born in Texas and initially started sailing JACK ZARO, 55, started his aboard the sailed in the deep sea division with the Sea- career with the union in 1966 in Cherry Valley. aboard the Santa Maria. During farers in 1977 Editor’s Note: The following Galveston, Texas. Brother Zaro his seafaring career, he also in New brothers, all former members of first sailed on the Silvia Lykes. shipped with the Marine Cooks & Orleans. A the National Maritime Union Stewards (MC&S). Brother veteran of the (NMU) and participants in the Celebrating a Special Birthday Ballard’s most recent voyage was U.S. Coast NMU Pension and Trust, recently on American Ship Management’s Guard, Brother Kahl was born in went on pension. President Wilson. The steward Louisiana. He first shipped department member makes his aboard a Waterman Steamship ROBERT home in San Jose, Calif. Corp. vessel. Brother Kahl McKEEVER, worked in the deck department, 61, was born PAUL upgrading frequently at the Paul in Wilming- BRAD- Hall Center. His last vessel was ton, Del. SHAW, 64, the Gemini. Brother Kahl makes Brother was born in his home in Bush, La. McKeever Oklahoma. first sailed Brother DANIEL aboard the Bradshaw McDONALD, Golden Gate. He was a member began his sea- 63, hails from of the steward department and faring career Iowa. Brother last went to sea on the Texaco in 1964 in the port of New York. McDonald Massachusetts. He first worked aboard the joined the Monticello in the engine depart- ranks of the ELORIS TART, 65, joined the ment. Brother Bradshaw upgrad- SIU in 1966 in NMU in 1964 initially shipping ed his seafaring abilities at the the port of San from the port of Mobile, Ala. Paul Hall Center for Maritime Francisco. His first ship was the Brother Tart’s first voyage was Turning 21 is a memorable day, Training and Education in Piney Lucile Bloomfield. In 2000 and aboard the Sue Lykes. The and Steward/Baker Javier Point, Md. on two occasions. His 2001, Brother McDonald attend- Alabama-born mariner last Delosreyes helped make it that last voyage was on the Innovator. ed the training facility in Piney worked on the Lykes Navigator. much more special for SCP Brother Bradshaw is a resident of Point, Md. He last sailed aboard Brian Etz by baking him a beau- Gardnerville, Nev. the Horizon Trader. Brother JAMES tiful and delicious cake. Etz and McDonald is a resident of Cedar TIERNEY, the others pictured are aboard CHARLES Rapids, Iowa. 68, became an the SIU-crewed USNS Pomeroy GOOCH, 69, NMU member at sea enroute to Kuwait. The became a MANUEL in 1989 in photo was submitted by Paul K. Seafarer in MILLAN, 68, Boston. Davis, master, and sent to the 1978 in the joined the Brother LOG by Capt. Mike Finnigan. port of New union in 1995. Tierney’s first York. Brother Brother Millan ship was the Gooch first worked pri- shipped marily aboard Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. mariners through the SIU. The wage structure aboard the Delta Peru. He was a the Florida. provided in the proposal submitted by the He was born frequent upgrader at the Piney 1946 ITF’s Special Seafarers’ Section was based on Point School and sailed as a in New York and calls Davie, Fla. On July 24, the two largest companies con- home. the current average wage rates of all European member of the steward depart- tracted to SIU signed the best contracts in ment. Brother Gooch last went to union-represented seamen. maritime. This concluded six weeks of hard sea on the Horizon Tacoma. Born INLAND For bosuns, carpenters, chief cooks and pump- in the Philippines, he now calls and bitter negotiations with the shipowners, men, the average rate of pay is $252 a Seattle home. FRANKLIN HOLDER, 61, was and as a result the solid front of the operators born in Florida. Boatman Holder month—far less than half of the Seafarer’s was broken. Among other things, wages were base rate. The same ratio held for other jobs. JOHN GRA- became an SIU member in 1982. He sailed mainly on vessels oper- increased from $17.50 per month to as high The average European working as a bosun’s HAM, 66, as $50 per month. joined the SIU ated by C.G. Willis Inc. Boatman mate receives $232.80 a month. in 1965 in the Holder resides in Jacksonville, port of New Fla. 1951 York after On July 20, Cities 1995 serving in the CHARLES The House of NICHOLS, Service Oil Company U.S. Air agreed to the same This Month Representatives over- Force. Brother 62, began his seafaring conditions and benefits whelmingly gave its Graham enhanced his skills on approval on July 24 for numerous occasions at the union- career in 1994 as were in effect with In SIU History affiliated school in Piney Point, first sailing all other SIU-contracted the export sale of Md. His first voyage was on the with Red Alaskan North Slope Circle tanker companies. On Spitfire. Before retiring, Brother the terms of the agree- crude oil as long as it is Graham worked on Pronav Ship Transport. Boatman Nichols enhanced his ment Cities Service agreed to the same SIU carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers. By a vote of Management’s Taurus. The deck 324 to 77 on the Alaskan Oil Export Act department member was born in skills at the Piney Point training industry-wide vacation plan that the union had Pennsylvania; he currently resides center in 1998. Born in Nashville, won from its other contracted operators on (H.R. 70), the House joined the Senate in in Philadelphia. Tenn., he last went to sea aboard June 1. First payments by the company to the endorsing legislation that will keep the U.S.- a Moran Towing of Texas vessel. flag independent tanker fleet sailing into the Boatman Nichols lives in vacation plan were made retroactive to June GEORGE Pensacola, Fla. 1. In addition the new agreement provided next century. The Senate had approved a sim- JOR- for an increase in the stewards’ department ilar bill (S. 395) by a margin of 74-25 on DANIDES, May 16.…. 67, embarked GREAT LAKES manning scale on Cities Service tankers with on his SIU ABDUL one messman being added to each ship. Other The SIU, in testimony given in March before career in 1979 MAWARI, working conditions were improved in order to the Senate committee and in May before the in New 65, began sail- bring the Cities Service ships in line with the House committee considering lifting the 22- Orleans, ini- ing with the remainder of the SIU fleet. year export ban, has supported the legislation tially sailing union in 1973 because it would provide jobs for U.S. on the Point Judy. Brother in Detroit. Jordanides, who was born in Brother 1971 mariners. The union dropped its opposition to Connecticut, was a member of Mawari’s first A draft of a proposed contract to be used in exporting Alaskan North Slope oil last year the deck department. He attended ship was the negotiations with runaway-flag operators who when legislation was introduced in Congress classes at the SIU-affiliated Thomas Wilson; his last the might accept a collective bargaining agreement indicating that the product would be carried school in Piney Point, Md. Buffalo. Born in Arabia, he was a shows graphically the advances made by U.S. to foreign ports aboard U.S.-flag tankers. Brother Jordanides most recently member of the deck department. July 2005 Seafarers LOG 17 28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/22/2005 3:35 PM Page 18

Final Departures

DEEP SEA ment member of the steward department. Brother Virginia Pilots. Boatman Hook was a NMU career in was a veteran Lee, who made his home in San veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. 1979 in San JOHN BARTOLOME of the U.S. Francisco, went on pension in 1979. He was born in Virginia and last Pedro, Calif. Pensioner John Navy. Born in shipped with the Association of The steward Bartolome, 96, Mexico, his EARL MATTHEWS Maryland Pilots. Boatman Hook department final voyage started collecting his pension in member was passed away Pensioner Earl Jan. 4. Brother was on the 2000 and called Virginia Beach, Va. born in Texas. Duchess. Matthews, 74, home. Sister Morgan’s Bartolome was died Jan. 5. born in the Brother Finnell first ship was went on pen- Born in the Sinclair Philippines and Norfolk, Va., became a mem- sion in 1990. He was a resident of Texas; her last was the Alaska. She Houston. Brother retired in 2000. ber of the Matthews began Editor’s Note: The following brothers Marine Cooks CHRISTOPHER FLOWERS his seafaring and sister, all former members of the & Stewards (MC&S) in the port of career in 1951. National Maritime Union (NMU) and WALLACE NUNES San Francisco. Brother Bartolome Pensioner Christopher The steward participants in the NMU Pension and Pensioner worked in the steward department. department member first sailed Trust, have passed away. Wallace Nunes, He started collecting his pension in Flowers, 78, died Jan. 23. aboard the Seagarden. Prior to retir- 77, passed away 1974 and called San Francisco ing in 1995, Brother Matthews March 29. He home. Brother Flowers RALPH BODDEN became an SIU shipped on the OMI Sacramento. He began his sea- was a resident of Dequincy, La. Pensioner faring career in member in Ralph Bodden, BROOKE BUTLER 1951 in New 1945, initially 83, passed working aboard Pensioner York. At the VINCENT PIZZITOLO away April 7. Brooke Butler, beginning of his the Santa Pensioner Brother Bodden Monica in the 85, died Feb. seafaring career, he sailed with Vincent was born in 11. Brother Doric Shipping. Brother Flowers steward department. Brother Nunes Pizzitolo, 82, Honduras and was born in Sacramento, Calif. Prior Butler joined worked in the deck department, last passed away joined the the union in sailing on the OMI Wabash. He to retirement in 1987, he worked on Feb. 3. Brother NMU in 1957, the Petersburg. 1943 in the started collecting his retirement Pizzitolo joined shipping first port of stipends in 1989. Born in Aurora, the SIU ranks from the port of New Orleans. Norfolk, Va. N.C., Brother Flowers made his in 1953 in New Brother Bodden worked in the FRANK TORRES His first voy- home in Houston. Orleans. His engine department. He became a Pensioner Frank age was aboard a Sproque Steamship STEPHEN GALATOLO first ship was pensioner in 1986. Brother Bodden’s Torres, 80, died Company vessel. Brother Butler was the Del Viento. Brother Pizzitolo last trip to sea was on the James March 18. After a member of the engine department. Pensioner was a U.S. Army veteran. His last Lykes. joining the Prior to retiring in 1980, he sailed on Stephen voyage was aboard the Cove Liberty, NMU in 1945, the Newark. Brother Butler made his Galatolo, 76, where he shipped in the steward Brother Torres’ home in Richmond, Va. died Feb. 22. department. Brother Pizzitolo started CHARLES DINI initial voyage Born in receiving his retirement compensa- Pensioner was aboard the SAMUEL CASE JR. Maryland, tion in 1987. He was born in New Charles Dini, E.R. Kemp. Brother 62, died March Pensioner Orleans and lived in Metairie, La. Born in Galatolo joined 18. He began Galveston, Texas, he was a member Samuel Case the union in sailing with the Jr., 90, passed HARRY SMITH of the steward department. Brother 1962 in union in 1967 Torres last shipped on the USS away March Baltimore. His first trip to sea was Pensioner Harry in Miami, Fla. 11. Brother Chancellorsville. He started collect- on the Columbia Star. Brother Smith, 76, died Brother Dini ing his pension in 1983. Case began Galatolo was a member of the stew- Feb. 11. initially navi- sailing with the ard department. The U.S. Army vet- Brother Smith gated the seas YUEN YUENG SIU in 1951 eran last shipped aboard American was born in aboard the Lyons Creek. The New Pensioner Yuen from the port Overseas Marine’s Scan. Brother Philadelphia, York-born mariner retired in 2001. of New Yueng, 89, Galatolo resided in Towson, Md. He Pa. Following His most recent voyage was on the passed away Orleans. He initially shipped with began receiving his retirement pay in his service in Green Clove. Seatrain Lines in the engine depart- April 8. Sailing 1996. the U.S. Army, out of the port ment. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, he started sail- Brother Case retired in 1977 after FRANCIS HARPER ALONSO DUARTE of Boston, his ing with the SIU in 1947. Brother first vessel was sailing aboard a Michigan Tankers Smith’s first trip to sea was on an Pensioner Pensioner the Edward. vessel. Born in New Orleans, he Emerson Steam Company vessel. He Alonso Duarte, Francis Harper, Brother Yueng resided in Jefferson, La. worked in the deck department. 92, passed 81, passed away was born in Brother Smith last shipped on CSX away April 12. March 2. After China and worked in the engine Lines’ Integrity. In 1991, he retired Brother Duarte DONALD CHESTNUT serving in the department. He went on pension in and settled in Philadelphia. became an Pensioner U.S. Army, 1978 after sailing aboard the Brother Harper NMU member Donald in 1946. He Carbide Seadrift. Chestnut, 82, launched his POLO VASQUEZ career with the was born in died Dec. 29. Pensioner Polo Vasquez, 82, passed Honduras and Brother SIU in 1948 in Editor’s Note: In addition to the indi- New York. His first ship was the away Jan. 9. Brother Vasquez joined worked in the engine department. viduals listed above, the following Chestnut the union in 1951, shipping as a Brother Duarte’s last ship was the embarked on Steel Voyager. Brother Harper NMU members, all of whom were worked as a member of the engine member of the deck department. His Keystoner. He went on pension in pensioners, passed away on the dates his seafaring first vessel was the Warhawk. 1986. career in 1943 department. He was born in indicated. Maryland and last sailed aboard the Brother Vasquez was born in in the port of Humacao, P.R., which is also where Mobile, Ala. He first worked on the Venture. Brother Harper retired in DENNIS HARRIS he resided. His last ship was the NAME AGE DOD Rudolf Kauffman. Brother Chestnut 1985 in Baltimore. Point Julie. Brother Vasquez went Pensioner was born in Alabama and sailed in JOHN KELLY JR. on pension in 1982. Dennis Harris, the deck department. His last ship 82, died March Aitken, Joseph 87 April 27 Pensioner John was the Cove Sailor. Brother 28. Brother Cirino, Marcos 69 May 4 Chestnut began receiving compensa- Kelly Jr., 78, INLAND Harris first tion for his retirement in 1985 and died Feb. 3. donned the Collazo, Manuel 88 May 6 lived in Mobile, Ala. Brother Kelly JEFFERY DEKERLEGAND NMU colors in started sailing Condon, James 82 May 2 Pensioner Jeffery Dekerlegand, 87, 1945 in the port with the died Jan. 25. He became an SIU of Seattle. Davis, Jasper 74 Jan. 1 DONALD EDWARDS Seafarers in member in 1969 in New Orleans. Before retiring Brother Donald 1943 in New Douglas, Gary 72 May 18 Born in Arnaudville, La., Boatman in 1986, he went to sea on the Edwards, 59, York. He initial- Dekerlegand shipped in the deck Central Gulf. Gould, Wendell 68 May 16 passed away ly worked for Nov. 23. He Alcoa Steamship Company. Brother department, working primarily on Jones, William 70 May 9 vessels operated by Dravo Basic VINCENT MARTIN began his sea- Kelly, who was born in Mississippi, Kraesig, Melbert 81 May 6 faring career in shipped in the deck department. The Materials Company. Boatman Pensioner 2002 in Seattle. U.S. Army veteran last went to sea Dekerlegand began receiving his Vincent Martin, Lino, Hector 80 April 25 on a Michigan Tankers vessel. retirement compensation in 1979 and 79, passed away Brother Lucas, James 77 May 16 Edwards’ first Brother Kelly became a pensioner in lived in his native state. March 21. Born ship was the 1978. He lived in Petel, Miss. WILLIAM HOOK II in Brooklyn, Macksound, Abel 84 April 22 Westward Venture. He was born in N.Y. Brother Pensioner Middleton, Robert 85 April 18 Bremerton, Wash. and worked in the GRIM LEE Martin joined engine department. Brother Edwards William Hook the NMU in Nunez, Max 73 May 7 most recently sailed aboard the Pensioner Grim II, 66, passed 1944. His first USNS Watkins. He was a resident of Lee, 85, passed away Dec. 26. voyage was on Olvera, Joseph 84 April 20 away Jan. 3. Boatman Hook Seattle. the Aquarius. Brother Martin began Pontus, Reinhard 82 May 8 Brother Lee began shipping receiving his retirement compensa- ARTHUR FINNELL joined the with the tion in 1973. Saunders, Frank 77 April 17 MC&S in 1958 Seafarers in Pensioner Arthur Finnell, 83, passed in San 1973 in the port Springer, Jerry 82 April 29 MARJORIE MORGAN away March 4. Brother Finnell Francisco. Born of Norfolk, Va. Stewart, William 66 April 22 donned the SIU colors in 1953 in the in China, he He initially sailed in the deck depart- Pensioner Marjorie Morgan, 76, died port of New York. The deck depart- was a member ment of a vessel operated by March 19. Sister Morgan started her Tyler, William 77 May 5 18 Seafarers LOG July 2005 28631_pgs7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:39 PM Page 19

plan. Vote of thanks given to stew- Domingo Leon Jr., Secretary L. Earhart, Steward Delegate ard department for delicious food, Stephanie L. Sizemore, Claudia Mauricio. Chairman Digest of Shipboard especially freshly baked goodies. Educational Director Dennis R. announced payoff May 10 in Los Baker, Deck Delegate John C. Angeles. He reminded departing Union Meetings CAPE KENNEDY (Keystone Wagner, Engine Delegate mariners to leave rooms tidy for Shipping), May 20—Chairman Gregorio A. Blanco, Steward next person. Secretary thanked The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard Donald Byrd, Secretary Eddie W. Delegate Rodrigo Jimenez. Bosun crew for helping keep messrooms minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space Taylor, Educational Director announced May 19 payoff in clean. Educational director encour- limitations, some will be omitted. Anton Popescu. Chairman Houston following stop in aged crew to take advantage of advised all mariners to keep docu- Charleston, S.C. He thanked crew Paul Hall Center this summer Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. ments current and contribute to for an excellent trip. Secretary whether for vacation or upgrading, Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union SPAD. Secretary encouraged crew expressed gratitude to all hands for and to keep shipping documents upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to always think of safety while helping keep ship clean, especially current. Treasurer stated BBQ and to the Seafarers LOG for publication. working aboard ship. Educational GUDE Richard Gould for tending TVs being purchased soon. director urged members to upgrade to living area. Educational director Suggestion made to request that skills at Piney Point school. No stressed need for keeping safe seamen’s clubs overseas coordi- beefs or disputed OT reported. work area and eliminate tripping nate hours with ship arrivals. No ADAM E. CORNELIUS Wis.; Indiana Harbor, Ind. Crew members requested comput- (American Steamship Company), hazards. No beefs or disputed OT beefs or disputed OT reported. HORIZON CHALLENGER er be set up in steward’s office that reported. Suggestion made to have April 16—Chairman Scott could be used for e-mailing family PATRIOT (Maersk Line Limited), Gallagher, Secretary Edward E. (Horizon Lines), April 19—Chair- just one standard contract for man Roy L. Williams, Secretary and friends. Crew thanked Captain freight ships and one for tankers. May 1—Chairman George B. Bush, Educational Director Galgano for keeping them Khan, Secretary Robin D. George R. Keeley. Chairman Donald B. GaNung, Educational Crew requested written clarifica- informed and supplying daily Ballard, Educational Director encouraged crew members to con- Director Clive A. Steward, Deck tion on new medical care benefits. newspapers. Next ports: Phillip A. Curtis, Deck Delegate tribute to SPAD and Maritime Delegate Francisco Caceres, Thanks given to steward depart- Engine Delegate Karl A. Leiter, Beaumont, Texas; New Orleans, ment for excellent food, to QMED Lloyd B. La Beach Jr., Engine Defense League, as both funds are La. vital in protecting U.S.-flag fleet. Steward Delegate John L. Foster. and electrician for keeping galley Delegate Sjarifudin Noor. Seafarers were reminded to work Chairman informed crew about HORIZON PRODUCER equipment in good working order Chairman reported no news yet on safely and sign off and reregister two new ships coming out, a dou- (Horizon Lines), May 1—Chair- and to bosun for maintaining reflagging of vessel. Secretary at union hall within 72 hours of ble-hulled tanker and a passenger man Joel A. Lechel, Secretary decks. Next ports: Charleston, thanked bosun and day worker for leaving vessel. No beefs or disput- ship, “This means more growth for Danny A. Brown, Educational S.C.; Houston and Freeport, Texas; taking care of all repairs. No beefs ed OT reported. the union and more jobs for us,” Director Angel S. Hernandez, Miami, Fla. or disputed OT reported. he said. Educational director told Deck Delegate Alvin V. Jackson, Educational director informed ALASKAN EXPLORER crew that meetings were being JOHN L. BOLAND (American (Alaska Engine Delegate Greg Alvarez, crew members that listing of Tanker Company), April 26— held at each port to inform mem- Steamship Company), May 16— Steward Delegate Fernando L. courses offered at the SIU-affiliat- Chairman Anthony J. Sabatini, bers, spouses and dependents Chairman Michael J. Keogh, Vega. Chairman announced payoff ed training center in Piney Point is Secretary John F. Huyett, Edu- about changes to costs of health Secretary Earl N. Hicks, May 6 in Jacksonville, Fla. He led available in Seafarers LOG each cational Director Winfred W. care benefits. No beefs or disputed Educational Director Martin L. discussion about changes made to month. New TV for lounge has Opare, Deck Delegate Michael E. OT reported. Treasurer stated more Hochstafl, Engine Delegate David been ordered and is to arrive in Moore, Engine Delegate Detricke than $200 available in ship’s fund, medical benefits and assured crew E. Werda. Chairman reported that any questions would be addressed Hong Kong. Suggestion made to R. Kelly, Steward Delegate David possibly for DVDs. Suggestion company safety director came change formula by which pension W. Vaughn. Chairman praised made to raise pension and lower by boarding patrolman. He also aboard ship recently to talk to suggested that z-cards should be benefits are established. Vote of crew for working safely during age required to retire. members. He asked that everyone thanks given to steward depart- renewed well before expiration be extra careful to avoid accidents. vessel start up and noted vessel ment for great food. Next port and MAERSK RHODE ISLAND date to ensure no disruption of Secretary reminded crew about operations went smoothly. He port of payoff: Ensenada, Mexico. reported on changes to health plan (Maersk Line Limited), April 1— sailing. Educational director importance of contributing to and informed crew that complete Chairman Stephen J. Argay, requested full explanation of SPAD and MDL. Educational USNS SISLER (Maersk Line list of medical providers is avail- Secretary Army J. Leake, changes to benefit plan to pass on director encouraged mariners to Limited), May 2—Chairman able on SIU website. Secretary Educational Director William to crew. Treasurer said contribu- check expiration dates on all ship- Eddie L. Thomas, Secretary thanked crew members for separat- Pough, Engine Delegate George tions are welcome to continue ping documents. Steward depart- Susan K. Bowman, Educational ing plastics from regular trash and R. Moxley, Steward Delegate satellite TV and radio. No beefs or ment thanked fellow crew mem- Director Timothy A. Chestnut, stated new receptacle now in place Craig S. Croft. Chairman reported disputed OT reported. Suggestion bers for helping keep galley and Deck Delegate Abdul R. Hasan, for recycling aluminum cans. that during shipyard period, mess made regarding member control messroom clean at night. No beefs Steward Delegate Efren Matias. areas will be locked after each Educational director advised over investments of Seafarers or disputed OT reported. Port Chairman thanked steward depart- meal and overnight. Educational mariners to watch expiration dates Money Purchase Pension Plan. agent’s report about passports was ment for job well done. Secretary on z-cards and other important director informed crew that sched- New dryer installed in crew laun- read and discussed, and Union ule for upgrading courses at Paul encouraged mariners to use mail documents, as renewing them dry. Seafarers were asked to keep Plus literature was distributed. order prescription forms to send takes time. No beefs or disputed Hall Center are in each issue of room clean and follow separation Crew members informed that Seafarers LOG. He urged them to for medications. Educational direc- OT reported. Suggestion made of trash policy aboard vessel. Vote water taxi service has been tor talked about upgrading at Paul regarding vacation pay. Questions check expiration dates on docu- of thanks given to Steward Vega arranged while in Detroit at G.L. ments needed for shipping. No Hall Center and importance of raised pertaining to disposition of and his department for great pig Steel. Discussion held on changes contributing to SPAD. No beefs or beefs or disputed OT reported. roast. Crew also recognized NMU annuity funds and starting a to medical plan. Next port: Toledo, disputed OT reported. Suggestion Suggestion made regarding age Apprentices Robert Noble and movie library. Next port: Long Ohio. made to set up schedule for video and seatime requirements needed Kenneth Thompson for their hard Beach, Calif. library; bosun offered to manage to receive full pension benefits. work. Next port: San Juan, P.R. METEOR (Maersk Line Limited), AMERICAN MARINER Vote of thanks given to steward May 9—Chairman Stephen Kas- it. Request made for soda (American Steamship Company), department for outstanding food INTEGRITY (Maersk Line tel, Secretary Peter J. Schmitt, machines. Next port and port of April 28—Chairman Albert J. and service. Next port: Gibraltar. Limited), May 13—Chairman Educational Director Christopher payoff: Beaumont, Texas. Brzezinski, Secretary Daniel J. Kane, Educational Director Mark WALTER J. McCARTHY JR. A. MacRury, Steward Delegate (American Steamship Company), SIU-Crewed Sealand Express Makes Final Voyage Daniel J. Kane. Chairman report- April 25—Chairman Michael L. ed all departments operating Schaff, Secretary Dariusz T. On Feb. 24, 2005, the smoothly and stressed the need for Czepczynski, Educational Sealand Express began its continuing to work well—and Director John F. Bonifas. last voyage as an SIU-con- safely—together. Educational Chairman reviewed matters dis- tracted vessel. One month director spoke about upgrading cussed at winter bosun’s meeting later, on March 25 in the opportunities available at Paul Hall in Algonac. He also talked about port of Genoa, Italy, the Center for Training and Education importance of safety at sea and ship was turned over to its in Piney Point, Md. He mentioned encouraged members to donate to new foreign crew, and the that when applying for vacation SPAD and MDL. Educational director encouraged crew members American crew members benefits, Seafarers should make flew home. sure they have both discharges and to check Seafarers LOG for infor- mation on classes available at Paul According to Recertified monthly pay records. No beefs or Steward Robert Davis, who disputed OT reported. Hall Center. No beefs or disputed The galley gang poses with Capt. OT reported. Deck delegate sent these photos to the LOG, Robert Lamb on a beautiful day AMERICAN SPIRIT (American reminded crew to keep shipping on the way to Genoa, the ship aboard ship in the Mediterranean. Steamship Company), April 29— credentials up to date. carried five Indian passengers From the left are Captain Lamb, Chairman Rudolph W. Tahtinen, who were to be replacement Chief Cook Connie Tarplin, Re- Secretary Nasser M. Aljalham, CAPE INTREPID (Crowley Liner certified Steward Robert Davis and Services), May 8—Chairman officers. They had nothing but Educational Director Craig praise for the entire galley gang SA Dominic Dumlao. Fitzhugh, Engine Delegate Michael Brewley, Secretary Recertified Steward Robert Christopher B. Amigable, and the quality of the food as Michael Kruse. Chairman Davis makes it look easy as well as the variety of items in reminded crew to follow union and Educational Director Phillip L. he whips up a condiment for Greenwell, Engine Delegate the upcoming meal. the salad bar. Capt. Robert company procedures when leaving Lamb and the rest and returning to ship. Secretary William E. Cassel, Steward reported company has resolved Delegate Emilia L. Woodin. of the crew gave security problems at Zug Island, Chairman announced payoff May special thanks to Mich. When going on vacation, 11 in Jacksonville and will then each steward de- crew members were reminded to head to Tacoma, Wash. Secretary partment member contact union within 72 hours and asked for everyone’s assistance in for a job well before returning to reclaim job. keeping ship clean. Educational done. Also, everyone should make sure director urged mariners to upgrade z-cards and all paperwork are skills at union-affiliated school in updated before returning to ship. Piney Point, Md. No beefs or dis- Left: Chief Cook puted OT reported. Crew members No beefs or disputed OT reported. Connie Tarplin Steward Assistant Dominic Discussion held on proper chan- requested new mattresses for prepares her deli- everyone, parts for coffee machine Dumlao pitches in and preps for nels to follow when problems arise cious fish fry. the noon meal: cheeseburgers. aboard ship. Next ports: Superior, and more information on pension July 2005 Seafarers LOG 19 28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/22/2005 3:35 PM Page 20

from the Trust in the future.... The Trustees expected the decline in census to accelerate Letter to the Editor when seamen had the opportunity Know Your Rights to receive help at home. This did, in fact, happen and plans were (Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG assets of the Trust and to provide made to sell the facility to another FINANCIAL REPORTS. The any official capacity in the SIU unless reserves the right to edit letters for expanded assistance to a larger operator who would contract with Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, an official union receipt is given for grammar as well as space provi- number of retired seamen in their the Trustees for the continued care Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters same. Under no circumstances should sions without changing the writer’s own homes and in facilities of seamen in residence and for District/NMU makes specific provi- any member pay any money for any intent. The LOG welcomes letters around the country. Plans for the those who desired to come in the sion for safeguarding the member- reason unless he is given such receipt. from members, pensioners, their sale have been widely discussed future. As these efforts initially ship’s money and union finances. The In the event anyone attempts to families and shipmates and will with the maritime public for sev- proved unsuccessful, the Trustees constitution requires a detailed audit require any such payment be made publish them on a timely basis.) eral years. Terms of the sale insure formed a wholly-owned sub- by certified public accountants every without supplying a receipt, or if a the continued care of current resi- sidiary corporation in 2001 to year, which is to be submitted to the member is required to make a pay- Sailors’ Snug Harbor dents and future seamen who wish allow the admittance of the paying membership by the secretary-treasur- ment and is given an official receipt, to retire at the Sea Level facility. Announces Sale of public. The number of seamen in er. A yearly finance committee of but feels that he or she should not ... In 1990, the Trustees under- rank-and-file members, elected by have been required to make such pay- Retirement Facility the 120-bed facility was down to took a comprehensive study of eli- 59 by that time. the membership, each year examines ment, this should immediately be In an effort to keep as many gible potential beneficiaries to After four years of operating the finances of the union and reports reported to union headquarters. seamen—retired and active—as determine why seamen were not fully their findings and recommenda- under the subsidiary corporation, CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS informed as possible, F. Patrick seeking admission and what addi- the census rose to over 100 with tions. Members of this committee Ausband, the executive director of tional ways could be developed to AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of approximately half of the resi- may make dissenting reports, specific The Sailors’ Snug Harbor in Sea provide help to a larger segment the SIU Constitution are available in dents being non-seafarers. The recommendations and separate find- Level, N.C., has requested that the of aging mariners....It was deter- all union halls. All members should integration of persons from differ- ings. following press release be shared mined that there were approxi- obtain copies of this constitution so ent backgrounds into the seamen’s with the SIU membership. mately 25,000 mariners eligible TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of as to familiarize themselves with its home proved to be smoother than The Trustees of The Sailors’ for admission at that time. Over the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and contents. Any time a member feels anticipated and beneficial in virtu- Inland Waters District/NMU are Snug Harbor have announced the two-thirds of that number were any other member or officer is ally all respects. administered in accordance with the sale of the retirement facility married and most were not at all attempting to deprive him or her of After two years of negotia- provisions of various trust fund located in Sea Level, N.C., which interested in leaving spouses any constitutional right or obligation they have owned and operated and/or families.... Of the remain- tions, the Trustees have sold the agreements. All these agreements retirement facility to a small specify that the trustees in charge of by any methods, such as dealing with since 1976. The transaction is part ing one-third, most had been mar- charges, trials, etc., as well as all of a strategy formulated in the ried and many had children or group of private investors.... these funds shall equally consist of Seamen will always be welcome union and management representa- other details, the member so affected early 1990s to better leverage the other family members residing in should immediately notify headquar- the area where they had elected to and will, in fact, have the highest tives and their alternates. All expendi- tures and disbursements of trust funds ters. retire. The information uncovered priority for admission. In other are made only upon approval by a Scholarship by Trustees revealed, however, words, should there ever be a EQUAL RIGHTS. All members majority of the trustees. All trust fund waiting list for admission, any are guaranteed equal rights in that there were still a number of financial records are available at the seamen with financial problems. seaman desiring admission will go employment and as members of the Winners to the top of the list. The new headquarters of the various trust After considerable study and dis- funds. SIU. These rights are clearly set forth Announced cussion, the Trustees elected to owners have also agreed to keep in the SIU Constitution and in the create a pilot project to provide staffing patterns at the same high SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s contracts which the union has negoti- rate they have been, thus ensuring Continued from page 7 stipendiary assistance—money shipping rights and seniority are pro- ated with the employers. Conse- high quality care. Even recreation- paid to service providers or ven- tected exclusively by contracts quently, no member may be discrimi- al events such as the weekly ing and tutoring at the elementary dors—on behalf of retired seamen between the union and the employers. nated against because of race, creed, happy hour have been covered in Members should get to know their school, helping a drug recovery to allow them to “age in place.” color, sex, national or geographic ori- the contractual agreement. The shipping rights. Copies of these con- center with a Christmas tree sale Because the Trustees are New gin. and assisting with Kids Vote York-based, the pilot project was Trustees, in turn, will continue to tracts are posted and available in all Hawaii during the elections. restricted to the New York City inspect the facility at Sea Level union halls. If members believe there If any member feels that he or she is Viernes has a passion for area. After a year of operation, the and assure that mariners are pro- have been violations of their shipping denied the equal rights to which he or graphic design and graphic com- Trustees were satisfied that the vided a beautiful retirement facili- or seniority rights as contained in the she is entitled, the member should approach was a sensible and solid ty and excellent medical and nurs- contracts between the union and the notify union headquarters. munications, but he will most ing care. employers, they should notify the likely pursue the field of electrical one.... Data revealed that the recipients were very pleased with It is the intent and desire of the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified SEAFARERS POLITICAL engineering which, he believes, the assistance they were receiving, new owners of the facility to mail, return receipt requested. The ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. will allow him to be involved with providing them a higher quality of actively market for mariner resi- proper address for this is: SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its the testing and creation of new life in retirement, and all stated dents while the Trust will contin- Augustin Tellez, Chairman technologies that will benefit peo- that the program approach was ue to offer outreach assistance for Seafarers Appeals Board objects and purposes including, but ple and make their lives easier. To quite “user friendly.” those in need of help but desire to 5201 Auth Way not limited to, furthering the political, that end, he has applied to the Armed with that information remain in their own homes.... Camp Springs, MD 20746 social and economic interests of mar- University of Washington, Uni- and enthused that the “portability” itime workers, the preservation and All those interested in obtain- Full copies of contracts as referred furthering of the American merchant versity of Hawaii and San Jose of the program could allow them to are available to members at all to continue helping retired seamen ing more information about the marine with improved employment State University. times, either by writing directly to the everywhere, the Trustees engaged Mariners Outreach Assistance opportunities for seamen and boat- The 18-year-old is the son of Program or admission to the res- union or to the Seafarers Appeals a law firm in New York to petition Board. men and the advancement of trade Nora and Leopoldo Viernes Jr., the Surrogate’s Court to change idential facility in Sea Level, N.C. union concepts. In connection with an SIU member since 1987 who the will to develop the Outreach may call 1-800-257-5456 or e- CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU such objects, SPAD supports and currently sails as an AB aboard Assistance program as the prima- mail: www.thesailorssnughar- contracts are available in all SIU contributes to political candidates for the Horizon Trader. ry way seamen would receive help bor.com. halls. These contracts specify the elective office. All contributions are wages and conditions under which an voluntary. No contribution may be SIU member works and lives aboard solicited or received because of force, a ship or boat. Members should know job discrimination, financial reprisal, Former Seafarer’s ‘Modern Stories’ their contract rights, as well as their or threat of such conduct, or as a con- obligations, such as filing for over- dition of membership in the union or time (OT) on the proper sheets and in of employment. If a contribution is the proper manner. If, at any time, a Offers Entertainment and Insights made by reason of the above improp- member believes that an SIU patrol- er conduct, the member should notify Capt. Kelly Sweeney, a former SIU member and The book includes photos and in a few different man or other union official fails to the Seafarers International Union or current master mariner, pulls no punches in his chapters briefly mentions the SIU and its affiliated protect their contractual rights prop- newly released book, “From the Bridge–Authentic Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and erly, he or she should contact the SPAD by certified mail within 30 Modern Sea Stories.” Education. nearest SIU port agent. days of the contribution for investiga- The 188-page paperback is packed with crisp Anews release from the book’s publisher tion and appropriate action and anecdotes, strong opinions and learned insights into (Philips Publishing Group) captured the volume’s EDITORIAL POLICY — THE refund, if involuntary. A member shipboard life in the U.S. Merchant Marine. It is a flavor with this line: “Captain SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers should support SPAD to protect and compilation of monthly columns written by Sweeney distills LOG traditionally has refrained from further his or her economic, political Sweeney for Pacific Maritime Magazine. the essence of a publishing any article serving the and social interests, and American Sweeney sailed with the SIU in the deck depart- mariner’s life for us political purposes of any individual in trade union concepts. ment from 1983-85. He credits the late SIU Vice in this compilation the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles NOTIFYING THE UNION—If at President George McCartney with helping him of stories.” any time a member feels that any of solidify his seafaring career (which continues “From the deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This estab- the above rights have been violated, today), and recalls that SIU Wilmington Port Agent Bridge–Authentic lished policy has been reaffirmed by or that he or she has been denied the John Cox was one of his first shipmates. Modern Sea Stories” membership action at the September constitutional right of access to union “The SIU gave me my start, and I’ll never forget sells for $15.95 (not 1960 meetings in all constitutional records or information, the member it,” Sweeney stated. “When I needed a break, the including shipping) ports. The responsibility for Sea- should immediately notify SIU SIU gave me that break and got me started. In my and may be ordered farers LOG policy is vested in an edi- President Michael Sacco at headquar- opinion, the SIU has only gotten better—more jobs, from Philips Publishing torial board which consists of the ters by certified mail, return receipt great school and on a forward-looking mission.” Group at (206) 284- executive board of the union. The requested. The address is: Sweeney is equally candid and not afraid to crit- 8285 or through their executive board may delegate, from icize in “From the Bridge.” He tackles a wide range web site among its ranks, one individual to Michael Sacco, President of subjects including crew sizes, the amended (www.pacmar.com). On carry out this responsibility. Seafarers International Union Captain Sweeney’s STCW convention, piracy, entry training, holidays the web site, a PDF-format 5201 Auth Way at sea, gender equality and much more. order form is available. book offers a firsthand PAYMENT OF MONIES. No look into life at sea. monies are to be paid to anyone in Camp Springs, MD 20746. 20 Seafarers LOG July 2005 28631_pgs7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:39 PM Page 21

SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER Engine Upgrading Courses UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Start Date of Course Date Completion The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through the end of this year. All pro- FOWT September 19 November 11 grams are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Welding August 22 September 9 Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the mem- September 19 October 7 bership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. October 24 November 11 Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before October 31 November 18 their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reserva- tions should be made for Saturday. Safety Specialty Courses Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at Start Date of the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Course Date Completion

Advanced Fire Fighting* July 18 July 29 Deck Upgrading Courses (*must have basic fire fighting) Start Date of Course Date Completion Government Vessels July 4 July 8 August 8 August 12 Able Seaman July 11 August 5 August 22 August 26 August 22 September 16 September 26 September 30 October 3 October 28 October 31 November 4 November 14 December 9 November 14 November 18

Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* August 22 August 26 Medical Care Provider August 1 August 5

(ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) October 24 October 28 Tankerman Familiarization/ August 1 August 11 Bridge Resource Management November 14 November 18 Assistant Cargo (DL)* September 26 October 7 (Unlimited) (*must have basic fire fighting)

Celestial Navigation July 18 August 11 Tankerman (PIC) Barge* October 17 October 21 (*must have basic fire fighting) GMDSS (Simulator) August 29 September 9 October 31 November 11 Academic Department Courses

Lifeboatman/Water Survival August 8 August 19 General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, one week September 19 September 30 prior to the AB, QMED Junior Engineer, FOWT, Third Mate, Tanker Assistant October 29 November 11 and Water Survival courses. An introduction to computers course will be self-study.

Radar August 8 August 17 October 10 October 19

Radar Renewal (1 day): August 29, October 31

Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning May 30, 2005.  With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty UPGRADING APPLICATION (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indi- cating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Name ______Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB, JE and Tanker Assistant (DL) applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money Address______order only, payable to LMSS. ______BEGIN END COURSE DATE DATE Telephone ______Date of Birth ______Deep Sea Member  Lakes Member  Inland Waters Member  ______If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be ______processed. ______Social Security # ______Book # ______Seniority ______Department ______U.S. Citizen: Yes  No  Home Port ______Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held ______LAST VESSEL: ______Rating: ______

______Date On: ______Date Off: ______Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program?  Yes  No SIGNATURE ______DATE ______If yes, class # ______NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses?  Yes  No present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any ques- If yes, course(s) taken ______tions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189.  Yes  No Firefighting:  Yes  No CPR:  Yes  No The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qual- ified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, Primary language spoken ______access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 7/05 July 2005 Seafarers LOG 21 28631_pgs7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:40 PM Page 22

Paul Hall Center Classes

Small Arms Training — Completing the small arms training course April 29 are Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 662 — Graduating from the unlicensed apprentices in Phase III of their program. They are (in alphabetical order) water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 662 (from left, front row) Fausto Aranda, Audania Bomar, Billie Munoz, Karberto Ramos, Edgar Reed, Timothy Robert James, Adrian Taylor, David Spaulding, David Maisonet, Christopher Doucet, Reiman, Anthony Roca, James Ruffin, Benny Samosan, William Sanchez, Gabriel Santa Blake Pullins, David Vandecar, Mario Moralita, (second row) Terry Lane, David and Jon Silveira. Their instructor, Robbie Springer, is at far left. Anderson, Justin Jarmolowicz, Scott Jones, Troy Sullivan, Patrick Guertin, David Bennett, Mark Fitzgerald, Robert Hardesty, (back row) Renaudo Pierce, Jack Gainers, Samuel Thatcher, Romeko Fly, Roger Dillinger, Willie Lewis, Oscar Pena, Dean Bettis and Geoffrey Hull.

Welding — Under the instruction of Buzzy Andrews (center, Chief Cook — Working their way up the culinary lad- back row) are students who completed the welding course April The three Seafarers completing the ARPA — der are graduates of the chief cooks class (in no specific 29. They are R.J. Rowland, Jordan Cuddy, Gary Ranne, Alshea ARPA course April 22 are (in alphabetical order) Ato order) Jaime Austria, Fatir Muhammad, Darlene Steede, Dixon, Kris Bechtel, Daniel Link, Daniel Borden and Edward Aikins, Shannon Smith and Michael Worthington. Gerald Joseph and Benjamin Ines. Fore. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Their instructor, Mike Smith, is at far left.

Specially Trained OS — With Stacey Harris (not pictured) as their instructor, the fol- lowing students completed the STOS course April 22. They are (in no specific order) Elliott Specially Trained OS — Receiving their certificates of completion April 22 from Del Aguila, Victor Nunez, Kenneth Johnson, Louis Kramm, Audania Bomar, Craig instructor Brad Wheeler (fourth from left) are (in no specific order) Anthony Roca, Jon Burmeister, Calvin Andrews Jr., Perry King, John Kelly, Steven Hurden, Steven Cedres, Silveira, Samuel Miller, Patrick Ryan, Karberto Romos, Timothy Littles, Nelson Smith, Norman Dize and Richard Green. Michael Rodriguez, Adam Ramey, Billie Munoz, Nigel Williams and James Ruffin.

Computer Lab Classes

On April 22, Robert Austin received his certificate of achievement for completing the Computer Basics course. With him is Instructor Rick Prucha.

Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations — April 22 was graduation day for students in the basic auxiliary plant operations class. They are (in no specific order) Tim Rieman, Robert Ott, Dean Parks, Stanley Smith, Richard Frederick, Leandro Cacho, Freddy DeCoteau, Michael Hill, Jonathan Singleton, Tim Johnson II, Brian Joyner, Brandon Granger, Ian Manthey, Ken Johnson, Garfield Persley Jr., Michael Warner and William Burdette.

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Paul Hall Center Classes

Water Survival — Alaska Fishermen, April 22: Tracy Hanson, William Sanborn, Robert Mobert, Dennis Parsons, Garry Smock, Oliver Fronteras, Nicolas Macaraeg Jr., Richard Pelkey, Christopher Demmert, Steve Cooper and Michael Moody.

Water Survival — NCL, April 29: Michael Maldonado, Rodrigo Santos, Andrew Sparks, Endra Hartanto, Jose Quinones, Karen Gillespie, Gina Forneris, Daniel Bryan, Claude Fowler Jr., Alexandra Stafford, Robert Dunlap, Tegnear Butler, James Gouveia Jr. and Shantell Thomas.

Basic Safety Training Classes

STCW— April 22: Jamal Sailan, Ross Waisanen, Timothy Brock, James Demouy, Christopher Edyvean and Tracy Hill. Their instructor, Tony Sevilla, is at far right.

STCW — NCL, April 22: Ofeibia Laud-Darku, Kenneth McDowell, Alexander Rust, Mitch Rosen, Valerie Lucidon, Michael Maldonado, Jamaica Robert, Troy Powell, Kelly McLaughlin, Geoffrey Pitts, Jose Quinones, Sean Langenberg, Cory McGeehon, Scott Moore, Larry O’Neal, Joshua Roberson, Joseph Romero, Mary Rivera, Allen Mallari, Brandon McCowan, Anthony Miller, Chen Lem and Ered Matthew.

STCW — NCL, April 22: Erin Adams, Gerard Alcantara, Christian Baca, Phillip Best, Carol Bingley, Kristen Blinkhorn, Vickie Boehmer, Eric Bolinger, Lory Bueno, Allison Carpenter, Andrew Case, Quinn Challinor, Elizabeth Chatham, Adam Clark, Jason Cole, STCW — NCL, April 22: Julio Sablan, Josue Sanchez, Ren Sanders-Mills, Howard Cook, Cordi Coward-Stringfellow, Fanny Defais, Robert Delao, Louvenia Tawana Santiago, Rodrigo Santos, Krishanna Scotland, D-An Smith, Hollie Denmark, Denis Doerfler, Nicholas Dolce, Lacee Doolin and Nicholas Duncan. Smith, Karima Smith, Andrew Sparks, Alexandra Stafford, Evan Stephenson, Carolyn Stone, Guadalupe Tapia, Shaaaaaaaaantell Thomas, Jonah Townsdin, Yvonne Turner, Cody Vick, Terrance Welte, Monique West, Chinatbu Williams, Noel Wong, Kristi Woodruff and Edwardo Zuniga.

STCW — NCL, April 22: Robert Dunlap, Robert Duvall, Alejandro Escobedo, Richard STCW — NCL, April 29: Seth Alechko, Kuang An, Lucretia Anders, Mark Fisher III, Gina Forneris, Jacquelyn Fortini, Claude Fowler Jr., Tiffany George, Anglemyer Jr., Samantha Baker, Michael Barnes, Phylicia Bell, Style Bell, Eliezer Christopher Giffen, Karen Gillespie, James Gouveia Jr., Robert Haden, Jennifer Hall, Berger, Robert Bia, James Brown, Aaron Campos, Michael Canning, Kathryn Peter Hamilton, Carl Higgins Jr., Peter Ibanez, Victor John, Shamean Johnson, Cardwell, Michael Ceraso, Betty Chambers, Cecilia Chan, Kimberly Chesnutt, Christopher Jolly, Debra Jones, Logan Keith, Andrew Kemp, Laura Kratz, Michelle Lane Janice Clemons, Nicole Calcagno and James Cowan. and Marshall Keyes Jr.

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Volume 67, Number 7 July 2005 A R t P D S F I a f t S D P P 1

FUNERAL OF LABOR LEADER: SIU Wilmington Port Agent John Cox (right) and Patrolman Andrew Linares join thousands of union members, labor and community activists and public officials at the funeral of Miguel Contreras, LCLAA Executive Board Member and Executive Secretary-Treasurer for Los Angeles County Federation of Labor. The labor leader died May 6.

JEAN ANNE: The SIU-crewed car carrier Jean Anne (above) entered service in the Jones Act trades between California and the Hawaiian islands last March. It is the first pure car and truck carrier to be built in the U.S. and the first such vessel to ser- vice this particular trade. The new vessel recently was in San Diego where these photos were taken. Above left is the100-ton stern ramp, painted on the outside with pictures of cars and trucks. At right, aboard the vessel, are (from the left) Electrician Allen Jones, SIU Patrolman Andrew Linares, Bosun Daniel Davenport and Steward Samuel Sinclair.

ALASKAN FRONTIER: Recertified Bosun Carlos Loureiro (above) checks out the latest copy of the Seafarers LOG during a recent stop in Wilmington, while (left) an AB attends to his work aboard the Seafarers-contracted vessel operated by Alaska Tanker Company for BP. At right are the ship’s chairman, Greg Lynch (left) and the steward delegate, Justo Reyes (right).

DEFENDER: The port of Los Angeles was the final payoff for the crew of the Defender before the ship was to be reflagged. Crew members (above and at right) completed their paperwork at the meeting, which was attended by Port Agent John Cox and Patrolman Andrew Linares. The ship is being replaced with a newer SIU-crewed vessel.

MARITIME DAY: A wreath was presented by the SIU at the annual Maritime Day ceremony and luncheon, hosted by the American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial Commmittee. The May 22 event took place at the San Pedro AMMV memorial. Standing with the wreath are Wilmington Port Agent John Cox (left) and dispatcher Nick Rios.