Port and maritime security measures high on Congressional agenda

Organized 1885Official Organ of the Sailors' Union of the PacificVolume LXIV No. 10 SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA Friday, October 19, 2001Coast Guard tightens rulesfor vessel arrivals in U.S.The U.S. Coast Guard has announcedthat effective October4, it will require a 96-hourAdvance Notice of Arrival, completewith detailed informationon crew, passengers <strong>and</strong> cargo,for any vessels arriving at U.S.ports. The new temporary ruleis in effect until June 15, 2002.The Arrival Notice must includea listing of all persons onboard (crew <strong>and</strong> passengers),with date of birth, nationality,<strong>and</strong> passport number (ormariner’s document number).For crew members, the positionor duties on the vessel must beincluded. The Notice must includethe vessel name, countryof registry, call sign, officialnumber, the registered owner ofthe vessel, the operator, thename of the classification society,a general description of thecargo, date of departure from lastport <strong>and</strong> that port’s name, thename <strong>and</strong> telephone number ofa 24-hour point of contact foreach U.S. port included in theNotice, <strong>and</strong> the location or po-C<strong>and</strong>idates declare forbiennial SUP electionSecond class postage paid at San Francisco, CA (USPS 675-180)sition of vessel when the Noticewas submitted. If the vessel iscertified under the ISM Code,the Notice must include the dateof issuance of the company’sDocument of Compliance, thedate of issuance of the VesselsSafety Management Certificate,<strong>and</strong> the name of the Flag Administrationor recognized organizationthat issued the documents.For vessels carrying certaindangerous cargoes, the Noticemust also include the name,amount <strong>and</strong> stowage location ofeach dangerous cargo carried<strong>and</strong> the operational condition ofequipment required by 33 CFRSec. 164.35. The definition ofcertain dangerous cargo has beenamended. It now means generallyany explosive materials, oxidizingmaterials, blasting agents,spontaneously combustibleproducts in excess of 60 metrictons per vessel, poison-inhalationhazard products in bulkSEE COAST GUARD RULEScontinued on page 3Fourteen Sailors’ Unionmembers have declaredtheir c<strong>and</strong>idacy for the upcomingbiennial election of Unionofficers by accepting the nominationsmade at the Septembercoastwise meetings.The Committee on Elections/C<strong>and</strong>idates met at Headquarterson October 15, to verify the eligibilityof those accepting thenomination <strong>and</strong> to select an ImpartialBalloting Agent to conductthe election as required by theSUP Constitution.All positions m<strong>and</strong>ated by theSUP Constitution, with the exceptionof the Branch Agent’sjobs at Seattle, Wilmington <strong>and</strong>Honolulu, are contested..The Committee’s report is onpage 5 <strong>and</strong> is subject to membershipapproval at the Novembercoastwise meetings.The secret mail balloting forSUP officers for the 2000-2002term <strong>and</strong> referenda on proposedConstitutional amendments<strong>and</strong> Shipping Rulechanges will begin on December1, 2001, <strong>and</strong> continuethrough January 31, 2002.<strong>Port</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>maritime</strong> <strong>security</strong> <strong>measures</strong><strong>high</strong> on Congressional agendaPending legislation includes criminal backgroundchecks for “<strong>security</strong>-sensitive” <strong>maritime</strong> workersIn the aftermath of the eventsof September 11, Congress isbeginning the legislative processto increase <strong>security</strong> in the nation’sports <strong>and</strong> <strong>maritime</strong> borders.The <strong>Port</strong> <strong>and</strong> Maritime SecurityAct of 2001 (S.1214) introducedby Senator ErnestHollings (D-SC), Chairman ofthe Commerce, Science <strong>and</strong>Transportation Committee <strong>and</strong>Senator Bob Graham (D-FL)would direct the Secretary ofTransportation to establish a<strong>Port</strong> Security Task Force tohelp coordinate programs toenhance the <strong>security</strong> <strong>and</strong> safetyof U.S. seaports against crime<strong>and</strong> terrorism.As the West Coast Sailorswent to press, it obtained aworking draft of the legislationdated October 11. Containedin the draft are provisionsthat could directly affectAmerican mariners. Thebill contains provisions for acriminal background check,going back ten years, forthose employed in “<strong>security</strong>sensitive”jobs before an individualis hired. If an individualhas been convicted ofthe following, he/she is noteligible for “<strong>security</strong>-sensitive”employment: murder,assault with intent to murder,espionage, sedition, treason,rape, kidnapping, unlawfulpossession, sale, distributionor manufacturer of an explosiveor weapon, extortion,armed or felony unarmedrobbery, distribution of, orintent to distribute a controlledsubstance; a felonyinvolving a threat; a felonyinvolving willful destructionof property, importation ofmanufacturing a controlledsubstance; burglary, theft,dishonesty fraud or misrepresentation,possession ordistribution of stolen property,aggravated assault,bribery, illegal possession ofa controlled substance punishableby a maximum termof the imprisonment of morethan one year or any othercrime the Secretary of Transportationdetermines indicatesa propensity for placingcontrab<strong>and</strong> aboard a vesselin return for money.These provision were not inthe bill when it was first introducedin July of this year.“Covered employers” in thisprovision of the bill are definedas ocean carrier, foreign oceancarrier, port authority, marineterminal operator, or oceanshipping intermediary. Theterm also includes any otheremployer engaged in a businessthat directly affects port<strong>and</strong> <strong>maritime</strong> <strong>security</strong> specifiedby the Secretary of Transportation.SUP President GunnarLundeberg said, “The Unionwill seek further clarificationon this matter.”Other provisions of the bill directsthe Comm<strong>and</strong>ant of theCoast Guard to develop stan-See Security Billcontinued on page 4Senate hearings on <strong>security</strong>In a hearing on October 11,before the Senate Committee onCommerce, Science <strong>and</strong>Transportation’s Subcommitteeon Oceans, Atmosphere <strong>and</strong> Fisheries,Admiral James Loy, Comm<strong>and</strong>antof the U.S. Coast Guardbriefed senators on its MaritimeHomel<strong>and</strong> Security strategy.Those key elements are:• Develop effective awareness ofall activities that can effect the<strong>maritime</strong> <strong>security</strong> of theUnited States <strong>and</strong> its citizens;• Integrate activities of multipleagencies into a single unified<strong>maritime</strong> effort through interagencycomm<strong>and</strong> centers <strong>and</strong>coordination procedures;• Ensure agile <strong>and</strong> scalable <strong>security</strong><strong>measures</strong> for personnel,vessel, facility, <strong>and</strong> cargo;• Employ interoperable, multiagencyforces consistent withtheir core competencies toconduct coordinated <strong>maritime</strong><strong>security</strong> operations;• Conduct layered <strong>maritime</strong> <strong>security</strong>operations with the aimof extending the borders, deterring,disrupting, <strong>and</strong> interceptingthreats across the<strong>maritime</strong> domain; <strong>and</strong>• Leverage international cooperation<strong>and</strong> participation toshare intelligence <strong>and</strong> conduct<strong>maritime</strong> <strong>security</strong> activities tothe benefit of all.In questioning by SubcommitteeChairman John Kerry (D-MA), Admiral Loy stated that ofthe 351 U.S. seaports, approximately50 are more sensitive tothe need for heightened <strong>security</strong>.Without specifically naming theports in questions, Loy said theyinclude oil <strong>and</strong> liquefied naturalgas terminals, nuclear powerplants, Navy bases or have a <strong>high</strong>concentration of people such ascruise ships.Loy said there was a need forthe development of the conceptof Maritime Domain Awarenessin cooperation with members ofthe National Security Council.When Senator Kerry asked theAdmiral to explain the concept,Loy responded by noting thatsuch a domain would not stop atthe 3, 12, or even 24-mile offshoremarkers. “I would want toknow where a vessel is going todepart from <strong>and</strong> when comingto the United States.” He alsourged Congress to grant theCoast Guard improved access tocrew lists for inbound vessels<strong>and</strong> to data on criminals <strong>and</strong>potential terrorists compiled bythe Immigration <strong>and</strong> NaturalizationService, the State Department<strong>and</strong> the Customs Service.In this regard, Loy told thepanel, “I want to know if thethird mate has a drug record.”Admiral Loy said the CoastGuard is seeking detailed informationon the vessel itself <strong>and</strong>her cargo. “I want to see themanifest,” he asserted.SUP Training Schedule - Page 4 Committee On Election Report - Page 5 ESU News - Page 6

Page 2 WEST COAST SAILORS Friday, October 19, 2001Organizaanization/General FundNeil Burkhardt ................ 30.00Erik Finnerman ............... 50.00Gunnar Lundeberg ........... 50.00Leo Moore ...................... 20.00Chester Sherry ................... 5.00David Sylstra ................... 20.00West CoastSailorsRobert Arnall .................. 10.00John Ban ........................ 20.00George Cooney ................ 25.00James Fern<strong>and</strong>es .............. 25.00Anthony Figueroa ............. 30.00Erik Finnerman ............... 50.00Philip Howell ................... 25.00Knud Jensen ................... 20.00Stanley Lane .................... 20.00Woodrow Leiter................ 25.00George Lua ..................... 20.00Juan Magana................... 10.00Thomas Mariner .............. 25.00Ramiro Montoya .............. 20.00Robert Morgan ................ 20.00Jerry Napier in memoryof “Skinny Winnie” ....... 100.00George Pope .................... 20.00Frank <strong>Port</strong>anier ............... 10.00Chester Sherry ................. 20.00Tim Thomas .................... 10.00Grant Thorne .................. 20.00Richard Walsh ................. 10.00Richard Wilson ................ 25.00SUP Honor RollVoluntary contributions from the membership to the following funds:Political FundMartin Birdsell ................ 25.00Gene Castano .................. 15.00Dave Connolly ................. 25.00Kenvin Conroy ................... 5.00Robert Copel<strong>and</strong> .............. 20.00Linda Cramp ................... 20.00Mike Duvall .................... 20.00M. ElMobdy Jr. ............... 20.00John F. Kelly ................... 70.00Steve Foster ..................... 25.00Dan Gabaree ................... 50.00Joe Ginez ........................ 20.00Marvin Glasgow ............... 95.00Mike Henneberry, in memoryof Red Henneberry ........ 80.00Reuben Ingram ................ 50.00Jan Johnsson ................... 20.00Brian LePrevost ............... 20.00Paul Limback .................. 30.00Larry Loe ....................... 10.00Gunnar Lundeberg ........... 25.00Mike McLavy .................. 50.00Jerry Napier in memoryof Skinny Winnie ......... 100.00Ted Ochoa ...................... 10.00David Pangan .................. 20.00John Peterson .................. 10.00Edward Phillips ................ 20.00Ray Pinachi ..................... 20.00Ray Ramirez .................... 50.00Richard Reed................... 20.00R<strong>and</strong>y Runyan ................. 70.00Greg Schauff ................... 20.00Chester Sherry ................... 5.00Douglas Taylor ................. 20.00Grant Thorne .................. 20.00Louie Urbano .................... 5.00Robert V<strong>and</strong>ermey .............. 5.00Colin Walker ................... 10.00Richard Wilson ................ 25.00John Winterling .............. 100.00Wall of Honor(San Pedro MerchantMarine Memorial)Gene Castano .................. 10.00Richard Cummings .......... 140.00James Cunningham ........... 50.00Jim Cunningham, in memoryof Admo diAmbrosio....... 50.00Reuben Ingram ................ 50.00James Minster ................. 20.00Dues-PayingPensionersArchie Aki Book #3791John Battles Book #5512Roy R. Camerio Book #4577Richard Cummings Book #4666Knud Jensen Book #3940John Jewett Book #4291Tony Jones Book #4305Alfred Kerns Book #3167Kaj E. Kristensen Book #3120Gunnar Larsen Book #3516Peter Paul Liptay Book #3725Joseph Napier Book #2299Frank Parks Book #3798John Perez Book #3810Charles Rafael Book #3141Ralph Senter Book #7323Kai Sorensen Book #7479William Tice Book #3239Charles H. Wall Book #3420FinalDeparturesLewis J. Hazzard, Book No. 5762.Born in Hawaii in 1926. Joined SUP in1954. Died in San Le<strong>and</strong>ro, California,August 22, 2001. (Pensioner)William J. Cope, Book No. 3983.Born in Arizona in 1921. Joined SUP in1943. Died in California, September 8,2001. (Pensioner)Joseph Dudley Harris, Book No.5780. Born in Idaho in 1926. Joined SUPin 1952. Died in Idaho, September 7,2001. (Pensioner)Edward P. Schlechter, Book No. 7024.Born in Oregon 1928. Joined SUP in1947. Died in Salem, Oregon, September13, 2001. (Pensioner)Richard F. Young, Book No. 1967.Born in California in 1924. Joined SUPin 1944. Died in California, September18, 2001. (Pensioner)Bobby Jean Southard, Book No.7454. Born in Missouri in 1940. JoinedSUP in 1959. Died in Torrence, California,September 18, 2001. (Pensioner)SUP MeetingsThese are the dates for the regularlyscheduled SUP meetings in 2001:Hdqs. BranchNovember 13* 19December 10 17*TuesdaySUP Halls close forholidays in NovemberAll SUP Halls will be closed Monday,November 12, in observance of Veterans’Day <strong>and</strong> Thursday, November 22,for Thanksgiving; both contract holidays.TO ALL MEMBERSMake sure your currentaddress is on file atHeadquarters.

Friday, October 19, 2001 WEST COAST SAILORS Page 3Economic impact of attacks growsnationwide: aviation workers hit hardThe economic impact of September 11 is growing, with announced layoffs nationwideclimbing to now more than 413,000.In New York City, alone, an estimated 108,500 jobs will have been lost within amonth of the September 11 terrorist attacks, according to the Fiscal Policy Institute.Nationwide, announced layoffs include 134,587 in the transportation sector, 119,700in services, hospitality <strong>and</strong> tourism <strong>and</strong> 142,924 in manufacturing <strong>and</strong> aerospace.In an effort to aid the tens of thous<strong>and</strong>s of pilots, flight attendants, cleaners,<strong>security</strong> guards, baggage h<strong>and</strong>lers, caterers, <strong>and</strong> mechanics who face the financialcrisis of unemployment, lost pensions <strong>and</strong> lost health care for themselves, theirspouses <strong>and</strong> their children, was stymied in Congress this month.While Congress appropriated $15 billion to bail-out the airline industry, there wasno relief for American workers.On October 11, relief legislation introduced by Senator Jean Carnahan (D-MO)was blocked by a filibuster by 44 Republicans.In response to the Senate vote, AFL-CIO President John Sweeney stated:“And so it is especially shameful that the White House, which lobbied furiouslyagainst relief, <strong>and</strong> 44 Republican United States Senators would undermine majoritysupport <strong>and</strong> turn our nation’s back on aviation workers whose jobs <strong>and</strong> livelihoodswere directly destroyed by the attacks.These workers should not be asked to bear the burden of the attacks. As a nation,we are dealing, rightfully, with public health <strong>and</strong> airline safety. We are blockadingthe Capitol to protect Congress. We defended the airline companies with an extraordinarilyswift $15 billion bailout action. How can we justify failing to defend theliving victims of this attack?The situation is urgent. Since September 11, layoffs of more than 140,000 aviationworkers have been announced. And while Congress stalls, nearly 80,000 of thoseworkers are already out of work – suddenly forced to confront a very differenteconomic future, one with mortgage payments but no jobs, one with little or nohealth care for themselves <strong>and</strong> their families.Some have suggested that relief for these workers should wait to be included in anoverall economic stimulus package that may be enacted next month – even though abipartisan agreement around such a package is looking less, not more, likely.And even if the President’s plan is enacted as proposed, it will be wholly inadequateto meet the needs of aviation workers. Despite rhetoric to the contrary, thePresident’s plan calls for spending virtually no new money on benefits for unemployedworkers <strong>and</strong> their families. It provides limited emergency unemploymentbenefits for workers in a limited number of states. It contemplates providing healthcare coverage to unemployed adults through two programs that are not adequate tothe task, <strong>and</strong> at the expense of denying coverage to poor children. On the otherh<strong>and</strong>, the President’s program will lavish rich new tax breaks on corporations <strong>and</strong>speed up tax cuts for individuals. Altogether, the President’s tax cut proposals willcost nine times as much as proposed spending on workers <strong>and</strong> their families.Aviation workers can’t wait for a response from Congress next month or next year.They need an affirmative response to their personal crises right now. Anything lessis certain affirmation of the intent to serve the working men <strong>and</strong> women who are thebackbone of our country last <strong>and</strong> least at the table of economic recovery.”Economic Stimulus: AFL-CIO PlanIn the wake of the September 11 attacks, the nation’s economy needs a stimulusplan that will work for all Americans, not just a few. The AFL-CIO is proposing astimulus package that provides significant federal help for working families hurt bythe crisis through better unemployment benefits covering more unemployed workers;federal financial assistance to maintain health coverage; access to job training<strong>and</strong> retraining; a raise in the minimum wage; <strong>and</strong> tax rebates for low- <strong>and</strong> moderateincomefamilies. The plan also calls for a needed boost in spending to aid strugglingstate <strong>and</strong> local governments <strong>and</strong> to invest in rebuilding the nation’s roads, bridges<strong>and</strong> schools <strong>and</strong> in meeting domestic <strong>security</strong> needs. The union movement’s planrepresents a fairer alternative to President George W. Bush’s plan to stimulate theeconomy. The Bush administration responded to pressure from far right Republicanmembers of Congress by offering far more in tax breaks to the wealthy <strong>and</strong> corporationsthan assistance to working families who need help the most. A new AFL-CIOstudy of Bush’s plan shows it offers four times more in tax cut benefits—mostly forcorporations <strong>and</strong> the wealthy—than real help to workers <strong>and</strong> their families. It takes$11 billion from the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (S-CHIP) designedto provide health coverage for poor children. For the full AFL-CIO analysis, includinga look at the tax cut portion of Bush’s plan, visit www.aflcio.org/news/2001/1011_bushoutline.htm.Bush announces pick forMaritime AdministratorPresident Bush on September 21, announced his intention to nominate CaptainWilliam G. Schubert to be the next Administrator of the Maritime Administration.After graduating from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, Captain Schubertsailed with Reynolds Metals Company from 1974 to 1984 then worked as Master<strong>and</strong> United Kingdom Installation Manager at three offshore drilling platforms.In 1986, Schubert began a ten-year tour at MarAd, first as Special Advisor to theAdministrator. From 1990 through 1995, he served as MarAd’s Regional Representativefor the Southwestern United States in Houston, Texas. By the time he departedMarAd, Schubert had accumulated over a decade of experience at the agency hest<strong>and</strong>s poised to lead.Schubert is currently president of International Trade <strong>and</strong> Transportation, Inc., amarine consulting firm in Pinehurst, Texas.MarAd advisory to shipping issuedOn September 21, the Maritime Administration issued the following advisory tooperators of U.S.-flag <strong>and</strong> effective U.S.-controlled vessels <strong>and</strong> other <strong>maritime</strong> interests.:The threat to <strong>maritime</strong> vessels is likely to increase as various extremist groupsanticipate U.S. retaliation for the September 11 attacks. This includes the entirespectrum of threats —from civil unrest/demonstrations that may not be able to becontained by port <strong>security</strong>, especially in ports of countries with sizeable radicalIslamic communities, to attacks similar to what the <strong>maritime</strong> community saw withthe USS Cole last year. While we have no specific threat information against U.S.commercial shipping, ships are urged to review their <strong>security</strong> procedures <strong>and</strong> discusswith local port authorities what <strong>security</strong> <strong>measures</strong> are in place to protect shipsat anchor or pierside from surface threats, threats from l<strong>and</strong>, or underwater threats.Cruise ships <strong>and</strong> U.S. merchant vessels should be on a heightened state of alert,<strong>and</strong> should closely monitor the national imagery <strong>and</strong> mapping agency’s (NIMA)broadcast warnings.Commencing immediately all U.S.-flag ships required by regulation to file AMVERposition reports <strong>and</strong> operating in the North Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, PersianGulf, Gulf of Aden, Red Sea <strong>and</strong> the Suez Canal shall file AMVER reports every 24hours vice every 48 hours.This increase in position reporting is a precautionary measure due to the currentsituation. The change is directed by the <strong>maritime</strong> administrator in accordance with 46CFR Part 307.11. This is not to be construed as a war zone declaration. All U.S.-flag operators with ships in the affected areas are requested to forward this advisory totheir ships by the most expedient means. This advisory will subsequently be publishedin the weekly notice to mariners <strong>and</strong> MarAd worldwide web site.Protection zones for U.S.naval vessels establishedThe U.S. Coast Guard has establishedProtection Zones for a distance of 500 yardsaround all U.S. naval vessels in navigablewaters of the Untied States. Vessels are toproceed at a “no-wake” speed when withina Protection Zone. Non-military vessels arenot allowed to enter within 100 yards of aU.S. naval vessel, whether underway ormoored, unless authorized by an officialCOAST GUARD RULESContinued from Page 1patrol. The patrol may be either USCG orUSN. A U.S. naval vessel is any vesselowned, operated, chartered, or leased bythe U.S. Navy <strong>and</strong> any vessel under theoperational control of the U.S. Navy or aUnified Comm<strong>and</strong>er. These protectionzones will remain in effect through June15, 2002 <strong>and</strong> are subject to change withoutprior notice.Hawaiian Isl<strong>and</strong>s subject to <strong>security</strong> zonesThe Coast Guard is establishing <strong>security</strong>zones in designated waters adjacentto the isl<strong>and</strong>s of Oahu, Maui, Hawaii,<strong>and</strong> Kauai, Hawaii, for a period of sixmonths.These <strong>security</strong> zones are necessaryto protect personnel vessels, <strong>and</strong>facilities from acts of sabotage or othersubversive acts, accidents, or other causesof a similar nature during operations <strong>and</strong>will extend from the surface of the waterto the ocean floor. The activation <strong>and</strong>deactivation of these six-month <strong>security</strong>zones will be announced by BroadcastNotice to Mariners as required. Whenthe zones are activated, entry into thesezones is prohibited unless authorized bythe U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the <strong>Port</strong>Honolulu, Hawaii.Son of former MEBA president killed in WTC attackStephen Ward, the 33-year-old son of former MEBA President Gordon Ward, waskilled in the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center on September 11. SinceAugust, Ward had been working for Cantor Fitzgerald on the 101st floor of theNorth Tower.packaging, <strong>high</strong>way route controlled quantity radioactive material, controlledshipments of fissile material, bulk cargoes listed in either Table 1 of 46 CFRPart 153 or Table 4 of 46 CFR 154, butylene oxide in bulk, chlorine in bulk,or elemental phosphorous in bulk. The exact definition of ‘certain dangerouscargo’ is contained in the regulation.The Notice must be submitted at least 96 hours before arrival at the firstU.S. port. For vessels on voyages of less than 96 hours, the Notice must besubmitted prior to departure from the last foreign port but not less than 24hours before arrival. Changes are to be submitted as soon as practicable butno less than 24 hours before arrival. Changes to the arrival or departure timeof less than six hours need not be reported.Advance Notices of Departure are required vessels departing ports or placesin the United States that are carrying ‘certain dangerous cargo.’ The DepartureNotice required is basically the same as the Arrival Notice required fromsuch vessels, with obvious changes to reflect the port <strong>and</strong> time of departure<strong>and</strong> the port <strong>and</strong> estimated time of arrival for the destination.In addition, beginning October 15, ships reporting under the new rules willsend the required information to the Coast Guard’s new National Vessel MovementCenter. A Coast Guard spokesman said that reports to the Center willstreamline the notification process <strong>and</strong> the longer notice will allow the CoastGuard <strong>and</strong> other U.S. law enforcement agencies more time to review theinformation <strong>and</strong> plan for ship arrival.

Page 4 WEST COAST SAILORS Friday, October 19, 2001Last Name:Address:First Name:City: State: Zip:Email Address:SSN:Sailors’ Union of the Pacific/Training Resources LtdSchedule of Course Offerings for 2001Active Member oSTCW 95 Basic TrainingThis course is m<strong>and</strong>atory under international law for those planning to continuegoing to sea after February 1, 2002• Basic Fire Fighting• Personal SurvivalOct. 22-26Oct. 29-Nov. 2Nov. 5-9Nov. 12-16Nov. 26-30Dec. 3-7• Basic First Aid• Personal Safety <strong>and</strong> Social ResponsibilityLMSR Vessel Training (MSC approved)Oct. 23-Nov. 2 Nov. 27-Dec. 7Nov. 5-7Oct. 29-Nov. 1Nov. 12-15Small Arms Training (MSC approved)Survival Craft (Lifeboatman)Nov. 26-29Dec. 10-13Training Information <strong>and</strong> EnrollmentContactsRich Reed, SUP Welfare Plan RepSUP Welfare Plan450 Harrison StreetSan Francisco, CA 94105Tel: (415) 778-5490Fax: (415) 778-5494E-mail: supwelfarerep@hotmail.comDec. 10-14Dec. 17-21Jan. 7-11Jan. 8-18Dec. 10-12 Jan. 22-24Dec. 17-20Jan. 7-10Jan. 14-17ATTENTION ALL MEMBERSIn a effort to update our records, please complete the form below <strong>and</strong> return it to:EditorSailors’ Union of the Pacific450 Harrison St.San Francisco CA 94105You may also e-mail your address to: editor_wcs@msn.comPensioner oJan 22-26Jan 28.-Feb. 1Jan. 22-25Jan. 28-31Dave Connolly, SUP Vice Presidentc/o Andrew Furuseth School of Seamanship450 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105Tel: (415) 777-3400Fax: (415) 777-5088E-mail: daveconnolly@msn.comIMPORTANT!Get your STCW ’95NO TRAINING, NO JOBAFTER FEB. 1, 2002Welfare NotesOctober 2001Active membersSince January 2000, members who reside outside of areas covered byone of the available HMOs have been able to sign up for Healthnet FlexNet.The premium cost of providing coverage through the FlexNet programwas scheduled to almost double on October 1, 2001. After evaluating theoptions available, the Welfare Plan elected to change those covered withFlexNet to HealthNet’s PPO (preferred provider organization) plan. Thischange was effective on October 1, 2001. Those participants who areinvolved with this new plan should have already received a letter from theWelfare office explaining this new enrollment. You should be receivingnew identification cards, benefit summaries <strong>and</strong> PPO provider directoriesfor your area from HealthNet. You will not be required to complete newenrollment cards <strong>and</strong> there was no lapse in your coverage. If you have anyquestions, please feel free to contact the Welfare Plan, or you may contactHealthNet directly at member services at 1-800-522-0088PensionersAs winter approaches it is time for annual flu shots. Last winter resultedin severe shortages with the influenza (flu) vaccine delayed becausethe manufactures could not process it fast enough to meet the dem<strong>and</strong>.The U.S. Centers for Disease Control <strong>and</strong> Prevention (CDC) indicate thatthis winter that there will also be a delay in delivering the vaccines. If youhave not done so, you should call your doctor or health provider now <strong>and</strong>make arrangements to get immunized. Those that are <strong>high</strong> risks shouldget immunized as soon as possible. Kaiser Foundation defines <strong>high</strong> risksas those aged 65 or older <strong>and</strong> adults with a chronic disease such as diabetes,heart or lung disease, cancer, or alcoholism. Even if you are not at<strong>high</strong> risk, you should plan to get your flu shot. It is not too late to get yourshot during flu season.SUP Welfare Plan450 Harrison Street, San Francisco CA 94105Telephone Numbers:Main........................................................ (415) 778-5490Eligibility active members/dependents ............... (415) 778-5491SUP Money Purchase Plan, SUP 401(k) Plan,Pensioner Medical Benefits............................. (415) 778-5493Toll Free Number ....................................... (800) 796-8003Security Bill . . . continued from page 1dards <strong>and</strong> procedures for conducting seaportvulnerability assessments <strong>and</strong> directsthe Comm<strong>and</strong>ant <strong>and</strong> the Maritime Administrationto jointly initiate arulemaking proceeding to prescribe regulationsto protect the public from threatsof crime or terrorism originating fromvessels in <strong>maritime</strong> transportation originatingor terminating in a U.S. port.The bill provides for the establishmentof local port <strong>security</strong> committees at eachU.S. seaport that includes state <strong>and</strong> localgovernment officials <strong>and</strong> <strong>maritime</strong> industry<strong>and</strong> labor representatives. It requireseach port authority <strong>and</strong> marine terminalauthority for which a port <strong>security</strong> vulnerabilityhas been done to establish,subject to the approval of the Captain ofthe <strong>Port</strong>, a Maritime Security Program.The bill further would establish a trainingprogram to certify <strong>and</strong> train public<strong>and</strong> private sector seaport <strong>security</strong> personnel,develop seaport <strong>security</strong> st<strong>and</strong>ardsthat will serve as a benchmark forthe review of port <strong>security</strong> plans <strong>and</strong> developnew port <strong>security</strong> technologies tohelp screen cargoes that enter U.S. ports.S.1214 would amend the Merchant Ma-rine Act of 1936 to authorize the Secretaryof Transportation to make loan guarantees<strong>and</strong> provide grants for seaport <strong>security</strong>infrastructure improvements for eligibleU.S. seaports.In addition to Hollings <strong>and</strong> Graham,S.1214 is cosponsored by Senator JohnBreaux (D-LA), Richard Durbin (D-IL),John Kerry (D-MA), Zeil Miller (D-GA),Bill Nelson (R-FL), Paul Sarbanes (D-PA) <strong>and</strong> Ron Wyden (D-OR).On October 3, Representative CorrineBrown (R-FL) introduced identical legislation(H.R. 3013) in the House. In aletter to her colleagues urging support ofthe measure, Representative Brownstated, “We have all learned about thevulnerabilities of our airports to terrorism.It is time to ensure that our seaportsare also secure. Each day, thous<strong>and</strong>s ofcontainers move through our nation’sports, along with millions of gallons ofhazardous materials. As SecretaryRumsfeld said recently, the next attackcould come on a ship. It is time to secureour seaport borders while ensuring thatthe needs of commerce are met.” Brown’sbill has been referred to the House ArmedService’s Committee.Officer shortage threatens Italy’s merchant fleet’s futurePaolo Clerici, president of the Italian shipowners’ association, Confitarma, hasexpressed concern that an officer shortage could jeopardize the future of the Italianmerchant fleet. “We predict a continuous shortfall of 2,500 Italian officers until2005,” he said. One of the reasons, he cited for the shortage, was the lack of appealof seagoing jobs compared to those ashore. It presented a threat to the fleet becausealthough the county’s international register frees owners to hire foreign seamen, itobliges them to employ Italian officers only.

Friday, October 19, 2001 WEST COAST SAILORS Page 5U.S. cruiseship billintroduced in the HouseRepresentatives Neil Abercrombie (D-HI) <strong>and</strong> Wayne Gilchrest (R-MD) last monthintroduced legislation in the House that would kick-start the American domesticcruiseship industry.The United States Cruise Vessel Act (H.R. 2901) is identical to S.127 which wasplaced in the legislative hopper last May by Senator John McCain (R-AZ). S.127was reported out of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science <strong>and</strong> Transportationon July 27 <strong>and</strong> is awaiting full Senate action.On October 4, the following letter was sent to all members of the House of Representativesurging support of H.R. 2901:Dear Representative:On behalf of our coalition of <strong>maritime</strong>,port, <strong>and</strong> travel <strong>and</strong> tourism organizations,we are writing to express our strongsupport for H.R. 2901, the United StatesCruise Vessel Act introduced by CongressmenNeil Abercrombie <strong>and</strong> WayneGilchrest, <strong>and</strong> to ask that you cosponsorthis critically important <strong>maritime</strong> <strong>and</strong>tourism policy initiative.We support H.R. 2901 because it willput Americans to work in a variety ofstrategically important industries - at -nocost to the United States government. Thesize of our nation’s commercial merchantmarine will be increased through thereflagging of large, modern cruise vesselsunder the United States-flag, <strong>and</strong>these vessels will create significant newemployment opportunities for Americanmerchant mariners, attracting <strong>and</strong> retainingthe manpower needed by the Departmentof Defense in time of war or otherinternational emergency.Equally important, the provisions in H.R.2901 will help ensure that America’s mobilizationbase of ship construction <strong>and</strong>repair facilities <strong>and</strong> their workers will bekept active through the modernization,maintenance <strong>and</strong> construction of cruise vessels.We believe that it is essential especiallyin this uncertain <strong>and</strong> dangerous timefor our nation that all components ofAmerica’s <strong>maritime</strong> industry, our nation’sfourth arm of defense, be given the opportunityto exp<strong>and</strong> their activities.Finally, this legislation will give Americancompanies <strong>and</strong> American workers thefirst realistic opportunity to acquire, operate<strong>and</strong> build large, modern cruise vesselsfor operation outside Hawaii. ThisPublished monthly by the Sailors Union ofthe Pacific (an affiliate of the Seafarers InternationalUnion of North America, AFL-CIO),Headquarters, 450 Harrison St., San Francisco,CA 94105. Phone: 415-777-3400.FAX: 415-777-5088. Dispatcher: 415-777-3616. Website: www.sailors.org. Secondclass postage paid at San Francisco. (USPS675-180). Printed by Howard Quinn Co., aUnion shop.Gunnar Lundeberg,President/Secretary-TreasurerTeresa Anibale, EditorBRANCH OFFICESSeattle, WA 981341253 Sixth Ave S, Ste A (206) 467-7944FAX: (206) 467-8119Wilmington, CA 90744533 N. Marine Ave. (310) 835-6617FAX: (310) 835-9367Honolulu, HI 96813707 Alakea St. (808) 533-2777FAX: (808) 531-3058Norfolk, VA 235081058 West 39th Street (757) 489-3865FAX: (757) 489-3785will, in turn, give many American ports<strong>and</strong> port regions on all coasts a new opportunityto compete for, attract <strong>and</strong> benefitfrom cruise vessel activity. By movingquickly to enact H.R. 2901, Congresscan create an important stimulusfor the travel <strong>and</strong> hospitality industriesthroughout the country, as American vacation<strong>and</strong> business travelers are givennew, heretofore unavailable cruise optionson United States-flag vessels travelingexclusively between American ports.H.R. 2901 is modeled after the socalledHawaii Pilot Project legislation enactedby Congress in 1997. As such, theAmerican people are guaranteed that thecruise vessels reflagged under R.R. 2901will operate in compliance with UnitedStates safety, labor, environmental, <strong>and</strong>other laws <strong>and</strong> regulations, <strong>and</strong> that taxrevenues will be generated for the Federalgovernment <strong>and</strong> state <strong>and</strong> local taxingauthorities. Like the Hawaii statute,H.R. 2901 further ensures that the criticallyimportant principles embodied inour nation’s domestic shipping statutesthat we strongly support will be preservedas H.R. 2901 will result in a domesticcruise vessel fleet comprised of large,modern cruise vessels built in the UnitedStates <strong>and</strong> operated under the UnitedStates-flag.We again ask that you cosponsor thisimportant legislation <strong>and</strong> work with usfor the speedy enactment of H.R. 2901.Sincerely, Cruising America CoalitionJohn Bowers, President, InternationalLongshoremen’s AssociationCaptain Timothy A. Brown, President,International Organization of Masters,Mates & PilotsHenry Disley, President & SecretaryTreasurer, Marine Firemen’s UnionJ. Gary Droubay, President <strong>and</strong> CEO,Goldbelt (Juneau, Alaska)Frank Poti, President, Cascade GeneralShipyard, Inc. (<strong>Port</strong>l<strong>and</strong>, Oregon)Clyde J. Hart, Jr., Vice President-GovernmentAffairs, American Bus AssociationJames Henry, President, TransportationInstituteGunnar Lundeberg, President & SecretaryTreasurer, Sailors’ Union of the PacificLarry O’Toole, President, National MarineEngineers’ Beneficial AssociationC. James Patti, President, Maritime Institutefor Research <strong>and</strong> Industrial DevelopmentMichael Sacco, President, Seafarers InternationalUnion of North AmericaJames Spinosa, President, InternationalLongshore <strong>and</strong> Warehouse UnionGloria Cataneo Tosi, President, AmericanMaritime CongressAlbert Wallack, President, Voyager Holdings,Inc. (New York)SAILORS’UNIONOF THE PACIFICCOMMITTEE ON ELECTION2001-2002In accordance with the SUP Constitution, Article XII: Nomination,Election <strong>and</strong> Term of Officers, the Committee on Electionconvened at 0900 on October 15, 2001, at Headquarters.The Committee is charged with “…preparing the ballot” <strong>and</strong> selectingan Impartial Balloting Agent for membership approval.The Committee recommends that Sequoia Voting Systems (formerSequoia Pacific Systems) be used again for this election. Sequoiahas h<strong>and</strong>led the balloting for the past several elections without anyproblems.Sequoia will print, mail <strong>and</strong> count the ballots in accordance withthe SUP Constitution. The approximate cost will be $7,700.Also, the Committee has the duty to verify the eligibility of c<strong>and</strong>idatesfor office. In accordance with Sections 3, 4, <strong>and</strong> 5 of ArticleXII, all c<strong>and</strong>idates duly nominated (as per Section 2 <strong>and</strong> publishedin the September 21, 2001 edition of the West Coast Sailors), whohad returned acceptance letters (as per Section 5) were found eligible.Wayne Burgess submitted an acceptance letter dated October6, 2001. However, he had not been properly nominated beforeh<strong>and</strong>as per Article XII Section 2. Therefore, the Committee found himto be ineligible <strong>and</strong> disqualified him from the ballot.The following c<strong>and</strong>idates will appear on the ballot:President/Secretary-TreasurerMike BaileyGunnar LundebergVice President/Assistant Secretary-TreasurerDave ConnollyWilliam HenneberrySan Francisco Business AgentWilliam BergerPaul CalaisSeattle Branch AgentVince O’HalloranWilmington Branch AgentMark HurleyHonolulu Branch AgentMike DuvallFraternally,SUP BuildingCorporation TrusteesWilliam BergerPaul CalaisNorman ChristiansonRobin ColonasDave ConnollyColin DeweyGunnar LundebergTerrance O’NeillBruce Smith(Five to be elected)SIU Convention DelegatesWilliam BergerPaul CalaisRobin ColonasDave ConnollyColin DeweyGunnar LundebergTerrance O’Neill(Four to be elected)WELFARE OFFICE(415) 778-5490PENSION PLAN OFFICE(415) 437-6889The membership will vote on the Committee's report at the Novembercoastwise meetings.

Friday, October 19, 2001 WEST COAST SAILORS Page 9President's Report continuedyear 1999 (July 21, 2000). You have represented thatsection 302(c) of the Labor Management Relations Actof 1947, 61 Stat. 136, as amended, 29 U.S.C. 188(c)(11979), permits collective bargaining over the establishmentof a trust fund to provide financial assistancefor employee housing. (Hereinafter this statute shall bereferred to as the LMRA.)You have requested a ruling on whether the provisionof housing assistance in the form of monthly housingsupplements to retired members will jeopardize yourstatus as an organization described in section 501(c)(9)of the Code.Section 501(c)(9) of the Code provides for the exemptionfrom federal income tax of voluntary employees’beneficiary associations providing for the paymentof life, sick, accident, or other benefits to the membersof such association or their dependents or designatedbeneficiaries if no part of the net earnings of such associationinures (other than through such payments) tothe benefit of any private shareholder or individual.Section 1.501(c)(9)-3(a) of the Income Tax Regulationsprovides in part that a voluntary employees’ beneficiaryassociations is not operated for the purpose ofproviding life, sick, accident, or other benefits unlesssubstantially all of its operations are in furtherance ofthe provision of such benefits. Furthermore, an organizationis not described in this section if it systematically<strong>and</strong> knowingly provides benefits (of more than ade minimis amount) that are not permitted benefits underof this section of the Code.Section 1.501(c)(9)-3(b) of the regulations in discussingthe term life benefits provides that the term ‘lifebenefit’ does not include a pension, annuity or similarbenefit, except that a benefit payable by reason of thedeath of an insured may be settled in the form of anannuity to the beneficiary in lieu of a lump-sum deathbenefit (whether or not the contract provides for settlementin a lump sum).Section 1.501(c)(9)-3(d) of the regulations in discussingthe term other benefits states that the term ‘otherbenefits’ includes only benefits that are similar to life,sick, or accident benefits. A benefit is similar to a life,sick, or accident benefit if: (1) It is intended to safeguardor improve the health of a member or a member’sdependents, or (2) It protects against a contingency thatinterrupts or impairs a member’s earning power.Section 1.501(c)(9)-3(e) of the regulations in discussingthe term “other benefits” provides that “[e]xcept tothe extent otherwise provided in these regulations, asamended from time to time, ‘other benefits’ also includeany benefit provided in the manner permitted byparagraphs (5) et seq. of section 302(c) of the LMRA.[In 1990 this provision was amended to authorize partiesengaged in collective bargaining to bargain overthe establishment <strong>and</strong> administration of trust funds toprovide financial assistance for employee housing.]Section 1.501(c)(9)-3(f) of the regulations providesthat the term ‘other benefits’ does not include the paymentof commuting expenses, such as bridge tolls ortrain fares, the provision of accident or homeowner’sinsurance benefits for damage to property, the provisionof malpractice insurance, or the provision of loansto members except in times of distress (as permitted bySec. 1.501 (c)(9)-3(e)). ‘Other benefits’ also do notinclude the provision of savings facilities for members.The term ‘other benefits’ does not include any benefitthat is similar to a pension or annuity payable at thetime of m<strong>and</strong>atory or voluntary retirement, or a benefitthat is similar to the benefit provided under a stockbonus or profit-sharing plan. For purposes of section501(c)(9) <strong>and</strong> these regulations, a benefit will be consideredsimilar to that provided under a pension, annuity,stock bonus or profit-sharing plan if it provides fordeferred compensation that becomes payable by reasonof the passage of time, rather than as the result of anunanticipated event. Thus, for example, supplementalunemployment benefits, which generally become payableby reason of unanticipated layoff, are not, for purposesof these regulations, considered similar to thebenefit provided under a pension, annuity, stock bonusor profit-sharing plan.The information you have submitted establishes thatyou intend to provide this monthly housing stipend onlyto your retired members. You have represented that ahousing stipend is a benefit permitted by paragraphs(5) et seq. of section 302(c) of the LMRA. See section1.501(c)(9)-3(e) of the Code which indicates that unlessotherwise precluded by section 501(c)(9) the term“other benefits” includes benefits permitted by theLMRA.Generally, the term “other benefit” when used in section501(c)(9) of the Code refers to benefits which areintended to safeguard or improve the health of a memberor protect against a contingency that interrupts orimpairs a member’s earning power. See section1.501(c)(9)-3(d) of the regulations. It specifically precludespensions, annuities or similar benefits. See section1.501(c)(9)-3(b) of the regulations. The regulationsemphasize that any benefit that becomes payableby reason of the passage of time, rather than as theresult of an unanticipated event is not a permissiblesection 501(c)(9) benefit.Your proposed housing stipend is a cash benefit thatcould be used for any purpose. It is not restricted tohousing. It is available to all members regardless oftheir housing needs. Accordingly, it is similar in natureto a pension or deferred compensation plan <strong>and</strong> is nota permissible section 501(c)(9) benefit. Furthermore,because it is only available to retired members it is notprovided by virtue of a contingency that interrupts earningpower. It also is not targeted to safeguarding orimproving the health of members or their dependents.Consequently, the term “other benefits” does not includethe proposed supplemental housing benefit.Accordingly, we have concluded that providing a housingstipend, as more than a de minimis part of yourprogram, will jeopardize your status as an organizationdescribed in section 501(c)(9) of the Code.Sincerely yours,Terrell M. Berkovsky ManagerExempt Organizations Technical Group 2Although the SUP Welfare Plan will regrettablynot be able to pay a “housing benefit” to pensioners,it is legally permissible to use the funds available tosignificantly increase the annual pensioner medicalallowance <strong>and</strong> possibly include dependents.Union trustees Dave Connolly <strong>and</strong> your secretaryin conjunction with Duane Hewitt <strong>and</strong> the attorneyswill review this option to gain approval from theemployer trustees. It is our belief that although thiswill not be a monthly cash payment as originallyenvisioned, it will still be money that pensioners canuse to substantially defray medical costs.Will keep the membership informed.CHEVRON SHIPPING COMPANYThis month Chevron announced its Profit Sharing/Savings Plan results for the third quarter of 2001. Forevery dollar a participant contributed to Profit Sharing,the company matched with $8.63. Chevron’s match wascomprised of the following:1) A participant received an allocation of Chevronstock equal to $7.63 to a participant’s Contingent Accountfor each dollar contributed to the Profit SharingMember Account; <strong>and</strong>2) A participant also received an allocation of Chevronstock equal to $1.00 to a participant’s Saving PlusAccount for each dollar that contributed by a participantto the Profit Sharing Member Account.For those SUP members participating in the Plan,Chevron’s match equaled 17.26% of base wages for thethird quarter.In order to participate in the Profit Sharing/SavingsPlan, one must be employed by Chevron for a year <strong>and</strong>contribute a minimum of 2% to his or her Chevron401(k) Plan.Participation by SUP members employed by ChevronShipping in the Profit Sharing/Savings Plan was achievedin bargaining in 1998 <strong>and</strong> is a benefit unequaled in the<strong>maritime</strong> industry.========As has been anticipated for some time, Chevron notifiedthe Union last month that the Chevron Mississippiwill go out-of-service in December due to the factthat she is a single-hull tanker <strong>and</strong> will shortly reachher drop-dead date under the provisions of the Oil PollutionAct of 1990.Accordingly, met with Jim DeCruz, manager of thecompany’s U.S. manning office, on September 13, tobargain the effects of the loss of this vessel on membersemployed by Chevron.Although only a few unlicensed personnel will be affected,signed a Memor<strong>and</strong>um of Underst<strong>and</strong>ing, subjectto membership approval, which provides for severance.The severance has two parts: an involuntary severanceplan <strong>and</strong> a demotion or transfer severance plan.Involuntary Severance PlanThe Involuntary Severance Program benefit would bepaid to all surplus regular full-time SUP-representedemployees who meet all the following conditions:- Are an active employee (or on Short-Term Disability)on October 1, 2001 <strong>and</strong> has at least one year ofcontinuous service with the Company; <strong>and</strong>- Are notified in writing by Chevron that they areeligible; <strong>and</strong>- Are terminated by Chevron on a date to be determinedby the Company, but no later than March 31,2002.Formula: Two (2) weeks of base pay for every year ofcontinuous service with the Company. A minimum ofeight (8) weeks <strong>and</strong> a maximum of seventy (70) weeksof base pay apply.Demotion or Transfer Severance PlanThe Demotion or Transfer Severance Program benefitwould be paid to all surplus regular full-time SUPrepresentedemployees who meet all the following conditions:- Are an active employee (or on Short-Term disability)on October 1, 2001 <strong>and</strong> has at least one year ofcontinuous service with the Company; <strong>and</strong>- Are notified in writing by Chevron that they areeligible; <strong>and</strong>- Are terminated by Chevron on a date to be determinedby the Company, but no later than March 31,2002.Formula: Two (2) weeks of base pay for every year ofcontinuous service with the Company. A minimum ofeight (8) weeks <strong>and</strong> a maximum of seventy (70) weeksof base pay apply.While severance will not mitigate the loss of the Mississippi<strong>and</strong> the work she provided, Chevron must begiven credit for the terms of the severance plans.Recommend membership ratification of the Memor<strong>and</strong>umof Underst<strong>and</strong>ing.SAN FRANCISCO BAR PILOTSMet with Captain Peter McIsaac, <strong>Port</strong> Agent of theSan Francisco Bar Pilots, on October 1, regarding annualtraining for members employed by the Pilots forover six months in the use of portable defibrillators <strong>and</strong>CPR. The defibrillator training takes four hours as perState law, while CPR training is two hours.The Pilots propose that Station Boat crews begin trainingat 6:00 A.M. on a change day, delaying departurefor the Pilot station until noon. Crews will be paid atthe overtime rate for the actual hours in training, withthe exception of the on-watch operator <strong>and</strong> cook whonormally turn-to at 10:00 A.M. on straight time.The Run Boat crews <strong>and</strong> the Dispatchers will take thetraining on their time off <strong>and</strong> will be paid eight hours atthe overtime rate. The dock bosun will train during hisregularly scheduled work week.Agreed to this proposal, pending membership ratification.BUILDING CORPORATIONThe SUP Building Corporation met at Headquarterson October 1 with all Trustees present except for NormanChristianson who was at sea.Since the last Trustee meeting in August, SystemsXIX notified the Building Corporation on September26, that it intends to vacate the space it rents at Headquartersby November 15, which means a loss of approximately$100,000 per year in revenue.Frank Conway of the law firm of Lynch, Gilardi &Grummer gave an overview to the Trustees of pendinglegal matters:Continued on next page

Page 10 WEST COAST SAILORS Friday, October 19, 2001President's Report continuedThe trial in the Lawson v. SUP Building Corporation(see the February, March, April, July <strong>and</strong> Septemberissues of the West Coast Sailors) matter is presently setfor March 4, 2002. A settlement conference is set forNovember 15, 2001. The June 2001 mediation was continuedto give the parties more time to investigate thefeasibility <strong>and</strong> cost of third floor access alternatives (installationof Article 15 elevator vs. converting the existinghoist to a vertical wheelchair lift). To date, no secondmediation date has been set. We anticipate that thevacancy of Systems XIX may accelerate settlement discussions<strong>and</strong>/or pre-trial discovery in this case.Systems XIX’s departure raises the argument that thebuilding no longer contains a “public accommodation” towhich h<strong>and</strong>icapped access is required, so that Mr.Lawson’s claims for injunctive relief <strong>and</strong> attorneys’ feesare moot. This argument, however, may be complicatedby the Building Corporation’s control over the timing ofany replacement tenant <strong>and</strong> by Mr. Lawson’s remainingpersonal injury claim, the Trustees agreed that furtherresearch into the strength of this argument is appropriate.As to the availability of a replacement tenant for thethird floor, it appears at the present time that the SanFrancisco commercial real estate market has softenedconsiderably. No prospective tenants have been identified.The Building Corporation’s realtor, Tony Crosslyof Colliers International, by direction of the Trustees,will continue to solicit prospective tenants.With respect to insurance coverage, Systems XIX’scarrier, Terra Nova Insurance Company, has finallyagreed to defend the Building Corporation <strong>and</strong> promisedreimbursement of the Building Corporation’s pastdefense costs which currently are in excess of $80,000.Terra Nova also filed a declaratory relief action seekinga court order that it has no duty under its policy todefend or indemnify the Building Corporation <strong>and</strong> SystemsXIX against any liability in this case. No trial dateis set in the Terra Nova Insurance Company matter.The Building Corporation has answered Terra Nova’scomplaint, <strong>and</strong> filed a counterclaim against Terra Novafor bad faith in refusing (from November 2000 to August2001) to defend the Corporation from claims ofphysical injury, despite its decision to defend SystemsXIX from the same claims.The Building Corporation also directed Mr. Conwayto file a bad faith action against its primary insurancecarrier, Ulico Casualty Company, which continues todeny the Building Corporation a defense <strong>and</strong> any coveragein this case. We have learned informally that Ulicomay participate in upcoming settlement discussions <strong>and</strong>contribute toward any settlement, although it continuesto deny coverage in this matter.With respect to the hoist attached to the building,Systems XIX has offered to sell it to the Building Corporationfor $50,000. Otherwise, Systems XIX intendsto remove the hoist upon departure, which it appearslegally entitled to do. The Trustees are currently evaluatingthis offer.It appears that Systems XIX may have caused damage,beyond ordinary wear <strong>and</strong> tear, to certain areas ofthe building, including the roof membrane <strong>and</strong> thirdfloor <strong>and</strong> basement bathrooms. The Building Corporationhas retained a contractor to perform a thoroughinspection of all areas of the building occupied by SystemsXIX for the purpose of documenting <strong>and</strong> estimatingthe repair cost of any damage.SUP ELECTIONAs per Article XII of the SUP Constitution, all membersnominated for elective office at the September coastwisemeetings <strong>and</strong> who desire to become c<strong>and</strong>idates forthe 2002-2004 term of office shall have their acceptancein the office of the Committee on C<strong>and</strong>idates atHeadquarters (450 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA94105) prior to midnight, October 14, 2001.The acceptance shall be by letter which shall be dated<strong>and</strong> shall contain the following: (a) The name of thec<strong>and</strong>idate; (b) His/her home address <strong>and</strong> mailing address;(c) His/her membership number; <strong>and</strong> (d) Thetitle of the office or other position sought, including thename of the <strong>Port</strong> in the event the position sought is thatof Branch Agent or Business Agent.No one may be a c<strong>and</strong>idate for more than one office withthe exception of the position of Trustee of the SUP BuildingCorporation, <strong>and</strong> delegate to the SIUNA Convention.Nominees who shall fail to comply herein with shallbe regarded as having declined the nomination.The Committee on C<strong>and</strong>idates/Election Committeewill turn-to at Headquarters at 9:00 A.M., Monday,October 15, to verify the eligibility of the c<strong>and</strong>idates,select <strong>and</strong> recommend for membership approval anImpartial Balloting Agent <strong>and</strong> otherwise prepare theballot. The Committee’s report will be acted upon atthe November coastwise meetings.C<strong>and</strong>idates for office may request <strong>and</strong> require the Unionto distribute campaign literature at the c<strong>and</strong>idate’s request,provided that the c<strong>and</strong>idate makes such request at leastfive working days prior to the intended date of mailing<strong>and</strong>/or distribution <strong>and</strong> provided that the c<strong>and</strong>idate paythe actual cost of mailing <strong>and</strong>/or distribution at the timeof each request. The cost of mailing <strong>and</strong>/or distributionshall be at the hourly rate of Office <strong>and</strong> Professional EmployeesInternational Union (OPEIU) Local 3. Campaignliterature that the c<strong>and</strong>idate requests to be mailed must beready for mailing: stamped; envelopes stuffed <strong>and</strong> sealed;or flyers stamped, folded, <strong>and</strong> sealed.C<strong>and</strong>idates for office are entitled to submit a photograph<strong>and</strong> a statement of 100 words or less regardingUnion issues for publication in a special election supplementto the West Coast Sailors that will be published inNovember. The statements <strong>and</strong> photos should be sentto the editor of the West Coast Sailors prior to November7, for inclusion in the election supplement.Each c<strong>and</strong>idate may also post campaign material on abulletin board to be set up in each SUP hall for that purpose.The c<strong>and</strong>idate shall be allotted space for one legalsizepage (8½” x 14”) on a first-come, first-served basis.The secret mail ballot election of officers forthe 2002-2004 term <strong>and</strong> referenda on proposedConstitution Amendments <strong>and</strong> Shipping Rulechanges will begin on December 1, 2001 <strong>and</strong> endon January 31, 2002.CALIFORNIA LABOR FEDERATIONThe California Labor Federation’s Pre-Primary Electionwill be held on November 28, in Los Angeles atthe Wilshire Gr<strong>and</strong> Hotel.Delegates to the convention will endorse c<strong>and</strong>idatesfor the United States House of Representatives, Governor,Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, StateController, State Treasurer, State Attorney General, Superintendentof Public Instruction, State Insurance Commissioner,the State Board of Equalization, the StateSenate, the State Assembly <strong>and</strong> endorse positions onstatewide ballot propositions, for the statewide primaryelection on March 5, 2002.The SUP is entitled to six delegates to the convention.Recommend that Vice President Dave Connolly,Wilmington Branch Agent Mark Hurley, your secretary<strong>and</strong> three rank-<strong>and</strong>-file members elected at theOctober Wilmington meeting serve as delegates.TRAININGSTCWAll h<strong>and</strong>s are reminded that the deadline for full compliancewith the amended international STCW (St<strong>and</strong>ardsof Training, Certification <strong>and</strong> Watchkeeping) conventionis three-<strong>and</strong>-one-half months away.In order to continue sailing after February 1, 2002,you must have an STCW 95 certificate.Members who do not hold an STCW 95 certificateshould enroll in one of the training sessions scheduled forthis year. A complete schedule for the five-day trainingcourse will be printed in this month’s West Coast Sailors.Applications to attend STCW 95 classes at the SUP/Training Resources Ltd. site in San Diego are availableat every SUP hall, the SUP Welfare Plan, <strong>and</strong> on theinternet at www.sailors.org.There is no cost to any SUP member who takes thisnecessary training: just his or her time. Tuition, transportation,lodging <strong>and</strong> subsistence expenses are borneby the SUP Welfare Plan’s Training Fund. The reimbursementpolicy will be published in the July issue ofthe West Coast Sailors.LMSRMembers interested in working the Large MediumSpeed Roll-On/Roll-Off (LMSR) vessels operated byPatriot Contract Services for the Military Sealift Comm<strong>and</strong>must take the 11-day, MSC-required training atthe SUP Training Resources Ltd. site in San Diego.Those contemplating taking this training should be physicallyfit <strong>and</strong> have a clean record (no felonies or misdemeanorconvictions for domestic violence). In addition,members desiring to take the training are required tofirst sign a letter of commitment agreeing to serve inthese vessels for a period of at least two, four-monthassignments, <strong>and</strong>/or if service is requested by the Unionin order to fulfill our contractual obligations. This trainingis costly <strong>and</strong> will not be wasted on those who arenot committed. It should also be noted that membersdispatched to LMSRs are expected to complete theirassignments (of at least four <strong>and</strong> up to six months).Applications for LMSR training are available at everySUP hall <strong>and</strong> the SUP Welfare Plan. All questionsregarding individual eligibility should referred to RichReed, Welfare Plan Representative, or Dave Connolly,Vice-President.QUARTERLY FINANCECOMMITTEEIn accordance with Article XVII, Section 2 of the SUPConstitution, a Quarterly Finance Committee shall beelected at today’s Headquarters meeting to review the financesof the Union for the third quarter of 2001, <strong>and</strong>report back to the membership at the November coastwisemeetings. In the event the committee cannot be filledtoday, recommend that when the quarterly audit of theUnions funds is completed, which will be in about threeweeks, necessary committee members be shipped off thehiring hall deck as per past practice.The Quarterly Finance Committee will meet at Headquartersat 9:00 A.M. on November 9.VETERAN’S DAYSince Veterans’ Day is on a Sunday this year, it willbe observed on Monday, November 12. All SUP hallswill be closed <strong>and</strong> the Headquarters’ meeting will beon Tuesday, November 13.ACTION TAKENM/S to accept Chevron Severance Plan. Carriedunanimously.M/S to accept San Francisco Bar Pilot training proposal.Carried unanimously.M/S to accept the President’s recommendation fordelegates to the California Labor Federation Convention.Carried unanimously.M/S to accept the balance of the President’s report.Carried unanimously.Quarterly Finance Committee: Paul Fuentes, DanGonzales, Louie Frazier, Paul Calais, <strong>and</strong> Art Thanash.Gunnar LundebergNancy Pelosi winsHouse Whip jobRepresentative Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco) onOctober 10, was elected by her fellow Democrats asHouse Whip, second in rank only to Minority LeaderRichard Gephardt (D-MO). In fact, Pelosi becomesthe country’s <strong>high</strong>est-ranking woman ever in Nationalelective office. Pelosi defeated Representative StenyHoyer (D-MD) by a vote of 118 to 95.The Whip’s job is not only chief vote-counter forthe Democratic caucus, but also as an organizer,fundraiser <strong>and</strong> campaigner. Pelosi said she will focuson “showcasing” the ideas percolating in theparty <strong>and</strong> indicated that her top priority will be togive “many more Members” the opportunity to havetheir voices heard.Commenting on the election, SUP PresidentGunnar Lundeberg said that “Nancy Pelosi is alongtime friend of the Sailors’ Union <strong>and</strong> herelection as Whip will be a plus.”Pelosi will succeed current Whip David Bonior(D-MI) on January 15. Bonior is running for Governorof Michigan.

Friday, October 19, 2001 WEST COAST SAILORS Page 11Letter to the EditorDear Editor:This poem is dedicated to the memory of the thous<strong>and</strong>s of people who losttheir lives in the Towers, in the planes, <strong>and</strong> the Pentagon. To their families, <strong>and</strong>friends, May God shed his love, <strong>and</strong> light to guide, comfort, <strong>and</strong> direct you. Aspecial heartfelt thanks to my blue collar union brothers in the fire <strong>and</strong> policedepartments, doctors, nurses, steelworkers, <strong>and</strong> any <strong>and</strong> all volunteers, for thecourage <strong>and</strong> sacrifice they showed before, during, <strong>and</strong> after this despicable actof hatred.Like the phoenix from myth, we will rise from the ashes resplendent <strong>and</strong>stronger than before; One country under God, Indivisible, with Liberty, <strong>and</strong>Justice for All.God Bless America. J K Russell #3179September 18, 2001If you listen you can hear itAs it sweeps across the l<strong>and</strong>The sound of distant thunderFrom heaven’s marching b<strong>and</strong>It’s an army on the move once moreDressed in crimson, white <strong>and</strong> blueEach one has been instructedThey know just what to doThey’ve been given their assignmentsBeen trained for eons sinceThey are God’s immortal soldiersFrom God’s special regimentFrom the mountains <strong>and</strong> the valleysFrom across the fruited plainsFrom the farmers <strong>and</strong> the workersHeavy burdened heavy strainedIn this l<strong>and</strong> of milk <strong>and</strong> honeyIn this melting pot of poorCame the men of many nationsTaste of freedom was the lureAmericaFrom this nation fierce in battleFrom it’s enemies <strong>and</strong> foesA true respect <strong>and</strong> trustOf the victors might did growFor in victory came kindnessCame the helping bother’s h<strong>and</strong>To spread the news that we had comeTo lead the brotherhood of manIf you listen you can hear itAs it sweeps across the l<strong>and</strong>The sound of distant thunderFrom heaven’s marching b<strong>and</strong>They are gathering down by the riverGod’s immortal regimentThe winds of change are comingThey are from heaven sentYou can hear the distant thunderAs they march across the l<strong>and</strong>In this l<strong>and</strong> they call AmericaIn this l<strong>and</strong>, this promise l<strong>and</strong>Passenger Vessel Services Actexemption opposed by CongressmanRepresentative Robert Borski (D-PA)last month delivered strong remarks onthe House floor in opposition to amendthe Passenger Vessel Services Act of 1886by designating Panama as a “distant” foreignport of call. Such designation wouldallow foreign-flag vessels to carry passengersform one U.S. port ot another,provided only that the vessels stop inPanama enroute.Borski stated that, “Under the existingPVSA, vessels making U.S. point-to-pointservices must be owned, built, flagged<strong>and</strong> manned in the United States.“This statute has served our country wellover a century, ensuring a vibrant domesticpassenger vessel industry that creates<strong>and</strong> preserves jobs in the United States.“Designating Panama as a distant foreignport would create no U.S. jobs, generateno economic benefits for the U.S.,<strong>and</strong> result in no new business for U.S.-flag cruise vessels.“Only foreign-flag —which pay no U.S.corporate income taxes, operate largelyoutside of U.S. laws, <strong>and</strong> employ foreignlabor— would benefit from this misguidedproposal.“Such an act would also create a dangerousprecedent that could have evengraver implications for U.S. cargo transportationgoverned by the Jones Act.”SUP Member JoinsPension RanksOne SUP member has joined the ranksof pensioners, bringing the total numberof SUP members now receiving a pensionto 1,042:Martin L. Birdsell, 65, Book No.5712, joined SUP in 1967, 15 years ofseatime.Record of SUP ShippingSeptember 2001Hdqs..... Seattle ...... Wilm ...... Hono .......... TotalBosun .............. 3............ 3 ............ 7 ............ 0 .............. 13A.B. Dayworker . 0............ 0 ............ 7 ............ 0 ............... 7A.B . ............. 35............ 8 .......... 16 ............ 5 .............. 64O.S. ................ 2............ 2 ............ 1 ............ 1 ............... 6St<strong>and</strong>by........... 37........... 34 .......... 95 .......... 29 ............ 195Oiler ............... 0............ 1 ............ 0 ............ 0 ............... 1TOTALS ......... 77........... 48 ......... 126 .......... 35 ............ 286Vice President's ReportOctober 2001Meal beef squared-away in LMSRsThe Union secured a major improvement in the LMSRs during the first week ofOctober. After a series of e-mails <strong>and</strong> letters, protesting the Patriot’s refusal to payfor the broken meal hour in addition to the time worked, it was finally agreed tosettle the issue according to the dictates of Section 41 of the American Ship ManagementOffshore Agreement. The company is allowed to shift the meal hour withoutpenalty so long as such shift adheres to the times laid out in Section 41.Grassroots political action pays off in CaliforniaThe first increase to California Unemployment Insurance was signed into law byGovernor Gray Davis this month. Starting January 1, the weekly benefit will rise to$330 from the current $230. The benefit will increase each year up to $450 in 2005.The SUP worked hard to insure this victory. Members signed <strong>and</strong> returned hundredsof cards in support of the legislation. On two occasions, I discussed the importanceof Unemployment Insurance for our members with lawmakers in Sacramento.In the final days, as the bill sat on the governor’s desk, we made dozens of phonecalls both from within the Union <strong>and</strong> through the Labor Councils. The Governorwas informed that labor’s support for his reelection bid would not come without hissignature on that bill. Although the amount is still too low, this is an importantincrease to the bottom line for SUP members working for California employers.Basic Safety Training renewalAs a follow-up to President Lundeberg’s report last month, the Coast Guard hasruled that Basic Safety Training will be considered a one-time requirement for thosewho have one year of sea service in the five years prior to the expiration of yourpresent STCW. This is the first ruling in favor of those who work on deck since theSTCW 95 amendments were made to the original 1978 Convention. It is due in partto the combined efforts of the SUP, the IBU, <strong>and</strong> the MFOW, who jointly produceda series of proposals <strong>and</strong> recommendations that include shipboard renewal of BST.We delivered those arguments to the Coast Guard, presented <strong>and</strong> defended them atthe STCW Interpretation Conference at MITAGS, in Baltimore in August, <strong>and</strong> emergedvictorious. By removing a layer of red tape, this ruling will make it easier for sailorsto continue to go to sea for a living. The development is also emerging because itproves efficacy of our participation <strong>and</strong> argues powerfully for our continued involvementin the rulemaking process.East Coast tripAccordingly, I attended the Ship Operation’s Cooperative Project (SOCP) meetingin Norfolk, Virginia, on October 16 <strong>and</strong> 17, to further press for meaningful reformto make <strong>maritime</strong> law a help rather than a hinderance to the unlicensed seaman ofthe U.S. Merchant Marine. Will report further on the SOCP meeting in November.While in Norfolk, I made the USNS Gillil<strong>and</strong>, USNS Gordon, USNS Yano, <strong>and</strong>USNS Mendonca, with Norfolk Representative Jack Stasko. All in good shape withminor clarifications. Also made the USNS Pililauu in Savannah, Georgia, upon herreturn from Europe. Squared away all beefs to the gang’s satisfaction.Dave ConnollyCalifornia unemployment benefits toincrease; workers’ compensation bill vetoedCalifornia Governor Gray Davisprompted by a massive lobbying effort byorganized labor this month finally signedinto law a bill that will increase state unemploymentbenefits for the first time innine years. California currently ranks 48th.Senate Bill 40 by Senator Richard Alacon(D-San Fern<strong>and</strong>o Valley) will increase benefitsto $330 a week from the current $230on January 1, 2002. Benefits will go upeach year, reaching $450 in 2005.“It’s a victory for working Californians,”said Art Pulaski, Executive Secretary-Treasurerof the California Labor Federation,AFL-CIO, which sponsored the bill <strong>and</strong>pressed the governor to sign it.However, Governor Davis vetoed a bill(SB 71), also sponsored by labor by SenatePresident Pro Tem John Burton (D-San Francisco) to increase workers’ compensationbenefits.“After 16 years of Republican governors,it is shameful for a Democratic governorto veto a benefit increase that wouldstill leave California far below the nationalaverage in workers’ compensationbenefits,” Burton said.The veto of Burton’s SB 71 marks thethird time Davis has vetoed workers’ compensationbenefit increases. Benefits forthe majority of workplace injuries havenot been increased since 1982.“The percent of payroll employers payin workers’ compensation premiums is almosthalf of what it was in 1990,” Burtonsaid. “Even with the benefit increase proposedin SB 71, the percentage would stillbe substantially lower than what it was.”Burton noted that in addition to the $4billion employers have already saved sinceworkers’ compensation reform legislationin 1993, SB 71 <strong>and</strong> its companion bill AB1176 included $1.5-$1.7 billion in annualcost savings for employers. With those savings,the benefit increases in SB 71 wouldhave resulted in only a one-cent per hourper employee cost to business.“I would hope that union officialsthroughout the state <strong>and</strong> nation would makeit clear to the Governor how upset they arewith this heartless, senseless veto of sucha modest increase in workers’ compensationbenefits, the majority of which havenot been increased for 20 years,” Burtonsaid. “I believe now the only way injuredworkers in this state will be able to get abenefit increase over the opposition of theemployers, who seem to have theGovernor’s ear, is to put an initiative onthe statewide ballot <strong>and</strong> pass it.”

Page 12 WEST COAST SAILORS Friday, October 19, 2001SUP Branch ReportsSan Francisco Business AgentChief Gadao - Charles Duke, delegate:No beefs.Kauai - Rich Cahill, delegate: Routine.Mahimahi - Tony Montoya, delegate:Finally collected the washdown moneyfrom three trips ago. This vessel scheduledto return to the Yanton shipyard toget more work done. Projected stay isone week, <strong>and</strong> the gang will remain.Manoa - Ivar Thorbjornsen, delegate:Nothing but problems on this one. Mostlybased on company mish<strong>and</strong>ling the gangon <strong>and</strong> off the ship in the Chinese shipyard.Mark Hurley has requested a portcommittee for these <strong>and</strong> restricted to shipissues (also in China). Basically its forMatson to take responsibility for theirconduct in seeking out the most oppressiveshipyard in the Pacific to have theirwork done while our shipyards here inthe United States are forced to subsist onNavy contracts. Ship’s officers who stayedaboard reported gross pollution <strong>and</strong> miserableworking conditions, as well as thefact that the work was poorly performed<strong>and</strong> at least some of the vessels will haveto return to the yard to get the work doneproperly.Matsonia - Paul Barbour, delegate:Best ride on the Coast.Maui - Chuck Maringer, delegate: Nocontractual problems.Mokihana - Miguel Palacio, delegate:Vessel in the yard in Shanghai. Repatriationof crew took place during the middleof September, <strong>and</strong> there were a lot ofproblems <strong>and</strong> associated claims for subsistence.Moku Pahu - Dave Frizzi, delegate:Problems with overtime in dispute willbe taken care of when vessel arrives atCrockett later this month.R.J. Pfeiffer - Duke Maringer, delegate:No problems.San Francisco Bar Pilots - PeterJohnsson, delegate: Some adjustments arebeing required because of the need toferry Sea Marshals to the incoming vessels,not to mention feeding <strong>and</strong> housingthem when necessary. New delegate willbe elected as Peter has gone back to sea.Foss Maritime - Tom Tynan <strong>and</strong> MikeWorth co-delegates: No news is goodnews from this outfit. It seems they arebusy moving oil. Not one beef all month!Chevron Colorado - Dave McKeithen,delegate: Various issues taken up with thecompany <strong>and</strong> resolved to the gang’s satisfaction.Vessel running to Canada for afew trips. Gang looking forward to thechange.Chevron Mississippi - Thor Erikson,delegate: Vessel's 1000th voyage was celebratedat the Rod <strong>and</strong> Gun Club.Chevron Washington - Dave Mercer,delegate: The gang on here is st<strong>and</strong>ingincreased <strong>security</strong> watches. The companyis studying the various ramifications, suchas safe cargo operations, <strong>and</strong> sleep requirements.Good gang <strong>and</strong> smooth operationwith Kim Hoogendam, bosun.Chevron Dock - Rick Wilson incharge: When Chevron sailors work onthe dock, it’s at the overtime rate. This isa benefit to Rick as he gets experienced<strong>and</strong> savvy people, <strong>and</strong> the sailors get thewages. John Svane <strong>and</strong> Robert Reed bothrecently did a stint at the Long Wharf.October 9, 2001Ready Reserve Fleet-Alameda -Danny Foster, delegate: Shipped ten extrawatchst<strong>and</strong>ers to these ships to increase<strong>security</strong>, otherwise routine.ASM Shore Gang - No problems:Norman Kwak, delegate.President Adams - Bert Genita, delegate:No beefs. Tom O'Dell showed mehis SIU-PD (pension) letter; claims he’sgoing to retire next year.President Grant - Dick Stinson, delegate:Clarification on timely payment ofdues. Your first obligation is for yourunion dues, after that you fund your 401kor your entertainment account or whateverelse.President Jackson - John Fern<strong>and</strong>ez,delegate: Routine call, minor clarifications.Gang signed on for the Far East.President Kennedy - Dave Berger,delegate: Ted Ochoa made the bosun’s jobdown in Los Angeles. Clean pay-off gangsigned on after some minor clarifications.President Truman - Ernest Stimach,delegate: Happy ship.President Wilson - Diane Ferrari, delegate:Gus Silva made the bosun’s jobdown south. This must be a pretty goodride because you see the same peoplegoing back all the time.Bill HenneberrySeattleSeptember 17, 2001Shipped the following during the period:3 bosuns, 1 steady, 1 return <strong>and</strong> 1relief, filled by A cards; 12 ABs filled by3 A cards, 2 B cards, 5 C cards <strong>and</strong> 2 Dcards. Also shipped 38 st<strong>and</strong>by jobs filledby 8 A cards, 18 B cards, 3 C cards, 6 Dcards <strong>and</strong> 3 MFOW members.Registration for the period: 12 A cardsfor a total of 34, 4 B cards for a total of23, <strong>and</strong> 7 C cards for a total of 20.Ships checkedAPL Singapore shipped a riding gang.APL Korea, APL Thail<strong>and</strong>, APL Philippinesfound with little or no trouble.Kauai <strong>and</strong> Maui in twice <strong>and</strong> runningsmoothly. Rigging loft has been busy inpreparation for the spray painting gangs.Attended the Washington State LaborCouncil Convention in Wenatchee wherealong with the Washington State BuildingTrades <strong>and</strong> the Washington State MaritimeTrades, endorsed the AFL-CIO's positionon responsible oil exploration in the ArcticNational Wildlife Refuge.I also attended the King County LaborCouncil meeting <strong>and</strong> the Labor Day picnic,the Puget Sound <strong>Port</strong>s Council, MaritimeTrades meeting.Mayor Paul Schell was defeated in theprimary election on September 18. We willbe working to elect Greg Nickels for Mayorof Seattle. Both Paul Schell <strong>and</strong> Greg Nickelshave been goods friends to labor.It appears that we will be moving theunion hall again as the County has purchasedboth sides of the street on whichwe are located for expansion of the MetroBus yard. Mike Carr <strong>and</strong> I will attemptto locate to facilities with both bus service<strong>and</strong> ground floor access. All suggestionsare welcome.Vince O'Halloran, Branch AgentWilmingtonSeptember 17, 2001Shipped the following for the period:6 bosuns, 18 ABs, 8 AB Maint., <strong>and</strong> 107st<strong>and</strong>bys for a total of 139 shipped.Registration st<strong>and</strong>s <strong>and</strong> 45 A cards, 27B cards, 12 C cards, <strong>and</strong> 6 D cards.Ships checkedPresident Jackson, Lihue, Mokihana,Lurline, President Kennedy, Mahimahi,Ewa, APL Singapore, Chevron Washington,Manulani, President Adams, R.J.Pfeiffer, APL Korea, President Polk,President Wilson, APL Thail<strong>and</strong>.On August 20, I attended two meetings—theVeterans' Memorial meeting<strong>and</strong> the Los Angeles County Federationof Labor. At the Harbor Labor Coalitionmeeting held August 30, final logisticaldetails were worked out for the upcomingLabor Day parade. The parade wason September 3, was a huge success asthere was a good turnout <strong>and</strong> many unionswere represented. John Sweeney, thePresident of the AFL-CIO gave the keynoteaddress at Banning Park to rally supportfor the Charleston 5 <strong>and</strong> stop FastTrack legislation.The Wilmington Branch extends its condolencesto all affected by the tragedy thatoccurred on September 11. Gunnar wantsall of us to be on alert for LMSR <strong>and</strong> RRFactivation. Already several members haveindicated that they will crew these ships todo their part of our country.On Friday, September 14, I went to aMTD meeting <strong>and</strong> read a letter from theMaritime Unions to President Bush offeringcontinued support.Recently some of our members' Z cardsexpired, which cost them their jobs.Check your dates, Get your STCW 95.The deadline is approaching. FYI: TheCoast Guard Exam Center has moved offbase to the seventh floor of the FederalBuilding in Long Beach.Mark Hurley, Branch AgentHonoluluSeptember 17, 2001During the month of August, shipped thefollowing: 1 bosun, 7 ABs, 1 AB return,<strong>and</strong> 1 OS, filled by 6 A members <strong>and</strong> 4 Bmembers. Also shipped 21 st<strong>and</strong>by jobs,filled by 2 A members, 11 B members, 6C members <strong>and</strong> 2 registrants.During the month of August registered4 A members, 7 B members, 1 C member<strong>and</strong> 4 D registrants. To this date, 6 Amembers, 9 B members, 9 C members<strong>and</strong> 10 D registrants, are registered, fora total of 32.Ships checkedMaui, Lurline, Chief Gadao, Matsonia,Lihue, Kauai, Manulani <strong>and</strong> Ewa. Allwith few or no problems. Paint <strong>and</strong> rigginggang running smoothly with GeorgeLua as bosun.September Hawaii <strong>Port</strong> Council meetingwas cancelled, due to the tragic EastCoast terrorism incidents.Matson terminal chassis operations arestarting to click <strong>and</strong> the ships are depart-ing on time, although there are someminor delays due to increased port <strong>security</strong>procedures.Hawaii tourism has taken a nose-dive<strong>and</strong> the state economy is looking bleakwith many cutbacks <strong>and</strong> layoffs to unionizedworkers.Mike Duvall, Branch AgentNorfolk OfficeSeptember 2001Shipped 3 ABs <strong>and</strong> 1 OS, filled by 3Cs <strong>and</strong> 1 D.Registered 1 A card, 2 C cards <strong>and</strong> 1D registrant.Ships checkedLast week I made the Pilliuaa on arrival.Met with the whole gang. BosunJoe Moniz Jr. <strong>and</strong> Larry Gatley, delegate,doing a fine job. Major food beef oneday out of Beaumont, ran out of milk,plus many other contract items, as theycarry Army troops. The company has tomake sure that enough stores <strong>and</strong> extracooks are aboard when in FOS.Also paid off the Mendonca without ahitch. Joe Sombo, delegate: good job withthe sheets. Bosun Izzy Idris brought inthe ship in "bristol fashion". Rick Wadlownow delegate running the gang until newbosun Mark Hargus arrives. Happy gang,the ship is in MOD. ROS at CSX dockNewport News.I made all ships in the area: USNS Yano,USNS Gillil<strong>and</strong>, USNS Gordon, all withtop bosuns <strong>and</strong> good gangs.Talked with bosun Earl Flynn Brown onthe USNS Fisher <strong>and</strong> all is well. Hisballpark figure for FOS for Sea Trials isthe last week in September. The ship is inBaltimore. Heard from Chevron Arizonadelegate in Fort Lauderdale, all is well. Itold him I would make the ship the lastweek in September or first week in October,I want to make sure all OperationBright Star ships get underway okay.A reminder to newcomers: When leavingthe ship, whether your time is up oran emergency, please leave your roomclean <strong>and</strong> with a fresh set of linens, as alot of time your relief might arrive in themiddle of the night.Jack Stasko, SUP RepDispatcher'sReportHeadquarters—Sept. 2001DeckBosun ..................................... 3Carpenter ................................ 0MM ........................................ 0AB ....................................... 35OS ........................................ 2St<strong>and</strong>by .................................. 37Total Deck Jobs Shipped ............ 77Total Deck B, C, D Shipped ........ 24Engine/StewardQMED .................................... 0Pumpman ................................ 0Oiler....................................... 0Wiper ..................................... 0Steward ................................... 0Cook ...................................... 0Messman ................................ 0Total E&S Jobs Shipped .............. 0Total E&S B, C, D Shipped .......... 0Total Jobs Shipped - All Depts. .... 77Total B, C, D Shipped-All Depts. .. 24Total Registered “A” ................. 80Total Registered “B” ................. 71Total Registered “C” .................. 7Total Registered “D” .................. 9