For many in San Francisco, it has become the yearly kickoff of the holiday season.
The 2002 edition of the SIU’s pre-Thanksgiving gathering at the hall on Fremont Street didn’t disappoint. The 12th annual event drew local dignitaries, Seafarers and their families, SIU retirees, friends and guests to the hall on Nov. 26.
Approximately 450 people attended the holiday celebration, which was replete with traditional fare.
With the nation already fighting the war against terrorism and readying for possible action against Iraq, patriotism permeated the festivities. As in 2001, a Marine Corps color guard (4th Marine Division, 23rd Regiment) inspired the crowd.
Guest speakers included House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi and San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown. Many more visitors also were on hand, including officials from the U.S. Maritime Administration; the California Labor Federation; Seafarers-contracted Patriot Shipholding, American Ship Management, Matson, CSX Lines, and Crowley; and the American Maritime Officers; the International Boatmen’s Union; the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association; the Marine Firemen’s Union; and the Sailors’ Union of the Pacific, plus several other unions.
The aforementioned companies donated food for the early-afternoon feast. Alioto’s Restaurant on Fishermen’s Wharf cooked 25 turkeys and 18 hams for the event, while several Seafarers volunteered for additional meal preparation and presentation.
Recertified Stewards Louella Sproul and Jill Prescott, Chief Stewards Peter Ciddio and Steve Valencia, and Chief Cooks John Stein, John Blasquez and Manuel Guanga were among those who pitched in to ensure everything was “just right,” from the main course through dessert. Additionally, Bosun Mate George Pino carried the U.S. Merchant Marine flag during the opening ceremonies, while OMU Kevin Cooper served as Sgt. at Arms.
In addition to the color-guard presentation and the remarks by Pelosi and Brown, one of the day’s highlights was a surprise birthday cake for Jack Henning, retired executive secretary-treasurer of the California Labor Federation.
SIU Asst. Vice President Nick Celona, longtime coordinator of the holiday gathering, commended all who have helped handle the steadily growing event. “So many people have been generous with their time and in donating the food,” he said. “Because of that generosity and effort, we’re able to bring together labor, business and government for a happy occasion. The nicest compliment you can get is when people come up to you afterward and say they want to come back next year.”
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