President’s Column

Whether you navigated to this column in print or online, you undoubtedly already know that I recently stepped down as president of the SIU. I just celebrated my 86th birthday (on Valentine’s Day), and while I’m happy to report that I am still in good health, it’s time. So, this is my farewell column, even…

Heindel Takes Helm as President

SIU President David Heindel Following unanimous approval of the SIU Executive Board, David Heindel became the union’s fourth president, effective Feb. 14. The board convened Feb. 13 near Orlando, Florida. SIU President Michael Sacco announced his retirement and then nominated Heindel (who has served as the union’s secretary-treasurer since 1997) as his successor. SIU Executive…

SIU President Michael Sacco Retires

Additional coverage of President Sacco’s career will appear in upcoming editions of the Seafarers LOG. If you’d like to share a sentiment for possible publication, please email [email protected] Michael Sacco, the longest-serving president in Seafarers International Union history, has retired. “I am in good health and good spirits,” he stated. “But I have often heard…
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WA State Senate: Jones Act ‘Critical’

The following news release was recently issued by American Maritime Voices. WA State Senate Calls Jones Act ‘Critical’ to State’s Prosperity and Security On February 2, the Washington State Senate passed a resolution, which recognizes the vital role of the Jones Act in the state’s economy and national security. The Jones Act, which was authored…

NMC: Credentials Lost in the Mail

The following news release was issued by the National Maritime Center on March 20. Credentials Lost in the Mail The National Maritime Center (NMC) mails completed credentials via standard USPS mail, which does not include a means of tracking, and delivery can take up to 21 days.  In some cases, the credential may be returned…

Retired Government Services Official Wheeler Dies at 77

The union is mourning the loss of retired SIU Assistant Vice President Chester “Chet” Wheeler, who passed away March 10 in California at age 77. He had had been battling cancer. Chet Wheeler Wheeler retired in 2019, following 22 years of service as an official. Previously, he sailed with the union for 32 years, beginning…
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MORE EVENTS

Important Notice to Seafarers Regarding Vaccines at CVS

Effective immediately, CVS retail stores are no longer in-network with Cigna for vaccine administration (including Covid-19 vaccines and boosters). This means that if you have any type of a vaccine at a CVS retail store, you will have a higher copayment. As confusing as it may sound, CVS MinuteClinics and CVS HealthHubs are still in-network. CVS MinuteClinics…

Updated COVID Policy for Paul Hall Center, Hiring Halls

Effective immediately, the COVID vaccine will no longer be a requirement to enter a hiring hall or to attend classes at the Paul Hall Center. Apprentices are, however, still required to be vaccinated in order to be assigned to apprentice positions. If anyone else is not fully vaccinated (meaning the original vaccines and any available…

Vaccination Records at Your Fingertips

The SIU has partnered with WellCheck to bring members a new way to keep your proof of COVID-19 vaccination at the ready - on your mobile device. By using the WellCheck app, SIU members can upload their vaccine cards using their smartphone, where the information listed will be verified by state medical databases. Once verified,…
more COVID safety updates