Two previously scheduled benefits conferences in Wilmington, California, had been postponed due to inclement weather, but the gathering finally took place April 3 at the hiring hall.
The well-attended conference, conducted by Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen with assistance from SIU officials including Secretary- Treasurer Tom Orzechowski and Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone, formally marked the end of a series that began last summer. The coast-to- coast meetings – 14 in all – offered information about various benefits for staff and for rank-and-file Seafarers, pensioners and dependents.
Bowen said the Wilmington conference went as smoothly as the others and featured a typical assortment of excellent questions from various participants. She added that although no exact future dates have been identified, her intent is for another series of benefits conferences to happen at the halls.
In addition to the Wilmington conference, others took place in Norfolk, Virginia; Oakland, California; Honolulu; Tacoma, Washington; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Piney Point, Maryland; Jacksonville, Florida; Houston; New Orleans; Mobile, Alabama; Jersey City, New Jersey; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; and Algonac, Michigan.
While the subject matter was wide-ranging within the scope of the various Plans, the overall aim was straightforward, Bowen said. She and the other Plans representatives and union officials were on hand to help ensure that people understand, and get the most from, their respective benefits.
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