Billy Swor and Jeff Jewell, leaders of ILWU Local 24, were featured in a lengthy article in Aberdeen, Washington's daily newspaper.
With increased vessel traffic at the Port of Grays Harbor, ILWU Local 24 president Jeff Jewell and the rest of the union leadership have been navigating the mixed blessing of balancing more jobs with the capabilities of the small union. … Jewell said the union is seeing more and more work on the waterfront as new shipping partners bring in more diverse cargo. Crews that once specialized in wood products now move bulk liquid, automobiles, grain and many other items.
Jewell grew up in a union home under principles of brotherhood and hard work. While still attending Hoquiam High School, he marked his entry to adulthood with his first shift on the waterfront.
“It was my 18th birthday and my dad called me up,” he said. His father, Neil Jewell, registered with the longshore union in the ’ 60s and later served as vice president of Local 24.
“You’re 18 today aren’t you?” his father asked.
“Yeah,” Jeff said, recalling the conversation.
“You’re gonna work tonight.”
“Oh God,” Jeff said with a laugh. “So I did.”
Read the rest: This feature article is available by registering at the Daily World or clicking on this link.