International Seafarer’s Center under construction at Port Arthur, Texas A groundbreaking ceremony took place in Port Arthur, Texas, on May 17, 2002, for the new International Seafarers Building. The building will be located on property donated by the Kansas City Southern Railroad at the foot of Procter Street, corner of Houston Avenue. The project received a major cash contribution from the International Transport Workers Federation. Significant contributions came from the Catholic Dioceses of Beaumont, the Sabine Pilots, the Texaco Marine Services In addition there were many contributions from businesses, organizations and individuals who serve the port including The Presbytery of the New Covenant. The current total of contributions including cash, property and “in kind services” total $438,000. The Port Arthur Seafarers Center will provide a safe, clean relaxing environment featuring: • A modern telecommunications facility with access to the internet, • A library and reading room, • Recreational facilities including pool tables, ping pong, video games, volleyball and basketball, and • A chapel to serve the faith needs of mariners away from their homes. The building will be reminiscent of the old KSC depot on the outside but modern on the inside. It is scheduled for completion in May of 2003. Contributions can be sent to: Port Arthur International Seamen’s Center PO Box 1646 Port Arthur, TX77641-1646 Telephone 409/982-4504