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January, 2010

NEWS BULLETIN
Friday, January 29, 2010

Port of Seattle adding
small business program

SEATTLE — The Port of Seattle Commission has authorized creation of a new program that will expand opportunities for small businesses throughout the Puget Sound region. Part of the port’s ongoing Small Business Initiative, the Small Contractors and Suppliers program will provide specific incentives to expand opportunities for the small companies that are the backbone of the regional economy. As part of the SCS, the port’s Office of Social Responsibility will develop a
comprehensive outreach program to increase the pool of small businesses partnering with the agency. The port’s Central Procurement Office will track the program’s overall effectiveness. For a complete description of the program, visit: http://www.portseattle.org/community/socialresponsibility.shtml


New pilings being driven
at Port of Tacoma wharf

TACOMA — A Port of Tacoma contractor began driving the first of 361 concrete piling yesterday in the Blair Waterway, to expand a Washington United Terminals wharf. The $31 million project will extend an existing berth another 600 feet to support two large new cranes the Hyundai Merchant Marine-owned terminal added in January 2009. The larger wharf and “super post-Panamax” cranes will be able to serve the world’s largest ships. Manson Construction of Seattle plans to work from about 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays and possibly some weekends to drive 29 piles for the berth before the annual fish migration season begins mid-February, ending all in-water work until mid-July. The wharf extension is estimated to create about 30 full-time construction jobs during the 18-month project. Learn more about the project. The extended berth should be complete by July 2011, ready to serve the world’s largest ships.


Air Canada expansion
includes new Portland flights

PORTLAND — Air Canada has announced new services for seven more American cities, fortifying its Toronto hub and strengthening its position as the leading transborder carrier with the most daily flights between Canada and the U.S. of any airline. This spring, Air Canada will offer new daily service between Toronto and seven more American cities including: Orange County (Santa Ana) and San Diego, California; Portland, Oregon; Memphis, Tennessee; Cincinnati, Ohio; Portland, Maine; and Syracuse, New York. Flights will be non-stop and conveniently timed for connections with flights on Air Canada’s extensive domestic and international network. Customers can earn and redeem Aeroplan miles on each route. Air Canada is also adding four new international destinations from Toronto this summer. The airline has announced it will begin flying to Athens, Barcelona, and Copenhagen, and offer same-plane, direct service to Brussels through Montreal.


Rail traffic numbers
see mixed bag during week

WASHINGTON, DC — Intermodal volume was up but both carload freight and total volume as measured in ton-miles slipped from year-ago levels during the week ended December 26, the Association of American Railroads reports. The AAR also reported that volume during the most recent week remained sharply below levels reported during the comparable 2007 week. In order to offer a complete picture of the progress in rail traffic, AAR will now be reporting 2009 weekly rail traffic with year over year comparisons for both 2008 and 2007. Comparison weeks from all three years included the Christmas holiday. Intermodal traffic totaled 141,699 trailers and containers, up 14.2 percent from a year ago but down 10.7 percent from 2007. Compared with the same week in 2008, container volume rose 21.6 percent and trailer volume dropped 14.5 percent. Compared with the same week in 2007, container volume fell 4.5 percent and trailer volume dropped 34.4 percent. Carload freight totaled 197,754 cars, down 1.1 percent from 2008 and 22.3 percent from 2007. In the Eastern U.S., carloads were up 1.3 percent compared with the same week last year, but off 25.2 percent compared with 2007. In the West, carloads were down 2.3 percent compared with 2008, and 20.7 percent compared with the same week in 2007. Carload volume was down largely because of a more-than 21,000 carload (19.1 percent) drop in coal loadings. Seventeen of the other 18 carload freight commodity groups were up compared with the same week last year, with fourteen reporting double digit increases, including motor vehicles (52.1 percent); lumber and wood products (44.8 percent); grain (31.1 percent); metals (31.7 percent) and chemicals (18.7 percent). Total volume was estimated at 22.1 billion ton-miles, down 0.9 percent from the comparable 2008 week, and down 17.5 percent from the comparable 2007 week.


SEKO Worldwide Portland
taps in to solar energy

PORTLAND — SEKO Worldwide - a global provider of supply-chain solutions, including comprehensive transportation, logistics and IT offerings - has announced that its Portland facility recently installed a 31-kilowatt, 143-panel solar voltaic system to supply the vast majority of its electricity needs. The ultra-efficient, 220-watt polycrystalline solar panel system went live in December 2009. It generates approximately 80 to 90 percent of the electricity needed to power SEKO's 33,000-square-foot Portland warehouse and office. Excess electricity is sold back to Portland General Electric via a net metering system that allows the utility's electricity used by the facility vs. the electricity produced by the solar panels to cancel each other out and produce a net credit or deficit. The system uses panels manufactured and sold by Grape Solar, (based in Eugene, Ore.) and produces enough power every day to provide the electricity needs for 15 average homes. SEKO Portland reports it will save approximately $600 on its electric bills each month.


NEWS BULLETIN
Thursday, January 28, 2010

DHS begins to phase in
new 10+2 requirements

WASHINGTON, DC — Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano has announced that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has begun enforcement of the Importer Security Filing and Additional Carrier Requirements interim final rule—significantly increasing the scope and accuracy of information gathered on shipments of cargo arriving by sea into the United States and bolstering DHS' layered enforcement strategy to protect against terrorism and other crimes at U.S. ports of entry. CBP began graduated enforcement of the rule—which requires importers to provide specific information on their cargo prior to arrival in the United States—January 27, following a one-year informed compliance period. The Importer Security Filing and Additional Carrier Requirements—commonly known as "10+2" in reference to the data required under the rule—are a result of the SAFE Port Act of 2006, which mandated the development of a regulation to require additional data prior to a vessel's arrival at a U.S. port of entry. For more information regarding the Importer Security Filing and Additional Carrier Requirements interim final rule go to www.cbp.gov/isf.


Corps of Engineers slates
Columbia jetty repair meeting

PORTLAND — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will explain the proposed repairs to the jetties at the mouth of the Columbia River at an informational meeting Wednesday, Feb 3. The meeting will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Columbia River Maritime Museum, 1792 Marine Dr., Astoria, Ore. Corps representatives will share information about the proposed repair work to the jetties and be available after the meeting to answer questions. Over the years, the jetties have eroded from the constant force of the Pacific Ocean, although they are still performing their function of keeping the navigation channel at its authorized depth. The Corps made interim repairs to the north and south jetties from 2004 to 2007 to stabilize the structures until this permanent plan was developed. The proposed repair work would prevent future failures that may prevent the jetties from performing their function. The Corps is accepting comments on its proposal. The draft environmental assessment detailing the project and the anticipated impacts is available online at http://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/pm/e/en_plan_assess.asp. For questions or comments on the draft EA or to request a copy, call Barbara Cisneros at 503-808-4784 or e-mail Barbara.G.Cisneros@usace.army.mil. Comments also can be submitted by mailing them to: District Engineer, Portland District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Attn: Barbara Cisneros, CENWP-PM-E, P.O. Box 2946, Portland, OR, 97208-2946. Comments must be postmarked by Feb. 12, 2010, and reference Public Notice Number CENWP-PM-E-10-03.


Crowley making changes
to petroleum distribution group

ANCHORAGE — Crowley Maritime Corporation has announced that it has restructured its petroleum distribution and contract services group, consolidating all Alaska operations under Craig Tornga, vice president. Mr. Tornga, who will remain in Anchorage and will continue reporting to Rocky Smith, senior vice president and general manager, will continue to manage Alaska's petroleum distribution and fuel sales but will now also manage tanker assist and escort services in Valdez and Prince William Sound, Alaska, and energy support services on Alaska's North Slope. Reporting to Mr. Tornga are Bob Cox, vice president, of sales, marketing, supply and distribution for petroleum distribution and fuel sales; Mike Mendenhall, manager business processes; Charlie Nalen, vice president, Valdez; Bruce Harland, vice president, commercial functions related to energy support services including marine and all-terrain transportation (CATCO) within Alaska and on the North Slope; Alex Sweeney, vice president operations, terminals and marine, for petroleum distribution and energy support services on the North Slope. In addition to Mr. Tornga, others reporting to Smith are Chris Peterson, vice president contract and West Coast marine operations; Scott Hoggarth, general manager, ship assist and escort; Eric Evans, director, finance and planning and John Ara, vice president, contract services.


Port of Tacoma looking for
executive director candidates

TACOMA — The Port of Tacoma has issued a request for proposals from executive search firms to help find a new port leader. Electronic proposals from qualified firms are due by 4 p.m. Feb. 10. A full description of proposal requirements is available on the port Web site, www.portoftacoma.com. The call for proposals seeks search firms with experience recruiting maritime industry executives, planning and conducting outreach and communications related to the search, and helping negotiate an agreement with a final candidate. Commissioners developed the scope and schedule for gathering proposals during three special study sessions this month. The selected search firm will help find a replacement for former Executive Director Tim Farrell, who left the top job at the end of 2009. Deputy Director John Wolfe stepped in Jan. 1 to serve as interim director until the commission hires a new leader. Commissioners are scheduled to discuss and evaluate the search firm proposals at a special study session 8 a.m. Feb. 16. Commission meetings are held in Room 104 of The Fabulich Center, 3600 Port of Tacoma Road in Tacoma. Meetings also are available for viewing live and on-demand from the port's Web site.


Port Angeles port board
taps new Harbor Works member

PORT ANGELES — At the January 25 Port of Port Angeles Commission meeting, three Harbor Works board member candidates made brief presentations to and fielded questions from the Board of Commissioners. The commission selected Kaj Ahlburg as the port’s next appointee to the Harbor Works board. Per the Harbor Works charter, the Port Angeles City Council must approve the port’s appointment. It is anticipated that the council will take action at their next regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, February 2nd. Mr. Ahlburg will fill the vacancy on the board of Mr. Bart Irwin who tendered his resignation from the Harbor Works Board effective December 31, 2009.


NEWS BULLETIN
Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Explosives project begins
at Port of Tacoma's Kaiser site

TACOMA — People in Northeast Tacoma, Fife and on the Tideflats might hear a boom or two as Port of Tacoma contractors use light explosives on the former Kaiser Aluminum site on the east side of the Blair Waterway. This is the first of a series of detonations—about one or two a day—planned this week and possibly into next to decommission deep wells that once provided water to the former aluminum plant. A licensed explosives technician is scheduled to detonate charges about 500 feet below the ground. All work will be done during daylight hours. Visitors will be kept away from the site for safety reasons. No road closures or detours are expected.


Dredging work closes
Port of Everett boat launch

EVERETT — The Port of Everett has closed the state’s largest boat ramp, the 10th Street Boat Launch, to begin a dredging project. The facility will be closed until mid-February. The Port of Everett has awarded a contract to KC Equipment to remove approximately 30,000 cubic yards of sediment from the boat launch facility. The dredging began on Tuesday, Jan. 26 and is expected to continue through Feb.15 on a 24/7 basis. An extension is possible. This $600,000 investment in the boat launch is supported by the port’s Capital Improvement Project budget, and will enhance the operation and safety of the facility. The boat launch will be dredged to -10 MLLW. The port’s dredging will coincide with the Corps of Engineers maintenance dredging of the Lower Settling Basin in the Snohomish River Federal Navigation Channel currently underway.


Truck tonnage index
climbs during December

WASHINGTON, DC — The American Trucking Associations’ advance seasonally adjusted (SA) For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index climbed 2.1 percent in December, following a 2.6 percent increase in November. The latest gain boosted the SA index from 106.2 (2000=100) in November to 108.4 in December, its highest level since November 2008. The not seasonally adjusted index, which represents the change in tonnage actually hauled by the fleets before any seasonal adjustment, equaled 103 in December, up 2.3 percent from the previous month. Compared with December 2008, SA tonnage jumped 6.6 percent, which was the first year- over-year increase since September 2008. For all of 2009, the tonnage index was down 8.3 percent, which was the largest annual decrease since a 12.3 percent plunge in 1982.


Crowley taps Joseph Ayala
as labor relations director

JACKSONVILLE, FL — Jose Ayala has been promoted to director of labor relations for Crowley Maritime Corporation. Mr. Ayala will remain domiciled in Jacksonville and continue reporting to Steve Demeroutis, Crowley's vice president of labor relations. In his new position, Mr. Ayala is responsible for all labor relations activities for the East Coast/Caribbean terminal operations including grievance handling, negotiations, contract administration, compliance resolution and relationship building with Crowley's union representatives and personnel. Mr. Ayala joined Crowley in 2009 as intermodal manager in Jacksonville before being promoted to representative, labor relations. Prior to that he served as president of the Teamsters for five years in San Juan and two years as vice president. Mr. Ayala also spent 12 years with Crowley in the late 1980s-90s in barge operations.


California Maritime Academy
receives Homeland Security grant

VALLEJO, CA — The California Maritime Academy Department of Sponsored Projects and Extended Learning (SPEL) has received a grant of $200,000 from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) administered through the California Emergency Management Agency (Cal EMA). The funds will support curriculum development and delivery of DHS-approved training courses to California emergency responders and maritime industry professionals. The courses will be delivered tuition-free to qualified residents of the state, or individuals employed by MTSA-regulated entities within the state for. SPEL will deliver the First Responder Operational Maritime Security (FROMS) Course up to six times at various locations throughout the state. The training is designed for First Response personnel who may respond to incidents on vessels or facilities regulated under the Maritime Security Transportation Act of 2002.


NEWS BULLETIN
Monday, January 25, 2010

Final dry excavation work begins
for Panama Canal expansion project

PANAMA CITY — Work on the second largest contract of the Panama Canal Expansion Program has begun. The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) issued consortium FCC-ICA-Meco the Notice to Commence the fourth and final dry excavation (PAC-4) contract. PAC-4 is the most complex expansion project after the design and build of the new set of locks. The dry excavation included in PAC-4 will create an access channel linking the new Pacific locks with the canal’s existing Gaillard Cut (the narrowest stretch of the Panama Canal). The ACP awarded the PAC-4 contract to FCC-ICA-Meco, a Spanish, Mexican and Costa Rican joint venture, following the consortium’s lowest bid submission of $267,798,795.99, and its compliance with the requirements established in the request for proposal specifications. The ACP issued the Notice after receiving FCC-ICA-Meco’s performance and payment bonds and signing the contract. The scope of work will include 26 million cubic meters of unclassified excavation, the installation of a backfilled cellular cofferdam water barrier and the construction of an earth-rock filled dam that will create part of the access channel’s eastern bank. The work is scheduled to conclude during the third quarter of 2013.


Port of Seattle bonds
receive highest rating

SEATTLE — Standard and Poor’s has again given the Port of Seattle its highest possible rating for general obligation bonds. The rating agency affirmed the ‘AAA’ rating following a recent credit review. Standard and Poor’s report notes that the Port of Seattle has a strong revenue structure that moderates the financial effects of economic fluctuations, and has developed reliable policy tools to assist with forecasting and budgeting – strengths reflected in the port’s steady performance during the current economic downturn.


Crowley uses lightering scheme
to move containers to Port-au-Prince

JACKSONVILLE, FL — Crowley Maritime Corporation, working under contract with the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM), successfully discharged 12 20-foot containers of relief supplies across a beach in Port-au-Prince, Haiti Jan 22, in an experimental lightering operation. The success of this operation, which involved lifting the containers from a Crowley container ship anchored in the harbor to a smaller, shallow-draft landing vessel for transport and discharge over the beach, paves the way for container shipments directly into Port-au-Prince this week. The Crowley container ship Marcajama, which offloaded the containers, was scheduled to return to Port Everglades, Fla. over the weekend and load more relief cargo under contract with USTRANSCOM. The ship will then return to Port-au-Prince in the middle of this week and discharge containers via the proven lightering method utilizing two shuttle vessels.


Marketing firms team up
to target global transport industry

NEW JERSEY — BSY Associates Inc. and RTG Communications have announced the formation of Trade Partners Worldwide, a global marketing agency network dedicated to providing integrated brand development and public relations campaigns for clients in the transportation, logistics and international trade industries. As the founding network partners, BSYA (based in New Jersey) and RTGC (based in Hong Kong) are combining BSYA's 35 years of international marketing experience in North America with RTGC's industry-leading PR capabilities in Asia. The two partners are exploring additional network partners in Europe, South America and other locations worldwide. BSYA and RTGC will retain their separate business identities, clients and ownership.


Corps installing bird deterrent
at John Day Lock & Dam

PORTLAND — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will be installing an avian predation deterrent array at John Day Lock & Dam the last week of January through early April. Some fishing and camping areas in and around the first two camp loops, the eastern parking lot and the areas west of the restrooms in Giles French Park on the south shore of the Columbia River will be closed during the construction. Railroad Island Park on the north shore may also be closed. Four new 60-foot poles will be installed around the first two parking areas just outside the John Day Project security fence, near the Oregon shoreline. Those poles will support over 100 wires stretched across the river to the dam. Three additional poles will be installed on the south side of the downstream navigation lock entrance. The array of wires will deter birds from flying above and feeding on juvenile salmonids in the dam’s tailrace. The juveniles often linger in the tailrace after passing over the dam’s spillway during their migration to the sea, making them an easy target for predators. The project is part of the Corps’ ongoing efforts to support salmon recovery in the Columbia River Basin. For more information, visit http://www.nwd.usace.army.mil/ps.


NEWS BULLETIN
Friday, January 22, 2010

Port of Seattle sees millions
in Homeland Security grant funds

SEATTLE — The Port of Seattle, along with local law enforcement networks, Seattle Fire Department, and maritime partners and tenants have received $17,885,487 in Homeland Security grants in 2009 and the beginning of 2010. Funding has come in several rounds of competitive grants that the Port of Seattle led, benefitting regional agencies that have provided some of the funding match. In 2009, nearly $10.5 million went toward fencing and security around Smith Cove Cruise Terminal, video surveillance, radioactive material detection, and a wireless communication network. In addition to the access control infrastructure and equipment, training and situation exercises for neighboring jurisdictions were funded. That particular round of funding also included a Port Resiliency and Recovery Plan Development for Puget Sound and the Port of Seattle, which brought together several jurisdictions to plan for any emergency that may impact port functions during a disaster. Seattle Fire Department will also be a beneficiary of the additional funding, which includes upgrades on waterside response capability for SFD fire boats and additional communications equipment. Thus far in 2010, the Port of Seattle has received commission authorization for nearly $7.5 million, which will provide a Port of Seattle Police bomb disposal truck and robot, and vessel sonar equipment. Mutual assistance agreements with other law enforcement agencies will allow this equipment to be used throughout the region.


Wan Hai joining Hanjin
in Transpacific service

SEOUL — Hanjin Shipping and Wan Hai Lines have announced that they will be cooperating in the Transpacific trade effective middle of March. SJX (South East Asia – Japan Express) service, launched by Hanjin last June, is a direct service between Vietnam and the U.S. targeting the Vietnamese and South East Asian markets, which are constantly growing in spite of such economic climate. According to the carriers, SJX, which is currently operated by Hanjin, will be inviting Wan Hai Lines as a co-operator with six of 4,000TEU class vessels deployed, five by Hanjin and one by Wan Hai Lines adding Hong Kong to the current calling ports in order to attract more cargo from South China areas as well. Together with this new joint service, Wan Hai Lines will enter into a cross-charter arrangement with Hanjin Shipping on PSX (Pacific Express) service, providing customers with additional service coverage.


BNSF Railway cutting back
capital commitment for 2010

FORT WORTH, TX — BNSF Railway Company (BNSF) has announced a planned 2010 capital commitment program of $2.4 billion, which is expected to be approximately $240 million lower than 2009 due to fewer expected locomotive acquisitions in 2010. BNSF currently expects to spend about $2.1 billion for track, signal systems, structures, and freight cars, and to upgrade technologies, including the unfunded mandate for positive train control. The company also anticipates acquiring approximately 170 locomotives at a cost of about $320 million.


Weekly rail freight traffic
up against last year's total

WASHINGTON, DC — Total freight volume on U.S. railroads edged ahead of 2008 levels for the week ended December 19, the Association of American Railroads reports. However, volume remained sharply below levels reported during the comparable 2007 week. In order to offer a complete picture of the progress in rail traffic, AAR will now be reporting 2009 weekly rail traffic with year over year comparisons for both 2008 and 2007. Total volume was estimated at 30.4 billion ton-miles, up 0.3 percent from the comparable 2008 week, but down 11.6 percent from the comparable 2007 week. Intermodal traffic totaled 209,759 trailers and containers, up 9.4 percent from a year ago but down 8.7 percent from 2007. Compared with the same week in 2008, container volume rose 18.6 percent and trailer volume dropped 20.1 percent. Compared with the same week in 2007, container volume slipped 1.4 percent and trailer volume dropped 32.4 percent. Carload freight totaled 271,819 cars, down 0.1 percent from 2008 and 16.7 percent from 2007. In the Western U.S., carloads were up 3.5 percent compared with the same week last year, but down 13.1 percent compared with 2007. In the East, carloads were down 5.1 percent compared with 2008, and 21.6 percent compared with the same week in 2007.


Tsakos Navigation to sell
pair of Aframax tankers

ATHENS — Tsakos Energy Navigation Limited has announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Agreement with a state oil company for the sale of the 2003-built Aframax tankers MARATHON and PARTHENON for a combined price of $78 million. One vessel will be delivered to its new owner at the end of February and the other at the end of April, at the expiration of their voyage charters. The capital gains that will be generated from this sale will be booked during the respective quarters of this fiscal year. With the conclusion of this sale, TEN's cash reserves are expected to be approximately $370 million.


NEWS BULLETIN
Thursday, January 21, 2010

Panama Canal Authority
releases first quarter metrics

PANAMA CITY — The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has released first quarter (Q1) operational metrics for fiscal year 2010. In Q1, Canal Waters Time (CWT), the average time it takes a vessel to transit the Canal (including waiting time for passage) significantly decreased. There also were increases in total transits and net tonnage. These metrics are based on operations from October through December 2009, the first quarter of the ACP's 2010 fiscal year, and are compared with Q1 of fiscal year 2009. CWT decreased 27.5 percent – to 20.29 hours from 27.97 hours. CWT for booked vessels, those ships holding reservations, also experienced a decrease of 20.7 percent – to 13.43 hours from 16.94 hours. Total Canal transits increased two percent – to 3,590 transits from 3,520. Transits of supers, larger ships that require greater time and navigation skills to transit the canal, increased 8.1 percent – to 2,026 transits from 1,874. With regard to key segments, dry bulk and tankers transits increased, while transits of containers, refrigerated cargo (reefers) and vehicle carriers decreased. Panama Canal/Universal Measurement System (PC/UMS) tonnage increased 3.5 percent – to 80.9 million PC/UMS tons from 78.2 million PC/UMS tons. The official accident rate declined 0.9 percent to 1.11 accidents per 1,000 transits from 1.12. An official accident is one in which a formal investigation is requested and conducted.


Orient Overseas Limited
selling property subsidiary

HONG KONG — Orient Overseas (International) Limited (OOIL) - has announced the sale of the entire share capital of Orient Overseas Developments Limited (OODL), a wholly-owned subsidiary engaged in property development and investment in the PRC, to CapitaLand China (RE) Holdings Co., Ltd (CapitaLand) for US$2.2 billion in cash. The consideration was determined after conducting a competitive auction process. As part of the transaction, OOIL will also assign and transfer a US$1.046bn shareholders’ loan to CapitaLand. OOIL will retain its 7.9 percent interest in Beijing Orient Plaza and continue to wholly own Wall Street Plaza. Morgan Stanley acted as sole financial advisor to OOIL on the transaction.


Truck-involved fatalities
down sharply during 2008

ARLINGTON, VA — The trucking industry is safer than ever, according to truck Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) figures just released by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and previously released National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) data on crashes. The truck-involved fatality rate in 2008 declined 12.3 percent to 1.86 per 100 million miles from 2.12 per 100 million miles in 2007. This decline marks the largest year-to-year drop ever and the fifth consecutive year the fatality rate has improved. Since new Hours-of-Service regulations took effect in 2005, the truck-involved fatality rate has come down more than 20 percent and is at its lowest since the U.S. Department of Transportation began keeping those records in 1975. The fatality rate has declined more than 66 percent since 1975.


CBP Air and Marine unit
celebrating anniversary

WASHINGTON, DC — The World's largest aviation and maritime law enforcement organization is marking an anniversary. On January 17, 2006, U.S. Customs and Border Protection consolidated air and marine assets, programs and personnel into the Office of CBP Air and Marine to create the world’s largest aviation and maritime law enforcement organization. With more than 1,200 federal agents, 290 aircraft and 225 marine vessels operating from 79 locations throughout the United States, the Office of Air and Marine is critical to CBP’s layered enforcement strategy. OAM uses its sophisticated fleets to detect, sort, intercept, track and apprehend criminals. Its specialized law enforcement capability enables CBP to provide border protection and law enforcement operations between ports of entry, within the maritime operating areas and within the nation’s interior. In addition, OAM interdiction aircraft are frequently deployed to locations such as Costa
Rica, Ecuador and Aruba, near drug source and transit zones. OAM aircraft also deploy when necessary to sites in Panama, Peru, Belize, El Salvador and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.


Genco Shipping & Trading
extends GENCO MUSE charter

NEW YORK — Genco Shipping & Trading Limited has announced that it has reached an agreement to extend the time charter for the GENCO MUSE, a 2001-built Handymax vessel, with Global Maritime Investments Ltd. for approximately 10.5 to 12.5 months at a rate of $17,750 per day, less a five percent third-party brokerage commission. The time charter is expected to commence on or about January 21, 2010 following the expiration of the vessel's current time charter and is subject to the completion of definitive documentation. Currently, Genco has approximately 58 percent of its fleet's estimated available days secured on contracts for the remainder of 2010.


NEWS BULLETIN
Wednesday, January 20, 2010

New Deltaport berth
officially open for business

VANCOUVER, BC — On January 18, Global Container Terminals and Port Metro Vancouver, along with government officials, officially opened the new $400 million third berth at Deltaport container terminal. The new berth is a $400 million dollar investment in the future of Canada's Pacific Gateway. Deltaport is the largest container terminal in Canada, handling approximately 45 percent of the containerized cargo that moves through Canada’s west coast and more than half of the containerized cargo through Port Metro Vancouver. The project, which took two years to construct, increases Deltaport’s capacity by up to 50 percent from 1.2 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) to 1.8 million TEUs, and adds approximately 20 hectares of container storage facilities and the first quad cranes in North and South America.


MarAd sending RRF ships
to support Haiti relief efforts

WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood has announced that the Department’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) is sending five ships to assist with relief efforts in Haiti. GOPHER STATE, PETERSBURG, HUAKAI, CORNHUSKER STATE and CAPE MAY are being prepared to sail to the Caribbean Ocean from different parts of the United States. All are owned or controlled by MARAD, and will be crewed by civilian U.S. merchant mariners. M/V HUAKAI is a new high-speed ferry capable of speeds of nearly 40 knots in the open ocean. PETERSBURG, CORNHUSKER STATE, CAPE MAY and GOPHER STATE are part of MARAD’s Ready Reserve Force (RRF), which includes a total of forty-nine ships at ports around the country.


Foss tugs and barges
offering services to Haiti

SEATTLE — As recovery efforts in the wake of Haiti's devastating earthquake continue, tugs and barges from two Seattle-based companies are in the U.S. Gulf poised to participate in the vast international relief operation. America Cargo Transport Corp. (ACTC), a wholly owned Foss subsidiary, and Foss Maritime Company are preparing to carry approximately 6,000 tons of food aid cargo to the Haitian capital of Port Au Prince for USAID, according to company sources. Initial efforts to deliver humanitarian aid to the stricken island nation have slowed because of severe damage to the port and transportation infrastructure in Port Au Prince. ACTC has routinely carried food aid cargo for USAID and USDA to Port Au Prince before the earthquake and specializes in handling the complex logistics of moving high, wide and heavy cargo for private companies, governments and the military.


Coast Guard sending reserves
to provide support in Haiti

WASHINGTON, DC — Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano has authorized the temporary activation of up to 900 reserve U.S. Coast Guard service men and women to bolster the more than 500 Coast Guard personnel already serving in Haiti in support of the U.S. government’s response to the devastation caused by the Jan. 12 earthquake. The action by Secretary Napolitano authorizes Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Thad Allen to order the activation of up to 900 reservists—comprised of units and individual members—of the Selected Reserve and Individual Ready Reserve for a period of up to 180 days to support DHS operational missions and humanitarian assistance efforts in Haiti. The Coast Guard will utilize more than 100 of the newly-activated reserve personnel—who are expected to arrive within 96 hours of activation—to strengthen port security operations in Port Au Prince. Additional reserve personnel—who are expected to arrive within days of activation—will support U.S. Coast Guard District 7 and Homeland Security Task Force Southeast operations, as well as other priorities as requested to support USAID and the State Department, the lead U.S. federal agencies in the response.


General Dynamics nets
$27.2 million Navy deal

QUINCY, MA — General Dynamics American Overseas Marine (AMSEA) has been awarded a $27.2 million operations and maintenance services contract by the U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command (MSC). Through this contract, General Dynamics will provide full-service operations and maintenance for seven Navy Large, Medium-Speed, Roll-On/Roll-Off (LMSR) vessels. Services will include crewing, engineering, maintenance, procurement and provisioning.


NEWS BULLETIN
Monday, January 18, 2010

Fourth grade students name
new Washington ferries

SEATTLE— Washington State Department of Transportation Ferries Division (WSF) has announced the vessel classification name of its new 64-car ferries: the Kwa-di Tabil Class. Kwa-di Tabil, (pronounced kwah DEE tah-bale) means “little boat” in the Quileute language. WSF conducted a contest to name the new vessel classification with fourth-grade students from Chimacum, Port Townsend and Whidbey Island, who are studying Washington state history. Guidelines for contest entries included that the name be unique to Washington state, representative of the local community, have symbolic maritime meaning and be reflective of nature. The winning entry was submitted by a fourth-grade class at Blue Heron Middle School in Port Townsend. The first of the Kwa-di Tabil Class ferries, the Chetzemoka, is scheduled to begin service on the Port Townsend/Keystone route in late summer 2010. WSF awarded a contract in October 2009 to build the second and third Kwa-dee Tabil Class ferries, which will begin service in 2011 and 2012.


Hanjin Shipping plans
three-part rate recovery program

SEOUL — Hanjin Shipping has announced a rate recovery program for the Trans-Atlantic trade in the year 2010. The program, consisting of three quarterly rate restorations, will be applied to all shipments between North America, Northern Europe and the Mediterranean, both east and west bound. Details are as follows: 2010 Trans-Atlantic Rate Recovery Program
April 1st, 2010 - 20"/USD300, 40"/USD400 (All types)
July 1st, 2010 - 20"/USD 300, 40"/USD400 (All types)
October 1st, 2010 - 20"/USD300, 40"/USD400 (All types)
According to Hanjin, the Trans-Atlantic trade suffered severe losses in 2009 caused by massive drop offs in cargo volume, which has pushed freight rates to unreasonably low levels. While the trade is now showing signs of recovery in the form of improving volume figures, fuel and other operation costs are increasing as well.


InterManager taps Szymanski
as new Secretary General

LONDON — InterManager, the international trade association for shipmanagers, has announced that it has appointed a new Secretary General to replace Guy Morel, who retires this summer. Taking the helm will be Captain Kuba Szymanski, who moves from MOL Tankship Management where he has worked for the past two years. Capt Szymanski will join InterManager on March 1st, 2010 and will work alongside Mr Morel until his official retirement in June. Capt Szymanski's title during this interim phase will be Secretary General Elect. Based on the Isle of Man, Capt Szymanski has a wealth of shipping industry experience both onboard and ashore. Polish-born, his previous experience includes management roles at Dorchester Maritime Ltd and MOL Tankship, and commands on LPG, Chemical Product and Gas Carriers. Mr. Morel has held the role of InterManager secretary general since 2007 and was a founder member and former president of the organisation's predecessor, the International Ship Managers Association (ISMA).


Genco Shipping announces
Capesize vessel timecharter

NEW YORK — Genco Shipping & Trading Limited has announced that it has reached an agreement to enter into a time charter for the GENCO AUGUSTUS, a 2007-built Capesize vessel, with Cargill International S.A. for approximately 10.5 to 12.5 months at a rate of $39,000 per day, less a five percent third-party brokerage commission. The time charter for the GENCO AUGUSTUS is subject to the completion of definitive documentation and is expected to commence on or about January 23, 2010 following the vessel's scheduled drydocking. The previous time charter for the GENCO AUGUSTUS was completed on January 10, 2010.


Crowley Liner Services Oks
Puerto Rico litigation settlement

JACKSONVILLE, FL — Crowley Liner Services, Inc. (Crowley) has entered into a settlement agreement with the plaintiffs in the Puerto Rican Cabotage Antitrust Litigation. Although the company specifically denied violating the antitrust laws, it agreed to the settlement given the high cost and burden of litigation, which is expected to continue for several more years. Following the announcement in April 2008 of a government investigation of pricing practices of ocean carriers operating in the Puerto Rico trade, several class action lawsuits were filed against Crowley and other domestic ocean liner carriers on behalf of those who directly purchased domestic ocean shipping services in the Puerto Rico tradelane between 2002 and 2008. Those lawsuits were consolidated into a single multidistrict litigation proceeding in the United States District Court for Puerto Rico. The complaints allege violations of U.S. and Puerto Rican antitrust laws and seek treble damages. Court approval of the settlement will be sought within the next several days. Following preliminary approval by the court, notice forms will be sent to all shippers. Final Court approval will be required after the forms have been received.


NEWS BULLETIN
Friday, January 15, 2010

Sea-Tac first US airport
to use bird watching scheme

SEATTLE— In partnership with University of Illinois researchers and the Federal Aviation Administration, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is the first airport in the country to begin the use of a new advanced bird tracking system with real-time displays of bird activity on and around the airport. This enhanced technology will allow wildlife management staff to access live data as they patrol the airfield to minimize bird hazards. Sea-Tac Airport has been the demonstration site for avian radar research since 2007. Three avian radars are currently installed at Sea-Tac, two on the top of the airport's office building and one in the middle of the airfield between two runways. Through the FAA-designated Center of Excellence for Airport Technology (CEAT) at the University of Illinois, the latest milestone in the research program builds on equipment from Accipiter Radar Inc. that provides geographic displays of bird activity on Google Earth ™ maps.


Corps calling for comment
on Columbia River jetty repairs

PORTLAND — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking comments on a draft environmental assessment of major repairs to portions of the jetties at the mouth of the Columbia River in Oregon and Washington. The work is necessary to prevent further deterioration and structural breaches, which could alter the reliability of the jetties and impact the ability of ships to navigate the river entrance. Actual repairs could begin as early as 2012 and would be completed in phases over 20 years. The proposed project calls for the placement of 364,000 tons and nearly 750,000 tons of rock on the north and south jetty, respectively, along with the addition of spur groins on both jetties. Additionally, both jetties would be capped with very large armor stones to prevent further erosion of the tips. Finally, the proposal includes plans to reinforce and add groins to jetty “A” at the south end of Cape Disappointment. The Corps expects rock would be acquired from multiple sources in Oregon, Washington, California and British Columbia. Each jetty stone would weigh between 30 and 50 tons. Rock delivery would take place by barge or truck. The draft environmental assessment is available online at http://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/pm/e/en_plan_assess.asp. For questions or comments on the draft EA or to request a copy, call Barbara Cisneros at 503-808-4784 or e-mail Barbara.G.Cisneros@usace.army.mil. Comments also can be submitted by mailing them to: District Engineer, Portland District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Attn: Barbara Cisneros, CENWP-PM-E, P.O. Box 2946, Portland, OR, 97208-2946. Comments must be postmarked by Feb. 12, 2010, and reference Public Notice Number CENWP- PM-E-10-03.


Three candidates remain
for Port of Port Angeles post

PORT ANGELES — At the January 11 Port of Port Angeles Commission meeting, the commission selected three candidates to interview for the vacant Harbor Works Board Member position. The port received eight applicants total. In open session, the commission discussed the eight candidates’ qualifications, then chose Grant Munro, Harry Bell and Kaj Ahlburg to proceed in the selection process. The three candidates have been invited to make brief presentations to the commission during the next regularly scheduled Commission meeting on Monday, January 25th. Following their presentations, the candidates will field questions from the commissioners. Bart Irwin tendered his resignation from the Harbor Works Board effective December 31, 2009 leaving a port appointed vacancy on the board.


Weekly rail traffic count
remains on negative side

WASHINGTON, DC — The Association of American Railroads reports that freight rail traffic remains down for the week ending Dec. 12, 2009. U.S. railroads reported originating 261,933 carloads, down 10.2 percent compared with the same week in 2008 and down 18.5 percent from the same week in 2007. In order to offer a complete picture of the progress in rail traffic, AAR will now be reporting 2009 weekly rail traffic with year over year comparisons for both 2008 and 2007. In the Western U.S., carloads were down 13.2 percent compared with the same week last year, and 16.4 percent compared with 2007. In the East, carloads were down 5.4 percent compared with 2008, and 21.4 percent compared with the same week in 2007. Intermodal traffic totaled 204,950 trailers and containers, down 3 percent from a year ago and 14.3 percent from 2007. Compared with the same week in 2008, container volume rose 3.6 percent and trailer volume dropped 24.5 percent. Compared with the same week in 2007, container volume fell 7.7 percent and trailer volume dropped 35.2 percent. While 12 of the 19 carload freight commodity groups were down compared with the same week last year, increases were seen in grain mill products (16.1 percent), chemicals (14.8 percent), metallic ores (14.7 percent), motor vehicles and equipment (11.2 percent), grain (8.1 percent), waste and scrap metal (6 percent) and nonmetallic minerals (2.2 percent). Declines in commodity groups ranged from .7 percent for farm products excluding grain to 24.9 percent for crushed stone, sand and gravel. Total volume on U.S. railroads for the week ending Dec. 12, 2009 was estimated at 29.3 billion ton-miles, down 9.8 percent compared with the same week last year and down 13.3 percent from 2007.


Diana Shipping plans to join
containership investment company

ATHENS — Diana Shipping Inc., a global shipping company specializing in the transportation of dry bulk cargoes, today announced its intention to participate in a new project involving the formation of a company expected to invest in containerships over the next 12-18 months. Diana Shipping intends to invest $50 million for a minority stake in the project, with the balance being raised in a private offering to institutional and accredited investors. Diana Shipping's wholly-owned management company would also enter into administrative and vessel management agreements with the new company, and certain Diana Shipping executives would also hold positions as executives of the new company. In addition, Diana Shipping would agree with the new company, as long as the administrative agreement or any of the vessel management agreements remain in effect, not to invest in containerships via other entities, while the new company would agree not to invest in dry bulk carriers.


NEWS BULLETIN
Thursday, January 14, 2010

TSA member carriers
looking for better times ahead

OAKLAND — As the Asia-U.S. freight market begins to gradually improve heading into 2010, the Transpacific Stabilization Agreement (TSA) is pressing ahead with revenue improvement efforts, along with internal changes intended to expand direct member line involvement as the Agreement addresses long-term challenges facing the transpacific trade. TSA lines voiced optimism about the outlook for Asia-U.S. trade in 2010, based on a combination of economic indicators and forward bookings during the off-season Lunar New Year period. With 2009 cargo demand likely to fall 15-20 percent below 2008 levels, carriers are looking forward to a significant year-on-year increase in 2010 traffic. Among the factors contributing to a positive forecast are a likely bottoming of the U.S. job market; better-than-expected 2009 holiday sales, coupled with rising U.S. consumer confidence and spending; and the need going forward for retailers and other businesses to replenish inventories and to upgrade physical and technology infrastructures. Forward bookings by the individual TSA lines suggest that vessel utilization levels in the trade will remain in the mid-high 90 percent range in most trade segments in the coming months, with a typical dip for the Lunar New Year period in Asia when factories are closed but picking up quickly after that.


Seattle Corps reports
dredging projects underway

SEATTLE — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Seattle District reports it is beginning or is in the midst of four separate dredging projects on the coast of Washington and throughout the Puget Sound. This time of year is particularly suited for dredging to ensure the least impact to aquatic species and resources. Maintenance dredging kicked off Tuesday for Seattle Harbor, which includes the removal of approximately 1,000 cubic yards of sediment from a shallow, shoaled area downstream of the Turning Basin – which area mariners sometimes call the ‘speed bump.’ This dredging will be done by American Construction Co., out of Tacoma, Wash., at a total cost of $744,750. Dredging continues in Everett Harbor by General Construction of Poulsbo, Wash. to do clamshell dredging. A total of 340,000 cubic yards will be dredged from the downstream settling basin and the adjacent channel. Safe Harbor dredging on the Quillayute River also continues. The Quillayute Marina, which borders the Pacific Ocean, is the prime economic waterway for the Quillayute Nation. Additionally the U.S. Coast Guard maintains a search-and-rescue operation there, as the marina is the only emergency point between Gray’s Harbor and Neah Bay. Nehalem Dredging, based out of Nehalem, Ore., is battling poor weather conditions to remove 80,000 cubic yards of sediment via hydraulic pipeline dredging. In Grays Harbor, a $1.754 million dredging contract is complete. This American Recovery and Reinvestment Act project was completed by Hickey Marine Enterprises, Inc. of Vancouver, Wash. The work consisted of clamshell dredging 270,000 cubic yards from the Inner Crossover Channel Reach. American Construction Co., Tacoma, WA, also completed the $6 million-dollar maintenance dredging of the Inner Harbor reaches of the Grays Harbor Navigation project on Tuesday. They removed 900,000 cubic yards of sediment.


Port of Seattle sees gains
from clean air project efforts

SEATTLE — Port of Seattle staff reported favorable results to commissioners on the major components of the Northwest Ports Clean Air Strategy. Initial results from the At-Berth Clean (ABC) Fuels Program, Clean Truck Program, and retrofits on cargo handling equipment show goals are either being met or exceeded, preventing tons of pollution from entering the local environment. The results for 2009 bear this out. In its first year, the ABC Fuels program has exceeded expectations, preventing almost 68 metric tons of sulfur from entering our environment. Currently, the truck scrapping program has seen 35 pre-1994 trucks taken off the road. Clean air efforts initiated by the Port also include retrofitting cargo-handling equipment, which reduce particulate matter emissions by 25 percent to 50 percent.


Two new members join
Bellingham waterfront group

BELLINGHAM — When the Bellingham Waterfront Advisory Group met January 13, it included two new members. John Harmon, executive director and CEO of the Bellingham Whatcom County Housing Authority, and Steve Swan, vice president for University Relations at Western Washington University, were appointed by the Port of Bellingham's Board of Commissioners earlier this month. The Waterfront Advisory Group serves as an advisory group to the Port of Bellingham and the City of Bellingham, regarding waterfront redevelopment in Bellingham. The port and city formed this group to ensure that the vision and goals of the community-led Waterfront Futures Group continue to be a part of all waterfront redevelopment planning. The port and city each choose half of the members of the Waterfront Advisory Group.


Fire destroys boat
at Port of Everett marina

EVERETT — Around 6:20 p.m. on January 12, 2010, a fire broke out at the Port of Everett’s South Marina. The fire destroyed one 34-foot boat and directly impacted two others on K- South. The Everett Fire Department and port staff responded to the scene within minutes. While the Everett Fire Department was extinguishing the fire, port staff was taking measures to protect the environment and move other boats out of harms way. The cause of the fire is still being investigated. The vessel sank with an estimated 100 gallons of fuel on board. Gasoline leaked into the water through fuel tank vents. Port staff used equipment from a Department of Ecology spill-response trailer stationed at the marina to begin to clean up and contain the spill. The trailer is part of Ecology’s statewide network of nearly 100 large spill-response kits for use by local first-responders to control oil spills. Global Diving and Salvage has been hired by the boat owner to carry out the environmental work needed to complete the response to this incident. The Washington Department of Ecology and U.S. Coast Guard have been overseeing the environmental cleanup of this spill.


NEWS BULLETIN
Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Crowley ready to begin
relief shipments to Haiti

JACKSONVILLE, FL — In light of the earthquake in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Crowley Maritime Corporation's liner services group has temporarily suspended regularly scheduled cargo services to and from the country. This temporary suspension comes as port infrastructure damages are being assessed. The company is cooperating with and assisting U.S. government agencies including USAID, SDDC and other relief agencies with emergency shipments to the country. Crowley stands ready to ship emergency supplies and needed cargo as soon as port conditions allow. The company is evaluating how it can best deploy its wide variety of specialized marine assets to deliver humanitarian cargo and assistance to the disaster relief.


Versacold set to begin
construction of Tacoma facility

TACOMA — Versacold Logistics Services has broken ground on a new $30 million cold storage facility at the Port of Tacoma. The facility will offer 200,000 square feet of freezer and refrigerated storage space. There are also future plans for an 85,000 square-foot expansion. The facility is located at the Port Commerce Center, an industrial real estate development of Northwest Building LLC, a private development company based in Seattle. The Commerce Center encompasses a total of about 100 acres of property leased from the Port of Tacoma, and is located within a mile of Port terminals. All Port Commerce Center property is in Foreign Trade Zone #86. VersaCold is subleasing about 17 acres of land from Northwest Building Corporation for its cold storage facility. The facility is being built by Fisher & Sons, Inc., which is based in Burlington, Wash. The company has built more than 100 cold storage facilities since 1954.


Port of Bellingham
welcomes new commissioner

BELLINGHAM — At the Port of Bellingham's first meeting of 2010, new port commissioner Michael McAuley was sworn in to office and chosen to serve as the board's vice president for 2010. Whatcom County Auditor Shirley Forslof administered the oath of office to Commissioner McAuley and returning Commissioner Scott Walker. The commission voted to select Commissioner Jim Jorgensen to serve as commission president and Commissioner Walker to serve as commission secretary for 2010. Regularly scheduled Commission meetings in 2010 will continue to be on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 3 p.m. in the Harbor Center Conference Room, 1801 Roeder Avenue. The public is welcome at all Port Commission meetings and agendas are posted for upcoming meetings on the port's website: www.portofbellingham.com


Financial moves give ZIM
improved bond rating

HAIFA — ZIM Integrated Shipping Services has completed the conditions precedent required for the new bond terms to come into effect. Consequently, Standard & Poor's (S&P) Maalot has announced it will raise ZIM’s bond rating by six grades, to “B” Stable. The move by S&P Maalot was made based on ZIM’s improved cash flow, a necessary requirement for the new bond terms to come into effect. The global credit ratings and risk analysis firm also stated that if the company achieves the targets of its financial restructuring plan and its level of liquidity, it may lead to a further rating increase.


Port of Everett to add
seasonal daytime parking fee

EVERETT — Starting in May 2010, the Port of Everett will be implementing a seasonal daytime parking fee for 10th Street Boat Launch and Marine Park visitors. The $3 fee, which runs from May 1 to Sept. 30 of each year, is being expanded to daytime facility users in an effort to help fund the ongoing maintenance and operation of the 10th Street Boat Launch & Marine Park facility. The facility is maintained by the Port of Everett, but jointly owned by the port, City of Everett and Snohomish County. Currently, the port invests approximately $216,000 per year in boat launch and park maintenance, of which, about $115,000 is recouped via launch and parking fees. Furthermore, the port invested approximately $600,000 in capital improvements to the boat launch, Marine Park and Jetty Island facility over the last several years. In early 2010, the port expects to invest an additional $600,000 to dredge the boat launch to enhance its functionality. To assist with the change, the port has installed new parking machines that will take credit cards. This fee will help offset some of the maintenance costs to providing this public amenity.


NEWS BULLETIN
Monday, January 11, 2010

Port of Tacoma taps Curt Stoner
as container terminal business boss

TACOMA — The Port of Tacoma has named Curt Stoner as the new senior manager of container terminal business. Before joining the Port, Mr. Stoner spent almost 15 years as commercial manager at Totem Ocean Trailer Express, a port customer that serves Alaska. Prior to that, Mr. Stoner worked 10 years in sales at American President Lines. He worked as a sales trainer for both shipping companies. In his new port position, Mr. Stoner is responsible for developing new container business and managing an existing portfolio of container terminals. This work includes developing, negotiating and monitoring terminal leases and operating agreements, and developing capital and operating budgets for those terminals.


Monthly Port Tracker report
looks for box count increases

WASHINGTON, DC — Import cargo volume at the nation’s major retail container ports ended a nearly two-and-a-half-year streak of year-over-year declines in December and is on track to show gains through the first half of 2010, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates. U.S. ports handled 1.09 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units in November, the latest month for which actual numbers are available. That was down eight percent from October, traditionally the busiest month of the year, and 10 percent from November 2008. The November number marked the 28th month in a row to show a decrease from the same month a year earlier. But the trend was broken in December, which was estimated at 1.08 million TEU, down slightly from November as the holiday season came to a close but a 1.7 percent increase over December 2008. Year-over-year increases are expected to continue through the remainder of Global Port Tracker’s six-month forecast range. January is forecast at 1.15 million TEU, a nine percent increase over January 2010, and February, traditionally the slowest month of the year, is forecast at 1.05 million TEU, up 25 percent from the previous year. March is forecast at 1.16 million TEU, up 21 percent as retailers begin to stock up for spring and summer, April at 1.19 million TEU, up 20 percent, and May at 1.2 million TEU, up 15 percent.


Crowley making changes
to management team

JACKSONVILLE, FL — Crowley Maritime Corporation has announced a restructuring involving three members of its senior leadership team. John Douglass and Rob Grune will move to new positions, with Douglass taking over as senior vice president and general manager of Crowley's Puerto Rico/Caribbean liner services, and Grune taking over as senior vice president and general manager of Crowley's petroleum transportation group. Both executives will remain domiciled in Jacksonville and continue to report to Tom Crowley, chairman, president and CEO. Additionally, Rockwell Smith, Crowley's senior vice president and general manager based in Seattle, will assume responsibility for all of Crowley's marine contract services both domestically and internationally. He will continue to oversee the company's Alaska operations, as well as West Coast harbor services.


Diana Shipping announces
pair of time charter contracts

ATHENS — Diana Shipping Inc., a global shipping company specializing in the transportation of dry bulk cargoes, has announced that it has entered into a time charter contract with J. Aron & Company, New York, for one of its Panamax dry bulk carriers, the m/v MELITE, at a gross charter rate of US$24,250 per day for a period of minimum 11 to maximum 13 months. The charter is expected to commence at the end of January 2010. The company also announced that it has entered into a time charter contract with Glencore Grain BV, Rotterdam, for one of its Panamax dry bulk carriers, the m/v THETIS, at a gross charter rate of US$23,000 per day for a period of minimum 11 to about 13 months. The charter is expected to commence in the middle of March 2010. These employments are anticipated to generate approximately US$15.5 million of gross revenue for the minimum scheduled period of the charters. The m/v MELITE is a 76,436 dwt Panamax dry bulk carrier built in 2004 and the m/v THETIS a 73,583 dwt Panamax dry bulk carrier built in 2004.


Navios Holdings sells
Panamax vessel for $63 million

PIRAEUS, Greece — Navios Maritime Holdings Inc. (Navios Holdings), a global, vertically integrated seaborne shipping and logistics company, has announced that on January 8, 2010, it sold the NAVIOS HYPERION, a 2004 Japanese-built Panamax vessel with a capacity of 75,707 dwt to Navios Maritime Partners L.P. (Navios Partners) for $63.0 million in cash. NAVIOS HYPERION has been chartered out at a net rate of $32,300 per day until February 2010 and $37,953 per day until April 2014. Navios Holdings intends to use the proceeds from the sale of this vessel for operating purposes, such as repayment of indebtedness or reinvestment in vessels.


NEWS BULLETIN
Friday, January 8, 2010

Phil Bannan has retired
from Everett Port Commission

EVERETT — After 20 years of service to the Port of Everett, Phil Bannan has retired from the Port Commission. Mr. Bannan began working with the Port of Everett as its executive director in 1986. Following eight years as port director, he was elected to the Port of Everett Commission in 1997. One of his proudest accomplishments during his tenure as executive director was negotiating the sale of 110-acres of port property to the U.S. Navy to build Naval Station Everett, and modernizing the port’s terminal facilities to accommodate the growing marine traffic. During his service as commissioner, Mr. Bannan worked to strengthen the port’s shipping business and also begin the process of redeveloping the port’s 65-acre North Marina property into a new waterfront neighborhood. Other accomplishments include completing the California Street Overcrossing project to the terminals, building Mount Baker Terminal, the 12th Street Yacht Basin, creating a state-of-the-art boatyard facility, public access improvements, and setting the foundation for the future redevelopment of the 65-acre North Marina property.


Don Meyer onboard
as Tacoma Port Commissioner

TACOMA — Port of Tacoma commissioners have welcomed their newest member, Don Meyer, and elected Don Johnson as commission president for 2010. Mr. Meyer was sworn in by Pierce County Superior Court Judge John McCarthy at the first commission meeting of the year. Pierce County voters elected Mr. Meyer in November, replacing longtime Commissioner Ted Bottiger, who chose not to run for re-election. Connie Bacon and Dick Marzano were re-elected to the other two commission seats up for a vote. Mr. Meyer’s professional experience includes 10 years as executive director of the Foss Waterway Development Authority, where he was responsible for creating economic development opportunities along Tacoma’s downtown waterfront. He also worked 14 years in port senior management, including deputy director. Previous professional experience includes three years as deputy director of the state Office of Financial Management and four years as director of program research for the state House of Representatives. Port of Tacoma’s five commissioners serve four-year terms. Officer positions rotate yearly.


US rail freight traffic
posts gains during week

WASHINGTON, DC — The Association of American Railroads reports that freight rail traffic showed improvement in the post Thanksgiving holiday week ending Dec. 5, 2009. U.S. railroads reported originating 284,177 carloads, down 5.4 percent compared with the same week in 2008 and down 13.3 percent from the same week in 2007. In order to offer a complete picture of the progress in rail traffic, AAR will now be reporting 2009 weekly rail traffic with year over year comparisons for both 2008 and 2007. In the Western U.S., carloads were down 6.2 percent compared with the same week last year, and 10.7 percent compared with 2007. In the East, carloads were down 4.1 percent compared with 2008, and 17.1 percent compared with the same week in 2007. Intermodal traffic totaled 207,242 trailers and containers, down 4.2 percent from a year ago and 13.6 percent from 2007. Compared with the same week in 2008, container volume rose 2 percent and trailer volume dropped 25.8 percent. Compared with the same week in 2007, container volume fell 5.7 percent and trailer volume dropped 38 percent. While 10 of the 19 carload freight commodity groups were down compared with the same week last year, increases were seen in nonmetallic minerals (25 percent), metals and products (17.1 percent), grain (14.1 percent), chemicals (13.9 percent), farm products not including grain (13.7 percent), motor vehicles and equipment (8.9 percent), grain mill products (8 percent), metallic ores (1.3 percent) and waste and scrap metal (.7 percent). Declines in commodity groups ranged from .6 percent for food and kindred products to 21 percent for crushed stone, sand and gravel. Total volume on U.S. railroads for the week ending Dec. 5, 2009 was estimated at 31.8 billion ton-miles, down 4.8 percent compared with the same week last year and down 7.6 percent from 2007.


Genco Shipping charters
Panamax vessel to Global Maritime

NEW YORK — Genco Shipping & Trading Limited has announced that it has reached an agreement to enter into a time charter for the GENCO VIGOUR, a 1999- built Panamax vessel, with Global Maritime Investments Ltd. for approximately 10.5 to 13.5 months at a rate of $24,000 per day, less a five percent third-party brokerage commission. The time charter is expected to commence on or about January 8, 2010 following the expiration of the vessel's current time charter and is subject to the completion of definitive documentation. Currently, Genco has approximately 54 percent of its fleet's estimated available days secured on contracts for 2010.


Panama Canal Authority
taps firm for excavation project

PANAMA CITY — The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has awarded FCC-ICA -Meco the fourth and final dry excavation (PAC-4) contract, which will help create an access channel linking the new Pacific locks with the Canal’s existing Gaillard Cut (the narrowest stretch of the Panama Canal). The firm's bid was $267,798,795.99. The contracting process began July 31, 2009 when the ACP released its request for proposals (RFP) for the excavation project. On December 22, 2009, the ACP received four bids for the contract. Following a comprehensive review, the ACP determined that the lowest bidder, FCC- ICA-Meco – a Spanish, Mexican and Costa Rican joint venture, met the requirements of the RFP and awarded the contract to this consortium.


NEWS BULLETIN
Thursday, January 7, 2010

Port of Everett nets funding
to expand rail coverage

EVERETT — With the leadership and support of Sen. Patty Murray, the Port of Everett secured the remaining $1.168 million to construct 2,500 lineal feet of rail to help the region recover in the event of a disaster. The Port of Everett’s shipping terminals have been identified as a base of operations to directly support regional recovery and reconstruction efforts in the event of a regional man-made or natural disaster. To adequately serve in this capacity, additional rail is needed to ensure the quick and efficient movement of goods. Everett was given this strategic designation due to its geographical location in the event of an eruption from Mount Rainier or a man-made disaster at the ports of Seattle or Tacoma. An eruption from Mount Rainier would essentially shut down the ports of Olympia, Tacoma and some of Seattle. Remaining funding will be used to connect the new rail spur to the port’s bulk loading facility. Nearly 90-percent of the bulk cement currently leaving this facility travels via truck (approximately 400,000 tons annually). This rail improvement will provide the opportunity to expand the market for cement imported through the Port of Everett for distribution to locations as far away as Calgary, Alberta.


Coast Guard announces plans
to drop Loran-C broadcasts

WASHINGTON, DC — The U.S. Coast Guard's Director of Prevention Policy announced Thursday publication in the Federal Register of plans to cease broadcasting the North American Loran -C signal Feb. 8. As a result of technological advancements during the last 20 years and the emergence of the U.S. Global Positioning System, Loran-C is no longer required by the armed forces, the transportation sector or the nation's security interests, and is used by only a small segment of the population. President Barack Obama's fiscal year 2010 budget supported the termination of outdated systems and specifically cited the terrestrial-based North American Loran-C system as such an example. The president did not seek funding for the Loran-C system in fiscal year 2010. Termination was also supported through the enactment of the 2010 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill. The notice may be viewed online at www.regulations.gov, docket number: USCG-2009-0299. for more information on terminations, reductions and savings contained in the fiscal year 2010 budget, including Loran-C, visit www.whitehouse.gov/omb/budget/TRS/.


Trade between NAFTA partners
down during month of October

WASHINGTON, DC — Trade using surface transportation between the United States and its North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) partners Canada and Mexico was 15.5 percent lower in October 2009 than in October 2008, dropping to $61.4 billion, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) of the U.S. Department of Transportation. BTS, a part of the Research and Innovative Technology Administration, reported that the value of U.S. surface transportation trade with Canada and Mexico rose 7.2 percent in October 2009 from September 2009. Month-to-month changes can be affected by seasonal variations and other factors. Surface transportation consists largely of freight movements by truck, rail and pipeline. About 88 percent of U.S. trade by value with Canada and Mexico moves on land. The value of U.S. surface transportation trade with Canada and Mexico in October was up 7.9 percent compared to October 2004, and up 34.7 percent compared to October 1999, a period of 10 years. Imports in October were up 31.9 percent compared to October 1999, while exports were up 38.1 percent.


Horizon Lines taps Ports America
for Port of Oakland operations

CHARLOTTE, NC — Horizon Lines, Inc., has entered into a new agreement for terminal operations at the Port of Oakland. Horizon Lines has teamed with Ports America to service cargo moving through Oakland between the U.S. mainland, Hawaii, Guam and Micronesia. Horizon Lines operations at the facility located at 1599 Maritime Street took effect January 4. Horizon Lines had previously utilized APM Terminals as stevedore and terminal operator at its former facility located at 1425 Maritime Street.


Genco takes delivery
of Capesize newbuild

NEW YORK — Genco Shipping & Trading Limited has announced that it has taken delivery of the GENCO CLAUDIUS, a 169,025 dwt Capesize newbuilding. The GENCO CLAUDIUS is the final vessel to be delivered to the company under Genco's previously announced agreement on July 18, 2007 to acquire nine Capesize vessels from companies within the Metrostar Management Corporation group. The GENCO CLAUDIUS was delivered to its charterer, Cargill International S.A., on January 4, 2010 to commence a time charter for 10.5 to 13.5 months at a rate of $36,000 per day, less a five percent third party brokerage commission. Currently, Genco has approximately 51 percent of its fleet's estimated available days secured on contracts for 2010. The company used its available cash to pay the remaining balance of $96.0 million for the GENCO CLAUDIUS.


NEWS BULLETIN
Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Everett Port Commission
considering expansion

EVERETT — On January 5, 2010, the Port of Everett Commission directed staff to facilitate a public discussion on whether the port should place the proposition to have a five member commission on the November 2010 general election ballot. Commissioner Mark Wolken, who made the motion, requested that staff hold at least two issue -specific public meetings in March/April 2010 on the topic, and directed staff to gather information on areas likely to be included in a five-district system. The commission plans to decide in June 2010 whether to place the five member Commission on the ballot. Historically, the Port of Everett has operated on a three-member commission, with each commissioner serving a six-year term. Currently, the Everett Port Commission consists of President Michael Hoffmann and Commissioners Mark Wolken and Troy McClelland. The public meetings dates have not been set, but the port will provide proper notice for these meetings.


Two new members join
Port of Seattle Commission

VANCOUVER, BC — The Port of Seattle welcomed two new commissioners at the first public meeting of 2010. Newly elected Commissioners Tom Albro and Rob Holland and returning Commissioner John Creighton took the oath of office at the port’s administrative offices. Mr. Albro is the founder and owner of Seattle Monorail Services which operates the monorail between downtown Seattle and the Seattle Center. He served for many years on the Municipal League of King County Board of Directors. Mr. Holland brings broad experience in the port industry to his role as commissioner. He worked previously at the Port of Tacoma and has 10 years of experience as a marine transportation specialist. Commissioner Creighton returns for his second term on the governing board. He is a business lawyer who grew up on the Eastside of King County. In addition, the commissioners elected the 2010 slate of officers. Commissioner Bill Bryant will again serve as president, and Commissioner Gael Tarleton will serve a second year as vice president. Commissioner Holland will serve as secretary for the board.


Mitsui to boost investment
in Gearbulk Holding Limited

TOKYO — Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) has announced a move to increase its investment share in Gearbulk Holding Limited (Gearbulk) from 40 percent to 49 percent effective at the end of December 2009. MOL has been a shareholder in Gearbulk since 1991. Gearbulk is a global open hatch shipping company, with a fleet in service of 64 vessels and a renewal program consisting of about 20 vessels on order. The company is owned by the Jebsen family and MOL.


Port of Portland wants comments
on PDX noise exposure maps

PORTLAND — The Port of Portland is welcoming comments on the update of the Portland International Airport noise exposure maps of current and future conditions. The documents map rings around the airport, outlining community exposure to aircraft noise at various locations. The maps were last updated and approved by the FAA in 2007, as part of the Federal Aviation Regulation Part 150 Noise Compatibility Study. Last year, as part of the north runway extension and rehabilitation project, the port completed an Environmental Assessment that showed a reduction in community exposure to aircraft noise, based on more recent data. The reduction, resulting largely from less aircraft operations and a more modern, quieter fleet, requires an update of the maps under FAA regulations. Comments are welcome at a public hearing from 7-8 p.m. Jan. 14 at the airport at 7000 NE Airport Way in conference room St. Helens “B”. The hearing includes a 30-minute presentation, followed by time for questions and comments. The hearing follows the PDX Citizen Noise Advisory Committee meeting from 6-7 p.m. at the same location. Written comments on the draft maps are accepted through Feb. 15 at Jason.Schwartz@portofportland.com, or Jason Schwartz, Port of Portland, Box 3529, Portland, OR 97208. Copies of the draft maps are available for review beginning Jan. 15 in the noise management office at the airport; Port of Portland headquarters, 121 NW Everett; and at www.portofportland.com. More information is also available at 503.460.4100 or 800.938.6647


Portland Shipping Club
Calling for 'Old Salt' nominations

PORTLAND — The Portland Shipping Club is calling for nominations for the 2010 "Old Salt" Award. This honor is presented each year to someone who, through their longevity and service, has advanced the Columbia River maritime industry. Nominees should be contributors to the maritime industry and have made a significant effort to advance the industry outside of their regular job activities. For a nomination to be considered, it must be accompanied by a detailed biography of the individual, which includes the nominee's industry involvement. Submissions must be received by Friday, January 22, 2010. Mail your nomination to:
Old Salt Committee Chairperson
c/o Portland Shipping Club
200 SW Market Street, Suite 190
Portland, OR 97201
Mark the envelope "Confidential". The winner will be honored at the Propeller Club/Portland Shipping Club Winter Event on February 18, 2010. The winner will be announced in advance.


NEWS BULLETIN
Monday, January 4, 2010

Port of Seattle budget
now available on line

SEATTLE — The Port of Seattle's 2010 budget proposes operating revenues at $479.0 million and operating expenses at $282.8 million. Net Operating Income is $196.2million. Depreciation Expense is budgeted at $158.6 million. Net Operating Income after Depreciation is $37.6 million. The total capital budget for 2010 is $410.0 million and the five year capital improvement program is $1.4 billion, which reflects the port's continuing commitment to promoting regional economic activity through the investment in the development, expansion, and renewal of Port facilities that supports the Port’s Business Plan and Green Initiative. The entire document may be downloaded in one file (3,888 KB) at: http://www.portseattle.org/downloads/about/2010_Budget_Book_1.pdf


Port Metro Vancouver
calling for dredge proposals

VANCOUVER, BC — Port Metro Vancouver is seeking Expressions of Interest from parties interested and qualified to undertake annual maintenance dredging of the Fraser River deep-sea and domestic channels on a long-term, contractual basis. Responses are required by January 27th, 2010. The scope of work is driven by both PMV’s 10-Year Dredging Plan and its 30-Year Dredge Material Management Plan. Implementation of these plans is being conducted with the highest level of environmental oversight, in light of the Fraser River’s sensitive fish, mammal and bird habitat, and in accordance with PMV’s Corporate Social Responsibility strategy. The Request for Expression of Interest document can be found at: http://www.portmetrovancouver.com/Libraries/ABOUT_News_Press_Releases/Request_for_Expression_of_Interest_-_Maintenance_Dredging_v_1_7_Final.sflb.ashx. Take note that all questions must be submitted by email (not telephone) to: FraserRiverDredging@portmetrovancouver.com


CBP Seattle office
has busy year in 2009

SEATTLE — More than 19.7 million travelers were welcomed to the United States by the 1,556 officers and 123 agriculture specialists of U.S. Customs and Border Protection assigned to the Seattle Field Office during fiscal year 2009 (October 1, 2008 through September 30, 2009). Among those travelers, CBP made 1,792 arrests, discovered $4.5 million in smuggled currency and seized more than 13,000 pounds of illegal drugs. The CBP Seattle Field Office manages the 67 ports of entry stretching from the Pacific Ocean across the states of Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota and Minnesota to Grand Portage on Lake Superior. Arriving at these ports were 1.1 million commercial trucks, 2.7 million containers of goods, 7.69 million automobiles, 13,000 trains, 16,000 international aircraft and 31,000 vessels, ferries and pleasure craft.


Hamburg Sud plans increase
in US, Canada to Europe rates

MORRISTOWN, NJ — Hamburg Süd has announced that effective February 15, 2010, a General Rate Increase (GRI) will be applied to all cargo moving from the United States and Canada to Europe. Tariff cargo as well as existing service contracts will be increased by the following amounts:
US$150/20’ equipment
US$300/40’ equipment
For questions about your specific cargo shipments, contact your Hamburg Süd sales or customer service representative.


New maritime medical association
now open for business in London

LONDON — A new trade association armed with a broad mandate to represent and promote the health and medical interests of the world’s seafarers, port workers and cruisepassengers as well as improve shipboard hygiene has been launched in London. The International Maritime Medical Association (IMMA), as it is to be known, will look after the medical interests of those involved in the shipping industry worldwide and work to lobby politicians and regulators who influence this important sector of the global shipping industry. It will work alongside, and draw on the medical expertise, of the International Maritime Health Association, an existing members’ association for maritime doctors and port clinics. IMMA, which is a ‘not for profit organization’, will operate out of the Baltic Exchange in London. It will not only represent the medical and health interests of the maritime sector globally, but also act as a legislative watchdog and lobby for change as and where necessary.