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The product Golden State, the Golden State to the domestic trades as the first in the State Class of tankers being built for company’s ambitious newbuilding program U.S. Shipping Partners at General Dynamics continues.” NASSCO, was christened Jan. 10 at the ship- The Golden State is manned in all yard in San Diego, Calif., and entered service licensed positions by American Maritime in the Jones Act trades. Officers. Operating under charter with BP, the “U.S. Shipping’s investment in this series ship completed its first run from California to of tankers and in the new ATBs is providing Washington State in January. new jobs for AMO members and adding ton- “I have worked here for 19 years and I nage to a modern Jones Act fleet,” said am honored to continue the relationship as AMO National President Tom master of the Golden State,” said AMO mem- Bethel. “AMO joins U.S. ber Capt. Dan Liziewski. Shipping Partners in The tankers in the series are each 600 welcoming feet long and have a cargo capacity of 331,000 the barrels. The Golden State, named in honor of the state of California, is part of the State Class series of product tankers being built for U.S. Shipping Partners at NASSCO. Under construction and scheduled for delivery in 2009 are the Pelican State and Sunshine State. NASSCO recently began construction of the fourth product carrier in the series, which will be named Empire State in honor of the State of New York. The shipyard is sched- uled to lay the Empire State’s keel in May and deliver the ship to U.S. Shipping Partners in the first quarter of 2010. In addition to the Golden State, U.S. Shipping has secured charters for three of the new tankers being built. One of the charters is with a major oil company and the other two are with Military Command. The MSC

See Golden State Page 12

Greeting the masters of the Golden State, Capt. Peter Whiting (second from left) and Capt. Dan Liziewski (second from right), at the ship’s christening were American Maritime Officers National President Tom Bethel, AMO National Assistant Vice President at Large Bob Kiefer and AMO National Executive Board Member Danny Shea. The Golden State, the first in the State Class series of product tankers being built for U.S. Shipping Partners, was christened Jan. 10 at General Dynamics NASSCO in San Diego, Calif. The ship entered service in the Jones Act trades in January.

AMO Essentials Opportunities New AMO jobs in Great Lakes News increasing for Maritime Security STAR Center course schedule: Pages 8-9 AMO members Program fleet

with PIC DL Page 7: MARAD has selected STAR Center registration application: Page 12 endorsement an ice-strengthened product tanker for the open slot in the Page 3: Jobs are available and 60-ship Maritime Security AMO directory: Page 10 opportunities are expected to Program fleet. The ship will be increase for AMO deck officers operated by Ocean Shipholdings Page 5: A new study confirms AMO membership meeting with the Tankerman PIC DL Inc. and manned in all licensed Great Lakes shipping sustains schedule: Page 10 endorsement. positions by AMO. jobs and saves money.

Copyright © 2009 American Maritime Officers 2 West Dixie Highway Dania Beach, FL 33004 (800) 362-0513 [email protected] 2 • American Maritime Officer February 2009 AMO remains above water as U.S. recession deepens

By Tom Bethel Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots. Pension Protection Act of 2006, the collapse initiative, his fiscal 2010 budget proposal and National President Under the agreement, AMO, MEBA of the stock and bond markets in 2008, and his longer-term economic strategy could and MM&P provide uniform licensed labor persistent market instability — and less oper- steady the stock and bond markets, ease the Reading a cost proposals to employers competing ating income for AMO from membership recession and save and create jobs for newspaper these fiercely for government charters under dues and initiation fees. days is enough to Requests for Proposals, or RFPs. The agree- President Obama’s economic stimulus See Economy Next Page make you quake. ment results in higher wages and wage-based On January benefits for the vessel officers who fill the 30, the U.S. resulting jobs. Department of In January, we learned that, while the Two legislative priorities Commerce report- MM&P was willing to apply the tripartite ed that the econo- agreement to current bidding for 11 large, my nationwide medium-speed roll-on/roll-off ships for surge shrank at a rate of sealift, and to forthcoming competition for 3.8 percent in the 10 pre-positioned sealift ships, MEBA was last quarter of 2008 — its worst performance not. in 27 years. Issues arising from the AMO-MEBA- “Although the initial result was better MM&P agreement are relevant to the larger than economists expected, the figure is likely points about the economic recession and to be revised even lower in the months ahead, employment because, as always, our union’s and some believe the economy is contracting dominance of the MARAD and MSC charter in the current quarter at a pace of about 5 per- trades is at stake. Government charters cent,” one Associated Press story said. “The account for a significant percentage of AMO current January-March period, they said, deep-sea jobs — a fragile truth, given the probably will turn out to be the worst quarter inconsistent manner and unpredictable out- for the recession.” come of each RFP. This is one reason I am Consumers spent less on big-ticket determined to create new, unrivaled opportu- products like automobiles in the fourth quar- nities for all AMO members and applicants ter of 2008, the Commerce Department said. for AMO membership. But it’s tough to buy a car when you can’t get Jobs matter because they represent a loan in an increasingly tight credit market, employer contributions to the AMO Pension, or when you’ve lost your job, or when you Medical, Vacation and Safety and Education have to buy health insurance for your family Plans. Jobs generate personal contributions at about $1,000 a month, or when holding on and matching employer contributions (where to the house is the top priority. applicable) to AMO 401(k) Plan accounts Working families under economic and employer contributions to individual also bought far fewer appliances, cloth- accounts under the AMO Pension Plan ing and other retail goods, the department Money Purchase Benefit, or MPB. said. Wages matter because they determine Businesses cut back on capital invest- the value of such individual benefits as ment, office equipment, furniture and com- monthly or lump-sum pensions and vacation puters and software, and new housing starts pay, and because they determine how much and commercial construction projects fell goes into 401(k) and MPB accounts. sharply, according to the department. The American Maritime Officers has unemployment rate was approaching double gained as well on another level — member- digits nationwide. ship morale. My conversations with AMO President Obama — negotiating an members, the comments we receive at union emergency economic stimulus bill with the headquarters via e-mail, telephone and per- Senate when the Commerce Department sonal visits, and reports from AMO national report hit — described the crisis as “a con- executive board members visiting AMO tinuing disaster” for average Americans. members each day aboard their vessels indi- American Maritime Officer (USPS 316-920) Under the circumstances, and with all cate that two years of renewal and real Official Publication of American Maritime Officers things considered fairly, American Maritime reform have restored rank and file pride in 2 West Dixie Highway Officers — the nation’s largest and strongest AMO. We have at long last brought the cur- Dania Beach, FL 33004 union of licensed seagoing professionals — tains down on the legal dramas that played (954) 921-2221 continues to thrive. out in state and federal courts as a conse- Periodical Postage Paid at Our union has full employment in the quence of the leadership crisis AMO endured Dania Beach, FL, and Additional Mailing Offices deep-sea, Great Lakes and inland waters sec- for some six years. Published Monthly tors, in all domestic and international trades, Ours is a respected and resilient union, in commercial markets and under Maritime with positions of leadership and trust in mar- American Maritime Officers National Executive Board Administration and Military Sealift itime labor, and we have a patient, profes- Command charter. Several new vessels have sional seagoing membership to thank for Thomas Bethel, National President joined the AMO fleet since January 2007, that. José Leonard, National Secretary-Treasurer and more are on the way. My administration today is deter- Christopher Bartlett, National Executive Vice President AMO’s solid employment base con- mined to keep vessels moving and members Joseph Gremelsbacker, National Vice President, Deep Sea tinues to expand under international trades in working in all deep-sea, Great Lakes and Donald Cree, National Vice President, Great Lakes the fast-growing liquefied natural gas trades inland water trades in the interest of contin- Brian Krus, National Assistant Vice President, Great Lakes under unprecedented agreements with major ued job and benefit security. Our responsibil- Michael Murphy, National Vice President At Large worldwide vessel owners and operators, and ities here are easier to meet because of the Robert Kiefer, National Assistant Vice President At Large LNG and Dangerous Liquid PIC observation character and commitment all AMO mem- Daniel Shea, National Executive Board Member At Large programs unique to AMO among the mer- bers and applicants for AMO membership David Weathers, National Executive Board Member At Large chant marine officers’ unions help ensure a show every day in every job — one of the John Hafner, National Executive Board Member At Large growing number of AMO members qualified first things AMO employers and potential Donald Nilsson, National Executive Board Member, Deep Sea for the new work. employers acknowledge when they come to Charles Murdock, National Executive Board Member, Inland Waters In addition, AMO members are begin- the table is our union’s consistently high rep- ning to take full advantage of a separate utation for excellence at sea. Representative: Stan Barnes groundbreaking agreement between We are confident — but not overconfi- American Maritime Officers and Faststream dent. We are realistic enough to recognize Editor: Matt Burke Recruiting. Under this agreement, AMO that, as the recession worsens, vessels can be Assistant Editor: Amber Lupin members accept senior, rewarding positions forced into lay-up because of weak demand. Contributing Editor: Paul Doell at sea and ashore in the and We understand the potential consequences of overseas, with continued participation in all lost jobs — fewer employer contributions to POSTMASTER—Send Address Changes To: of the AMO benefit funds. the AMO benefit funds, greater strain on American Maritime Officers AMO has also sought to expand the employers and the membership benefit infra- ATTN: Member Services application of its tripartite agreement with structure — especially with respect to the P.O. Box 66 the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial AMO Pension Plan, which has already suf- Dania Beach, FL 33004 Association and the International fered under the excessive requirements of the February 2009 American Maritime Officer • 3 Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood confirmed

Ray LaHood, a retiring Republican leadership. laws, including the Jones Act, and involves ed to the U.S. House of Representatives in congressman from Peoria, Ill., was con- Transportation Secretary LaHood continued U.S. sovereignty over domestic 1994, where he served six years on the firmed by the Senate Jan. 22 as the 16th supported key maritime issues during his transportation routes and trades. Transportation and Infrastructure Secretary of Transportation and took the tenure in Congress, including the Belated The Department of Transportation Committee, and in 2001 moved to the oath of office the next day. Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of post will be central to President Obama’s Appropriations Committee. He was chief LaHood’s reputation for fairness and World II Act. plan to make “the single largest new invest- of to House Republican Leader Rep. bipartisan problem-solving is well estab- LaHood has also been credited for ment in our national infrastructure since the Robert Michel of Illinois for twelve years, lished and he has been praised throughout his opposition to opening U.S. domestic creation of the federal highway system in following service in the Illinois House of the political spectrum for his ability to trucking markets to trucking companies the 1950s.” A portion of the forthcoming Representatives. reach across the aisle. based in Mexico. Although the issue economic stimulus package is expected to LaHood succeeds Mary Peters, who In announcing LaHood’s nomination exclusively affects ground transportation, focus on infrastructure spending. was appointed by the Bush administration for the top DOT post, President Obama it has strong parallels with U.S. cabotage The former congressman was elect- in 2006. described LaHood as an “outstanding pub- lic servant,” and commented: “few under- stand our infrastructure challenge better.” Rep. James Oberstar (D-MN), chair- Connaughton departs MARAD with man of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, praised LaHood’s “temperament” and “managerial substantial progress on key issues talent,” calling LaHood an excellent choice to head the Department of Maritime Administrator Sean interview with the support on the issue in the new Congress Transportation. Connaughton officially departed the Journal of and administration. “We’ve been able to Rep. Tom Petri (R-WI), who worked Maritime Administration, completing his Commerce. “We show [not only that] it’s needed, but to lay with then-Rep. LaHood on the House term in the post Jan. 20. just don’t have the the groundwork for expansion,” he said. Transportation and Infrastructure Connaughton’s major achieve- money or the Connaughton was also instrumental Committee, praised LaHood’s “energy, ments included significantly advancing resources to pave in expanding job opportunities for intelligence and skill” in the National support for greater development and uti- our way out of our American mariners in foreign and domes- Journal. Rep. Petri noted LaHood’s abili- lization of America’s marine highways, congestion, or tic fleets, including the liquefied natural ty to work with “both parties in Congress, creating opportunities for American energy and envi- gas (LNG) trades. “I think we’re going to state and city transportation departments, mariners and cadets preparing for seago- ronmental trou- see a great expansion of that,” he said. and the many non-governmental organiza- ing careers in the industry and reorganiz- bles. We’re going “We’ve heard nothing but extremely pos- tions concerned with transportation and ing the agency to make it more effective. to have to look to itive feedback from shipowners and man- infrastructure issues.” “We’ve made substantial progress the waterways to move more freight.” agers who hire Americans.” The Senate Commerce, Science and on the Marine Highways Program, and He commented that short sea ship- MARAD Assistant Administrator Transportation Committee unanimously made it a legitimate alternative to surface ping has gained momentum in the national James Caponiti is now serving as acting approved LaHood’s nomination. Many transportation,” Connaughton said in an transportation policy debate and anticipated deputy maritime administrator. senators expressed their enthusiasm for his Jobs available, opportunities expected to increase for AMO deck officers with PIC DL endorsement Jobs are available and demand is grams available through AMO and STAR not been expired for more than one year. By endorsement. expected to increase for AMO deck offi- Center to ease and expedite the process. taking one of these courses, AMO members STAR Center provides courses for cers who hold the Tankerman Person-in- For AMO members with a current can renew a tankerman endorsement, even AMO officers to meet the training Dangerous Liquids Endorsement. Tankerman PIC DL endorsement, or an if they do not have recent tanker experience. requirements for the original endorse- American Maritime Officers endorsement that has expired within the AMO members without the ment, and AMO has established U.S. and members with the PIC DL endorsement past one-year period, requirements for Tankerman PIC DL endorsement, and those international observation programs for should ensure their records are updated renewal of the endorsement include either: with an endorsement that has been expired AMO members to complete sea time and with this information in order to take proving participation in at least two trans- for more than one year, must meet all cargo transfers required for the endorse- advantage of available and emerging fers within the last five years in accordance requirements for an original tankerman ment. Details regarding the AMO obser- opportunities. To update endorsements with §13.127(b), or completion of a U.S. endorsement under 46 CFR Part 13. Please vation programs are available on the on file, AMO members can contact the Coast Guard approved course meeting the note: the U.S. Coast Guard will accept up to AMO Web site at: www.amo-union.org. Training Record System manager by e- requirements of 46 CFR13.120. 75 percent of the required sea time and For more information on original mail at [email protected]. STAR Center’s one-week Tankerman transfers that are more than five years old, tankerman endorsements or renewal of AMO is also encouraging members PIC DL (classroom) and the two-week provided these are properly documented. tankerman endorsements, AMO members and applicants to complete the process to Tankerman PIC DL (simulator) Courses The Coast Guard has clarified that the can contact Director of Member Training renew or obtain the Tankerman PIC DL meet the requirements of 46 CFR13.120 for tankerman PIC course needed for an and Officer Development Jerry Pannell at endorsement, and to use the training, renewal of the endorsement, provided that endorsement must have been completed (800) 942-3220 ext. 7507 or by e-mail at online resources and observation pro- the tankerman endorsement is current or has within five years of application for the [email protected].

Economy AMO members in Shell Senior Officer Induction Course Continued from Previous Page The fourth group of American Americans at sea and ashore, but these are Maritime Officers members enrolled only possibilities at this point. in the Shell Senior Officer Induction Most analysts agree that the economic Course preparing for jobs in Shell- situation will get worse before it gets any bet- managed LNG fleets—here in ter, and that meaningful indications of London in January with Shell improvement will not emerge until 2010 at Instructor Dave Stone (third from left), the earliest. Meanwhile, American Maritime Shell Engineering Superintendent Officers is not content to simply sit back and Charles Cashman (fourth from left), ride out the storm. AMO is prepared to meet and AMO Director of New Business the new challenges, continue our aggressive Development Tom Laird (center)— pursuit of new job opportunities for our included (left to right) Daniel Lee membership and to deal with any of your (First A.E., Nakilat Project), Steve current and future pension concerns. The Migliara (First A.E., Gas & Power only certainty now is that, among the three Fleet), James Plourde (First A.E., U.S. merchant marine officers’ unions, AMO Nakilat Project), Chester Urban (Chief has the greatest relative advantage. Mate, Gas & Power Fleet), and Frank As always, I welcome your comments Zuliani (First A.E., Nakilat Project). and suggestions. 4 • American Maritime Officer February 2009 New law postpones pension plan funding mandates

Near the end of his term in office, measures. investment market instability pose signif- to keep all AMO families current on the President Bush signed into law a bill to However, the trustees warned that icant threats to the AMO Pension Plan in nationwide pension crisis and its potential provide defined benefit pension plans specific provisions of the Pension 2010 and beyond. impact on the AMO Pension Plan,” said with temporary relief from difficult fund- Protection Act of 2006 and continued “We will use every available forum AMO National President Tom Bethel. ing requirements imposed under the Pension Protection Act of 2006. The legislation postpones the 2006 law’s burdensome provisions — includ- AMO Pension Plan: certification of funded status ing a requirement that the retirement plans fund liabilities over 15 years instead The following letter dated Jan. 26, Revenue Code Section 432 calculated as if ods and assumptions were used to project of 30 — for up to two years. 2009, was sent by the Board of Trustees of the Pension Protection Act of 2006 (“PPA”) future results from this date. The legislation, H.R. 7327, was the American Maritime Officers Pension had applied on October 1, 2007. As required under the PPA, the approved in the House Dec. 10 and in the Plan to all AMO Pension Plan partici- The funded percentage for the Plan as funded percentage for the Plan for the plan Senate Dec. 11 as traditional pension pants. of October 1, 2007 exceeds 80%, and based year beginning October 1, 2009 will be plans in the public and private sectors As permitted under Section 204 of on the valuation results as of October 1, 2007 based on the valuation results as of reeled under significant and sustained the Worker, Retiree and Employer an Accumulated Funding Deficiency does October 1, 2009. The projections that will losses in investment markets. Recovery Act of 2008, the Board of not exist and is not projected to occur within be used to make this determination will be The trustees of the multiemployer Trustees of the American Maritime the next seven plan years. The projections based on the facts and circumstances in American Maritime Officers Pension Officers Pension Plan (the “Plan”) has used to make this determination were based effect on October 1, 2009. Reasonable Plan determined recently that the Plan elected to retain the October 1, 2007 fund- on the facts and circumstances in effect on actuarial methods and assumptions will be could meet its obligations and cover its ing status of the Plan under Internal October 1, 2007. Reasonable actuarial meth- used to project future results from this date. liabilities in 2009 without emergency Prohibited transaction exemption would allow AMO Plans expansion, improved services to participants

The American Maritime Officers employer trust agreement and is funded AMO Safety and Education Plan would not Dania Beach. Safety and Education Plan has applied to entirely by deep-sea, Great Lakes and occur without market appraisals by quali- AMO has been advised reliably that the U.S. Department of Labor for a “pro- inland waters merchant vessel operating fied independent local agents. construction of the new headquarters com- hibited transaction exemption” (PTE) under companies that have collective bargaining A portion of the proceeds from the plex could take up to three years, but AMO which the Plan would be permitted to pur- agreements with AMO. sale would be used by AMO to build new has already secured the necessary permits chase property owned in South Florida by The property that would be acquired headquarters offices on AMO-owned prop- and architectural drawings, thereby cutting American Maritime Officers. by the AMO Safety and Education Plan erty across Federal Highway from the cur- the projected construction time in half. The purchase of the property would under the PTE is the sprawling site holding rent AMO administration offices in Dania American Maritime Officers is the allow AMO Plans to proceed with long- the Plan’s Simulation, Training, Assessment Beach. The AMO accounting department only U.S. merchant marine officers’ union planned expansion to further improve ser- and Research Center in Dania Beach, now uses this property. without a national headquarters building. vice to AMO members and their families. including the four-story classroom and The new AMO headquarters building Neither the sale of the property by The PTE is necessary because DOL STAR Center administration building, stu- would include administrative offices, the AMO to the AMO Safety and Education regulations resulting from federal law bar dent housing, recreational areas and parking dispatch and accounting departments and a Plan nor the construction of new office such business between labor unions and lots. AMO — the union — owns the land membership meeting hall. The union now space for AMO would commence without their benefit funds. The AMO Safety and and leases it to the Plan. leases space in the STAR Center building approval by the AMO membership through Education Plan operates under a union- Sale of the property by AMO to the for its monthly membership meetings in a 90-day secret ballot referendum. AMO Medical Plan 2008-2009 benefits update summary

The American Maritime Officers (AMO) Medical Plan is pleased to announce the There will be no changes in the AMO Medical Plan deductibles, co-pays and transition that took place on January 1, 2008 to CIGNA HealthCare PPO Network has co-insurance for 2009. However, please be reminded that all annual deductibles will produced the desired results. Please continue to utilize the CIGNA PPO Network of need to be satisfied again in 2009 before eligible benefit payments can be made by the providers and facilities for the greatest savings to you, your dependents and the AMO Plan. The annual deductibles are: Medical Plan. To locate CIGNA PPO Network providers in your area please go to •Active Participant Medical Deductible - $250.00; Family Medical Deductible - www.cigna.com\SA-PPO2. $500.00 •Pensioner Not Medicare Eligible Medical Deductible - $300.00; Family AMO Medical Plan Reminders: Deductible - $600.00 •Pensioner Medicare Eligible Medical Deductible - $250.00; Family Deductible - •The AMO Medical Plan will continue to process medical benefits, provide par- $500.00 ticipant information and issue benefit payments. All Medicare claims and claims that •Prescription Drug Deductible - $100.00; Family Deductible - $200.00 require direct member reimbursement (Optical, Dental, Scholarship, Disability, etc.) must be sent to the AMO Medical Plan office for processing. All other claims should be We are pleased to announce to you and your family the following AMO Medical sent directly to CIGNA Healthcare. Provider claims submission information can be Plan Benefit additions and enhancements: found on the back of your AMO Medical Plan ID card. •Inpatient Hospitalization and Inpatient Surgical procedures must be pre-cer- New Benefit - Medical Plan Benefit Coverage: tified with CIGNA through CareAllies (a care management company wholly owned by Lasik Vision Correction, Effective April 1, 2008 CIGNA) Pre-Certification program. The pre-admission certification number is (800) 768-4695. Benefit Description: Optical Benefit Lasik Vision Correction All other required Pre-Certification of medical services will be through the AMO (Schedule R1) Medical Plan at (800) 348-6515. •There will be no change to the current Prescription Drug Benefit in 2009; Deductibles/Co-Payments/Co-Insurance: therefore, please continue to use your current Prescription Drug I.D. cards. In-Network Not Subject to Annual Medical Deductible It is the goal of the AMO Plans to provide our participants with the most updated In-Network Not Subject to Co-Insurance and concise information regarding their benefits. We hope you find the information pro- Out-of-Network Not Subject to Annual Medical Deductible vided in this benefit package clear and informative. We encourage you to review the Out-of-Network Not Subject to Co-Insurance enclosures. Please complete and return any required documentation, and should you PPO/Non-PPO Benefits: require additional information, please contact the Plans Office at (800) 348-6515. In-Network benefit payable at 100% of the contracted rate Out-of-Network Benefits payable at 100% of UCR AMO Medical Plan 2008-2009 Benefits Update Summary Limitations: $600.00 per person per life time •The Medical Plan Benefits Update summarizes the most recent enhancements and amendments to the Medical Plan. The Vision Correction Services Benefit can be used in conjunction with the Optical •As you review the enclosed AMO Medical Plan Benefit Update, please under- Benefit and will be paid in addition to the annual Optical Benefit. Optical Benefits stand that some of the material may not be applicable to you. Much of this informa- are those in effect on the effective date of pension unless amended, modified or ter- tion has been reported in the AMO Newspaper, through e-mail via Currents, as well minated, or unless the Trustees specifically provide otherwise. as posted on the AMO and AMO Plans Web sites: www.amo-union.org and www.amoplans.com. See Medical Plan Page 11 February 2009 American Maritime Officer • 5 Great Lakes

Corps study concludes Great Lakes AMO 2009 shipping saves money, supports Great Lakes hundreds of thousands of jobs area meeting

Great Lakes shipping saves its cus- manufacturing industries. Thus, a Great Lakes vessel will move a schedule tomers more than $3.6 billion per year “This study affirms the role of U.S.- ton of cargo 400 miles farther than a when compared with the next least costly flag shipping as a vital conduit for the for each gallon of fuel, and 540 miles fur- TAMPA, FLORIDA mode of transportation and directly sup- commodities that fuel American industry ther than a truck. 1 p.m. MONDAY, FEB. 23, 2009 more than 236,000 jobs in various and manufacturing,” said American Great Lakes ships produce 70 per- Spring Hill Suites Tampa Westshore industries, a new study has determined. Maritime Officers Vice President for the cent fewer emissions than trains and 90 4835 West Cypress Street The soon-to-be-released study, pre- Great Lakes Don Cree. “The cargoes percent fewer than trucks, the report notes. PH# (813) 639-9600 pared for the U.S. Army Corps of loaded on and delivered by U.S. lakers The study also addressed critical Engineers by the Tennessee Valley are the lifeblood of industry and the raw issues affecting Great Lakes navigation. GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN Authority, tracked the movement of 11 material for building and sustaining jobs A top priority is to build a second Poe- 11 a.m. TUESDAY, FEB. 24, 2009 commodities on the Great Lakes, the in many areas of the domestic economy.” sized lock at Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. This Radisson Inn Lake Carriers’ Association reported. Great Lakes shipping is extremely critical choke point for the movement of 2040 Airport Drive These commodities represent 10 percent important to several key sectors of the iron ore and other materials could cost PH# (920) 494-7300 of all U.S. domestic waterborne com- U.S. economy, including iron mining, industry millions of dollars during a merce. steel production, power generation and lengthy unscheduled closure. The project DULUTH, MINNESOTA The report will become available in agricultural exports, the report notes. has been approved for 20 years but fund- 4 p.m. TUESDAY, FEB. 24, 2009 the midst of Congressional debate over These industries are dependent on reli- ing has been stalled. Holiday Inn infrastructure spending levels. Job cre- able, low-cost waterborne transportation. Dredging remains another major 2nd Avenue, W. 1st Street ation is the number one priority. The Further, Great Lakes shipping is priority for the Army Corps. An estimat- PH# (218) 722-1202 report finds that hundreds of thousands of more fuel-efficient and environmentally ed 17 million cubic yards of sediment jobs depend on Great Lakes shipping— friendly than land-based modes of trans- must be cleared to restore ports and TRAVERSE CITY MICHIGAN 44,000 jobs directly related to maritime portation. waterways to their proper depth. Due to 1 p.m. WEDNESDAY, FEB. 25, transportation, 54,000 jobs in the mining A Great Lakes freighter travels 607 the dredging crisis, ships on the Great 2009 industry and 138,000 jobs in the steel miles on one gallon of fuel on a per-ton- Lakes must carry less than their full load, Holiday Inn on the Bay industry. These industries sustain hun- of-cargo basis, compared with 59 miles requiring additional trips and increasing 615 E. Front Street dreds of thousands of additional jobs in for a truck and 202 miles for a a train. transportation time and costs. PH# (231) 947-3700

ALPENA, MICHIGAN AMO aboard the H. Lee White 7 p.m. WEDNESDAY, FEB. 25, 2009 Holiday Inn US 23 North PH# (989) 356-2151

CLEVELAND/ASHTABULA, OHIO AMO members aboard the M/V H. 1 p.m. THURSDAY, FEB. 26, 2009 Lee White as it laid up for the winter in Renaissance Quail Hollow Resort Toledo, Ohio, here with AMO National Rt I-90 (Exit 200) Vice President for the Great Lakes PH# (440) 352-6201 Don Cree and National Assistant Vice President for the Great Lakes Brian TOLEDO, OHIO Krus, included Second Assistant 1 p.m. FRIDAY, FEB. 27, 2009 Engineer Greg Bostic, Third A.E. Toledo AMO Hall Jason Furtaw, Second A.E. Martin One Maritime Plaza Kowalski, First A.E. Tim Brenno and PH# (419) 255-3940 Chief Engineer Neil Wonderchek. (800) 221-9395 Maritime infrastructure vital to U.S. jobs, economy Great Lakes needs in focus at Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing

At a hearing of the Transportation and breaker to keep shipping lanes open. the Army Corps of Engineers is ready to Committee’s economic recovery proposal Infrastructure Committee in the House of These Great Lakes infrastructure pro- begin work on the lock, which would be presented prior to the stimulus bill. Representatives Jan. 22, lawmakers from jects are crucial to maintaining domestic able to accommodate the largest ships on Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-MD), both parties showed strong support for mar- shipping on the lakes as the effective, cost- the Great Lakes. chairman of the Subcommittee on Coast itime projects and expressed frustration efficient transportation platform for U.S. Dredging remains a top priority for Guard and Maritime Transportation, com- over funding levels for maritime infrastruc- manufacturing, mining, construction, power stakeholders on the Great Lakes. A deficit mented that a new icebreaker is “necessary ture in the draft stimulus legislation prior to generation and other industries. Maintenance of dredging throughout the Great Lakes equipment” and he hopes to address defi- its approval in the House later in the month. and needed expansion of shipping infrastruc- navigational system has reached crisis lev- cient icebreaking capacity on the Great “With trade expanding and highways ture are key to sustaining and creating jobs els, spurred by inadequate funding for Army Lakes with the new administration. and railways congested, efficient water nav- across a broad spectrum of U.S. industries. Corps projects to restore harbors and chan- In his testimony, Weakley cited the igation must be provided and maintained Testifying before the Transportation nels to project depths. importance of ice breaking operations to through the ports and waterways construct- and Infrastructure Committee, Lake Great Lakes vessels have been forced Great Lakes shipping and the economy. ed and maintained by the Army Corps of Carriers’ Association President James to operate thousands of tons below capacity “Cargo movement during the ice season is Engineers,” said Committee Chairman Rep. Weakley pointed out that “no other project is and members of the committee cited the vital to our economy staying in gear during James Oberstar (D-MN). better suited (for) inclusion in an economic need for an increase in dredging throughout winter,” he said. Among the key maritime infrastruc- stimulus package” than the construction of a the domestic system. Each winter, 20 percent of the iron ture projects addressed at the hearing were second Poe-sized lock. “The immediate Construction of a new Coast Guard ore needed for the U.S. manufacturing those of particular importance to Great impact – job creation – will be tremendous.” icebreaker to serve the Great Lakes was also heartland is carried by Great Lakes vessels, Lakes shipping, including construction of a Nearly 70 percent of U.S.-flag cargo discussed at the hearing. which must often travel through frozen new large lock at Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., movement on the Great Lakes depends on Rep. Oberstar supports funding for a channels. Hundreds of thousands of jobs dredging operations to restore Great Lakes the Poe Lock. As such, it is crucial to sister ship to the icebreaker Mackinaw, and depend on the materials and goods deliv- harbors and channels to project depths and national security, both economic and mili- funding for the project was included in the construction of a new Coast Guard ice- tary, he noted. The project is authorized and Transportation and Infrastructure See T&I Hearing Page 10 6 • American Maritime Officer February 2009

Vice President Biden meets Rep. Solis nominated for with Capt. Lansden on Secretary of Labor

reconstruction projects Congresswoman Hilda Solis (D-CA), that coerce or intimidate employees trying a strong workers’ rights advocate, has been to form unions and bargain, establish medi- nominated to lead the Labor Department for ation and binding arbitration when the the Obama administration. Her confirma- employer and workers cannot agree on a tion hearing was held in January. At press first contract, and enable employees to form time, her nomination was pending with the a union when a majority of workers sign Senate Committee on Health, Education, authorization cards. Labor and Pensions. The Employee Free Choice Act is The daughter of two union members, expected to come before the 111th Solis has a 97 percent rating from the AFL- Congress. CIO. “As Secretary of Labor,” Solis said at President Obama praised Solis’s a press conference announcing her nomina- work in Congress “protecting workers’ tion, “I’ll work to strengthen our unions and rights, from organizing to collective bar- support every American in our nation’s gaining,” and for “keeping our workplaces diverse workforce.” safe” and “making our unions strong.” At her confirmation hearing Jan. 9, Representing California’s 32nd several members of the Senate committee Congressional District, including parts of congratulated Solis on the nomination and Los Angeles, Solis is currently serving her spoke of her enthusiasm and talent. fourth term in the House of Representatives. When questioned about union issues She sits on the Committee on Energy and at the hearing, Solis often deferred, pointing Commerce, the Committee on Natural out that she hadn’t yet discussed the issues Resources and the Select Committee on with President Obama and the new admin- Energy Independence and Global Warming. Vice President Joe Biden (then-vice president elect) meets with Capt. istration. She was first elected to the California Robert Lansden, U.S. Navy, and Diego Abdellaoui, special advisor to the She was questioned directly about her State Senate in 1994. She served eight U.S. Embassy, in Basra, Iraq, in January. Lansden, a member of American stance on the Employee Free Choice Act. years in the California Senate before being Maritime Officers now serving on active duty in the Navy, is directing revi- Though she declined to comment about the elected to national office. talization work as Civil Military Operations chief of the Multi-National Force proposed legislation, she co-sponsored the Solis said that, if confirmed, her early Southeast in southern Iraq to develop the region’s maritime transportation bill with then-Senator Obama when it was priorities would include job creation, fair system. Five ports are being revived, as well as a major bridge, with fund- introduced in 2007. pay for American workers, workplace safe- ing under the stewardship of Capt. Landsen’s office. The Employee Free Choice Act ty, retirement security and civil rights would strengthen penalties for companies enforcement. The International Transport Workers’ Federation: fighting for the rights of mariners since 1898

By J. Michael Murphy International Labor its daily inspections of shipboard living Some of the projects on which the National Vice President at Large Organization conditions by the 130 ITF inspectors Fair Practices Committee is involved with (ILO). It is as an worldwide. are: In previous articles, I’ve discussed ITF delegate that I The ITF has also taken on the role •Flags of Convenience Campaign, the International Maritime Organization attend the IMO of representing flag-of-convenience where they work to bring collective bar- (IMO) and its importance to mariners. meetings for this mariners who have no national unions, gaining to ships where the crews have no However, no discussion of AMO’s inter- union. and to date, has brought collective bar- national unions and to encourage ship national activity would be complete with- The stated gaining agreements to nearly 10,000 owners to return ships to their national out addressing our work with the objectives of the flag-of-convenience ships and more than flags International Transport Workers’ International 150,000 seafarers who would not other- •Cabotage Law Campaign, where Federation (ITF). Transport Workers’ wise have any representation. The ships they provide encouragement and assis- Until the past year, like many U.S. Federation are: with collective bargaining agreements tance to governments that want to estab- mariners, I was only vaguely aware of the •To promote respect for trade are issued the coveted ITF Blue lish national shipping laws similar to our ITF and was not acquainted with what unions and human rights worldwide Certificate, signifying that the owners Jones Act they do or the important roles they serve. •To work for peace based on social have agreed to proper wages, living and •Support organizing drives in coun- The ITF has been representing justice and economic progress social conditions. Additionally, ITF has tries with a history of anti-unionism mariners and working for improved safe- •To help its affiliated unions defend for many years been successful world- For those of you who would like to ty and living conditions at sea for more the interests of their members wide in obtaining compensation and back know more about the ITF and its activi- than 100 years. The ITF, founded in 1896, •To provide research and informa- wages for injured and abandoned crew ties, I encourage you to visit the website is an umbrella organization for 654 inde- tion services to its affiliates members. specifically designed for seafarers: pendent transportation trade unions in •To provide general assistance to Last year, I attended an ITF joint www.itfseafarers.org. I think you will 148 countries and represents more than transport workers in difficulty conference of the Seafarers’ Section and find trove of interesting information, 4.5 million transportation workers. All The ITF puts these principles into the Dockers’ Section, which met individ- including a monthly magazine. modes of transportation are represented, action every day by supporting seafarers ually and collectively to develop strate- The International Transport including airline, rail and highway work- in legal , such as the recent Hebei gies for strengthening both sections’ Workers’ Federation is truly global in ers, longshoremen (dockers) and seafar- Spirit case in , in preventing international posture and providing mutu- nature and every mariner, regardless of ers. The ITF Seafarers’ Section represents arms shipments, like the recent action to al assistance. The two sections act in con- his nationality, should be aware of the mariners’ interests at the International turn back the arms carrying ship An Yue cert through elected members on the Fair information and resources available to Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Jang destined for Zimbabwe, and through Practices Committee. them all around the world. Southern Partnership Station training on HSV 2 Swift

The high-speed vessel (HSV 2) Caribbean and Latin America. The prima- Expeditionary Training Command, Naval interdiction operations, the Navy Swift began the first of two instruction ry focus of the mission is information Criminal Investigative Service and the reported. evolutions in Jamaica in early January sharing with navies, coast guards and Marine Corps Training and Advisory The arrival of the SPS team was for Southern Partnership Station, the civilian services throughout the region. Group began their courses Jan. 5 with noted with a formal ceremony on the U.S. Navy reported. The HSV 2 Swift is operated for Jamaica Defense Force members. HSV 2 Swift, with opening remarks by Southern Partnership Station by Sealift Inc. The courses provide instruction in a Cmdr. Chris Barnes, Southern (SPS) is an annual deployment of mul- and is manned in all licensed positions by variety of fields, such as land navigation, Partnership Station mission comman- tiple specialty platforms to the U.S. American Maritime Officers. security, waterborne security opera- der, and Lt. Tomar Lewis, Jamaica Southern Command area of focus in the Training teams from Navy tions, small boat repair and maritime Defense Force training officer. February 2009 American Maritime Officer • 7 New jobs for AMO in Maritime Security Program Ocean Shipholdings to operate ice-strengthened product tanker in 60-ship MSP fleet

The Maritime Administration has vide new jobs in the Maritime Security Command, reviewed proposals from sev- sels managed by Ocean Shipholdings Inc., selected an ice-strengthened product Program for AMO members,” said AMO eral operating companies and determined which also operates the AMO-contracted tanker for the open slot in the 60-ship National President Tom Bethel. “We’re that this type of vessel was needed for the T-5 tankers, the Watson Class LMSRs and Maritime Security Program fleet. The ship excited about the new opportunities for our MSP fleet. The vessel operating agree- the two Ready Reserve Force barge carri- will be operated by Ocean Shipholdings membership in the MSP fleet and an ment in the MSP became available when ers, Cape May and Cape Mohican. Inc. of Houston, Texas, and manned in all expanded role in this program that is vital to Overseas Shipholding Group withdrew a AMO currently represents all licensed positions by American Maritime the U.S. merchant marine and our national tanker from the MSP fleet for service in licensed officers working aboard 14 ships Officers. defense transportation operations.” international trades under foreign registry. in the MSP fleet, including eight car carri- “This ship will meet the strategic MARAD and the Department of The ice-strengthened product tanker ers, four containerships and two heavy-lift needs of the Defense Department and pro- Defense, through the U.S. Transportation will be a new addition to the fleet of ves- vessels. Historic moment as car carrier M/V Honor delivers Iraq reconstruction cargo at Port of Umm Qasr

The M/V Honor became one of the crowds gathered as the M/V Honor made largest commercial vessels to dock at the its maiden voyage to the north end of the Port of Umm Qasr when the ship recently Az Zubayr waterway to its first port call at delivered a cargo of foreign military sales the Iraq North Port, Umm Qasr. vehicles to support Iraqi reconstruction With the capacity to hold more than efforts, the Surface Deployment and 5,890 vehicles, spectators were amazed by Distribution Command 595th U.S. Army the size of the Honor, which made the Transportation Group reported in the berthing space appear like a miniature December edition of 595th Tip of the model Aguirre wrote. Applause and cheers Spear. could be heard as the vessel docked. The M/V Honor is operated in the The Honor departed the U.S. in Maritime Security Program fleet by October and made one stop at the Port of Interocean American Shipping for Shuaiba, Kuwait. Ships of this size typical- American Roll-On/Roll-Off Carrier and is ly discharge cargo at larger commercial manned in all licensed positions by ports in Kuwait and Dubai for transship- American Maritime Officers. ment, Aguirre wrote. However, on Nov. Writing in 595th Tip of the Spear, The M/V Honor is operated by Interocean American Shipping Corp. and manned 10, the Port of Umm Qasr ceased routine Frank Aguirre, 840th DDSB, reported that in all licensed positions by American Maritime Officers (file photo). operations for a few hushed minutes for this historic moment as the Honor deliv- ered its cargo. Port facility managers are striving to TRANSCOM Commander Gen. McNabb onboard boost trade and ensure the efficient deliv- ery of goods and services through Iraq, as USNS Gianella delivers for Deep Freeze 2009 Aguirre wrote. More than 65 ships unload grain and other cargoes at the renovated Commander of the U.S. port each month and all 21 berths are now Transportation Command Gen. open to vessels. Duncan McNabb, U.S. Air Force, The Honor is one of eight car carri- Commander of Pacific Air Forces ers operated by Interocean American Gen. Howie Chandler, USAF, and Shipping in the Maritime Security Gen. Frank Klotz, USAF, are pre- Program (MSP) fleet. The others are the sented with plaques by AMO mem- Courage, Freedom, Independence II, bers Capt. William Taylor, master, Resolve, Patriot, Liberty and Integrity. and Capt. Robert Mills, ice pilot, AMO also represents all licensed during a tour of the USNS Lawrence officers working aboard four container- H. Gianella at the McMurdo Station ships operated by Maersk Line Limited in ice pier in Antarctica. the MSP fleet—the Maersk Virginia, The T-5 tanker USNS Lawrence H. Maersk Georgia, Maersk Carolina and Gianella arrived at McMurdo Station Maersk Missouri—as well as two heavy in Antarctica in January after transit- lift vessels operated by Pacific Gulf ing more than 60 miles of ice chan- Marine—the Ocean Atlas and Ocean nel during the voyage for Operation Titan. Deep Freeze 2009. The fuel deliv- The MSP supports a fleet of 60 ered by the USNS Gianella during U.S.-flagged commercial vessels. The the mission supplies the National vessels in the MSP fleet operate in inter- Science Foundation station for the national commercial trades and the ships, year. The USNS Gianella is operat- as well as shoreside intermodal infra- ed by Ocean Ships Inc. and structure, are made available to the manned in all licensed positions by Department of Defense for military con- American Maritime Officers. tingencies and sealift service in times of war and national crisis.

Interocean American Shipping Union in all unlicensed positions. of experience the AMO officers bring to AMO sea Corporation (IAS) commended members “We have a total of 10 days to: the shipyard job,” Rogers said. “That is of American Maritime Officers working familiarize, set up the ship, including the really what makes the customer happy. on the sea trial crews for 10 ships built by galley, perform the sea trial, clean up and AMO officers supply a tremendous trial crews Aker Philadelphia Shipyards Inc. (APSI) complete the job,” said IAS Operations wealth of knowledge and experience for their excellent performance and track Manager Harry Rogers. that really benefits the project, the ship- record of success. “In addition, AMO officers yard and IAS.” commended IAS is the contracted operating employed by IAS have worked with APSI IAS began performing sea trials company performing the sea trials for to assist with systems testing and commis- for APSI in 2003 and has since com- for excellent ships built at APSI and employs AMO sioning prior to sea trials,” Rogers added. pleted the sea trials for four container- members in all licensed positions aboard “While Interocean organizes and ships delivered to Matson Navigation the ships for the sea trial program, and sets things in motion, none of this would and six tankers delivered to Overseas performance members of the Seafarers International be possible without the depth and breadth Shipholding Group. 8 • American Maritime Officer February 2009 American Maritime Officers Simulation, Training, Assessment & Research Center 2 West Dixie Highway • Dania Beach, FL 33004 • (954) 920-3222

GENERAL COURSES ISO 9001:2000 Lead Auditor 5 days Please Call Training ABS NS5 Fleet Management 3 days 6 April 29 June Software Advanced Fire Fighting 5 days 16 March 13 April 18 May 8 June 20 July 17 August 14 September Basic Safety Training—All 4 modules MUST be completed 5 days 23 March 4 May 27 July 21 September within 12 months Personal Survival Techniques 1 1/2 days Basic Safety Training (Monday-Tuesday) Personal Safety & Social 1/2 day Basic Safety Training Responsibility (Tuesday p.m.) Elementary First Aid 1 day Basic Safety Training (Wednesday) Fire Fighting & Fire Prevention (Thursday-Friday)—Not required if “Combined Basic & 2 days Basic Safety Training Advanced Fire Fighting” complet- ed within 12 months Basic Safety Training - 3 days 25 March 6 May 29 July 23 September Refresher Crowd Management 1 day 16 February Crisis Management & Human 1 day 17 February Behavior Effective Supervision 2 1/2 days Please Call Fast Rescue Boat 4 days 17 February 23 February 2 March 6 April 6 July 28 September GMDSS 10 days 9 March 13 July

Tankerman PIC LNG 8 days 9 March 1 June 20 July 14 September

LNG Simulator Training 5 days 16 February 23 March 13 April 6 July 10 August LNG Addendum to SIGTTO 1 day 19 March 11 June 30 July 24 September Standards Ocean Ranger Program 6 days 13 April Proficiency in Survival Craft 4 days 30 March 24 August (Lifeboat) Tankerman PIC DL - 5 days 30 March 13 July 17 August Classroom Tankerman PIC DL - Simulator 10 days 4 May 15 June 14 September Train The Trainer—Requires 5 days 16 March 27 April 22 June 17 August after hours homework Vessel/Company/Port Facility 2 days 2 March 16 March 27 May 8 July 9 September Security Officer DECK COURSES Advanced Bridge Resource 5 days 16 March 20 April 27 July 31 August Management Advanced Shiphandling for Masters—(No equivalency) 5 days 8 June 27 July Must have sailed as Chief Mate Unlimited Advanced Shiphandling for Third Mates—(60 days seatime 10 days 11 May 15 June 17 August equivalency for Third Mates) Advanced (or emergency) Shiphandling for First Class 5 days 2 March Pilots Bridge Resource Management 3 days 29 June Seminar Integrated Bridge 5 days 9 March 11 May System/Podded Propulsion Locking & Docking—First 5 days Please Call Class Pilots STCW Deck Officer Refresher 3 days 4 August Towing Officer Record 5 days 2 March 22 June 14 September Assessment Visual Communications 1 days Please call (Flashing Light)—test only ENGINEERING COURSES

Advanced Slow Speed Diesel 10 days 23 February 15 June

Basic Electricity Coming Soon Please Call

Diesel Crossover 4 weeks Please Call Electrical, Electronic, Control 4 weeks 9 March 1 June 21 September Engineering Engine Room Resource 5 days 18 May 28 September Management Environmental Awareness 3 days 4 May 20 July (includes Oily Water Separator) Gas Turbine Endorsement 10 days 4 May 17 August

High Voltage Safety Course 3 days 30 March 1 June

Steam Crossover 4 weeks 23 February 6 July

Welding & Metallurgy 2 weeks 4 May 24 August MSC TRAINING PROGRAM—includes self-study courses Afloat Environmental Protection Coordinator, Anti-Terrorism Level 1 and Crew Endurance Management (see below). Additional courses, including Marine Sanitation Devices and Water Sanitation Afloat will be included soon. CBRD Orientation 1 day 26 March 18 May 30 July Damage Control 2 days 26 February 25 June 27 August Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing 1 day 23 March 15 June 20 July Conservation Afloat Helicopter Fire Fighting 1 day 2 March 19 May 17 September Marine Sanitation Devices 1/2 day 19 March 7 May 23 July Medical PIC Refresher—Note: 3 days 27 May Not MSC approved. Small Arms - Initial & 3 days 23 February 9, 23 March 20 April 11 May 1, 22 June 13, 27 July 10, 24 August Refresher Training Water Sanitation Afloat 1/2 day 19 March 7 May 23 July MARAD TRAINING PROGRAM—(11 day package composed of the courses below) Students will be nominated and assigned by their contracted company and shall attend all 11 days. Any places not taken by the contracted companies shall be made available to the membership on a chronological order basis. Small Arms Training (Initial & 3 days 11 May 13 July Refresher) Elementary First Aid 1 day 14 May 16 July Drug Collector Training 1 day 15 May 17 July Breath Alcohol Test Collector 1 day 16 May 18 July Advanced Fire Fighting 5 days 18 May 20 July February 2009 American Maritime Officer • 9

MEDICAL COURSES

Elementary First Aid—Note: Prerequisite for Medical Care Provider within preceding 12 1 day 17 February 24 March 21 April 19 May 16 June 21 July 25 August months Medical Care Provider—Note: Prerequisite for Medical Person In Charge within preceding 12 3 days 18 February 25 March 22 April 20 May 17 June 22 July 26 August months. Please fax EFA certificate when regis- tering Medical Person In Charge—Note: Please FAX Medical Care Provider certificate when 5 days 23 February 30 March 27 April 22 June 27 July 31 August registering Medical PIC Refresher—Note: Not MSC 3 days 27 May 5 August approved. Urinalysis Collector Training 1 day 6 April 29 June 3 August

Breath Alcohol Test 1 day 7 April 30 June 4 August

Saliva Screening Test — QEDs only 1/2 day 8 April 1 July 4 August

RADAR COURSES Radar Recertification 1 day 20 February 20 April 29 May 15 June 10 July 24 August 11 September ARPA 4 days 16 June 25 August Western Rivers Recertification 1 day Please Call Radar Recertification & ARPA 5 days 2 February 15 June 24 August ECDIS 5 days 16 March 11 May 20 July 28 September Original Radar Observer Unlimited 5 days 30 March 8 June 10 August

SELF-STUDY CD & ONLINE PROGRAMS—Available for use when attending other approved classroom courses

Afloat Environmental Protection Coordinator (CD) Anti-Terrorism Level 1 (Online) DoT - Hazardous Materials Transportation Training (CD)

Crew Endurance Management (CD) Prudent Mariner’s Guide to Right Whale Protection (CD) EPA Universal Refrigerant Certification Examination

ORIGINAL LICENSE COURSES / GALLEY COURSES

Original License (Great Lakes) Courses (Deck & As Required Please Call Engine) RFPNW Assessments 1 day 25 October 2009 Marlin Spike 1 day 26 October 2009 40-Hour Able Seaman 5 days 2 November 2009 Food Safety, Sanitation & Nutrition (ServSafe) 5 days Please Call Culinary Fundamentals 10 days Please Call Advanced Steward Course 5 days Please Call

OFFICER IN CHARGE OF A NAVIGATIONAL WATCH—Successful completion of this program will satisfy the training requirements for STCW certification as third mate and second mate on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC)

Terrestrial Navigation 10 days 27 July 09

Ship Construction & Stability 5 days 10 August 09

Electronic Navigation 5 days 17 August 09

Meteorology 5 days 24 August 09

Watchkeeping 10 days 31 August 09

Cargo Handling & Stowage 5 days 14 September 09

Basic Shiphandling at the Operational Level 5 days 21 September 09

Emergency Procedures and SAR 4 days 28 September 09

Celestial Navigation 15 days 5 October 09

Magnetic & Gyro Compass 3 days 19 October 09

DECK LICENSE UPGRADE: SECOND OFFICER TO CHIEF MATE / MASTER—Successful completion of this program will satisfy the training requirements for STCW certification as Master or Chief Mate on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). This program will complete ALL 53 Control Sheet assessments.

Cargo Operations 9 days 23 March 15 June 14 September Celestial Navigation—Note: A thorough review and under- standing of the topics covered in Parts 4 & 5 of Pub. 5 days 18 May 27 July 3 August 10 August 21 September Number 9, The American Practical Navigator (Bowditch), is a prerequisite. Marine Propulsion Plants 5 days 30 March 20, 27 April 3, 10 August 21 September

Shipboard Management 5 days 16 February 13 April 18 May 22 June 17 August

Upgrade: Advanced Meteorology 5 days 11 May 6 July 31 August

Upgrade: Advanced Navigation ECDIS 5 days 9 March 27 April 18 May 22 June 27 July 21 September

Upgrade: Advanced Navigation (Includes Simulator) 5 days 2 March 20 April 11 May 15 June 20 July 14 September

Upgrade: Shiphandling at the Management Level 10 days 23 February 30 March 27 April 13 July 3 August

Upgrade: Stability—Note: It is recommended that chapters 1-13 in the book Stability and Trim for the Ship’s Officer be 5 days 1 June 3 August reviewed prior to attending this course

Watchkeeping 1 (Bridge Resource Management)—Note: Watchkeeping Weeks 1 and 2 MUST be completed within 3 days 18 March 3 June 12 months of each other.

Watchkeeping 2 (COLREGS)—Note: Watchkeeping Weeks 1 and 2 MUST be completed within 12 months of 5 days 23 March 8 June each other.

NOTICE: AMO members planning to attend the union’s Center for Advanced Maritime Officers’ Training/STAR Center in Dania Beach, Florida—either to prepare for license upgrading or to undergo specialty training—are asked to call the school to confirm course schedule and space availability in advance.

NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY AS TO STUDENTS: The Center For Advanced Maritime Officers Training (CAMOT) and Simulation Training Assessment and Research Center (STAR), established under the auspices of the American Maritime Officers Safety and Education Plan, admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin or sex to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the Center. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin or sex in administration of its educational policies, admission policies and other programs administered by the Center. 10 • American Maritime Officer February 2009

GALVESTON, TX 77554 13730 FM 3005, Suite 170 David E. Weathers, National Executive Board Member At Large ([email protected]) (800) 362-0513 ext. 2001 Mobile: (409) 996-7362

HEADQUARTERS NORWOOD, NJ 07648 463 Livingston Street, Suite 102-PMB 60 DANIA BEACH, FL 33004 Donald R. Nilsson, National Executive Board Member, Deep Sea 2 West Dixie Highway ([email protected]) (954) 921-2221 / (800) 362-0513 (800) 362-0513 ext. 3004 Thomas J. Bethel, National President ([email protected]) Mobile: (201) 913-2209 José E. Leonard, National Secretary-Treasurer ([email protected]) Jack Branthover, Special Assistant to the National President WASHINGTON, D.C. ([email protected]) FAX: (954) 926-5112 WASHINGTON, D.C. 20024 Joseph Z. Gremelsbacker, National Vice President, Deep Sea 490 L’Enfant Plaza East SW, Suite 7204 ([email protected]) (202) 479-1166 / (800) 362-0513 ext. 7001 John K. Hafner, National Executive Board Member At Large J. Michael Murphy, National Vice President At Large ([email protected]) ([email protected]) Charles A. Murdock, National Executive Board Member, Inland Waters Paul Doell, Legislative Director ([email protected]) ([email protected]) Phree Baker, Assistant Legislative Director ([email protected]) FAX: (954) 920-3257 FAX: (202) 479-1188 Dispatch: (800) 345-3410 FAX: (954) 926-5126 Brendan Keller, Dispatcher ([email protected]) STAR CENTER Robert Anderson, Dispatcher ([email protected]) Member Services: Extension 1050 ([email protected]) STUDENT SERVICES/LODGING AND COURSE INFORMATION 2 West Dixie Highway Dania Beach, FL 33004 PORTS (954) 920-3222 ext.7109 and ext. 7112 (800) 942-3220 ext.7109 and ext. 7112 TOLEDO, OH 43604 FAX: (954) 920-3140 The Melvin H. Pelfrey Building 24 Hours: (954) 920-3222 ext.7999 One Maritime Plaza (419) 255-3940 / (800) 221-9395 TRAINING RECORDS SYSTEM: FAX: (419) 255-2350 Lisa Marra Christopher O. Bartlett, National Executive Vice President (954) 920-3222 ext. 7118 ([email protected]) FAX: (954) 925-5681 Donald N. Cree, National Vice President Great Lakes [email protected] ([email protected]) Brian D. Krus, National Assistant Vice President Great Lakes ([email protected]) Stan Barnes, National Representative ([email protected]) MEMBERSHIP SERVICES Bruce DeWerth, Dispatcher ([email protected]) MARITIME MEDICAL CENTER AMO PLANS PHILADELPHIA, PA 19148 2 West Dixie Highway 2 West Dixie Highway 2604 S. 4th Street Dania Beach, FL 33004 Dania Beach, FL 33004 (800) 362-0513 ext. 4001 (954) 927-5213 (800) 348-6515 Robert J. Kiefer, National Assistant Vice President At Large FAX: (954) 929-1415 FAX: (954) 922-7539 ([email protected]) FAX: (215) 755-2574 LEGAL SAN FRANCISCO / OAKLAND, CA 94607 1121 7th Street, Second Floor Joel Glanstein, General Counsel Michael Reny Oakland, CA 94607 305 Madison Ave. Suite 2240 AMO Coast Guard Legal (510) 444-5301 / (800) 362-0513 ext. 5001 New York, NY 10165 Aid Program Daniel E. Shea, National Executive Board Member At Large (212) 370-5100 (419) 243-1105 / (888) 853-4662 ([email protected]) FAX: (212) 697-6299 Mobile: (419) 346-1485 FAX: (510) 444-5165 [email protected]

out of service, especially when needs are T&I Hearing most critical, Weakley said. He estimated that an appropriately funded U.S. Coast Direct deposit option to be Continued from Page 5 Guard icebreaking mission would double ered across the Great Lakes. the speed of winter traffic through the available to AMO members Icebreakers on the lakes are too often frozen Great Lakes. for vacation benefits, effective March 2009

Effective March 2009, AMO Vacation Plan participants will be able to com- plete a Direct Deposit Application form, which will provide authorization to deposit vacation benefit checks directly into a bank account specified by each par- ticipant. This form will be kept on file and all future vacation applications will be processed via direct deposit payment. Your benefit check will be sent directly to the bank you specify and an Explanation of Benefits will be sent to the address you Regular monthly membership meetings for AMO will be held during the week have on file (this includes walk-in applicants). If you have direct deposit on file, following the first Sunday of every month at 1 p.m. local time. Meetings will be once the application process is completed (up to five business days), your check held on Monday at Headquarters in Dania (on Tuesday when Monday is a will be deposited into your account within 48 hours. contract holiday) and on Wednesday in Toledo. The next meetings will take Please be aware that if your banking information changes at any time you place on the following dates: will need to complete a new Direct Deposit Application so we can update our records and process your payment accurately. DANIA BEACH: March 2, April 6 Once you authorize direct deposit, this will be your primary method of payment. TOLEDO: March 4, April 8 February 2009 American Maritime Officer • 11 Vessel General Permit regulations take effect Feb. 6

On Feb. 6, 2009, regulations on Under the VGP program, the vessel’s standards in the permit that must be met are and/or vessels that have the ability to hold vessel discharges will change significantly, crew will conduct routine monitoring, called “Best Management Practices” or discharge more than eight cubic meters with potential for crew liability. inspections, reporting and recordkeeping to (BMPs). These BMPs may change over of ballast. Permit coverage of commercial On that date, vessels operating as a meet the requirements of the permit. These time. Some of the standards contain vague fishing vessels and vessels less than 79 feet means of transportation, with certain excep- requirements are in addition to other records language that could be interpreted in a num- in length is limited to ballast water dis- tions, are prohibited from discharging any required by statute or regulation. ber of ways. charges only. Additional requirements are pollutant into waters of the United States It is unknown whether the crew will Individual states, under section 401 imposed for medium and large cruise ships, unless authorized to do so in accordance be liable under this program; however, there of the Clean Water Act, may include addi- large ferries, barges, oil or petroleum with the Vessel General Permit (VGP) or is a potential for administrative, civil and/or tional regulations to the VGP. States may tankers, research vessels, emergency boats, other permit. criminal penalties. impose stricter standards than those con- and vessels employing experimental ballast This new permit is a response to liti- Companies will automatically be tained in the permit, which would apply water treatment systems. gation against an Environmental Protection covered by the permit until June 19, 2009, when a vessel enters the waters of those K&L Gates, an international law Agency (EPA) regulation exempting dis- when they must submit a Notice of Intent states. firm specializing in maritime law, among charges incidental to the normal operation (NOI) to maintain coverage. Companies Under general or state regulations, other practices, held an informational of vessels. As a result of this lawsuit, these found to be noncompliant or operating records kept in accordance with the VGP town hall meeting on Jan. 12, 2009, to discharges will be prohibited and unlawful without a permit are subject to a number of will be made public. Individuals and civil explain the requirements for the new per- unless covered by a permit. The VGP will penalties, including fines of up to $37,500 groups may sue for noncompliance with the mit. An alert issued by the firm describing cover 26 separate discharges, including bal- per incident, per day. permit. the new general permit is available online last water, graywater, bilge water, deck Compliance with the VGP will be The VGP applies to all non-recre- at: http://www.klgates.com/newsstand/ runoff and engine cooling water. determined on a case-by-case basis. The ational vessels of 300 gross tons or greater Detail.aspx?publication=5211.

•Vacation Plan: [email protected] Medical Plan •401(k) Plan: [email protected] Continued from Page 4 Annual Documents New Benefit - Medical Plan Benefit Coverage: The AMO Medical Plan requires updated information annually to help expedite Transplant Organ/Tissue Benefit Services, Effective July 1, 2008 benefit payments. In order to avoid delays in benefit claim processing, please complete the applicable annual forms and return them to the Plan office as soon as possible. The Benefit Description: Organ Transplants and services for AMO ACTIVE Plan’s required annual documents are: Participants and Live Donors: •2009 Permanent Data & COB for Dependent Spouse/Children (for participants in •Kidney active employment) •Liver •2009 Pensioners Permanent Data, Earnings Limitation & COB (for Pensioners Adult and Pediatric cadaveric and living donors transplantation as medically nec- not Medicare Eligible) essary Travel, non-hospital room and board coverage for transplant donors: From time to time the Plan may require other forms to be completed. For your For live Kidney and Liver donors, reasonable travel, non-hospital room and board convenience, all Medical Plan forms are available via the AMO Plans web site: expenses will be reimbursed by the Medical Plan www.amoplans.com. (Schedule D15) Note: A 2009 Coordination of Benefits and Affidavit of Support for Deductibles/Co-Payments/Co-Insurance: Dependent Student Form are required for eligible dependent students who are between Transplant Services for Kidney and Liver Transplants are subject to a Medical the ages of 19-23. In order for a dependent student to be considered eligible for medical Access Fee Deductible of: $2,500 benefits under the AMO Medical Plan, the dependent student must meet the require- Annual Medical and In-Patient Deductible are not applicable ments of the Rules and Regulations of the AMO Medical Plan. If you have a Dependent $100.00 Co-Payment for Out-Patient Hospital Services per incident Child who is between the ages of 19-23 please contact the AMO Medical Plan office at 10% Co-insurance of the Life Source Contracted Rate up to a maximum out of 1-800-348-6515 or, you can obtain the Affidavit at the AMO Plans website www.amo- pocket of $3,000 plans.com. PPO/Non-PPO Benefits: In-Network benefit payable at 90% of the Life Source contracted rate NEWBORNS’ AND MOTHERS’ HEALTH PROTECTION ACT Out-of- Network Benefits are not payable for Transplants or Transplant Services The AMO Medical Plan complies with Federal law (the Newborns’ and Mothers’ Health Protection Act of 1996) that prohibits restricting benefits for a mother’s or new- Limitations: born child’s hospital length of stay because of childbirth to less than 48 hours following Transplant services must meet medical necessity review requirements a normal delivery, or less than 96 hours following a cesarean section. The AMO Medical Transplants are not covered if deemed to be experimental or investigational Plan does not require a physician to obtain authorization (pre-certification) for prescrib- Services for Liver and Kidney transplants must be approved and processed ing a length of stay not in excess of those periods. However, federal law generally does through CIGNA Life Source not prohibit the mother’s or newborn’s attending provider, after consulting with the There is no benefit coverage for travel, non-hospital room and board for transplant mother, from discharging the mother or her newborn earlier than 48 hours (or 96 hours recipients if applicable). Liver Transplant Services are available for ACTIVE Participants only WOMEN’S HEALTH AND CANCER RIGHTS ACT Transplant Care Benefit service components for liver and kidney transplants include The AMO Medical Plan complies with the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act and are limited to the CIGNA Life Source Coverage Positions. Coverage positions of 1998 by providing benefits to members and dependents in connection with a mastec- will be updated periodically by CIGNA Life Source and by AMO Medical Plan. tomy, and who elect breast reconstruction, subject to the terms and provisions of the AMO Medical Plan. New Benefit - Medical Plan Benefit Coverage for In Network PPO Access: International Medical Healthcare Access, Effective October 1, 2008 AMO aboard the M/V Black Eagle The AMO Medical Plan has contracted with Companion Global Healthcare •Network access in addition to CIGNA Healthcare PPO. •Access to a highly select international network of facilities. All of Companion Global Healthcare’s network facilities have earned Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation. •For more information about how Companion Global Healthcare can offer signifi- cant cost savings for your healthcare needs, visit: www.CompanionGlobalHealthcare.com •You will receive an additional package from Companion Global Healthcare with Provider Network Access and Benefit information.

* The AMO Medical Plan Rules and Regulations do not allow benefits for trav- el expenses. American Maritime Officers members working aboard the M/V Black Eagle (formerly M/V A1C William H. Pitsenbarger) in October included Third If you have any questions regarding this publication or any of the Plan’s benefits, Assistant Engineer Gary Gilbert, Chief Engineer Jamie Van Norman, Second please contact the Plan office at: A.E. Steve Liles, First A.E. Bert Knox, Third Mate Pedro Martinez, Second Telephone: (954) 920-4247 or (800) 348-6515 / Fax: (954) 920-9482 Mate Zsolt Bakos, Chief Mate Scott Holdsworth and Capt. John Barron. With Website: www.amoplans.com them here at Lake Charles, La., is AMO National Executive Vice President E-Mail: Chris Bartlett. The Black Eagle is operated by Red River Holdings and •Medical Plan: [email protected] manned in all licensed positions by AMO. •Pension Plan and MPB: [email protected] 12 • American Maritime Officer February 2009

Maersk Line Golden State on maiden voyage in domestic trades

Limited ships American Maritime Officers members working aboard the product tanker Golden State as achieve safety the ship made its first call at the BP marine terminal at Cherry milestones Point, Wash., on its maiden voy- age in January included Chief The M/V LTC John U.D. Page, one Engineer Greg Pierce, Chief of two ammunition prepositioning ships Engineer Tom Balzano, Chief operated by Maersk Line Limited (MLL) in Engineer Chris Owen and Third the Military Sealift Command Assistant Engineer Matt Hurd. Prepositioning Program, marked a safety The new tanker is operated by milestone as the ship’s crew celebrated U.S. Shipping and manned in all seven years of operation without a lost time licensed positions by AMO. accident. The sister ship of the M/V Page, the M/V SSG Edward A. Carter Jr., the other MLL-operated ammunition prepositioning ship in the MSC program, has been operat- ing for six years with a lost time accident. The Page and Carter are among seven MLL owned or operated ships that have been operating for at least six years without a lost time accident, including the USNS Effective (seven years), and USNS Impeccable, M/V CPL Louis J. Hauge, M/V Maersk Rhode Island and M/V Maersk Tennessee (six years). A lost time accident (LTA) is defined as an accident resulting in a crew member sustaining an injury requiring him or her to miss at least one shift, and the number of Chief Mate Brandon Russell Second Mate Dale Harper LTAs occurring onboard a ship serve as a maritime industry standard for measuring safety performance. The prevention of tary, replacing two T-5 tankers expected to Galveston and Brownsville—are in ser- LTAs through constant care, awareness and Golden State reach the end of their service life in 2010. vice in the Jones Act trades. The fourth safety education is key to MLL’s company- In addition to the series of tankers, ATB is scheduled for delivery in Continued from Page 1 wide safety program, “Drive to Zero.” The U.S. Shipping Partners is building a series November 2009. program’s name is derived from its goal of time charters cover petroleum product of four articulated tug/barges. The first AMO represents all licensed officers striving to eliminate all accidents. transportation in support of the U.S. mili- three vessels in the series—the Freeport, working in the U.S. Shipping fleet.