Volume 40, Number 5 May 2010

Photo: Sealift Inc. Photo: Military Sealift Command Sealift awarded charter MSC awards charter to for M/V Chapman Maersk for M/V Page MSC has awarded a contract to ment by one of the bidding companies. The M/V LTC John U.D. Page August 2010. If all options are exer- Sealift Inc. for the time charter of the M/V The request for proposals was reissued will continue prepositioning ammuni- cised, the new contract will extend to TSgt. John A. Chapman. The ship’s pri- and Sealift Inc. was the successful bidder tion for the U.S. Army under a new four years plus an initial base period. mary mission will be to preposition for the new contract. charter awarded to Maersk Line Limited “The outcome of the RFP and ammunition for the U.S. Air Force. Sealift Work under the new charter is by Military Sealift Command. award process is always unpredictable, was originally awarded a similar charter expected to begin in September. With a The M/V Page, manned in all and we’re very pleased the M/V Page for the M/V Chapman early in 2009 and one-month base period, the contract licensed positions by American and the AMO officers onboard will con- the ship has been performing this mission. includes three one-year options and one Maritime Officers, currently serves this tinue their excellent service in this mis- The original award became the subject of nine-month option. AMO represents all mission. Work under the new MSC con- sion for the Army,” said AMO National a protest and lawsuit against the govern- licensed officers in the Sealift Inc. fleet. tract is scheduled to commence in Executive Vice President Bob Kiefer. New AMO jobs with Express Marine aboard ATB Freedom

The new Express Marine barge EMI-2400 is launched at Gunderson Marine in Portland, Ore. The tug Freedom departed Tampa, Fla., in April to travel to Oregon via the Panama Canal to pick up the EMI-2400 and form the new articulated tug/barge Freedom. The ATB The tug Freedom was delivered to Express Marine in mid-April by Freedom will operate in the Jones Act trades carrying coal between ports on the Gulf Coast. Patti Shipyard in Pensacola, Fla. The tug will be part of the new ATB AMO represents the engineering officers and bargemen on the Freedom. Freedom operating in the Jones Act trades.

Great Lakes News AMO National Area meeting AMO Essentials President’s Pre- dates for East, STAR Center course Balloting Report Gulf, West Coasts ◆ schedule: Pages 8-9

Page 4: The AMO National Page 2: AMO will again in 2010 STAR Center registration ◆ President’s Pre-Balloting Report conduct area meetings on the application: Page 11 for the 2010 Election of AMO East, Gulf and West Coasts. The National Officers and National schedule of dates, times and Executive Board Members is locations for each of the meet- ◆ AMO directory: Page 10 Page 5: New legislation contains published in this edition. The ings is included in this edition the key to ending the dredging AMO National Constitution was and is available online at ◆ AMO membership meeting crisis on the Great Lakes. published in the April edition. www.amo-union.org. schedule: Page 10

Copyright © 2010 American Maritime Officers ■ 2 West Dixie Highway ■ Dania Beach, FL 33004 ■ (800) 362-0513 ■ [email protected] 2 • American Maritime Officer May 2010 Expanding AMO job base requires careful planning

By Tom Bethel Meanwhile, the containerships job and benefit security reaches well beyond United States and overseas — with no loss of National President Balboa, APL Pearl, APL Cyprine, National these traditional trades and services, all of AMO benefits — under a separate ground- Glory and Maersk Arkansas, the tankers which are sustained for U.S.-flagged vessels breaking agreement between our union and a This month, Golden State, Pelican State and Sunshine by the Jones Act, the Maritime Security maritime recruiting firm with worldwide A m e r i c a n State and the articulated tug-barges Freeport, Program, the cargo preference laws and the contacts. Maritime Officers Galveston, Brownsville, Corpus Christi and funding of government shipping charters. There are additional diverse opportu- welcomes the OSG Vision were operating in various Under precedent-setting agreements nities in development for our union, but it is Endurance to U.S. domestic and overseas markets under the with major energy transportation interests, too early to discuss these publicly in specific registry and our AMO banner. Additionally, the new Express members of American Maritime Officers are detail. But I can disclose at this point that one union’s deep-sea Marine ATB, Freedom, is due to enter ser- at work in key positions aboard several liq- initiative could lead quickly to jobs for qual- fleet roster. The vice this summer. uefied natural gas and oil tankers operating ified AMO members on deepwater drill ships roll-on/roll-off ves- All of these vessels represent new jobs under international flags. These jobs also in offshore energy exploration. sel — operated by for our union. They also represent new generate employer contributions to AMO Of course, there are the occasional Crowley Liner employer contributions to the AMO benefit Plans. disappointments — for example, the award Services for funds that serve every deep-sea, Great Lakes In addition, AMO members can plan of a government charter to a vessel operat- American Roll-On and inland waters family. careers that combine licensed time at sea ing company that does not have a collective Roll-Off Carrier (ARC) — is the largest But our union’s remarkable story of with management positions ashore in the bargaining agreement with American commercial ship of its kind and one of nine Maritime Officers. But such setbacks actu- ARC car carriers manned by AMO in all ally make AMO more determined than ever licensed positions. to hold its place as the nation’s largest, The Endurance follows the tanker Bro strongest and most stable union of merchant Hawaii, which in April was re-flagged by marine officers. Maersk Line Limited for service in Asia, I have no doubt that AMO will remain where it will carry fuel for the U.S. in its premier position among the licensed Department of Defense and commercial car- unions, but I also understand that growth goes. The Bro Hawaii is the third U.S.- must be managed carefully. flagged tanker under AMO contract in the To this end, I asked recently that AMO Maersk Line Limited fleet. members refer unemployed U.S. merchant Earlier, the re-flagged containership marine officers they know personally to our Mohegan joined the Sealift Inc. fleet and union for steady jobs. “Growth could get began service in Diego Garcia in the Indian ahead of us in key areas,” I said in our April Ocean under Military Sealift Command char- 27 post on AMO Currents. ter. Sealift operates 11 additional ships for No one should interpret this to mean MSC or in the PL-480 food aid export trade. that American Maritime Officers cannot meet its current licensed manpower commit- Above: Congressman Jimmy Duncan ments in domestic and international trades. AMO 2010 annual area meeting (R-TN) attended the Propeller Club’s We can and we do. 2010 Salute to Congress Award dinner But I anticipate a need for additional dates for East, Gulf, West Coasts in April. Rep. Duncan is a consistent engine and deck officers at all levels as our and strong supporter of the U.S.-flag union’s job base widens — and that is an AMO will again in 2010 conduct area meetings on the East, Gulf and West Coasts. maritime industry. enviable position for AMO to be in. The meetings will feature detailed reports on union, Plans, industry and national devel- opments that affect the membership. All American Maritime Officers members and applicants are encouraged to attend and participate.

May 26, 2010 — 6 p.m. June 3, 2010 — 6 p.m. Embassy Suites Hampton Roads Hilton New Orleans Riverside (Mercury A&B) (Newberry/Ascot Rooms, third floor) 1700 Coliseum Drive 2 Poydras Street Hampton, VA 23666 - (757) 827-8200 New Orleans, LA 70140 - (504) 561-0500 American Maritime Officer (USPS 316-920) May 27, 2010 — 6 p.m. June 8, 2010 — 6 p.m. Official Publication of American Maritime Officers Embassy Suites Portland Courtyard by Marriott 2 West Dixie Highway (Westbrook Theatre) (Mount Tahoma Room) Dania Beach, FL 33004 1050 Westbrook Street 1515 Commerce Street (954) 921-2221 Portland, ME 04102 - (207) 775-2200 Tacoma, WA 98402 - (253) 591-9100 Periodical Postage Paid at Dania Beach, FL, and Additional Mailing Offices June 2, 2010 — 6 p.m. June 9, 2010 — 6 p.m. Published Monthly Hilton Americas — Houston Hilton Garden Inn (Theatre 340AB) (Platinum/Copper Room, first floor) American Maritime Officers National Executive Board 1600 Lamar 1800 Powell Street Houston, TX 77010 - (713) 739-8000 Emeryville, CA 94608 - (510) 658-9300 Thomas Bethel, National President José Leonard, National Secretary-Treasurer Robert Kiefer, National Executive Vice President Joseph Gremelsbacker, National Vice President, Deep Sea Warship sinks skiff as pirates Donald Cree, National Vice President, Great Lakes Brian Krus, National Assistant Vice President, Great Lakes approach ITB Philadelphia Michael Murphy, National Vice President At Large Daniel Shea, National Executive Board Member At Large David Weathers, National Executive Board Member At Large John Hafner, National Executive Board Member At Large Donald Nilsson, National Executive Board Member, Deep Sea Charles Murdock, National Executive Board Member, Inland Waters

Representative: Stan Barnes

Editor: Matt Burke On April 8, the ITB Philadelphia encountered a small skiff while en route to Assistant Editor: Amber Lupin Mombasa, Kenya, Capt. Mark Menton, master of the Philadelphia, report- Contributing Editor: Paul Doell ed. The naval vessel escorting the Philadelphia positioned itself between the skiff and the ITB, deployed a fast rescue boat and determined the skiff to be a pirate vessel. The naval vessel removed the pirates and took them POSTMASTER—Send Address Changes To: into custody, then proceeded to sink the skiff. The Philadelphia completed American Maritime Officers its voyage to Mombasa with the warship escort. The ITB Philadelphia, oper- ATTN: Member Services ated by U.S. Shipping and manned in all licensed positions by AMO, is P. O. Box 66 engaged in shipping grain and U.S. food-aid to nations in need. Dania Beach, FL 33004 May 2010 American Maritime Officer • 3 Transportation Department Rep. Cummings: expanded acts to extend America’s use of short sea shipping marine highway system is a ‘true no-brainer’

Secretary of The Transportation Investment Speaking in April before a maritime American Marine Transportation Generating Economic Recovery industry event, Rep. Elijah Cummings (D- Highways and Ray LaHood in (TIGER) grants program created by stim- MD), chairman of the Subcommittee on L o g i s t i c s April announced a ulus funding recently awarded $120 mil- Coast Guard and Merchant Marine Conference in new federal pro- lion in maritime projects, including three Infrastructure, called support for short sea Baltimore, Md. gram to expand projects to expand marine highways. shipping a “true no-brainer” and endorsed One obstacle the use of The final rule reflects the commit- the expansion of America’s marine high- to an expansion of America’s marine ment LaHood has made to prioritize the ways. the marine high- highways. A new growth of maritime transportation. “Given the projected increases of way program is the federal rulemak- “You’re going to have full partners at freight traffic in this nation and the con- H a r b o r ing will enable the DOT to promote the marine highway, to straints associated with expanding highway Maintenance Tax M a r i t i m e help fund the marine highway, and to capacity, it is critical that we begin to capi- (HMT), Administration to Secretary of really create the kind of innovative talize on the possibilities offered to move Rep. Elijah Cummings said. designate certain Transportation opportunities we know the marine high- goods and people on the water,” Cummings Cummings (D-MD) This ad-valorem rivers and coastal Ray LaHood way can do,” he said. said, addressing the 7th Annual North assessment on routes as Marine cargo stands as a minor financial barrier but Highway Corridors, thereby promoting a major administrative impediment to coastal their use for short sea shipping and shipping. Rep. Cummings has submitted increasing their competitiveness for feder- legislation for the past two years to exempt al grants to enhance or establish infra- short sea shipping cargo from the HMT. The structure. non-partisan Congressional Budget Office “For too long, we’ve overlooked the estimates that lost revenue from the exemp- economic and environmental benefits that tion would total only $1 million per year. our waterways and domestic seaports Despite a lack of political will in recent offer as a means of moving freight in our years, Rep. Cummings voiced optimism that country,” said LaHood, addressing the the exemption would go through. “I do Seventh Annual North American Marine believe that we will get this done,” he said. Highways and Logistics Conference in Rep. Cummings expressed concern Baltimore, Md. Using waterborne trans- over the lack of new funding for Title XI in portation rather than land-based modes the administration’s budget request for fiscal reduces congestion and air pollution, year 2011. “To help companies overcome makes the roads safer and “ensures ship- AMO National Vice President at Large and Director of Government Relations ship financing barriers, MARAD’s Title XI pers have viable options for moving goods Michael Murphy (center) meets with Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood loan guarantee program needs to be funded,” around the country,” he said. and Acting Maritime Administrator David Matsuda at the Short Sea Shipping he said. Additionally, debt ratio requirements The new rule will also recognize Conference in April. “need to be examined to make Title XI a pro- projects that would significantly con- gram that is workable for short sea shipping tribute to national transportation goals, ventures,” Rep. Cummings said. Current giving special “consideration to marine requirements would likely exclude any star- highway projects that represent the most tups looking to build new vessels to enter the cost-effective option among other modal coastal shipping market. improvements or reduce border crossing Rep. Cummings also addressed the delays.” upcoming six-year transportation reautho- LaHood announced $7 million in rization. While currently on hold in competiti ve grant funds will be available Congress, the draft legislation crafted by for marine highway projects, with more Transportation and Infrastructure details to come later this summer. Projects Committee Chairman James Oberstar (D- recognized under the new rule will MN) will “revolutionize” transportation “receive preferential treatment for any funding policies and streamline project future federal assistance from the selection. The reauthorization will target Department of Transportation or an “efficient and effective” integration of MARAD,” according to the DOT. modes, focusing on “achieving national The Secretary encouraged maritime AMO Administrative Assistant for Legislation Paulette Brown, AMO National Vice mobility objectives…rather than as initia- leaders to apply for the next round of $600 President at Large Michael Murphy and AMO Assistant Legislative Director tives that must fit into stovepipes created million in Department of Transportation Phree Baker greet Congressman Elijah Cummings (D-MD) at the Short Sea by existing requirements of individual grants that will be available later this year. Shipping Conference in April. modes,” he said. Dual-use vessel design would provide militarily-useful commercial vessels for U.S. short sea shipping trades Ships would feature RO/RO and container capacity for commercial, military cargo

At the 7th annual North Division, Office of the Chief of Navy include an engine capable of burning natur- Though the vessels will need to American Marine Highways and Operations, at the annual gathering of mar- al gas, for emission-free transit in a short be built for less than $60 million for Logistics Conference, a panel of the itime industry professionals. sea shipping route, and diesel, for use in their use to be cost-effective, the presi- shipbuilders and designers extensively The Chairman Emeritus and Director military ocean-going operations. dent of shipbuilder General Dynamics discussed plans to build a new fleet of of International Shipholding Corporation, “If we can make this work, it will go NASSCO, Frederick Harris, said that dual-use vessels — commercial ships Erik Johnsen, presented a possible solution far in maintaining our shipbuilding infra- the number is not unreasonable, provid- that will be designed to be militarily for the Navy. His company has designed a structure and creating new seagoing and ed the design does not change and useful. dual-use vessel capable of meeting emer- shoreside jobs,” said AMO National Vice many vessels are ordered at the same As the Maritime Administration’s gency military needs while serving a com- President at Large Michael Murphy. time. This allows the shipyard to bene- Ready Reserve Force and other militar- mercial short sea route. Murphy echoed the panel members fit from a learning curve and improve ily useful vessels reach the end of their The new vessels will be 575 feet long by arguing that the “military must pay their efficiency with each vessel produced. lives, the U.S. Navy will need to seek and carry both roll-on/roll-off and con- share of the cost for any additional capabil- Ordering many vessels — at least 20 — out new vessels to fill the gap, said tainerized cargo. They will be able to reach ities they might require, including the at a time allows the shipyard to negoti- Jonathan Kaskin, Director, Strategic a top speed of 18 knots with sustained maintenance of these capabilities once the ate better prices on materials and equip- Mobility and Combat Logistics speed of 15 knots. The new design will ship is in operation.” ment like steel and engines. 4 • American Maritime Officer May 2010

American Maritime Officers National Letter to all President’s Pre-Balloting Report members of NATIONAL PRESIDENT’S PRE-BALLOTING REPORT: AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICERS 2010 ELECTION OF NATIONAL OFFICERS AND NATIONAL EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS the American In accordance with ARTICLE VIII, Section 1. (f) of the AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICERS NATIONAL CONSTITU- TION, the undersigned (National President) herewith submits to the Membership the Pre-Balloting Report for the 2010 AMERI- CAN MARITIME OFFICERS Election of National Officers and National Executive Board Members. Maritime 1) The Constitutional Ports which shall be maintained for the next four (4) years are: Officers 1. Dania Beach, Florida - Headquarters 2. Toledo, Ohio (AMO)

2) The Elected National Officials shall be as follows: The following letter, dated May 12, a) HEADQUARTERS 2010, containing the National President’s 1. National President Pre-Balloting Report was sent to all mem- 2. National Secretary-Treasurer bers of American Maritime Officers at their 3. National Executive Vice-President last known mailing addresses.

b) DEEP-SEA In accordance with ARTICLE VIII, 1. National Vice-President Section 1. (f) of the American Maritime Officers National Constitution, on the c) GREAT LAKES reverse side of this letter you will find the 1. National Vice-President National President’s Pre-Balloting Report which was approved by the Membership at d) INLAND WATERS the regularly scheduled May Membership 1. National Vice-President Meetings. Copies of the most recently amended e) GOVERNMENT RELATIONS National Constitution were sent to all 1. National Vice-President Members in the April 2010 AMO Newspaper. Additional copies are avail- The recommended Depository approved by the National Executive Board is the Dania Beach Post Office, P. O. Box 188, able, upon request, at Headquarters. Dania Beach, FL 33004-0188. Returned mail will be returned to the Impartial Administrator, True Ballot, Inc., for re-mailing. Fraternally, Fraternally, Thomas J. Bethel Thomas J. Bethel National President National President Great Lakes cargo float increases four-fold in March

With steel recovering significantly and the economy as a whole pushing forward, U.S.-flag dry bulk carriage on the Great Lakes: March 2005-2010 — net tons U.S.-flagged lakers carried 2.6 million tons of cargo in March, more than four times the Commodity 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Average volume moved a year ago, the Lake Carriers’ Iron Ore 2,193,798 1,958,036 1,598,667 1,601,846 371,692 2,080,048 1,544,808 Association reported. Iron ore accounted for the majority of Coal 643,860 832,551 637,992 608,278 56,471 328,450 555,830 tonnage on the lakes, with U.S. hulls moving 2.08 million tons in March, more than a five- Limestone 321,243 385,628 61,993 122,151 0 16,920 178,203 fold increase from 2009. Coal loadings also 134,609 213,265 163,724 150,751 151,121 125,748 162,694 showed massive improvement, almost a six- Cement fold increase from 2009. Salt 40,527 24,433 13,025 0 0 0 15,597 According to the LCA, all eight U.S. Coast Guard icebreaking vessels sta- Sand 0 4,811 0 0 0 0 962 tioned on the Lakes were active in March. The Coast Guard also transferred an East Grain 16,668 0 0 0 0 0 3,334 Coast icebreaker, Penobscot Bay, to aid in icebreaking. Total 3,350,705 3,418,724 2,475,401 2,483,026 579,284 2,551,166 2,461,428 On April 1, 32 U.S.-flagged lakers were operating on the Lakes, compared with Source: Lake Carriers’ Association only 17 at the same time last year.

AMO aboard the Coast Range

Third Assistant Engineer Gerald Atkins aboard the Coast Range with AMO National Executive Board Member David Weathers — AMO members working aboard the Jones Act tanker Coast Range in the Coast Range is operated by Intrepid March, here in Garyville, La., included Third Mate Robert Cope, Chief Personnel and Provisioning and manned in Capt. Jim Carstensen Mate Karl Fisher, and Third Mate Sarah Herschberger. all licensed positions by AMO. May 2010 American Maritime Officer • 5 Great Lakes New legislation holds key to ending dredging crisis

By Don Cree in service compared with the same point last Supreme Court last month for the second matically increasing costs and decreasing National Vice President, Great Lakes year. Demand remains strong in our region time denied a legal motion that would have efficiency throughout the supply chain. With and we hope this will continue throughout resulted in the immediate closure of the funding from the HMTF, the Army Corps of Following a the year as industrial fixtures slowed or idled locks. Engineers could begin addressing the back- dismal season in by the severe economic recession rebuild The prospect holding perhaps the most log of dredging projects for the Great Lakes 2009, which was their stockpiles of raw materials and return to lasting and lifting benefit for Lakes shipping, navigational system and begin restoring har- the worst for ship- productivity. Production of steel in the U.S. is and for every element of the maritime supply bors and channels to project depths. ping on record expected to increase by one third in 2010 in chain, is new legislation that would require Introduced by Senator Carl Levin and since 1938, the the first leg of a recovery that industry lead- the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) co-sponsored by 10 others, S. 3213 is pend- 2010 shipping sea- ers anticipate will take three years. to spend what it takes in each year. The ing in the Committee on Environment and son has opened On the legislative front, HMTF is funded by a tax on cargo moving Public Works. Companion legislation (H.R. with a few positive Congresswoman Debbie Halvorson and oth- through U.S. deep-draft ports and is sup- 4844) introduced in the House of and encouraging ers from the Great Lakes Congressional del- posed to pay for dredging projects across the Representatives by Congressman Charles developments for egation are making a strong push for a sensi- nation. The fund takes in as much as $1.6 bil- Boustany with 31 co-sponsors was referred the U.S.-flag Great ble solution to prevent the Asian Carp from lion per year; however, expenditures are typ- to the Subcommittee on Highways and Lakes fleet and the invading the Great Lakes and developing a ically less than $800 million per year, and the Transit. industries that depend upon our ships to sustainable population. Their effort, I fund has accumulated a $5 billion surplus. Much needed dredging projects on the deliver the lifeblood of commerce. believe, will lead to a long-term remedy for On the Lakes, we’re all very aware of Lakes have been authorized again and again. Of the most immediate importance to this threat and will blunt efforts to close the problems caused by the lack of adequate This legislation holds the key to funding AMO members is the increase in fleet uti- Chicagoland locks and cut off waterborne dredging. Shallow harbors and channels them and bringing an end to the dredging cri- lization on the Lakes. At the beginning of commerce in an effort to stop the Asian Carp have for years caused lakers to load light and sis, simply by using the money collected in May, about twice the number of vessels were from reaching Lake Michigan. Notably, the leave cargo at the dock on each voyage, dra- the HMTF for its intended purpose. Support grows for a sensible solution to Asian Carp threat

Congresswoman Debbie — that would cripple businesses, cost and road construction costs, as well as metro Chicago at great risk of flood Halvorson (D-IL) has sent a letter and jobs and threaten the Chicago metropoli- layoffs by companies dependent on damage and could threaten the city’s a petition signed by more than 500 tan area. waterway shipments. Even temporary water supply,” Rep. Halvorson wrote people from more than 100 organiza- “Every year, billions of dollars closure or reduced operation of the locks in the letter. tions to Army Corps of Engineers Col. worth of goods are moved along Illinois will have a devastating impact on our “We must stop the carp, but not at Vincent Quarles, calling for an effec- waterways, including much of the region’s economy. the expense of Illinois businesses and tive, sensible solution to prevent the region’s oil, cement, iron, coal and agri- “According to the Metropolitan Illinois jobs.” Asian Carp from invading the Great cultural goods,” Rep. Halvorson wrote. Water Reclamation District of Greater More information about this issue Lakes, while avoiding hasty reactions “Delays in the transport of these goods Chicago, closing the Chicago and and the petition are available online at — such as closing Chicagoland locks will result in higher electricity, gasoline O’Brien locks also would place much of www.protectingillinoisjobs.com.

AMO aboard the Production of Philip R. Clarke steel in U.S. could climb

The Philip R. Clarke is operated by one third; by Key Lakes. American Maritime Officers represents the licensed officers and stewards working recovery may aboard the ship. The Clarke was fitted out for the season in Sturgeon Bay, Wis., (photo at take three or right) and loaded coal in Toledo, Ohio, on its first voyage. more years

As the economy begins to recover, U.S. steelmakers may increase output by as much as one-third this year, said American Iron and Steel Institute chairman Dan DiMicco, according to media reports. Also CEO of the largest steelmaker in 2009, Nucor Corp., DiMicco was cautiously optimistic about the future of steel produc- tion in America. The American steel industry is in the early stages of a recovery that will AMO members working aboard the Clarke in May, here AMO members working aboard the Clarke in May, here in probably take three years, and possibly in Toledo, Ohio, included Steward Gregg Skiba and First Toledo, Ohio, included Second A.E. Robert Fluharty, First longer, he said at the AISI annual meeting. Mate Don Dehring. A.E. Jeffrey Darga and Chief Engineer John Bellmore. “Things are getting better but we need them to get a lot better,” DiMicco said. “We AMO members working aboard the are looking at positive signs that the econo- Philip R. Clarke in April, here in my is slowly starting to recover. It will prob- Sturgeon Bay, Wis., included Second ably take several more years to see demand Assistant Engineer Mike Root, Chief back to what it was from 2004 through the Engineer John Bellmore, Third A.E. third quarter of 2008.” Phil Bouchonville and First A.E. DiMicco criticized China’s govern- Jeffrey Darga. With them here are ment for undervaluing its currency and sub- AMO National Assistant Vice sidizing shipments for exporters, leading to President for the Great Lakes Brian lower prices for Chinese steel. Despite com- Krus and AMO National petition from rising imports, the nation’s Representative Stan Barnes. steel capacity rose to 73 percent as of April 24, compared with 41 percent a year earlier. 6 • American Maritime Officer May 2010 AMO-manned ships complete relief mission for Haiti

On the afternoon of Jan. 12, a catastrophic magni- could run the service from tude 7.0 earthquake struck near Port-au-Prince, the capital here,” said Cooper. “We of Haiti. By the end of the month, five AMO-contracted allowed them to use the bridge vessels — the S/S Cape May, S/S Cornhusker State, USNS and the radios and all the elec- 1st Lt. Jack Lummus, USNS PFC Dewayne T. Williams tronics up there.” and USNS Henson, along with a number of other U.S. and Meanwhile, others were international resources — had arrived in Haiti to aid in hard at work constructing a tem- humanitarian relief efforts. Maritime Administration porary pier and crane service. By Ready Reserve Force vessels Cape May, operated by early March, the facilities were Ocean Duchess, Inc., and Cornhusker State, operated by capable of handling the relief Interocean American Shipping Corp., returned to the operations and military vessels Hampton Roads region of Virginia in March. started returning home. The Cape “I’m proud we went down there and helped,” said May, loaded with the lighterage Cornhusker State Chief Mate Todd Cooper. “But it’s they brought to Haiti for JLOTS, was the one of the last U.S. military vessels to return from relief efforts. Commercial opera- tions have taken over ongoing relief AMO members working aboard the S/S Cape May as it returned to reduced efforts, in conjunc- operating status in Newport News, Va. included First A.E. Timothy Van Pett, tion with the U.S. Chief Engineer Rob Palandro, Third Assistant Engineer Peter Gold and Army, said Tidwell. Capt. Ben Tidwell. With them here is Engine Cadet Zach Powell. The vessel arrived in Norfolk, Va. on March 19. “This proves the system works,” said Palandro. The chief engineers on both vessels “Our program is designed so that we’re ready to go in 96 commented that the mission was beneficial hours after we get the call. And we were.” for the ship itself. “It was good for the ship to run,” said Cornhusker State Chief Engineer Mick McDermott. “You discover things you can do better and changes that could be made to Photo: courtesy of Capt. Todd Cooper the ship.” Two weeks after returning to Reduced Operating Status, the officers what we do. We got the call and off we went.” onboard were still very busy making repairs and “getting MARAD activated the Newport News-based ready for the next call.” Cornhusker State on Sunday morning, Jan. 17, while Chief Engineer Rob Palandro said the Cape May several officers were on vacation for the holiday week- “really ran well for a ship that sits most of the time. There end. They quickly returned and within 96 hours, as per were no bad surprises.” He echoed that his vessel is now its four-day activation status, the Cornhusker State was ready to go should the U.S. Navy call on the Cape May. ready to sail for Haiti. In that time, the officers had MARAD’s Military Sealift Command is comprised worked with IAS, AMO and the Seafarers International of 110 vessels that support the Department of Defense Union to completely crew the ship, as well as get the with strategic sealift capabilities. Prepositioning and RRF AMO members Capt. Todd Cooper and Chief engines up and running and loaded all supplies neces- vessels are available to support DOD activities in time of Engineer Mick McDermott participated in relief sary for an extended voyage. When they set sail for the emergency or war, as with this latest mission to Haiti. efforts onboard the Cornhusker State. devastated country, Gen. Duncan McNabb, Commander of U.S. Transportation Command, was at the dock to see them off. Across the bay, the Cape May in nearby Norfolk, JLOTS Va., received a similar call on Jan. 18. After crewing the vessel and preparing to sail, the Cape May loaded Navy preparation lighterage — small barges and watercraft designed for work in difficult port conditions. The vessel left for Haiti serves stricken on Jan. 25. “I was greatly impressed by the magnitude of that island nation operation,” said Cape May Chief Mate Ben Tidwell. “The four AMO ships down there worked in conjunction The Cape May and Cornhusker to supply the cargo for the Amphibious Construction State recently participated in Military Battalion 2. We carried the barges, the lighterage, the Sealift Command’s Joint Logistics Over boats. The Lummus and Williams carried containers.” The the Shore (JLOTS) exercises, which test Cornhusker State carried sleeping bags and cots. A fifth the U.S. military’s ability to offload AMO-contracted vessel, the USNS Henson, provided cargo without the use of port facilities. oceanographic survey capabilities to assess damage to These exercises prepared the officers port infrastructure. Photo: courtesy of Dan Picciolo onboard for the conditions in Haiti. The Working together, all four vessels were able to Cargo is unloaded from the USNS Lummus onto a floating port was severely damaged during the move cargo from barges onto the shore, as the port in causeway section. earthquake. Haiti was completely devastated. The Cornhusker State used its crane to move cargo from larger vessels onto the lighterage carried by the Cape May, a system called Joint Logistics Over the Shore or JLOTS. “This is why we do JLOTS training,” said Tidwell. “We were well-prepared to help in this operation.” This system enabled U.S. military relief operations in an area with no working port facilities. “We do in- stream operations,” said Cooper. “There was no way to offload cargo ashore without cranes so everything had to be offloaded at anchor. We would use our cranes to pick cargo off a barge and put it on Navy or Army lighterage, smaller craft that would beach themselves.” In this way, cargo arriving from other vessels could reach the shore and get to those in need. Both vessels provided water for military operations Photo: courtesy of Capt. Ben Tidwell Photo: courtesy of Capt. Todd Cooper and other vessels. The Cornhusker State hosted and The unique heavy-lift elevator on the Cape May The USNS Williams supports a floating causeway assisted with the U.S. Coast Guard’s vessel traffic service, allows the vessel to lift heavy causeway sections, section, anchored near the damaged Port-au- trying to organize port operations. “They had no place to Navy lighterage and other unusual cargo. Prince harbor. conduct operations so they came and asked us if they May 2010 American Maritime Officer • 7

New legislation includes Propeller Club honors five-year plan to boost Sen. Vitter U.S. shipbuilding, fund The International Propeller Club of the United States April 27 honored Senator David Vitter (R-LA) with the Title XI loan guarantees 2010 Salute to Congress Award. The Propeller Club recognized the Senator for being a “strong advocate Congressman Rob Wittman (R-VA) in April introduced for the American maritime industry.” the National Shipbuilding Budget Policy Act, which would over Sen. Vitter sits on the Senate Committee five years provide $100 billion to the Navy for ship construction on Armed Services, the Committee on and $300 million for the Title XI shipbuilding loan guarantee Commerce, Science and Transportation program. and the Committee on Environment and H.R. 5035 seeks to authorize $20 billion for the Navy and Public Works. He serves as ranking $60 million for the Title XI program for fiscal years 2011 member of the Subcommittee on through 2015. While Congress has allocated funds for Title XI Sen. David Vitter (R-LA) accepts the Strategic Forces. in recent years, the administration’s budget request for FY 2011 2010 Salute to Congress Award. Sen. Vitter has been a steadfast included just $3.7 million for the program, a figure that would supporter of the maritime industry dur- “I believe for the U.S. to be a cover only administrative costs. ing his nearly ten years in Congress and great military power and a great com- The Title XI program allows the Maritime Administration vocally supports the Jones Act, the mercial power, we must be a great sea to provide loan guarantees for ship construction at U.S. ship- Rep. Robert Maritime Security Program, cargo pref- power,” he said at the Salute to yards for up to 87.5 percent of a given loan’s value. The program Wittman (R-VA) erence and Title XI. Congress ceremony. fosters new construction of Jones Act qualified vessels and eases access to commercial credit for U.S. ship owners. The legislation was referred to the House Committee on Armed Services. Maritime interests urge Congress to fund Title XI

In letters to Chairman of the and maintaining American jobs in the Senate Subcommittee on Defense Sen. domestic shipbuilding and related service Daniel Inouye and Ranking Member and supply industries, as well as aboard Sen. Thad Cochran; Chairwoman of the United States-flag commercial vessels. It Senate Subcommittee on will help to grow and modernize the Transportation, Housing and Urban domestic fleet. It also will help maintain Development Sen. Patty Murray and the nation’s defense shipbuilding base Ranking Member Sen. Christopher and an active U.S.-flag merchant marine, AMO National President Tom Bethel greets AMO member Capt. Robert Bond; Chairman of the House which supports U.S. defense sealift Lansden at the 2010 Salute to Congress dinner. Subcommittee on Defense Rep. requirements. Norman Dicks and Ranking Member “Since the program was revitalized Rep. C.W. Bill Young; Chairman of the in 1993 through the turn of the century, it House Subcommittee on provided loan guarantee commitments Transportation, Housing and Urban for more than $7 billion in ship construc- Senators seek full funding Development Rep. John Olver and tion and shipyard modernization pro- Ranking Member Rep. Tom Latham, a jects,” the wrote. “Those projects created coalition of shipping, shipbuilding and and maintained tens of thousands of well- for MSP in fiscal year 2011 maritime labor interests —including paying seagoing and shoreside jobs, and American Maritime Officers and helped to ensure that an adequate pool of A bipartisan group of 20 senators has in fiscal year 2010. American Maritime Officers Service — vessels and mariners and a shipyard requested full funding for the Maritime “The continued funding and imple- called upon Congress to support ship- industrial base, including shipyards and Security Program in fiscal year 2011 appro- mentation of the MSP ensures that America building in U.S. shipyards and the Title associated supply industries, is available priations legislation. will in fact be able to support our troops XI loan guarantee program. to meet U.S. economic, homeland and Writing to Chairman of the overseas by guaranteeing that American The coalition requested each sub- national sealift needs. Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing flag vessels and American crews — and not committee, in its fiscal year 2011 budget The coalition noted: “it is critical- and Urban Development and Related foreign flag vessels and foreign crews — requests, “allocate $60 million in funding ly important that the program be ade- Agencies Patty Murray (D-WA) and will continue to be available to transport the for the Maritime Administration’s loan quately funded on a regular basis to help Ranking Member Christopher Bond (R- supplies and equipment our troops need,” guarantee program, known as the ‘Title with the planning of fleet renewal and MI), the senators called the MSP “one of the the senators wrote. XI Program.’ This program guarantees expansion projects. Sporadic and insuf- most cost-efficient and effective defense- The letter, dated April 23, 2010, was commercial loans to ship owners for the ficient funding for Title XI makes it dif- related private industry and government signed by Commerce Committee Chairman construction of commercial vessels in the ficult to develop even short term plans, partnerships.” Jay Rockefeller (D-WV), Surface United States. The funding and imple- much less multi-year growth strategies, The senators requested $174 million Transportation and Merchant Marine mentation of the Title XI program will and inhibits critical economic activity in for the MSP, the same amount requested by Infrastructure, Safety and Security help grow the U.S. economy, creating the maritime sector.” the Administration in its fiscal year 2011 budget and the same amount appropriated See MSP ◆ Page10

Martin honored for 30 years with Seabulk Towing

Seabulk Towing in February held a retirement party in Port Canaveral, Fla. celebrating Capt. Hugh Martin’s thirty years of service with the company. In attendance were AB Luke McCraken, Engineer Rod Godfrey, Capt. Kim Miranda, AMO Executive Board Member Charles Murdock, Capt. Hugh Martin, Engineer Keith Capezzi, CKOR Assistant Operations Manager Tony Caggiano, Shop Steward Captain Gerry Keating and Engineer Andy Pishgar. 8 • American Maritime Officer May 2010 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 5 days Please Call Auditor Training ABS NS5 Fleet 3 days 28 June 12 October Management Software Advanced Fire Fighting 5 days 7 June 5 July 2 August 6 September 4 October 1 November 6 December Basic Safety Training—All 4 modules MUST be completed 5 days 19 July 13 September 13 December within 12 months Personal Survival Techniques (Monday- 1 1/2 days Basic Safety Training Tuesday) Personal Safety & Social Responsibility (Tuesday 1/2 day Basic Safety Training p.m.) Elementary First Aid 1 day Basic Safety Training (Wednesday) Fire Fighting & Fire Prevention (Thursday- Not required if Friday)— 2 days “Combined Basic & Basic Safety Training Advanced Fire Fighting” completed within 12 months

Basic Safety Training - 3 days 19 July 13 September 15 December Refresher Crowd Management 1 day Please Call

Crisis Management & 1 day Please Call Human Behavior

Effective Supervision 2 1/2 days Please Call

Fast Rescue Boat 4 days 6 July 30 August 20 September 1, 15 November GMDSS 10 days 17 May 16 August 11 October 29 November

Tankerman PIC LNG 8 days 19 July 4 October

LNG Simulator Training—Enrollment priority in the LNG simulator course is given to qualified member candidates for employment and/or observation oppor- 5 days 17 May 18 October tunities with AMO contracted LNG companies. Completion of the Tankerman LNG PIC classroom course is a prerequisite.

Ocean Ranger Program 6 days Please Call Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboat) 4 days 23 August 27 September 25 October

Tankerman PIC DL - 5 days 12 July 23 August 15 November Classroom Tankerman PIC DL - 10 days 21 June 30 August 25 October Simulator Train The Trainer—Requires after hours homework 5 days 21 June 16 August 18 October 29 November

Vessel/Company/Port 2 days 27 May 7 July 8 September 8 November Facility Security Officer DECK COURSES Advanced Bridge 5 days 26 July Resource Management (No equivalency) Must have sailed as Advanced Shiphandling for Masters— 5 days 24 May 16 August 27 September 13 December Chief Mate Unlimited (60 days seatime equivalency for Advanced Shiphandling for Third Mates— 10 days 21 June 9 August 20 September - PM 11 October 6 December Third Mates) Advanced (or emergency) Shiphandling for First 5 days Please Call Class Pilots, Great Lakes Bridge Resource 3 days 24 May 15 November Management Seminar

Integrated Bridge System/Podded Propulsion 5 days 7 June 6 September 15 November

Locking & Docking—First 5 days Please Call Class Pilots, Great Lakes

STCW Deck Officer 3 days 17 August Refresher Third mate (Unlimited or Great Lakes) Towing Officer Record Assessment— 5 days 24 May 19 July 30 August 1, 29 November or 1600-ton master license

Tug Training 5 days 23 August

Visual Communications 1 day Please call (Flashing Light)—test only ENGINEERING COURSES Advanced Slow Speed Diesel 10 days 17 May 20 September 29 November Basic Electricity 10 days 30 August

Diesel Crossover 4 weeks 7 June 12 July

Electrical, Electronic, Control Engineering 4 weeks 7 June 20 September

Engine Room Resource Management 5 days 9 August 6 December - PM

Environmental Awareness (includes Oily Water Separator) 3 days 17 May 12 July 11 October

Gas Turbine Endorsement 10 days 16 August 8 November

High Voltage Safety 3 days 14 July 27 October An understanding of electricity is Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)— 5 days 24 May 19 July 13 September 1 November required. Priority will be afforded to 2 AEs and 3 AEs.

Steam Crossover 4 weeks Please Call

Welding & Metallurgy—course is open to eligible chief mates and masters on a space-available basis. Applications will only be confirmed two weeks prior to 2 weeks 14 June 27 September 29 November start of course. MSC TRAINING PROGRAM—includes self-study courses Afloat Environmental Protection Coordinator, Anti-Terrorism Level 1 and Crew Endurance Management (see that section). CBRD Orientation 1 day 27 May 18 June 29 July 27 August 16 September 22 October 19 Nov, 3 December Damage Control 1 day 29 April 17 June 30 July 26 August 21 October 18 November Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation 1 day 14 June 29 November Afloat Helicopter Fire Fighting 1 day 28 May 17 September 4 November Marine Sanitation Devices 1/2 day 20 May 15 July

Medical PIC Refresher— 3 days 4 October 8 November Note: Not MSC approved.

—Note: Small Arms - Initial & Refresher Training 18 October Open to members/applicants eligible for employment 3 days 24 May 14, 28 June 12, 26 July 9, 23 August 13 September 1,15, 29 November through AMO within one year on MSC or MARAD 13 December vessels

Water Sanitation Afloat 1/2 day 20 May 15 July May 2010 American Maritime Officer • 9

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 & Refresher)— Note: Open to members/applicants eligible for 3 days 28 June 27 September employment through AMO within one year on MSC or MARAD vessels Elementary First Aid 1 day 1 July 30 September Drug Collector Training 1 day 2 July 1 October

Breath Alcohol Test Collector 1 day 3 July 2 October

Advanced Fire Fighting 5 days 5 July 4 October

MEDICAL COURSES Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation 1 day 14 June 29 November Afloat Elementary First Aid—Note: Prerequisite for Medical Care Provider within preceding 12 1 day 24 May 15 June 27 July 24 August 21 September 19 October 16, 30 November months Medical Care Provider—Note: Prerequisite for Medical Person In Charge within preceding 12 17 November 3 days 25 May 16 June 28 July 25 August 22 September 20 October months. Please fax EFA certificate when regis- 1 December tering Medical Person In Charge—Note: Please FAX Medical Care Provider certificate when register- 5 days 21 June 2, 30 August 27 September 25 October 6 December ing Note: Not MSC Medical PIC Refresher— 3 days 4 October 8 November approved.

Urinalysis Collector Training 1 day 9 August 13 December

Breath Alcohol Test 1 day 10 August 14 December

Saliva Screening Test — QEDs only 1/2 day 11 August 15 December

RADAR COURSES Radar Recertification 1 day 9 July 10 September 4 October 8 November 16 December ARPA 4 days 9 November Western Rivers Recertification 1 day Please Call Radar Recertification & ARPA 5 days 8 November ECDIS 5 days 14 June 12 July 25 October 6 December Original Radar Observer Unlimited 5 days 1 November

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

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 Please Call

Ship Construction & Stability 5 days Please Call

Electronic Navigation 5 days Please Call

Meteorology 5 days Please Call

Watchkeeping 10 days Please Call

Cargo Handling & Stowage 5 days Please Call

Basic Shiphandling at the Operational Level 5 days Please Call

Emergency Procedures and SAR 4 days Please Call

Celestial Navigation 10 days Please Call

Magnetic & Gyro Compass 3 days Please Call

OICNW— Additional required courses with priority to students enrolled in the OICNW program — GALLEY COURSES Original License (Great Lakes) Courses (Deck & As Required Please Call Basic Safety Training 5 days Please Call Engine) RFPNW Assessments 1 day Please Call GMDSS 10 days Please Call Marlin Spike 1 day Please Call GALLEY COURSES 40-Hour Able Seaman 5 days Please Call EFA/MCP 4 days Please Call Food Safety, Sanitation & Nutrition (ServSafe) 5 days Please Call Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboat) 4 days Please Call Culinary Fundamentals 10 days Please Call Original Radar 5 days Please Call Advanced Steward Course 5 days Please Call

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 of the training requirements for STCW. Course completion certificates do not expire. Operational level officers (3/M and 2/M) interested in advancing to Chief Mate/Master (Management) Level are encouraged to start obtaining the required courses as soon as practical after acquiring OICNW experience. Advanced Navigation and a USCG approved ECDIS course must be completed within 12 months of each other to satisfy the Management Level upgrade course and assessment requirements.

Cargo Operations 9 days 21 June 23 August 18 October

Celestial Navigation—Note: A thorough review and understanding of the topics covered in Parts 4 & 5 of Pub. Number 9, The American 5 days 7 June 9 August 4 October 29 November Practical Navigator (Bowditch), is a prerequisite.

Marine Propulsion Plants 5 days 21 June 19 July 13 September 1 November 13 December

Shipboard Management 5 days 10 May 19 July 13 September 1 November

Upgrade: Advanced Meteorology 5 days 14 June 16 August 18 October 6 December

Upgrade: Advanced Navigation - ECDIS—Advanced Navigation and a USCG-approved ECDIS to be completed within 12 months of 5 days 24 May 16 August 27 September 15 November each other

Upgrade: Advanced Navigation (Includes Simulator) 5 days 17 May 9 August 20 September 8 November

Upgrade: Shiphandling at the Management Level 10 days 21 June 23 August 18 October

Upgrade: Stability—Note: It is recommended that chapters 1-13 in the book Stability and Trim for the Ship’s Officer be reviewed prior to 5 days 17 May 26 July 20 September 8 November 13 December attending this course

Watchkeeping 1 (Bridge Resource Management)—Note: Watchkeeping Weeks 1 and 2 MUST be completed within 12 months 3 days 9 June 28 July 6 October 1 December of each other.

Note: Watchkeeping Weeks 1 and 2 Watchkeeping 2 (COLREGS)— 5 days 14 June 2 August 11 October 6 December MUST be completed within 12 months of 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 May 2010

GALVESTON, TX 77551 2724 61st Street, Suite B PMB 192 David M. Weathers, National Executive Board Member At Large ([email protected]) (800) 362-0513 ext. 2001 Mobile: (409) 996-7362 HEADQUARTERS NORWOOD, NJ 07648 DANIA BEACH, FL 33004 463 Livingston Street, Suite 102 2 West Dixie Highway PMB 60 (954) 921-2221 / (800) 362-0513 Donald R. Nilsson, National Executive Board Member, Deep Sea Thomas J. Bethel, National President ([email protected]) ([email protected]) José E. Leonard, National Secretary-Treasurer ([email protected]) (800) 362-0513 ext. 3004 Jack Branthover, Special Assistant to the National President Mobile: (201) 913-2209 ([email protected]) FAX: (954) 926-5112 WASHINGTON, D.C. Joseph Z. Gremelsbacker, National Vice President, Deep Sea ([email protected]) WASHINGTON, D.C. 20024 John K. Hafner, National Executive Board Member At Large 490 L’Enfant Plaza East SW, Suite 7204 ([email protected]) (202) 479-1166 / (800) 362-0513 ext. 7001 Charles A. Murdock, National Executive Board Member, Inland Waters J. Michael Murphy, National Vice President At Large ([email protected]) ([email protected]) FAX: (954) 920-3257 Paul Doell, Legislative Director ([email protected]) Dispatch: (800) 345-3410 Phree Baker, Assistant Legislative Director ([email protected]) FAX: (954) 926-5126 FAX: (202) 479-1188 Brendan Keller, Dispatcher ([email protected]) Robert Anderson, Dispatcher ([email protected]) STAR CENTER Member Services: Extension 1050 ([email protected]) STUDENT SERVICES/LODGING AND COURSE INFORMATION PORTS 2 West Dixie Highway TOLEDO, OH 43604 Dania Beach, FL 33004 The Melvin H. Pelfrey Building (954) 920-3222 ext. 201 / (800) 942-3220 ext. 201 One Maritime Plaza Course Attendance Confirmation: (800) 942-3220 ext. 200 (419) 255-3940 FAX: (954) 920-3140 (800) 221-9395 24 Hours: (954) 920-3222 ext.7999 FAX: (419) 255-2350 Donald N. Cree, National Vice President, Great Lakes TRAINING RECORDS SYSTEM: ([email protected]) Lisa Marra Brian D. Krus, National Assistant Vice President, Great Lakes (954) 920-3222 ext. 7118 ([email protected]) FAX: (954) 925-5681 Stan Barnes, National Representative ([email protected]) [email protected] Bruce DeWerth, Dispatcher ([email protected]) MEMBERSHIP SERVICES PHILADELPHIA, PA 19113 2 International Plaza, Suite 422 MARITIME MEDICAL CENTER AMO PLANS Robert J. Kiefer, National Executive Vice President ([email protected]) 2 West Dixie Highway 2 West Dixie Highway (800) 362-0513 ext. 4001 / 4002 Dania Beach, FL 33004 Dania Beach, FL 33004 Mobile: (215) 859-1059 (954) 927-5213 (800) 348-6515 FAX: (610) 521-1301 FAX: (954) 929-1415 FAX: (954) 922-7539

SAN FRANCISCO / OAKLAND, CA 94607 LEGAL 1121 7th Street, Second Floor Oakland, CA 94607 Joel Glanstein, General Counsel Michael Reny (510) 444-5301 305 Madison Ave. Suite 2240 AMO Coast Guard Legal (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] Notice: American Maritime Officers Medical Plan reviewing potential impact of health care reform law

The AMO Medical Plan office has complex new law to determine the effect determined. Please continue to monitor American Maritime Officer, for updates received numerous calls from Plan partic- they will have on the Plan. AMO Currents and the AMO newspaper, on this issue. ipants with questions regarding the provi- Regulatory guidance on exactly sions of the recently enacted federal how and when these and all of the applic- health care reform legislation, which able provisions will apply to collectively requires group health plans that provide bargained multiemployer medical plans, dependent coverage to offer coverage for such as the AMO Medical Plan, is expect- dependents up to the age of 26. ed soon. As previously reported, the Plan The AMO membership will be trustees, office staff, and plan profession- apprised once this guidance is received als, as well as CIGNA, continue to review and the changes to the AMO Medical Plan all of the applicable provisions of the that will be required by the law can be Regular monthly membership meetings for AMO will be held during the week follow- MSP Maria Cantwell, Roland Burris, Barbara ing the first Sunday of every month at 1 p.m. local time. Meetings will be held on Boxer, Jeffrey Merkley, Mark Begich, Kay Monday at Headquarters in Dania (on Tuesday when Monday is a contract holiday) Hagan, Richard Burr, Ron Wyden, Roger and on Wednesday in Toledo. The next meetings will take place on the following dates: Continued from Page 7 Wicker, Sheldon Whitehouse and Joe DANIA BEACH: June 7, July 6 (Tuesday*) Chairman Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ), and Lieberman. A similar letter was signed by a TOLEDO: June 9, July 7 Senators Charles Schumer, Kristen group of 50 bipartisan representatives and *Union offices will be closed Monday, July 5 in observance of the Gillibrand, Mark Warner, Jim Webb, Mary delivered to the Committee on Independence Day holiday. Landrieu, David Vitter, Barbara Mikulski, Transportation and Infrastructure in March. May 2010 American Maritime Officer • 11 U.S. Coast Guard commends AMO members prepare to STAR Center instructors, staff

On April 16, U.S. Coast Guard played a great deal of knowledge, experi- upgrade at STAR Center Course Oversight Auditor Zona Mingo ence, and expertise in the maritime industry. from Regional Examination Center Miami 3. It is obvious that STAR Center conducted an administrative visit at the takes pride in their organization. The AMO Safety & Education Plan’s STAR records were very orderly and well kept. Center in Dania Beach, Fla., which is a U.S. The instructors were highly experienced. Coast Guard approved training facility. The facility was neat, clean, and technolog- In her report on the administrative ically advanced. visit, Mingo noted the following: Two paperwork requirements were 1. Excellent facility with state-of-the- addressed on the spot during the adminis- art classrooms and model training environ- trative visit and Mingo concluded: “There ment. The training facility, to include the are no corrective actions required.” dormitory and other student areas, are top STAR Center, a division of the AMO notch in the mariner industry. Safety & Education Plan, is the primary 2. Very impressed with the profession- training provider for members of American alism of the STAR Center staff. They dis- Maritime Officers. AMO member Harold Dusseau in April successfully completed his U.S. Coast Guard exams to upgrade to an unlimited second mate’s license. With him here at STAR Center are Director of Member Training and Maersk Line donates refrigerated Officer Development Jerry Pannell and Instructor Dave Greenhouse. container to STAR Center

Engineering Department Instructors Rosemary Mackay and Andrew Davis stand with the refrigerated container donat- ed by Maersk Line Limited to the American Maritime Officers Safety and Education Plan’s STAR Center, which is the pri- mary training provider for mem- Preparing at STAR Center for license upgrades exams in the engineering bers of American Maritime department in April were AMO members Delbert Smith and Boris Petrov, Officers. The container will be preparing for the second assistant engineer’s exams, and Shaun Davis, used for training in maintenance who was preparing for his original third assistant engineer’s license and repair of refrigerated units exams. With them here is STAR Center Engineering Instructor and onboard vessels. Course Developer Rosemary Mackay. 12 • American Maritime Officer May 2010

Report cites Construction of AMO headquarters Jones Act as a major continues on schedule, on budget Construction continues on pace and on budget for the new AMO source of Headquarters building in Dania Beach, Fla. The project, approved by a majority employment, vote of the AMO membership last August in a union-wide referendum, began in earnest with a ground breaking economic by AMO members, followed by site preparation in October 2009. The building’s exterior, or “shell” output construction, will be completed in early May. Interior work will commence at the The Jones Act — America’s preemi- same time. Roof trusses will follow nent cabotage law — supports nearly half a shortly, and the roof will be closed in by million domestic jobs and annually generates the first week of June. Construction is more than $100 billion in total economic out- expected to be complete by November of put. These and other benefits of the Jones Act this year, with occupancy early in 2011. are highlighted in the 2009 Annual Report of Once completed, all departments the Maritime Cabotage Task Force. of the AMO union — Dispatch, Member “The Jones Act, the foundation of U.S. Services, Accounting, Editorial, and domestic maritime policy, requires that cargo Administration — will be consolidated April 27, 2010 moving between U.S. ports be carried in ves- and accessible for the convenience of all sels that are U.S.-owned, U.S.-built and U.S.- AMO members. crewed,” wrote the MCTF Board of Directors As AMO vacates its current space in the report. “MCTF’s mission is to ensure adjacent to the AMO Plans complex on that the Jones Act and related cabotage laws West Dixie Highway in Dania Beach, the remain at the core of U.S. maritime policy.” AMO Safety and Education Plan will Drawing on a report commissioned by proceed with its plans to expand the the Transportation Institute and prepared by STAR Center campus. PricewaterhouseCoopers, the MCTF noted AMO is doing its part to remain an that the Jones Act typically generates $11 bil- asset to the commercial landscape of lion in taxes and $29 billion in wages each South Florida by seeking LEED year. The MCTF Board believes “job cre- (Leadership in Energy and ation in the maritime industry will come with Environmental Design) certification for a revival in other segments of the economy.” the headquarters building. LEED was One sector supported by the Jones Act May 4, 2010 developed by the U.S. Green Building is U.S. shipbuilding, which annually employs Council. It is a system that provides third nearly 100,000 Americans. Jones Act vessels party verification that a building was move nearly one-quarter of all domestic designed and built to provide a healthy cargo, while keeping freight rates “as low as and productive place to work, is less cost- possible,” the MCTF reported. Because the ly to operate and maintain, and has a U.S. Navy and Coast Guard can rely on Jones reduced environmental footprint. This is Act tonnage in time of emergency, the fleet accomplished by improving performance saves U.S. taxpayers money by reducing ves- in such areas as energy savings, water sel costs to the government. efficiency, CO2 emissions and indoor Nearly all oceangoing container and environmental quality. roll-on/roll-off vessels in the Jones Act fleet I will continue to advise the mem- operate in the non-contiguous trades to and bership as significant construction pro- from Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and Guam. ject goals are met or attained. The vessels operating in these trades are vital to U.S. national security for sealift services in José Leonard times of war. “Jones Act vessels provide reli- National Secretary-Treasurer able and efficient service to the U.S. military, April 27, 2010 May 4, 2010 which has utilized these vessels for years,” wrote the MCTF. On the Great Lakes, more than cement for construction. footprint is the smallest of all the trans- offshore wind turbines to drive creation of a 1,600 men and women work with and Working on the nation’s inland portation modes,” said the MCTF, adding new Jones Act market, while the nation’s aboard approximately 60 large Jones Act waterways, the 30,000 mariners employed that a single inland river tug is powerful maritime schools, including the AMO Safety vessels, which supply vital raw materials on Jones Act tugs and towboats move enough to push 40 barges, which carry as and Education Plan’s STAR Center, will con- such as iron ore for steel production, coal more than 800 million tons of cargo each much cargo as 2,400 trucks. tinue to prepare the next generation for suc- for power generation and limestone and year. “Waterborne commerce’s carbon Looking to the future, MCTF expects cess on the water.

AMO aboard the USNS 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo

AMO members working aboard the USNS Bobo in American Maritime Officers members working The USNS 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo and the USNS March included Third Assistant Engineer William recently aboard the USNS 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo, PFC Dewayne T. Williams, here in Blount Island Lignos, Chief Mate Mike Duley, Capt. Don Pigott, here in Blount Island, Jacksonville, Fla., includ- Command, Jacksonville, Fla., are operated by Third A.E. James Edwards, Second Mate Jeff ed Chief Mate Mike Duley and Capt. Don Pigott. AMSEA in Military Sealift Command’s preposition- Savage, Third Mate David O’Brien, Second A.E. With them here are Military Sealift Command’s ing program and manned in all licensed positions David Mull and First A.E. David Ellsworth. Al Dickerson and Rich Bolduc. by American Maritime Officers.