Published by the Virginia Maritime Association, Norfolk, Virginiaemail: [email protected] • web site: www.VAMaritime.com
N e w s a n d I n f o r m a t i o n f r o m t h e P o r t s o f V i r g i n i a
Volume 79, No. 5May 2015
www.facebook.com/VAMaritime • twitter.com/VAMaritime linkedin.com/company/virginia-maritime-association • www.flickr.com/photos/virginiamaritime/
The 95th Annual Maritime Banquet, attended by 850 members of the maritime communi-ty, was honored to have the Deputy Chief of
Mission of the Cuban Interest Section, Juan Mario Lamigueiro León as its keynote speaker.
During Virginia Secretary of Agriculture, Todd Haymore’s introduction of Mr. Lamigueiro, he noted his observations made during trade mission visits to Cuba over the past nine years. “Opportunities are present for Virginia in Cuba, particularly as we stand on the edge of change between the U.S. and Cuba. It is no longer a matter of “if”, it is a matter of “now” and this is long overdue. We have watched our [Virginia] exports rise in agricultural and forestry to Cuba. During missions, we have seen a lot of non-agricultural opportunities. However, we were not able to take advantage of them. Through the conversations that are taking place, we are mere steps away from that change for the betterment of your business and of the entire Commonwealth.”
In his fourth year as Deputy Chief of Mission, Mr. Lamigueiro noted two important things; “The American people are very nice and second almost everybody in the United States wants to have good relations with my country.” He noted that after the December 2014 announcement between President Obama and President Castro, he was surprised the number of
American companies who wanted to explore the Cuban market. Over thirty meetings have taken place with American companies. Cuba continues to strive towards processes for a sustainable economy; including the adoption of a new foreign investment law, designed to guarantee a legal framework making the Cuban market attractive to foreign investors.
His comment, “I have to say that for the Cuban people, the best apples are the apples that come from Virginia”, was cheered by the crowd.
Cuba has projected they will receive one million American visitors next year. “If we reach one million, we will need to buy new hotels and improve our infrastructure, and we will need to import new products for the American people in Cuba and for the Cuban people. Then it is easy to understand that there is now a special opportunity for the development of the commercial relations between Cuba and the U.S. and between Cuba and Virginia.”
Mr. Lamigueiro closed with an invitation to the Virginia Maritime Association, “to organize a business delegation to explore the Cuban market, to discuss with Cuban counterparts and to build the bridge to the future relation between Cuba and the United States.”
Our financial performance is improving and as that happens we are reinvesting the profits in the terminal,” stated John F. Reinhart, CEO and Executive Director of the
Virginia Port Authority. With the ports’ financial situation more stable, the Board of Commissioners approved a $123.4 million capital spending budget for fiscal year 2016 (which begins July 1, 2015), the largest capital plan in more than a decade. “This budget will accelerate much-needed capital investments of which $70 million are for near-term improvements for motor carrier service, congestion relief and expanding capacity,” said Board Chairman John G. Milliken.
Recently the VPA Board of Commissioners approved funding for improvements including: 500 new chassis; replacement scales at Norfolk International Terminal; upgrades at Pinners Point Container Yard; container handling equipment at Portsmouth Marine Terminal, and expansion at Virginia International Gateway. These projects are intended to increase the flow of
truck cargo in the port. “We have a commitment to improving our delivery of service. The work has to be done now and with the support of the board we are investing in facility improvements, cargo handling equipment and people,” stated Reinhart.
The capital spending plan funding includes state grants, bond-issuance and Commonwealth Port fund allocation. An additional $13 million of state funding will be rail-enhancements funds. $8 million in new funding will be received through the Commonwealth Transportation Board approved by Governor McAuliffe and Secretary of Transportation Aubrey Layne. “That $8 million is really a first, and that’s a recognition on their part that they need to begin to reinvest in the port,” Milliken added. “There clearly is recognition by the governor and the secretary that our competition is outdistancing us and getting the jobs that we ought to be getting because they’re investing in their port.”
“
Cuban Diplomat Addresses Annual Maritime Banquet Audience
VPA Commissioners Approve Capital Investment Spending Plan
2
VIRGINIA MARITIMEASSOCIATION
OFFICERS
Chairman of the Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shirley G . Roebuck
President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Raymond A . Newlon
Vice Presidents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Joseph A . Dorto
Michael W . Coleman
Jeffrey S . Heller
Executive Vice President & Secretary . . . . . .Arthur W . Moye, Jr .
Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Judy M . Barrett
Assistant Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mr . Keith Helton
STAFF
Vice President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .David C . White
Accounting Manager/Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sam Davis
Communications/Membership Director . . . .Ashley McLeod
Executive Assistant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Janice S . Klasek
Events Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jennifer N . Parham
Shipdesk Clerk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lynne H . Stonum
Membership/Publication
Coordinator & Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Susan N . Wisniewski
MARITIME BULLETIN is published
12 times a year by
Virginia Maritime Association .
Subscriptions are available through
membership in the Association .
Recipient of Presidential “E” and
“E Star” Awards for Excellence in Export Service
Recipient of ASAE Communication
Excellence & Honorable
Mention Award
24th Annual Marine Fire Fighting School
On May 11, 2015, more than 100 firefighters from around the world gathered at Norfolk Fire Training Center to kick-off the Robert E. Rumens 24th Annual Hampton Roads Marine Firefighting School. Hosted by the Virginia Port
Authority’s Maritime Incident Response Team (MIRT) in cooperation with the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Navy, U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) and local fire departments all contributing man-power and resources.
Bill Burket, Director of the MIRT, is a recognized leader in port and maritime emergency planning response, coordinates the training. “Early on we identified that there was a gap in our marine firefighting capabilities and marine response and knowledge, based on that and the complexity of maritime fires - we started hosting this event” stated Mr. Burket, “the VMA has been a partner since the first class in 1991. Next year, we will celebrate our 25th consecutive year.”
MIRT’s programs have attracted attention from fire departments across the nation and around the world. Participants this year came abroad from Hong Kong, England, Singapore, Philippines, and the Netherlands. Nationally, 21 states were represented.
The week-long training program is designed to familiarize land-based firefighters and maritime personnel on procedures necessary to handle a marine incident within a port or waterway. Course topics include vessel construction; live firefighting, vessel safety; waterborne exercise, firefighting tactics, practical work stations, incident management procedures, vessel tours, vessel and terminal operations, review of past incidents, vessel firefighting systems, contingency planning, legal issues, and WMD/HazMat incidents.
The industry relies on first responders for immediate on-scene maritime advice and responding to fires, hazardous materials, search and rescue, and other emergencies in the marine environment. MIRT is a task force comprised of personnel from regional fire departments, U.S. Coast Guard, MARAD, VMA, Port of Virginia, Virginia Department of Emergency Management, U.S. Mid-Atlantic Navy Regional Fire Department, and the Virginia Pilots Association, working together to keep the port safe.
“Most fire departments need the help from other agencies to successfully mitigate an event like this. We brought everybody together, so if an incident like this does happen, we are all reading from the same sheet of paper,” added Burket.
MARITIME NEWS
3
Distinguished Service and Port Champion Awards given at 95th Annual Maritime Banquet
The Virginia Maritime Association (VMA) was pleased to recognize Independent Port Truck Drivers
with the 2015“Distinguished Service” Award.
The membership of the Virginia Maritime Association is privileged to have the service of professional Independent Port Truck Drivers servicing the Port of Virginia. Over 5,700 truck drivers, mostly owner-operators, make a living delivering containers to and from the Port. These small business people have endured the frustrations and lost income as a result of the congestion and inefficiencies within the cargo movement system.
Virginia’s supply chain remains strong because the vast majority of Independent Port Truck Drivers faithfully go to work each day to deliver their cargo, despite the challenges they face. Sincere appreciation is expressed to the professional Independent Port Truck Drivers for “Distinguished Service” extended and readiness to assist the Maritime Industry in
promoting, protecting and encouraging the ports of Virginia.
VMA Honored Captain Chris Keane, Deputy Commander, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads, as the 2015 “Port Champion”.
Captain Keane has embraced the maritime community and displayed a spirit of cooperation and partnership in all matters affecting Virginia’s ports and has effectively fulfilled his responsibilities for port safety and security, search and rescue, law enforcement and regulatory compliance with an appreciation for facilitating the efficient flow of waterborne commerce.
Captain Keane’s outstanding leadership has contributed to the growth of foreign and domestic commerce in the ports of Virginia.
VMA expresses its gratitude for the splendid service extended and readiness to assist the Maritime Industry as a “Port Champion” in promoting, protecting and encouraging the ports of Virginia.
VPA Names The Scoular Company Shipper of the Year for 2015
The Scoular Company was the recipient of the Port of Virginia’s 2015 Shipper of the Year award which was presented at Virginia Maritime Association’s (VMA) International Trade
Symposium on May 14. The award recognizes a company that has gone above and beyond the course of normal business to grow both commercially and operationally.
John F. Reinhart, CEO and Executive Director of the Virginia Port Authority, stated The Scoular Company was selected for the award because of their commitment to Virginia through their job creation, investment in Virginia, and their strategic use of both the barge and the Port of Richmond.
John Messerich, Scoular’s Senior Vice President, was honored to receive the award, “Our collaborative partnership with the port has created innovative solutions that are allowing us to make investments in agricultural export container-loading facilities that serve the increasing food and fee demand in Asia.”
The Scoular Company is a 123 year old business with more than $6 billion in sales and operates 90 independent business units that provide diverse supply chain solutions for end-users and suppliers of grain, feed ingredients, and food ingredients
around the globe. From nearly 90 offices and facilities in North and South America, the company is engaged in the business of buying, selling, storing and handling grain and ingredients as well as managing transportation and logistics worldwide.
(l-r) Capt Chris Keane, USGC and Capt. Raymond A. Newlon, VMA
(l-r) Thomas Capozzi, VPA and John Messerich, Scoular
4
PORT STATISTICSVe
ssel
By
Type
Arr
ive
Sail
Arr
ive
Sail
Arr
ive
Sail
Arr
ive
Sail
BU
LK
AM
ER
ICA
N0
00
00
00
0
Apr
-201
54
mon
th 2
015
Apr
-201
44
mon
th 2
014
FOR
EIG
N9
952
5115
1359
57
Tota
l Ham
pton
Roa
ds2,
549,
993
11,5
28,9
834,
153,
118
16,7
86,8
43TO
TAL
99
5251
1513
5957
NS
1,07
5,58
44,
341,
341
1,45
7,15
06,
177,
140
Pie
r IX
415,
619
2,94
5,92
21,
126,
672
4,46
1,15
4C
OA
L
DTA
1,05
8,79
04,
241,
720
1,56
9,29
66,
148,
549
AM
ER
ICA
N0
19
104
412
12
FOR
EIG
N36
3315
014
542
4114
114
3
Exp
ort C
argo
- H
. Rds
.2,
502,
152
11,1
55,8
033,
985,
689
16,2
66,1
37TO
TAL
3634
159
155
4645
153
155
NS
1,07
5,58
44,
341,
341
1,45
7,15
06,
136,
354
Pie
r IX
415,
619
2,94
5,92
21,
066,
090
4,33
6,17
1C
OM
BO
DTA
1,01
0,94
93,
868,
541
1,46
2,44
95,
793,
613
AM
ER
ICA
N0
00
00
00
0
FOR
EIG
N4
418
185
517
17
Coa
stw
ise
& O
ther
- H
.R47
,842
373,
179
167,
429
520,
705
TOTA
L4
418
185
517
17
NS
00
040
,786
Pie
r IX
*0
060
,582
124,
983
CO
NTA
INER
DTA
47,8
4237
3,17
910
6,84
735
4,93
6A
ME
RIC
AN
1719
5861
1414
5956
Sou
rce:
Ham
pton
Roa
ds C
oal P
iers
FOR
EIG
N12
412
949
349
812
012
548
148
9
TOTA
L14
114
855
155
913
413
954
054
5
GEN
ERA
L
AM
ER
ICA
N0
00
00
01
1
Mar
-201
53
mon
th 2
015
Mar
-201
43
mon
th 2
014
FOR
EIG
N5
428
279
832
29
Ham
pton
Roa
ds22
9,41
059
9,51
119
7,83
454
4,63
0TO
TAL
54
2827
98
3330
Sou
rce:
Virg
inia
Por
t Aut
horit
yPA
SSEN
GER
AM
ER
ICA
N0
00
02
28
11
FOR
EIG
N2
22
21
11
1
TOTA
L2
22
23
39
12
Mar
-201
53
mon
th 2
015
Mar
-201
43
mon
th 2
014
Ham
pton
Roa
ds$8
3,27
4,06
7$2
23,2
83,5
0856
,560
,465
$161
,183
,128
RO
RO
Oth
er V
A$8
6,70
2,57
7$2
38,1
79,3
422,
997,
750
$293
,052
,172
AM
ER
ICA
N1
11
10
02
2
FOR
EIG
N6
726
337
728
25
Tota
l$1
69,9
76,6
45$4
61,4
62,8
50$5
9,55
8,21
6$4
54,2
35,3
00TO
TAL
78
2734
77
3027
Sou
rce:
Cus
tom
s an
d B
orde
r Pro
tect
ion
Dep
artm
ent o
f Hom
elan
d S
ecur
ity
TAN
KER
AM
ER
ICA
N0
00
00
02
2
FOR
EIG
N6
727
2812
1042
37
Apr
-201
54
mon
th 2
015
Apr
-201
44
mon
th 2
014
TOTA
L6
727
2812
1044
39
Num
ber o
f Ves
sels
22
00
AM
ERIC
AN
1821
6872
2020
8484
FOR
EIG
N19
219
579
680
221
121
080
179
8
Sou
rce:
Nau
ticus
TOTA
L21
021
686
487
423
123
088
588
2
Pass
enge
r Cru
ises
D
istr
ibut
ion
of C
oal D
umpi
ngs
at H
ampt
on R
oads
(in n
et to
ns o
f 2,0
00 lb
s.)
Port
of H
ampt
on R
oads
TEU
's(T
wen
ty F
oot E
quiv
alen
t Uni
ts)
Apr
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Apr
-14
YTD
-14
Cus
tom
s R
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pts
- Virg
inia
Cus
tom
s D
istr
ict
Vess
el B
y
Type
Arr
ive
Sail
Arr
ive
Sail
Arr
ive
Sail
Arr
ive
Sail
BU
LK
AM
ER
ICA
N0
00
00
00
0
Apr
-201
54
mon
th 2
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Apr
-201
44
mon
th 2
014
FOR
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N9
952
5115
1359
57
Tota
l Ham
pton
Roa
ds2,
549,
993
11,5
28,9
834,
153,
118
16,7
86,8
43TO
TAL
99
5251
1513
5957
NS
1,07
5,58
44,
341,
341
1,45
7,15
06,
177,
140
Pie
r IX
415,
619
2,94
5,92
21,
126,
672
4,46
1,15
4C
OA
L
DTA
1,05
8,79
04,
241,
720
1,56
9,29
66,
148,
549
AM
ER
ICA
N0
19
104
412
12
FOR
EIG
N36
3315
014
542
4114
114
3
Exp
ort C
argo
- H
. Rds
.2,
502,
152
11,1
55,8
033,
985,
689
16,2
66,1
37TO
TAL
3634
159
155
4645
153
155
NS
1,07
5,58
44,
341,
341
1,45
7,15
06,
136,
354
Pie
r IX
415,
619
2,94
5,92
21,
066,
090
4,33
6,17
1C
OM
BO
DTA
1,01
0,94
93,
868,
541
1,46
2,44
95,
793,
613
AM
ER
ICA
N0
00
00
00
0
FOR
EIG
N4
418
185
517
17
Coa
stw
ise
& O
ther
- H
.R47
,842
373,
179
167,
429
520,
705
TOTA
L4
418
185
517
17
NS
00
040
,786
Pie
r IX
*0
060
,582
124,
983
CO
NTA
INER
DTA
47,8
4237
3,17
910
6,84
735
4,93
6A
ME
RIC
AN
1719
5861
1414
5956
Sou
rce:
Ham
pton
Roa
ds C
oal P
iers
FOR
EIG
N12
412
949
349
812
012
548
148
9
TOTA
L14
114
855
155
913
413
954
054
5
GEN
ERA
L
AM
ER
ICA
N0
00
00
01
1
Mar
-201
53
mon
th 2
015
Mar
-201
43
mon
th 2
014
FOR
EIG
N5
428
279
832
29
Ham
pton
Roa
ds22
9,41
059
9,51
119
7,83
454
4,63
0TO
TAL
54
2827
98
3330
Sou
rce:
Virg
inia
Por
t Aut
horit
yPA
SSEN
GER
AM
ER
ICA
N0
00
02
28
11
FOR
EIG
N2
22
21
11
1
TOTA
L2
22
23
39
12
Mar
-201
53
mon
th 2
015
Mar
-201
43
mon
th 2
014
Ham
pton
Roa
ds$8
3,27
4,06
7$2
23,2
83,5
0856
,560
,465
$161
,183
,128
RO
RO
Oth
er V
A$8
6,70
2,57
7$2
38,1
79,3
422,
997,
750
$293
,052
,172
AM
ER
ICA
N1
11
10
02
2
FOR
EIG
N6
726
337
728
25
Tota
l$1
69,9
76,6
45$4
61,4
62,8
50$5
9,55
8,21
6$4
54,2
35,3
00TO
TAL
78
2734
77
3027
Sou
rce:
Cus
tom
s an
d B
orde
r Pro
tect
ion
Dep
artm
ent o
f Hom
elan
d S
ecur
ity
TAN
KER
AM
ER
ICA
N0
00
00
02
2
FOR
EIG
N6
727
2812
1042
37
Apr
-201
54
mon
th 2
015
Apr
-201
44
mon
th 2
014
TOTA
L6
727
2812
1044
39
Num
ber o
f Ves
sels
22
00
AM
ERIC
AN
1821
6872
2020
8484
FOR
EIG
N19
219
579
680
221
121
080
179
8
Sou
rce:
Nau
ticus
TOTA
L21
021
686
487
423
123
088
588
2
Pass
enge
r Cru
ises
D
istr
ibut
ion
of C
oal D
umpi
ngs
at H
ampt
on R
oads
(in n
et to
ns o
f 2,0
00 lb
s.)
Port
of H
ampt
on R
oads
TEU
's(T
wen
ty F
oot E
quiv
alen
t Uni
ts)
Apr
-15
YTD
-15
Apr
-14
YTD
-14
Cus
tom
s R
ecei
pts
- Virg
inia
Cus
tom
s D
istr
ict
5
NE WS BRIEFS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
12th Annual International Trade Symposium Review
On May 14, 2015, the Virginia Maritime Association and American Shipper hosted the 12th Annual International Trade Symposium (ITS) at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott
hotel. Nearly 400 industry executives attended the event focused on “Curbing Congestion – How Do We Get There from Here?” The symposium panelists sought to tackle the congestion issues that have plagued ports across the country for over two years.
Marc Bourdon, President, CMA-CGM (America) LLC and the Chairman of the VMA International Trade Symposium Committee, welcomed guests and set the stage for the day’s agenda. “If we don’t solve the congestion problem, we will impede the country’s economic sustainability,” stated Bourdon. “We must recognize that every stakeholder in the chain suffers, understand the impact on all businesses and bring value and layout the way forward, which is why we are here today.”
The Ignite Session kicked-off the symposium in which the panelist discussed how their segments of the supply chain were impacted by port congestion. Among the speakers, George Berry, Independent Trucker & Director, For Truckers By Truckers, noted how truckers are waiting hours to retrieve containers from the terminals; Kim Clark, Logistics Coordinator, Hooker Furniture, stated how it impacts the merchandise stock; and Valerie Sutton, Import Manager, John A. Steer Company, told a story of how import files tripled and quadruple in size because of the extra documentation required for backlogs and how the extra time spent on each file adds to their costs and of the congestion related charges that are crippling to their customers.
The panel discussions that followed were sequential in approaching Issues, Solutions and Actions.
“Addressing Key Issues of Port Congestion” panelists outlined key issues with recommendations for a path forward. The importance of and need for collaboration became a common theme. One panelist commented “I never thought I’d be sitting with my two competitors, but we put self-interest aside to solve the big picture.”
Identifying Congestion Solutions, panelists were challenged with finding potential solutions. Many of the recommendations focused around better data to all stakeholders.
Putting Solutions into Action was the task of the final panel. The recommendations highlight that actions must take place in all segments of the industry in order to move forward.
John Reinhart, Executive Director and CEO of the Virginia Port Authority, gave the keynote address during the symposium luncheon. Mr. Reinhart acknowledged the Port has not done well enough in the last few years as the financial troubles have “impeded us from investing in the infrastructure that we so desperately need and require.”
Mr. Reinhart stated that despite the many advantages at The Port of Virginia; such as open-ocean access, 50’ depth, two class one railroads, and a progressive workforce, the Port has been overwhelmed and the strain has impacted the entire supply chain. No segment of the industry has been more adversely affected by congestion issues than the truckers. Reinhart reminded attendees, “businesses will fail, without a good robust motor carrier group.”
He noted the issues in Hampton Roads aren’t just local but part of a national problem. They are symptoms of growth without the infrastructure necessary to accommodate that growth, and until we have a national dialogue, we will not be able to compete globally. “Our nation has not invested in our port infrastructure to keep pace with what’s going on in global trade,” Reinhart stated. “We invented containerization here. We had a modern infrastructure system here. We were the envy of the world 30 years ago. But we have let the world pass us by because we haven’t had the political will to put the investments into our ports that they so desperately require.”
Mr. Reinhart closed by thanking the VMA for hosting the symposium and to each attendee for what they do to keep the trade flowing and the cargo moving. “I commit to you our team will continue to work with each of you in spirit of collaboration and cooperation. Each of us must share equally the duty and obligation as part of this community to build solutions.”
Inserted in this edition of VMA Maritime Bulletin is a summary of the solutions and actions highlighted during each session. The dialogue of the symposium and the recommendations will be used to develop a White Paper that can guide national and regional efforts to “Curb Congestion.”
Thank you to those who attended the VMA International Trade Symposium. The response from attendees has been very positive. The following results are from the International Trade Symposium- Curbing Congestion Survey completed by attendees:
• 92%respondedthecaliberofthespeakersweregoodorvery good.
• 100% responded the symposium addressed the issuesand solution related to congestion.
• 85%respondedthedialogueandsolutionspresentedwillhave a positive impact in curbing congestion.
• 83% responded that a White Paper based on thesymposium will be useful.
The VMA values its members and members of the international trade and maritime community at large. It is our privilege to continue providing opportunities to discuss and collaborate in order to effectively Promote, Protect and Encourage Commerce through the ports of Virginia.
VMA HIGHLIGHTS
6
The Association In Action
Committee Update
In April, VMA continued to emphasize the need for relief from congestion affecting our port’s container operations. The Association facilitated and participated in a series of meetings of the Tidewater
Motor Truck Association with John Milliken, Chairman of the Virginia Port Authority (VPA) Board of Commissioners; Alan Diamonstein, Chairman of the Operations Committee of the VPA Board; John Reinhart, VPA CEO and Executive Director; and the VPA’s operations leaders. The discussions resulted in additional steps being taken to alleviate congestion or provide relief from the impacts of congestion.
VMA is the voice for port and maritime industries with elected leaders in Congress, in Virginia’s capitol, and regionally. Once again, April presented several opportunities to speak with leaders of the General Assembly, Governor McAuliffe’s administration, and to educate staff members for some of our representatives in Congress.
In the area of business development, April saw VMA contributing to discussions about potential new cargoes and services in the Virginia’s ports. The Association also met with the new leadership of the Hampton Roads Economic Development Alliance (HREDA) to discuss improving the collaboration between VMA and HREDA on economic development activities.
April presented several opportunities for VMA to make presentations to a variety of groups:
Presentation made by Art Moye during the North American Marine Environmental Protection Association (NAMEPA) seminar on “Ship to Shore: Port Waste Facilities” on April 16.
David White offered insights into Virginia’s port and maritime industries, VMA presented April 17 at the Virginia Wesleyan College Business Conference “Preparing for a Diverse Professional World.”
Raymond Newlon, VMA’s President, delivered opening remarks at the Mid-Atlantic Waterways Conference held April 21-23. Art Moye participated in a panel discussion of “Maritime Industry Challenges, Priorities, and Opportunities.”
Traveling to Abingdon, VA, Ashley McLeod spoke about the Association and VMA’s regional chapter development plans at a meeting organized by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership on April 29.
On April 30, Ashley McLeod made a presentation at a meeting organized by the Smyth County Economic Development Department for companies involved in import and export. The VMA represented the interests of our membership at the semi-annual meeting of the National Association of Maritime Organizations (NAMO) which took place April 22 and 23 in Washington, D.C. NAMO is comprised of maritime-related organizations throughout the United States and represents its members at a national level in all matters affecting foreign or domestic waterborne commerce using U.S. ports. Topics addressed included an update from the Chamber of Shipping of America, the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act, Liquid Nitrogen Gas (LNG) & Shipping in North America, NOAA’s National Ocean Service programs, Customs and Border Protection operations, and an update from the Committee on the Marine Transportation System.
INLAND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE (April 1): The committee received information from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Air Management Association on available emission reduction and truck replacement programs. An update was provided on the status and direction of efforts to address congestion at the container terminals. Other topics included an update on the chassis pool, the planned Drive Safe Conference, administration of Virginia Overweight Permits, changes to the Uniform Intermodal Interchange Agreement (UIIA), and changes related to workman’s compensation.
JOINT COMMITTEES (April 2): The Coal Committee, Harbor-Anchorage & Navigation Rules Committee, Steamship Trade Committee, and the Towing & Barge Operators Committee met jointly with the U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port, Capt. Keane, for an update and discussion about the short-term and long-term planning for future utilization of the port’s anchorages.
STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE (April 7): The purpose of the meeting was to continue a review of the progress made against VMA’s 5-Year Strategic Plan. Following its review, the committee will report to the Board of Directors its assessment of whether the Association is achieving its goals and possibly recommend adjustments or changes to the Plan.
TOWING & BARGE OPERATORS COMMITTEE (April 8): The committee covered its regular agenda topics; Dockside Exams, Bridge Operations, and Towing Vessel Safety Seminar Planning. Updates were provided on
the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act and legislation related to the Jones Act. The committee discussed the status or impending changes to the regulations for towing vessels and was advised of a safety alert issued by the Coast Guard regarding engine room operations.
COMMERCE DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE (April 9): The key issues hindering port related economic developments were identified. The committee also reviewed the draft of a tri-fold being prepared for distribution and use by all economic development groups to improve the promotion of Virginia’s ports and port related commerce.
INTERNATIONAL TRADE SYMPOSIUM COMMITTEE (April 10): The emphasis during April was coordinating the presenting speakers and panels and promoting event registrations. The committee conducted final planning and preparations, working toward a successful delivery of one of VMA’s signature events, the International Trade Symposium (ITS).
COMMUNICATIONS & OUTREACH COMMITTEE (April 14): A status report was provided and discussed on the request to each of VMA’s industry committees for submitting their most important issues to begin a process for prioritizing VMA’s advocacy efforts and developing the related communications. The committee began defining enhancements to the Association’s branding. Following an update, the committee supported moving forward with conducting a port-wide economic impact analysis of the maritime industry.
7
MEMBERSHIP NEWS
NEW MEMBERSHAMPTON ROADS PORT SERVICES, LLC
Motor Freight Lines/Intermodal3924CookBlvd.•Chesapeake,VA(23323)
Mr. Eric J. Fierst, President Phone: 575-5231; FAX 397-5859
e-mail: [email protected] www.hrportservices.com
MARITIME PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL Exporters and Importers
11825RockLandingRd.,SuiteY1A•NewportNews,VA(23606)Phone: 873-9760; FAX 873-1492Mr. Matthew A. Fass, President e-mail: [email protected]
Ms. Brooke B. Elliott, Director of Logisticse-mail: [email protected]
website www.mpsiseafood.com
THE SCOULAR COMPANY Exporters and Importers
250MarquetteAvenue,Suite1050•Minneapolis,MN(55401)Sean C. Healy, Supply Chain Manager
Phone: (612) 851-3736e-mail: [email protected]
31WestWindsorBlvd.•Windsor,VA(23847)Mr. Brad Stewart, Facilities Manager
Phone: 242-6300e-mail: [email protected]
website www.scoular.com
VENTKER WARMAN HENDERSON, PLLC Law Firm
246 W. Freemason Street (23510)Ms. Marissa M. Henderson, Partner
Phone: 802-3725; FAX 625-1475e-mail: [email protected]
website www.ventkerlaw.com
The entire line of Javalina pens on sale.
www.4idpromos.com
Promotional Products • corPorate Gifts • decorated aPParel
promos
As low as $0.41 each for a stylus pen or $0.28 for the retractable pen.
Introducing VMA Career Center
In keeping with the goal of providing valuable resources for the maritime business community, the Virginia
Maritime Association is pleased to announce:
“VMA Career Center” The “Career Center” tab available at www.VAMaritime.com provides VMA member companies an online location for qualified applicants to find the positions available in the port and maritime industries. VMA Members need only to log in to post the position description, requirements and contact information. Our goal is that this tool will assist our members in finding the workforce they need to thrive in the maritime and port industries.
For additional information or assistance please contact: Susan Wisniewski, [email protected] or 757-628-2661.
This resource was accomplished by the dedication of the VMA Education & Training Job Bulletin Board Sub Committee.
Saturday, June 6, 2015 9:00 a.m.–noon
State-wide litter cleanup. To join: cbf.org/clean 800-SAVE/BAY [email protected]
Clean the Bay Day
2 7 T H A N N U A L
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PRESORTED STANDARDU.S. POSTAGE PAID
NORFOLK, VAPERMIT NO. 1930
236 E. Plume StreetNorfolk, Virginia 23510
P.O. Box 3487Norfolk Virginia
(757) 622-2639; FAX [email protected]
Club ContactsCustoms Brokers & Int’l Freight Forwarders Assn .
CONTACT: ValSutton•853-1940
Hampton Roads Coal AssociationCONTACT: JoeDeMatteo•928-1520
Hampton Roads Global Commerce CouncilCONTACT: PeterTrocchiano•201-9796
www.hrgcc.org
Hampton Roads Traffic ClubCONTACT: MichaelHirsch•485-4799www.HamptonRoadsTrafficClub.org
ODU Maritime Institute Speaker SeriesCONTACT: SaraRussell•683-3964
Organization for Women in Int’l Trade (OWIT)CONTACT: SaraRussell•683-3964
Propeller Club - Port of NorfolkCONTACT: TaylorMiller•440-7214www.PropellerClubNorfolk.org
Tidewater Motor Truck AssociationCONTACT: FrankBorum•494-0276
EdO’Callaghan•450-8484 NicoleSapienza•810-1047
Virginia Ship Repair AssociationCONTACT: SylviaBell•233-7034
www.VirginiaShipRepair.org
ANCHOR MEMBERS
PLATINUM ANCHORS:
GOLDEN ANCHORS:
Bay Diesel Corporation
CV International, Inc.
T. Parker Host, Inc.
Vandeventer Black LLP
Virginia Economic Development Partnership
Virginia Pilot Association
SILVER ANCHORS:
CBRE | Hampton Roads
Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Co.
SunTrust Bank
Tecnico Corporation
Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc.
Wells Fargo BankRegister @ www.VAMaritime.com
June 18, 20154:30 to 7:00 pm
Paradise Ocean Club at Fort Monroe
490 Fenwick Road Hampton, VA 23651
Virginia Maritime Association
Maritime Mixer
invites you to a
Upcoming maritime events are listed on VAMaritime.com/events
2015 VMA ITS SUMMARY Issues & Impact:
• Poor stakeholder communication and coordination
• Lack of common platform for distributing information
• Interest of stakeholders not aligned • Forecast data not available or unreliable • Bigger ships discharging more containers • Bunching up of vessel calls • New alliances resulting in inconsistent
terminal calls
• Terminals at max capacity • Poor marine terminal productivity • Lack of productivity standards • Fluidity problems at gates and terminals • Chassis imbalance. Not available when and
where needed • Not enough qualified drayage drivers • Too many one-way drayage moves
Solutions • Better communications, forecasting and data sharing among stakeholders • Transparent data flow among stakeholders and standardization of metrics • Creation of a predictive model for chassis demand & other components • Improve accuracy and real-time reporting of container and chassis availability • Alignment of communication across a common platform • Better vessel productivity at terminals • Broader collaboration among alliances on stowage and scheduling. • Proper manpower on terminals to optimize human & business capital • Flexible operational modes for terminals to make best use of manpower • Increase investments in terminal automation • Better utilize existing infrastructure by increasing hours of operation • Provide an off-dock CY for containers/chassis • Reliable street-turn program to improve driver and equipment utilization • Implement appointment windows • Offer gates that bypass roadability checks • Continue development of chassis pools • Develop driver incentive programs, raise driver pay • Create virtual container terminals • Create task forces at national regional and national level to drive improvements
Putting Solutions into Action • Create a forum to bring ALL stakeholders together on a regular basis to discuss issues, build toward
solutions, and to understand everyone’s needs and problems • These forums need to be setup on national, regional and local levels • Shippers will need to work with their suppliers to create better supply chain patterns do deal with the
new realities and to make sure they are not contributing to the problem. • All stakeholders in terminal operations need to work together to maximize terminal operations. This will
involve terminal operators, labor, equipment providers, ocean carriers, motor carriers and rail carriers. • Carriers cooperate with terminal operators so they can coordinate with rail carriers in building block
trains • Build relationships between parties so expectations and requirements of parties are known • Shippers have to be encouraged to use extended gates but guidelines need to be put in place • Cooperation is required to develop appointment systems to efficiently manage terminal operations • Work between terminals, dray firms, and labor to develop a trusted trucker program to speedup or
bypass roadability checks for trusted truckers • Establish KPI’s for terminal operations and possibly a penalty system for failure to meet KPIs • Need to develop chassis pools where a user can pick up or drop off chassis at any pool location, off
terminal • Willingness of all parties to compromise • Develop better technology to fill empty lanes (street turns) to maximize use of equipment and driver
efficiency • Encourage dray companies to deploy driver technology that is today standard for domestic trucking • Pass along information on interchanges up stream to the equipment operators • Advocate for a national transportation policy • Work to help labor understand that growth requires new port automation but that it will benefit them also • All parties need to work to support the drivers so they can be successful • Need to develop systems to pass information to drivers
Produced by: Virginia Maritime Association & American Shipper