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November, 2009

NEWS BULLETIN
Monday, November 30, 2009

Port of Bellingham budget
sticks to current tax rate

BELLINGHAM — Whatcom County's taxpayers will not face any property tax increases from the Port of Bellingham in 2010. The port's Board of Commissioners have adopted the 2010 Strategic Budget and directed staff to maintain the current tax rate. This is the sixth year that the commission has chosen to forgo taking the allowed annual property tax rate increase. Because of this, the port's current property tax revenue of $7.4 million is $3.5 million less than its legal limit. The estimated annual port-levied property tax on a $275,000 home will be $77, which is lower than the year before. The commission adopted the budget after two public hearings. The budget includes $58.8 million in total expenditures, a larger than normal budget because of $32 million in capital projects. The budget maintains the current staffing levels.


Grant funds approved for
Port of Port Angeles project

PORT ANGELES — The Clallam County Opportunity Fund Board has voted unanimously to approve the Port of Port Angeles’ $85,000 grant application for Peninsula Plywood building improvements. Port staff submitted the application to support projects in the buildings currently leased to Peninsula Plywood, LLC. on the waterfront. The port’s Dave Hagiwara and Pen Ply’s Josh Renshaw and Lena Washke made the presentation to the board. The Clallam County Board of Commissioners was set to take action on the recommendation from the Opportunity Fund Board on November 24, at the Board of Commissioners meeting. If approved by the commission, the building improvements at Pen Ply will commence immediately with Pen Ply staff and the port's Pubilc Works department.


Seattle Port Board sets
budget plans for 2010

SEATTLE — Port of Seattle commissioners approved the 2010 budget and plan of finance, highlighting the ongoing efforts to reduce costs and maintain the bottom line. Through cost-cutting measures earlier this year, the port reduced expenses by nearly six percent in 2009 and will likely end the year with a net operating income of $51 million. In addition to expense reductions throughout each department, port staff members took mandatory two-week furloughs; a voluntary separation program was implemented in June; vacant positions were not filled; and some positions were eliminated. The 2010 budget reflects those cuts, noting an elimination of 110 positions throughout the organization. Operating expenses for the year have been reduced again by nearly six percent. The port has forecasted a net operating income for the year of $37.5 million. The port’s capital program will invest in environmental projects, including efforts at the Superfund site along the Lower Duwamish Waterway, as well as congestion relief projects that ease the movement of freight throughout the region. The port will decrease the amount of tax dollars collected to $73.5 million; the average King County homeowner will see a slight decrease in their property tax bill for 2010.


Matson plans to increase
Hawaii Service rates

OAKLAND — Matson Navigation Company has announced that it will raise its rates for the company’s Hawaii service by $120 per westbound container and $60 per eastbound container, effective January 3, 2010. Matson estimates that this increase will raise rates by an average of 3.8 percent. The increase will be filed with the Surface Transportation Board. In addition, Matson will raise its terminal handling charge by $125 per westbound container and $60 per eastbound container, also effective January 3, 2010. Matson’s terminal handling charge was first implemented in 2003 and is designed to recover a portion of the costs associated with the movement of cargo through terminals. This charge is standard in the industry and appears as a separate line item at the bottom of the company’s freight bills.


Holiday on the Bay event
set for Port of Everett Marina

EVERETT — The Port of Everett Marina will be teeming with holiday spirit Saturday, Dec. 12 as the Port of Everett and City of Everett host the second annual waterfront celebration – Holiday on the Bay. Festivities will begin at 5 p.m. at Port Gardner Landing near Lombardi’s Italian restaurant off 15th Street and W. Marine View Drive. During the hour-long program, visitors will enjoy free hot chocolate and cookies, a holiday tree lighting, singing entertainment by Shifty Sailors and a special visit from Santa. The event will coincide with Everett Yacht Club’s annual lighted boat parade, providing prime viewing of the decorated boats as they circle the marina. Grand Park Avenue offers an alternate location with a spectacular view of the tree lighting and boat parade. Volunteers of America and Toys for Tots will be joining in the holiday fun while accepting food and toy donations for families in need this holiday season. Any donations will be greatly appreciated.


NEWS BULLETIN
Friday, November 27, 2009

Port of Longview wins
WPPA Port of the Year nod

OLYMPIA — The Washington Public Ports Association (WPPA) presented its 2009 President’s Port of the Year Award to the Port of Longview at its Board of Trustees Meeting on November 20 in Seattle. Each year, WPPA honors a WPPA member port for leadership and innovation in economic development efforts. The Association’s Executive Committee chooses the winning port from a pool of nominees. The Port of Longview was honored for recruiting EGT (Export Grain Terminal), the first facility of this kind built in the United States in more than 25 years. The state of the art facility is expected to generate more than 200 construction jobs and 50 permanent jobs in the Longview community. The region can also expect to see 35 more jobs associated with the increased cargo. In addition to recruiting the export facility, the port reached record revenues in 2008 and contributed to the construction of the Castle Rock Boat Launch, the only engineered approach on a 23 mile stretch of the popular Cowlitz River. “It’s an honor to be named Port of the Year,” said Port of Longview Executive Director Ken O’Hollaren. “This award is a true reflection of the staff’s dedication and the community’s support of the Port of Longview.”


Rail freight traffic numbers
continue down during week

WASHINGTON, DC — The Association of American Railroads said that freight rail traffic remains down for the week ended Oct. 31, 2009. U.S. railroads reported originating 275,439 carloads for the week, down 13.7 percent compared with the same week in 2008 and down 18.2 percent from 2007. In order to offer a complete picture of the progress in rail traffic, AAR will be reporting 2009 weekly rail traffic with year over comparisons for both 2008 and 2007 going forward. In the West, carloads were down 14.3 percent compared with the same week last year, and 18.3 percent compared with 2007. In the East, carloads were down 12.9 percent compared with 2008, and 18.0 percent compared with the same week in 2007. Intermodal traffic totaled 203,860 trailers and containers, down 11.1 percent from a year ago and 15.5 percent from 2007. Compared with the same week in 2008, container volume fell 5.4 percent and trailer volume dropped 32.3 percent. Compared with the same week in 2007, container volume fell 8.9 percent and trailer volume dropped 38.6 percent. While 15 of the 19 carload freight commodity groups were down compared with the same week last year, increases were seen in grain mill products (9.9 percent), chemicals (3.6 percent), and waste and scrap metal (.7 percent and nonmetallic minerals (.3 percent). Declines in commodity groups ranged from 2.2 percent for the all other carloads category to 55.6 percent for metallic ores. Total volume on U.S. railroads for the week ending Oct. 31, 2009 was estimated at 31 billion ton-miles, down 12.7 percent compared with the same week last year and 13.2 percent from 2007.


Zim to try Slow Steaming
in two container services

HAIFA — Two major ZIM services - Zim Container Service (ZCS) and East Mediterranean Express Service (EMX) – will employ Super-Slow Steaming, a measure that will enable substantial fuel savings and significantly reduced CO2 and NOx emissions. Super-Slow steaming will commence in both services in the coming weeks. ZIM will add a 4250 TEU’s vessel to each service, thus maintaining similar levels of service in terms of frequency and with only minor changes in transit times. ZCS will deploy 16 vessels while EMX will deploy 11 vessels. Slow steaming is in line with ZIM’s streamlining and savings efforts. ZIM is one of the first shipping companies whose owned fleet is Environmental Management (ISO 14001) certified. The Super-Slow Steaming will reduce the CO2 and NOx emission drastically in these two lines,


Panama Canal receives
ISO 14001-2004 certification

PANAMA CITY — The Panama Canal Authority’s (ACP) Environment Division received ISO 14001-2004 certification resulting from an audit performed by Lloyd’s Register Central and South America Inc., during an official ceremony November 17. The recognition underscores the ACP’s commitment to protect and maintain its natural resources, and validates its efforts to ensure the Canal provides safe, reliable and efficient service to its customers. The ACP sought the certification because of its firm commitment to the protection of the environment. Moreover, receiving this recognition confirms that the ACP is implementing robust management procedures. ISO standards are implemented by more than 610,000 organizations in 160 countries. These standards help to enrich quality management at organizations, including enhancing customer satisfaction and continually improving performance.


Portland Shipping Club
needs your help with Spree

PORTLAND — The Portland Shipping Club's Children's Shopping Spree is Saturday, December 5, 2009. The club is thankful for Volunteers and donors who have signed up. The club has raised more that $6,000, and are planning on seeing 62 volunteers. Thety are so close to their goal of $7,500, and they need 15 more shoppers to match all of the 45+ children. If you have been thinking about siging up or giving - now is the time. Updated goal meter is at: http://www.pdxmex.com/bulletins/psc/09SPREEmeter.pdf . Also, see the flyer for the December 5th Shopping Spree at: http://www.pdxmex.com/bulletins/psc/09SPREE.pdf.


NEWS BULLETIN
Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Port Tracker Report predicts
possible turnaround in February

WASHINGTON, DC — Import cargo volume at the nation’s major retail container ports could see its first year-over-year increases in more than two years beginning in early 2010, according to the monthly Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and IHS Global Insight. U.S. ports surveyed handled 1.14 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units in September, the most recent month for which actual numbers are available. That was down three percent from August and 16 percent from September 2008, marking the 27th month in a row to see a year-over-year decline. Volume for October, traditionally the peak month of the year, was estimated at 1.17 million TEU, down 15 percent from last year. November is forecast at 1.09 million TEU, down 11 percent from last year, December at 1.06 million TEU, flat compared with last year, and January 2010 is forecast at 1.03 million TEU, down 3 percent. The January figure would mark the 31st month of year-over-year declines, but the trend is forecast to be broken in February, when cargo is expected to total 973,872 TEU. The figure is below the one million mark because February is the slowest month of the year, but would be a 16 percent increase over February 2009. March 2010 is forecast at 1.02 million, a five percent increase over March 2009.


Port association pleased with
new security grant rules

ALEXANDRIA, VA — The American Association of Port Authorities learned Nov. 20, that the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which manages the Department of Homeland Security's Port Security Grants program, has just approved the use of preparedness grant funds for security equipment maintenance contracts, warranties, repair or replacement costs, upgrades and user fees under all active and future grant awards. "This reversal in DHS policy is welcome news and represents years of advocacy on the part of the port industry," said Kurt Nagle, AAPA's president and chief executive officer. "The 2006 SAFE Port Act allows port security grants to cover maintenance, repair and replacement expenses, but DHS' past limitations on these costs have resulted in grantees having to take over this large financial burden." According to FEMA Information Bulletin #336, routine upkeep such as gasoline, tire replacement, oil changes, monthly inspections, and grounds and facility maintenance, remains the responsibility of the grantee. The new ruling became effective Nov. 20.


Truck Tonnage Index falls
during month of October

ARLINGTON, VA — The American Trucking Associations’ advance seasonally adjusted (SA) For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index decreased 0.2 percent in October, following a 0.3 percent contraction in September. The latest decline lowered the SA index to 103.6 (2000=100) from the revised 103.8 in September. The not seasonally adjusted index, which represents the change in tonnage actually hauled by the fleets before any seasonal adjustment, equaled 109.6 in October, up 1.6 percent from September. Compared with October 2008, SA tonnage fell 5.2 percent, which was the best year-over-year showing since November 2008. In September, the index was down 7.3 percent from a year earlier.


CMA CGM plans to boost
Gulf of Aden surcharge

MARSEILLES — CMA CGM points out that the transit of container ships through the Gulf of Aden in both directions is subject to high costs caused by the prevailing risks of piracy in the area. the carrier continues to ensure the safety and the security of the cargos carried by its vessels through the Gulf of Aden. As the ships cross at increased speed, apply a route deviation and whenever available join convoys protected by coalition warships under the Atalanta scheme. The prevailing surcharge is increased to USD41 per teu (Aden Gulf Surcharge) which will be implemented on all containers transiting this area, effective December 15th, 2009. This surcharge comes in addition to any Rate Agreement, short term or long term, already concluded with customers or to be concluded.


Port of Everett hosting
Holiday On The Bay event

EVERETT — The Port of Everett Marina will be filled with holiday spirit Saturday, Dec. 12 as the Port of Everett and City of Everett host the second annual waterfront celebration – Holiday On The Bay. Festivities will begin at 5 p.m. at Port Gardner Landing near Lombardi’s Italian restaurant off 15th Street and W. Marine View Drive. During the hour-long program, visitors will enjoy free hot chocolate and cookies, a holiday tree lighting, singing entertainment by Shifty Sailors and a special visit from Santa. The event will coincide with Everett Yacht Club’s annual lighted boat parade, providing prime viewing of the decorated boats as they circle the marina. Grand Avenue Park offers an alternate location with a spectacular view of the tree lighting and boat parade. Volunteers of America and Toys for Tots will be joining in the holiday fun while accepting food and toy donations for families in need this holiday season. Any donations will be greatly appreciated.


NEWS BULLETIN
Monday, November 23, 2009

NOAA program offers info
for Cherry Point mariners

CHERRY POINT, WA — Ship captains and pleasure boaters can now get free real-time information on water and weather conditions for Cherry Point, Wash., from a newly installed NOAA ocean observing system that makes piloting a ship safer and more efficient. The NOAA Physical Oceanographic Real-Time System (PORTS®) at Cherry Point provides observations of tides, currents, water and air temperature, barometric pressure and winds. Collected from a variety of sensors in and around the port, the data is available online and by phone: 888-817-7794 (toll-free). Administered by the NOAA Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services, PORTS® can significantly reduce the risk of vessel groundings and increase the amount of cargo moved through the port by enabling mariners to safely utilize dredged channel depths. The system also allows large ships to time their arrivals and departures more efficiently.


NOL executive receives
Admiral of the Ocean Seas honor

SINGAPORE — Ronald D. Widdows, the president and CEO of Singapore-based container shipping and logistics group, Neptune Orient Lines (NOL) has been named an "Admiral of the Ocean Seas", one of the shipping’s industry’s top awards. At a gala ceremony in New York City, Mr. Widdows received the award, conferred by the United Seamen’s Service. The citation recognized his contribution to the maritime sector over a period of decades and described him as a leading voice on transport public policy issues, as well as acknowledging the contribution of the NOL’s container shipping arm, APL, to key innovations throughout the history of containerized transportation. In presenting the award, former United States Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta commended Mr. Widdows' work in alerting policy-makers to the pressing need to invest in infrastructure and the strain on intermodal capacity due to increasing trade volumes. The 67-year-old United Seamen’s Service, which has sponsored the award for 40 years, provides social, professional and health services to merchant mariners around the globe.


Transportation secretary calls for
continued vigilance against pirates

WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood has reminded mariners about the importance of taking necessary precautions and implementing best practices in the wake of recent attacks on the M/V HARRIETT and MAERSK ALABAMA off the coast of Somalia. “These ships’ successful defense against pirates should serve as a reminder to the maritime industry of the best practices that can keep crews safe on the seas,” said Secretary LaHood. “Mariners should heed the lessons learned from past attacks and review defensive measures so that they are prepared when traveling through high-threat areas. The U.S. government will continue to work with ship operators to protect U.S. citizens in regions where piracy still poses a serious threat.” Earlier this month, the M/V HARRIETT thwarted a pirate attack by outrunning the pirate ship. Last week, guards aboard the MAERSK ALABAMA repelled a pirate attack using small arms fire. No casualties were reported in the incident, which took place 350 nautical miles east of the Somali coast. This was the second attack by pirates against the MAERSK ALABAMA this year. In April, pirates hijacked the ship and took Captain Richard Phillips hostage, holding him at gunpoint in a lifeboat for five days until he was freed by Navy SEALs. A maritime advisory issued in September by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration warned vessels to avoid routes where attacks have taken place while also recommending that mariners demonstrate a willingness to defend themselves.


OOCL celebrates launch
of new Panamax vessel

HONG KONG — OOCL has announced the christening of the eleventh Panamax class vessel in its line of sixteen 4,500-TEU vessels ordered from Samsung Heavy Industries. The new vessel was christened the m.v. OOCL NAGOYA by Gillian Wheeler, accompanied by her husband, Robin Das, deputy global head of Shipping, HSH-Nordbank.


Coast Guard security team
returns to Seattle from Cuba

SEATTLE — Members of Maritime Safety and Security Team (MSST) Seattle (91101) have returned from a six month deployment performing port security duties in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. MSST Seattle (91101) is assigned to the Coast Guard's Deployable Operations Group and is a rapid response force capable of nationwide deployment via air, ground or sea transportation to meet emerging threats. Unit personnel are trained in Anti-terrorism/Force Protection (AT/FP) and Maritime Law Enforcement (MLE) policies and practices, enabling them to augment Coast Guard forces during National Special Security Events, major marine events, contingencies, and other Coast Guard law enforcement operations primarily in ports, harbors, internal waterways, and coastal regions. MSSTs were created under the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) 2002 and are a part of the Department of Homeland Security's layered strategy directed at protecting our seaports and waterways. MSSTs were created in direct response to the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. Accordingly, every MSST designation number begins with "911". Commissioned on July 3, 2002, MSST Seattle was the first MSST created; hence having the honor of being known as 91101.


NEWS BULLETIN
Friday, November 20, 2009

American Cruise Lines
to operate QUEEN OF THE WEST

GUILFORD, CT — American Cruise Lines has announced it will start operating 7-night itineraries aboard the recently acquired QUEEN OF THE WEST, on the Columbia and Snake Rivers in 2010. QUEEN OF THE WEST, a 120-passenger, U.S. flagged cruise ship, is currently the only authentic paddlewheel, over-night passenger vessel, operating in North America. The ship now joins American Cruise Lines’ newest fleet of cruise ships in the industry. American Cruise Lines plans
to announce plans for even further expansion to the West Coast in early 2010. American Cruise Lines is planning several different itineraries that will depart from Portland and Clarkston, Washington, starting in the summer of 2010. Stops along the route will include the Columbia River Gorge, Multonomah Falls, Mt. St. Helen’s, The Dalles, Hells Canyon and Astoria.


FRA study finds
freight rail saves fuel

WASHINGTON, DC — The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has released a study showing vast improvements in freight rail fuel efficiency over the last two decades, approximately 22 percent between 1990 and 2006. “While all types of transportation are vital to the distribution of goods across the country, this study shows that utilizing America’s freight rail system can lead to significant fuel savings,” said FRA Administrator Joseph Szabo. “The environmental benefits of these positive changes over the last two decades are enormous. We look forward to working with the freight rail industry to make sure these gains continue.” Several factors point to the reasons for rail’s fuel efficiency, including the improvement in diesel-electric locomotives, the increased use of double stack trains, track and signal improvements, and longer trains. The complete study can be found at:
http://www.fra.dot.gov/Downloads/Comparative_Evaluation_Rail_Truck_Fuel_Efficiency.pdf.


Rail freight traffic
drops during week

WASHINGTON, DC — The Association of American Railroads reports that rail traffic remains down year over year for the week ended Oct. 24, 2009. U.S railroads reported originating 276,357 carloads, down 14.8 percent compared with the same week in 2008 and 17.3 percent from 2007. It was around this time last year notable declines in rail carloads and rail intermodal traffic showed the first significant signs of the nation’s economic downturn. Therefore, the AAR will be reporting 2009 weekly rail traffic with year over comparisons for both 2008 and 2007 going forward. In the West, carloads were down 14.8 percent compared with the same week last year, and 15.8 percent compared with 2007. In the East, carloads were down 14.8 compared with 2008, and 19.4 percent compared with the same week in 2007. Intermodal traffic totaled 207,401 trailers or containers, down 10.1 percent from a year ago and 14.5 percent from 2007. Compared with the same week last year, container volume fell 3.6 percent and trailer volume dropped 34.7 percent. Compared with the same week in 2007, container volume fell 7.4 percent and trailer volume dropped 40.1 percent. While 17 of the 19 carload freight commodity groups were down from the same week last year, grain mill products were up 9.6 percent and grain was up 6.2 percent compared with the same week in 2008. Declines in commodity groups ranged from 1.9 percent for chemicals to 66.1 percent for metallic ores. Total volume on U.S. railroads for the week ending October 24, 2009 was estimated at 31.1 billion ton-miles, down 13.4 percent compared with the same week last year and 11.1 percent from 2007.


Grand Alliance carriers
moving to Winter Program

TOKYO — As practiced in previous years, Grand Alliance members Hapag-Lloyd, Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK) and Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL), have announced a Winter Program for their US East Coast all water services. The temporary service adjustments are intended to take effect from December 1, 2009 and will last for around 18 weeks. The service changes have been made to ensure continuation of the service network by adjusting capacity to the seasonal demand of customers. The North & Central China East Coast Express (NCE) will provide enhanced coverage including a new call at Kingston. The Grand Alliance will provide seven 4,150 TEU vessels and ZIM will provide one 4,150 TEU vessel.
The new port rotation of the NCE will be as follows:
Pusan / Qingdao / Ningbo/ Shanghai / Panama / Kingston / New York / Norfolk / Savannah / Kingston / Panama / Pusan
The South China East Coast Express (SCE) service will be temporarily replaced by a combined service with the New York Express (NYX) service which is operated by The New World Alliance lines - APL, Hyundai Merchant Marine (HMM) and Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL). In the newly combined loop, the Grand Alliance will provide three 3,800 TEU vessels out of 9 ships for 18 weeks.
The port rotation of the SCE during the Winter Program will be as follows:
Shanghai / Ningbo / Shekou / Yantian / Hong Kong / Kaohsiung / Panama Canal / Manzanillo / New York / Norfolk / Savannah / Jacksonville / Miami / Manzanillo / Panama Canal / Balboa / Yokohama / Pusan / Shanghai


New Boeing freighter
sports special 'light' livery

EVERETT — Boeing moved the first 747-8 Freighter out of the paint hangar in Everett, Wash., Tuesday night sporting a special "light" livery. Painted white with blue accents, the 747-8 Freighter unveiled a new twist on the Boeing Commercial Airplanes livery. It features an oversized "8" on the background of the tail as well as "747-8" on the belly. The light livery, which saves time and expense compared to the full Boeing livery, will remain on the airplane until the flight-test program is completed. After flight test, it will be refurbished and delivered to a customer. The first freighter will begin preparing for the necessary tests leading up to first flight in early 2010.


NEWS BULLETIN
Thursday, November 19, 2009

Alliance carriers plan cuts
to New York Express service

TOKYO — The New World Alliance (TNWA) carriers - APL, Hyundai Merchant Marine (HMM) and Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) - have announced service and capacity changes, which will include the Grand Alliance (GA) lines - Hapag-Lloyd, Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK), and Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL). From December 2, 2009, the GA will jointly operate the New York Express (NYX) with TNWA. TNWA will provide six ships and the GA three vessels. APL, HMM and MOL will each withdraw one ship from the service. In addition to a recently added Yokohama call, the NYX port coverage will be enhanced with an additional call at Shekou. The revised port rotation is Shanghai, Ningbo, Shekou, Yantian, Hong Kong, Kaohsiung, Panama Canal, Manzanillo, New York, Norfolk, Savannah, Jacksonville, Miami, Manzanillo, Panama Canal, Balboa, Yokohama and Pusan. The changes made will reduce trade capacity by approximately 4,000 TEU.


Hamburg Sud changing
Port of Seattle terminal

MORRISTOWN, NJ — Hamburg Süd has moved its Pacific Coast / South America West Coast service to a new terminal in Seattle. As of November 1, 2009 this service is now calling at:
Terminal 46 – Total Terminals International (TTI)
401 Alaskan Way
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone: (206) 622-9130
Fax: (206) 621-8980
The Pacific Coast / Australia-New Zealand service will continue to call at Terminal 18 in Seattle.


Panama Canal calling for
vehicular crossing project bids

PANAMA CITY — The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) released a request for proposals last Friday to select a contractor to conduct a study on vehicular crossing alternatives on the canal’s Atlantic side. The scope of work includes analyzing the feasibility of building either a bridge or a tunnel north of the existing Gatun Locks and the new post-Panamax locks complex, and subsequently, determining the best alternative. Interested contractors have 30 days to submit their proposals for this non-negotiated best value bid. A committee of ACP engineers will evaluate the proposals and reserves the right to contract the services of external consultants to make recommendations on the submissions. The technical portion of the proposals will constitute 65 percent of the total score, while the price proposals will represent 35 percent. The ACP expects to award the contract in January 2010. The selected contractor will have seven months to present the studies.


Titan Salvage successful
in removing grounded barge

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA — Titan Salvage crews report they successfully pulled the barge LA PRINCESA off Sandbridge beach at 7:48 a.m. Wednesday. The crews used two tugs pulling together on the bow and stern of the barge at high tide to free it. The barge, which broke free from the tug SENTRY last Thursday night, grounded on the beach near Little Island Pier Friday morning. Coast Guard, Crowley and Titan Salvage personnel worked together to remove the barge from the beach while ensuring the safety of the public and environment. Coast Guard inspectors and a member of the American Bureau of Shipping will survey the vessel to ensure that it is seaworthy. Once the survey team is satisfied, the tug Sentry will tow the barge to its next port of call in Pennsauken, N.J.


Tsakos selling
pair of vessels

ATHENS — Tsakos Energy Navigation Ltd. (TEN) has announced the delivery of the PENTATHLON to its new owners and the sale of the 2002-built 164,274 dwt suezmax tanker DECATHLON to the same independent third party. The DECATHLON will be delivered to its buyers in February, 2010.The capital gains resulting from the sale of the vessels will be recorded in the fourth quarter of 2009 and the first quarter of 2010. All proceeds from both sales will be free cash available for reinvestment.


NEWS BULLETIN
Wednesday, November 18, 2009

The North West Company
inks lease with Port of Tacoma

TACOMA — The North West Company has signed a lease with the Port of Tacoma that will create new jobs and strengthen Tacoma's trade connections with Alaska. The company will lease a 100,000 square-foot warehouse in the port area, and ship goods to Alaska on Horizon Lines, as well as on Totem Ocean Trailer Express. The company's new operation is expected to create more than 30 new jobs in the Tacoma area. The company plans to start operating from their new warehouse location in December, using it for the storage and distribution of food and retail products for Alaska. The warehouse facility in Tacoma will also serve the company's Alaska wholesale business, known as Frontier Expeditors and Span Alaska Sales. Alaska is the port's third largest trading partner.


Five-star EnviroStarts rating goes to
Port of Bremerton airport/industial park

BREMERTON — The Port of Bremerton's airport and industrial park has earned a five-star rating in Kitsap County Health District’s EnviroStars program, becoming the first airport/industrial park to be recognized in the five-county EnviroStars region for its environmental stewardship practices. The five-star rating is the highest level of certification in the EnviroStars program, which has certified more than 600 businesses since 1995 in Kitsap, King, Pierce, Jefferson and Whatcom counties for practices that reduce hazardous waste and encourage environmental sustainability, Previously, the Port had earned five-star ratings at both its Port Orchard and Bremerton marinas.


Court names Marcon broker
in sale of air cushion barge

COUPEVILLE, WA — Marcon International, Inc. of Coupeville, Washington has been appointed as broker by the Court appointed Interim Receiver and Receiver of Redfern Resources Ltd. of British Columbia, Canada to sell the specially designed, newbuilding hover or air-cushion-barge MONTY. The 210' x 82' MONTY was being built by Sundial Marine Construction of Troutdale, Oregon for Redfern Resources. Redfern planned to haul supplies in and mineral ore concentrates out from a multi-metal gold, zinc, copper and lead mine on the Tulsequah River in Canada, 40 miles northeast of Juneau, Alaska. The MONTY is a unique barge designed by Hovertrans Ltd. and engineered by BMT Nigel, UK to hover about 5' above the surface while carrying a payload of approx. 450 tons of deck cargo on a 9,000ft2 clear deck. The barge is nearly complete and presently sitting out of the water. It can reportedly be delivered about one month after purchase. MONTY is offered for sale by the Receiver on a strictly "as is, where is" basis, with buyer to negotiate separately with the builder, paying separately for any work the buyer may wish the builder to complete.


NASSCO lays keel
of fifth State-class vessel

SAN DIEGO — General Dynamics NASSCO, a wholly-owned subsidiary of General Dynamics, has laid the keel of the fifth ship of its State-class product carriers. The ship will be named EVERGREEN STATE, the state nickname of Washington. NASSCO began constructing the future EVERGREEN STATE last May. The ship will be double-hulled and have a cargo capacity of approximately 331,000 barrels. It will be used in Jones Act service, carrying petroleum and chemical products between U.S. ports. The shipyard anticipates delivering the vessel to American Petroleum Tankers, LLC, in the fourth quarter of 2010.


Urban League presents Crowley
with workplace equal opportunity honor

JACKSONVILLE, FL — Crowley was recently recognized by the Jacksonville Urban League for the company's significant efforts in the areas of diversity and equal opportunity in the workplace at the 36th Annual Equal Opportunity Luncheon held at the Hyatt Regency Riverfront Hotel in Jacksonville. Urban League President Richard Danford, Ph.D., presented John Douglass, Crowley senior vice president of Gulf/Atlantic services, the Urban League's Equal Opportunity Award on behalf of Crowley. Crowley was one of only two companies selected for this honor in Jacksonville. BlueCross BlueShield of Florida was also recognized. As specified in the award, Crowley has demonstrated support, assistance or made significant inroads in furthering equal opportunity and has an extensive record of contributing to the improvement of equal opportunity among diverse groups.


NEWS BULLETIN
Monday, November 16, 2009

Corps taps Lake Union Drydock
for repair work on vessel PUGET

SEATTLE — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Seattle District, awarded a $504,491 contract Nov. 4 to Lake Union Drydock Company, Seattle, funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, to dry-dock and repower the Corps' Motor Vessel PUGET. The PUGET patrols the inland waters of Puget Sound collecting debris and obstructions to navigation. The vessel works an average of 11 months a year, picking up an average of 14 tons of navigation hazards per day. Removal of this debris in Puget Sound benefits one of the largest ferry operations in the United States; Navy, Coast Guard, Commerce ships; and more than 300,000 pleasure craft a year. The work on the PUGET will begin in December 2009 and will be completed in May 2010. While the PUGET is out of service, the Corps will use a contractor to continue the vessel's mission.


Heavy seas break towlines
of Crowley triple deck barge

JACKSONVILLE, FL — Crowley reports that during its voyage, approximately 12-14 hours from destination and 30 miles from the sea buoy, the LA PRINCESSA (a triple-deck, 580-foot long barge) encountered heavy seas that were remnants of Tropical Storm Ida. The two towlines used to pull the barge, broke in heavy weather and the barge was carried approximately 100 miles southwest where it came to rest parallel on Sand Bridge Beach in Virginia. It currently sits idle ¼ mile from the public fishing pier. An incident command post has been set up at the local fire station with a salvage team standing by. The LA PRINCESSA left San Juan on November 6, at 12:12 a.m. pulled by the tug SENTRY en route to Pennsauken, NJ for a regularly scheduled liner cargo service. The barge was loaded with 187 container/trailer units including nine refrigerated containers, which are currently operating on a power pack. The barge also included 125 empty units, five vehicles and one power pack used to power the refrigerated containers. Eighty-four HAZMAT loads, which contain products such as syrup for soft drinks, alcohol, empty cylinders formerly containing water purification chemicals, etc are also on board. Despite the fact that there is no compromise of cargo, environmental response teams are standing by. The barge was approximately 100 percent full. At this time the cargo remains securely onboard and does not pose any threat to either local citizens or the environment.


Alaska Airlines begins
new Portland/Chicago flights

SEATTLE — Alaska Airlines today begins daily nonstop service between Portland and Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, marking the latest in a series of new Portland routes introduced by the carrier this year. Alaska Airlines began flying from Seattle to Chicago in June 2000 and also offers daily nonstop service to the Windy City from Anchorage, Alaska. In addition to today's new service, the carrier this year has launched flights between Portland and Maui, Hawaii, and Austin, Texas (via San Jose, Calif.). Alaska Airlines also added Atlanta and Houston to its route network in 2009, and expanded its service to Hawaii with nonstop flights to Kahului, Maui, and Kona on the Big Island from Oakland, Calif.


Genco inks time charters
for pair of vessels

NEW YORK — Genco Shipping & Trading Limited has announced that it has reached an agreement to enter into a time charter for the GENCO CLAUDIUS, a Capesize newbuilding, with Cargill International S.A. for 10.5 to 13.5 months at a rate of $36,000 per day, less a five percent third-party brokerage commission. The time charter for the GENCO CLAUDIUS will commence upon delivery of the vessel, which is expected during December 2009, and is subject to the completion of definitive documentation. The company also announced it has reached an agreement to extend the time charter for the GENCO LEADER, a 1999-built Panamax vessel, with Baumarine AS for 10.5 to 13.5 months at a rate of $20,000 per day, less a five percent third party brokerage commission. The time charter is expected to commence following the expiration of the vessel's current time charter and is subject to the completion of definitive documentation.


Border Protection officers
nab wanted man at crossing

BLAINE — U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers apprehended a Vancouver, British Columbia man Wednesday who was wanted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation for alleged distribution of child pornography and attempted enticement of a minor. Officers arrested Ronald Fleet, 56, when he attempted to enter the United States at the Pacific Highway border crossing because a name check revealed that he was the subject of a felony warrant. After verification of the warrant for arrest with the FBI, Mr. Fleet was immediately taken into custody by CBP officers and was turned over to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office for appearance in federal court.


NEWS BULLETIN
Friday, November 13, 2009

West Coast ports team up
with two largest US railroads

QINGDAO — In a historical first, six major U.S. West Coast ports and two western railroads came together at the World Shipping Summit (WSS) in Qingdao, China, to announce their collaboration. They addressed leaders and customers of the maritime industry including ocean carriers, beneficial cargo owners (BCOs) and marine terminal and intermodal operators. The U.S. West Coast Collaboration (USWCC) is comprised of the major container-ports on the U.S. West Coast
- Seattle, Tacoma, Portland, Oakland, Long Beach, and Los Angeles - along with BNSF Railway Company and Union Pacific Railroad. The USWCC showcased the benefits of the U.S. West Coast as the premier region for trans-Pacific trade. The concept behind this collaboration began earlier in the year (2009) when the top leadership of these ports met to discuss ways to take advantage of their combined resources, experience, and proximity to Asia. They also recognized that the participation of the two largest U.S. railroads, Union Pacific and BNSF, was absolutely critical given the interdependency between port and rail to connect American markets with global markets.


Freight transport index
returns to negative territory

WASHINGTON, DC — The Freight Transportation Services Index (TSI) fell 0.5 percent in September from its August level, declining after three consecutive monthly increases, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) reports. BTS, a part of the Research and Innovative Technology Administration, reported that the Freight TSI has now declined in 10 of the past 14 months and in five of the nine months in 2009 despite the three consecutive monthly increases that began in June. It had increased 2.8 percent in between May and August. The Freight TSI measures the month-to-month changes in freight shipments in ton-miles, which are then combined into one index. The index measures the output of the for-hire freight transportation industry and consists of data from for-hire trucking, rail, inland waterways, pipelines and air freight. The September Freight TSI of 95.7 is a 2.3 percent increase from the recent low of 93.5 reached in May. In May, the index was at its lowest level in more than a decade since June 1997. The Freight TSI is down 15.2 percent from its historic peak of 112.9 reached in May 2006. The September Freight TSI of 95.7 is the lowest for September since September 1996 when it was 87.7. The 9.9 percent decline in the Freight TSI from September 2008 to September 2009 was the largest September-to-September decline in the 20 years for which the TSI is calculated.


Berkshire Hathaway buys
100 percent of Burlington Northern

FORT WORTH, TX — The boards of directors of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation (BNSF) have announced a definitive agreement for Berkshire Hathaway to acquire for $100 per share in cash and stock the remaining 77.4 percent of outstanding BNSF shares not currently owned to increase its holdings to 100 percent. Based on the number of outstanding BNI shares (including shares currently owned by Berkshire) on Nov. 2, 2009, the transaction is valued at approximately $44 billion, including $10 billion of outstanding BNSF debt, making it the largest acquisition in Berkshire Hathaway history. BNSF will continue to operate from its Fort Worth, TX headquarters and will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway.


US rail freight traffic
down again during week

WASHINGTON, DC — The Association of American Railroads has reported that rail traffic remains down year over year for the week ended Oct. 17, 2009. U.S railroads reported originating 275,545 carloads, down 15.4 percent compared with the same week in 2008. Regionally, carloads were down 14.2 percent in the West and 17 percent in the East. It was the same week last year that notable declines in rail carloads (2.4 percent) and rail intermodal (2.8 percent) traffic showed the first significant signs of the nation’s economic downturn. Therefore, year over comparisons for weekly rail traffic may appear to improve going forward. Intermodal traffic totaled 206,139 trailers or containers, down 12.6 percent from a year ago. In the year-over-year comparison container volume fell 6.7 percent and trailer volume dropped 35.2 percent. Eighteen of the 19 carload freight commodity groups were down from the same week last year. However, grain mill products were up 7.3 percent. Declines in commodity groups ranged from 2.7 percent for petroleum products to 74.7 percent for metallic ores. For the first 41 weeks of 2009, U.S. railroads reported cumulative volume of 10,930,879 carloads, down 18.1 percent from 2008; 7,762,379 trailers or containers, down 16.5 percent, and total volume of an estimated 1.17 trillion ton-miles, down 17.1 percent. Total volume on U.S. railroads for the week ending October 17 was estimated at 31 billion ton-miles, off 13.9 percent from the same week last year.


Boeing rolls out
first 747-8 freighter

EVERETT — Yesterday, Boeing towed the first 747-8 Freighter out of the factory in Everett. The airplane, ultimately destined for Cargolux, will be painted and begin preparations for flight test. The 747-8 Freighter is 250 feet, 2 inches (76.3 m) long, which is 18 feet and 4 inches (5.6 m) longer than the 747-400 Freighter. The stretch provides customers with 16 percent more revenue cargo volume compared to its predecessor. That translates to four additional main-deck pallets and three additional lower-hold pallets. Boeing has secured 105 orders for the 747-8, 78 of which are orders for the new freighter. Cargolux, Nippon Cargo Airlines, AirBridgeCargo Airlines, Atlas Air, Cathay Pacific, Dubai Aerospace Enterprise, Emirates SkyCargo, Guggenheim and Korean Air all have placed orders for the
747-8 Freighter.


NEWS BULLETIN
Thursday, November 12, 2009

Sea-Tac Airport honored
for environmental efforts

SEATTLE — Seattle-Tacoma International Airport took first place for the Best “Green” Concessions Practice award among airports in North America. The honor was announced during the 2009 Airports Council International – North America Concessions Conference in Indianapolis, at which roughly 200 representatives of North American airport concessions industry are in attendance. Sea-Tac was also awarded second place for Best Convenience Retail Program. During 2008 alone, concessionaires recycled more than 1,200 tons of material; an amount equivalent to the weight of six Boeing 747 aircraft. During the same period, they avoided disposal costs and generated revenue through rebates on recyclables which totaled $160,000.


Greenbrier announces
fourth quarter numbers

LAKE OWSEGO, OR — The Greenbrier Companies has reported results for its fiscal fourth quarter and year ended August 31, 2009. Revenues for the quarter were $230 million, down $132 million vs. the prior year's fourth quarter. Net earnings for the quarter were $6.7 million, or $.37 per diluted share vs. $7.4 million, or $.45 per diluted share, in the prior year's fourth quarter. Results for the quarter include severance costs, write-off of loan fees and warrant amortization expense of $2.5 million, net of tax, or $.14 per diluted share. Results for the quarter also include tax benefits of $6.8 million, or $.37 per diluted share, related to a reversal of a deferred tax liability and deemed liquidation of a foreign subsidiary for tax purposes. EBITDA for the quarter was $23.7 million, or 10.3 percent of revenues, compared to $33.7 million, or 9.3 percent of revenues in the fourth quarter of 2008. Revenues for the year were down 21 percent, to $1.0 billion, reflecting the impact of the economic recession on all business segments. Greenbrier's new railcar manufacturing backlog as of August 31, 2009 was 13,400 units valued at $1.16 billion, compared to 14,100 units valued at $1.25 billion as of May 31, 2009. Based on current production plans, approximately 2,400 units in backlog are scheduled for delivery in 2010. Marine backlog was $126 million as of August 31, 2009 and $145 million as of May 31, 2009.


Grand Alliance going to
Asia/Europe winter schedule

TOKYO — Grand Alliance partners Hapag-Lloyd, Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK) and Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL) have announced their Winter Program for Asia-Europe services, with effect from December 28, 2009. Four of the GA’s current Asia-Europe services, EU1, EU2, EU3, and EU4, will be temporarily adjusted into three weekly services, renamed Loop A, B and C. The service changes have been made to ensure continuation of the service network by adjusting capacity to the seasonal demand of customers. The port rotation for the three weekly services is as follows:
Loop A
Kobe, Nagoya, Tokyo, Shimizu, Yantian, Hong Kong, Singapore, Jeddah, Suez Canal, Rotterdam, Hamburg, Southampton, Le Havre, Suez Canal, Singapore, Hong Kong, Yantian and Kobe. 9 vessels with a capacity of about 8,600 TEU each will operate in this service. Loading will start on December 28, 2009 in Kobe.
Loop B:
Dalian, Xingang, Pusan, Qingdao, Shanghai, Ningbo, Shekou, Singapore, Suez Canal, Hamburg, Antwerp, Southampton, Cagliari, Suez Canal, Jeddah, Jebel Ali, Singapore, Shekou, Qingdao, Pusan and Dalian. This service is operated by 12 vessels with a capacity of 8,300 TEU each. Loading will start on January 2, 2010 in Dalian.
Loop C:
Ningbo, Shanghai, Xiamen, Kaohsiung, Shekou, Hong Kong, Singapore, Port Kelang, Suez Canal, Southampton, Rotterdam, Hamburg, Southampton, Suez Canal, Singapore, Shekou, Hong Kong, Kaohsiung and Ningbo. This service will consist of ten vessels of 7,860 TEU. Loading starts on January 1, 2010 in Ningbo.


NOL plans to open
service center in Chongqing

SINGAPORE — Neptune Orient Lines (NOL), has announced that it will establish an administration and service center in Chongqing Municipality, western China. The new Chongqing center will provide key support processes for customs compliance, bill of lading production and invoicing for APL, the Group's container shipping business. It will support APL backroom operations across Greater China, Japan, Korea and the Americas. During 2010 activities currently delivered from the company’s Regional Administration Center in Shanghai will be progressively migrated to Chongqing. APL is confident that the changes will be implemented efficiently and without disruption to operations.


Company plans to introduce
new foldable shipping container

ANAHEIM — Boston-based Compact Container Systems (CCS) has announced the introduction of a new industrial grade 40' High Cube Foldable Container designed to reduce backhaul shipping and storage costs up to 75 percent. The FOLDX 40-HC will make its first appearance at the 2009 TransComp and Intermodal Expo in Anaheim, Calif. on November 15. With over 27 million twenty-foot-equivalent (TEU) containers in circulation, generating more than 120 million TEU movements per year, the industry spends over $22 billion annually on repositioning empty containers. This new compact design allows four containers to be stacked in the space of one standard container, reducing the backhaul costs up to 75 percent.


NEWS BULLETIN
Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Port of Seattle holding
Veterans Day breakfast

SEATTLE — The Port of Seattle will honor veterans at a breakfast event this morning. At the event, the port will introduce the newest group of participants in the Veterans Fellowship Program, a unique program that provides assistance to veterans transitioning into the civilian work force. Each class of four fellows works at the Port of Seattle for six months, gaining valuable civilian work experience. In addition, the port provides resume and interview assistance. The port will be introducing the fourth class of fellows at this event. Marjorie James, president of Hire America’s Heroes, will be the keynote speaker.


Maersk Line plans to rejoin
Transpacific Stabilization Agreement

OAKLAND — Copenhagen-based container shipping firm Maersk Line has applied to rejoin the Transpacific Stabilization Agreement (TSA), effective December 24, 2009. Maersk had been a member of TSA from its inception in 1989 until its resignation from the research and discussion forum in 2004. Maersk Line provides stand-alone container shipping and related logistics services from Asia to the U.S., and also participates in a vessel-sharing arrangement from China to the U.S. West Coast with TSA member carriers Mediterranean Shipping Co. and CMA-CGM. TSA is a research and discussion forum of major container shipping lines serving the trade from Asia to ports and inland points in the U.S.


CMA CGM puts to work
giant new container ship

MARSEILLES — The CMA CGM Group is has announced the delivery, in South Korea, of the CMA CGM CHRISTOPHE COLOMB (13,300 TEU). New flagship of the Group, it is to date, one of the world’s largest container ships at 365 meters long, 51.2 meters wide, with a draft of 15.5 meters. The vessel will start its rotation today, in Shanghai and then on to Ningbo (12th of November), Xiamen (14th of November), Hong Kong (15th of November), Yantian (16th of November) and Algeciras (3rd of December) before calling Rotterdam on the 7th of December and, finally, Bremerhaven on the 9th of December.


Admiral Allen Worley leaving
Merchant Marine Academy post

WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood has accepted the resignation of Rear Admiral Allen Worley, Superintendent of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York, effective January 4, 2010. “The Merchant Marine Academy has gone through an important rebuilding year and is positioned for reaching the next level,” said Secretary LaHood. “We are confident the Academy is on course to continue as the premier institution in maritime education. We appreciate Admiral Worley’s service.” Secretary LaHood noted that during the last year several steps were taken to upgrade processes at the Academy and to improve educational opportunities for Midshipmen, including cutting student fees in half, hiring an outside accounting firm to improve Academy finances and assigning a blue ribbon panel of national experts to examine the capital needs of the school and make recommendations for its upgrade. Dr. Shashi Kumar, Academic Dean and Assistant Superintendent for Academic Affairs, will act as interim Superintendent upon Admiral Worley’s departure in January. A nationwide search will be conducted to find a permanent successor. Admiral Worley has been the Superintendent of the United States Merchant Marine Academy since November 2008, the tenth person to hold this post since the institution’s dedication in 1943.


Coast Guard Station Seattle
earns rare readiness honor

SEATTLE — Coast Guard Station Seattle personnel will be presented the Sumner I. Kimball Award at U.S. Coast Guard Base Pier 36 at 8:30 a.m. tomorrow. Rear Admiral Gary Blore, Commander, 13th Coast Guard District, will present the award for the unit's exceptional readiness posture. The Sumner I. Kimball Award recognizes the achievement of high readiness of shore unit boats and personnel through an inspection of vessel conditions and survival systems, performance of underway drills and examination of unit training programs. While the Coast Guard maintains a high readiness posture, only 10 percent of shore-based boat force units earn the Kimball Award each year. The award is named for Sumner I. Kimball, the general superintendent of the U.S. Life-Saving Service from 1878 to 1915. Mr. Kimball's accomplishments included organizing divided life-saving stations into unified, mission capable teams, which later became part of the U. S. Coast Guard in 1915.


NEWS BULLETIN
Monday, November 9, 2009

Port of Seattle part of team
preserving Eastside Rail Corridor

SEATTLE — The Port of Seattle will be joined by several local agencies in preserving the Eastside Rail Corridor and placing it in public ownership. King County, Sound Transit, the City of Redmond, Puget Sound Energy, and the Cascade Water Alliance will partner with the port in maximizing the corridor’s benefit for the region. The six partners signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on November 5, that outlines the components of the plan. The governing boards of each organization must also authorize the negotiations. The port’s acquisition of the corridor is scheduled to close Dec. 15. The 42-mile corridor stretches from Snohomish to Renton, with a short spur that goes through the city of Redmond. The Port of Seattle will maintain freight service between Snohomish and Woodinville. King County and Sound Transit will acquire rights in the southern section between Woodinville and Renton. The southern portion of the track will be preserved for dual transportation and recreation uses under the federal rail banking program. King County intends to develop a bike and walking path along portions of the corridor. For a copy of the MOU and other details about the rail corridor, visit www.portseattle.org .


MarAd gives Ok
to deepwater LNG facility

WASHINGTON, DC — Acting Maritime Administrator David T. Matsuda has approved the construction of a deepwater port for liquefied natural gas (LNG) off the coast of Florida. As part of the approval agreement, officials for Port Dolphin Energy, LLC, agreed to provide employment and training opportunities to American mariners on ships using the port. The Port Dolphin facility will be located in the Gulf of Mexico, approximately 28 miles southwest of Tampa Bay. Deepwater ports are offshore facilities used to transfer imported oil and natural gas from carrier vessels to shore via sub-sea pipelines. The apparatus is submerged most of the time, and is marked by a buoy. A tanker pulls the apparatus up, connects and offloads, and then, when the deepwater port is not being used, it submerges, which minimizes its environmental impact. When the Port Dolphin facility is operational, it is expected to deliver about 400 million cubic feet of natural gas per day to Florida facilities, with the ability to deliver up to 1,200 million cubic feet a day at peak capacity. Construction is expected to begin in early 2013, and operations are expected to begin late that same year.


Corps schedules closure
of large lock in Ballard

SEATTLE — The large lock at the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Ballard will be closed for maintenance work from 6 a.m. Nov. 12 to 5 p.m. Nov. 25. The small lock will remain open for boat traffic throughout this period. The small lock can normally accommodate vessels 100 feet in length with 25 foot beams. The scheduled repairs to the large lock are part of an annual general maintenance program. For current information about activities at the locks, visit the Corps of Engineers Web site at www.nws.usace.army.mil and select “Dams and Locks” then “Lake Washington Ship Canal” from the left column.


Diana Shipping takes delivery
of Capesize dry bulk carrier

ATHENS — Diana Shipping Inc., a global shipping transportation company specializing in dry bulk cargoes, has announced that the company has taken delivery of the newly-built m/v HOUSTON, a 177,729 dwt Capesize dry bulk carrier built jointly by Shanghai Jiangnan-Changxing Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. and Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. The HOUSTON is chartered to Shagang Shipping Co., a guaranteed nominee of the Jiangsu Shagang Shipping Group Co. The charter contract provides for a minimum 59 to a maximum 62 month period at a gross rate of US$55,000 per day. The charter commenced on November 3, 2009. During the minimum period, this employment is expected to generate gross revenues of approximately US$97 million.


Gingerbread house contest
highlights Bellingham holiday event

BELLINGHAM — The Port of Bellingham reminds us that the Holiday Port Festival & Gingerbread House Contest 2009 is just around the corner. This year's festival will be Friday through Sunday, December 4-6, 2009 at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal. With nine categories and fun for all ages, the 14th Annual Gingerbread House Contest is a great activity to share with the family, or show off your creativity. Entry is free, and you may enter more than one ginger-structure. Over the years the port has seen the Empire State Building, castles, a blueberry farm and Helm's Deep from the Lord of the Rings - all created in gingerbread and candy! Visit the port's web site at: http://www.portofbellingham.com for more information.


NEWS BULLETIN
Friday, November 6, 2009

Coast Guard port captain
closes Columbia/Tillamook bars

PORTLAND — The Coast Guard Captain of the Port, Portland, closed the Columbia River and Tillamook Bay bars Thursday due to hazardous conditions. The bar closure is for all vessels and any request to transit the bars prior to reopening must be approved by the Captain of the Port, Portland. Vessels are advised to divert to Yaquina Bay, Ore., or be prepared to remain at sea until the weather clears. Mariners may contact the Coast Guard on Channel 16 for further information or to request crossing. It is expected the Captain of the Port, Portland, will re-open the Columbia River and Tillamook Bay bars on or before 5 p.m. Sunday.


Wood products association
predicts lumber demand upswing

PORTLAND — Western sawmills, mired in historic lows in housing and lumber demand, should see signs of a recovery in 2010 after five straight years of losses, according to a forecast released by Western Wood Products Association. In its newest outlook, the lumber trade association notes 2009 should be the bottom for mills, with lumber demand dropping to the lowest point in modern history. While lumber markets are expected to improve in 2010, the recovery will be slow for Western mills. Just 31 billion board feet of lumber is expected to be used in 2009 – less than half of what was consumed in 2005, which was an all-time high in lumber demand. Most of the drop in demand was caused by the U.S. financial crisis and ensuing collapse of new residential construction. For next year, WWPA predicts lumber demand to rise 11 percent to 34.5 billion board feet. Housing starts will increase 21 percent to 668,000. While this increase will be a substantial improvement compared to 2009, it represents only half the total constructed in 2007.


Weekly rail freight traffic count
continues downward swing

WASHINGTON, DC — The Association of American Railroads has reported that for the week ending Oct. 10, 2009, rail traffic remains down – originating 273,429 carloads, down 17.2 percent compared with the same week in 2008. Regionally, carloads were down 15.4 percent in the West and 19.7 percent in the East. Intermodal traffic, while down 11 percent from the same week last year, showed slight signs of improvement this week. U.S. railroads reported originating 208,941 trailers or containers for 2009 – the highest weekly intermodal volume for 2009. In the year over year comparison, however, container volume fell 4.6 percent and trailer volume dropped 34.9 percent. Seventeen of the 19 carload freight commodity groups were down from the same week last year. However, nonmetallic minerals were up 6 percent and grain mill products were up 1.4 percent. Declines in commodity groups ranged from 3.1 percent for grain to 70.4 percent for metallic ores. For the first 40 weeks of 2009, U.S. railroads reported cumulative volume of 10,655,334 carloads, down 18.1 percent from 2008; 7,556,240 trailers or containers, down 16.6 percent, and total volume of an estimated 1.14 trillion ton-miles, down 17.2 percent. Total volume on U.S. railroads for the week ending October 10 was estimated at 30.8 billion ton-miles, off 16.1 percent from the same week last year.


APL earns top spot
in Lloyd's List competition

SINGAPORE — APL was again named Asian Container Shipping Line of the Year at the Lloyd’s List Asia Awards ceremony held on October 29, in Singapore, attended by over 450 top industry executives from around the region. The award is given to the shipping line judged to have been best in class in the provision of on-time and cost efficient container shipping services, as well as innovation in customer service and offerings within Asia. APL reports it caught the judges’ attention due to its flexibility in responding to customers amid the tightest container market in memory. They took note of the way APL teamed up with its sister business APL Logistics to provide options for customers such as shipping and trucking services that provided an alternative to airfreight services. The introduction of APL’s new US-Vietnam service was also highlighted.


Working waterfront artwork
on display at Port of Seattle

SEATTLE — Why would four painters decide to paint the industrial waterfront—awe of massive machinery? Attraction to oxidation? Environmental awareness? Puget Sound is renowned for its natural beauty, prompting countless traditional landscape paintings But these four artists find meaning in places known more for productivity and grime than postcard views—the colors and textures of tankers and bulk carriers, the grandeur of industrial structures, the complex interplay between the man-made and natural world. The exhibit at Port of Seattle headquarters illustrates the beauty found in wear and tear, rust, journey, maintenance and survival – objects that helped support generations of families who found their livelihoods on the working waterfront. Catherine Gill, Melinda Hannigan, Robin Siegl and Suze Woolf show 39 paintings across a wide range of media, size, focal distance, color, all united by this common subject matter. The exhibit is on display at Pier 69 from November 10, 2009 to February 6, 2010. An opening reception takes place on November 10 from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Paintings in the lobby are on view Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; viewing works in the building’s Conference Center is by invitation.


NEWS BULLETIN
Thursday, November 5, 2009

Port association schedules
international trade routes event

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Considered to be one of the most important...and game changing...public works projects of the century, completion of a third set of Panama Canal ship locks in 2014 will provide many of the world's largest vessels a crucial "intercontinental shortcut" to lucrative markets. To examine the potential impacts of this project and other major trade pattern developments-and the ripple effects on everything from dredging, port competition, vessel transloading and short-sea shipping-the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA), U.S. Maritime Administration and Tampa Port Authority are partnering for the third consecutive year to offer their Shifting International Trade Routes seminar in Tampa, Fla., Jan. 26-27, 2010. This 1½ -day program will examine changing global trade patterns; impacts of improving "all water" shipping routes; anticipated waterside, marine terminal development and distribution/warehousing needs; increased road and rail capacity requirements; and infrastructure financing challenges in the coming years. Confirmed speakers include NYK Line North America President Peter Keller, Panama Canal Authority Chief Executive Officer Alberto Alemán Zubieta, PB Consult Inc. Senior Advisor Mort Downey, Halcrow Inc. Trade & Transportation Principal Bob West, Moffat & Nichol Chief Economist Walter Kemmsies, Ph.D., and Port Authority of the Americas (Puerto Rico) Executive Director Rhonda Castillo Gammill. More information about AAPA's Shifting International Trade Routes workshop is available at http://www.appa-ports.org/ (click on the "Programs & Events" tab).


OOCL celebrates launch
of new container vessel

HONG KONG — OOCL is has announced the christening of the tenth Panamax class vessel in its line of 16 4,500-TEU vessels ordered from Samsung Heavy Industries. The new vessel was christened the m.v. OOCL DALIAN by sponsor Wang Peng, vice president of Port of Dalian Authority, accompanied by Dai Li Hua, deputy general manager of Dalian Port Container Co. Ltd. OOCL DALIAN will be deployed on the Intra-Asia China/Pakistan Express service. The port rotation is: Shanghai / Ningbo/ Shekou / Singapore / Karachi/ Mundra / Nhave Sheva / Penang / Port Kelang / Singapore / Hong Kong and back to Shanghai in a 35-day round trip.


Schnitzer Steel dividend string
running since November, 1993

PORTLAND — The Board of Directors of Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. has declared a cash dividend of $0.017 per common share, payable on November 30, 2009, to shareholders of record on November 16, 2009. Schnitzer has paid a dividend every quarter since going public in November 1993. Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. is one of the largest manufacturers and exporters of recycled ferrous metal products in the United States with 42 operating facilities located in 13 states and Puerto Rico, including seven export facilities located on both the East and West Coasts and in Hawaii and Puerto Rico.


Aries Maritime sets charter
for Capesize tanker AUSTRALIA

ATHENS — Aries Maritime Transport Limited has announced a two-year time charter for the 1993-built, 172,972 dwt Capesize tanker MV AUSTRALIA at a gross rate of $21,750 per day. Most recently, the MV AUSTRALIA has been operating in the spot market for the past 60 days, as management developed opportunities.


US Border Patrol honors
Coast Guard Auxiliarist

SEATTLE — The U.S. Border Patrol has recognized a Coast Guard Auxiliarist at Coast Guard Station Port Angeles, Wash. Auxiliarist Dick Halsaver was recognized for his efforts as coordinator of the Citizen's Action Network (CAN). Mr. Halsaver recognized the need to increase collaboration between the U.S. Border Patrol and CAN, which is resulting in a safer border community. The relationship ultimately resulted in the development of intelligence leads that enhanced the Border Patrol's ability to identify, classify and respond to reported maritime border incursions along the Strait of Juan de Fuca.


NEWS BULLETIN
Wednesday, November 4, 2009

WTSA member carriers
eye series of rate increases

OAKLAND — Container shipping lines in the Westbound Transpacific Stabilization Agreement (WTSA) are proposing a new series of general rate increases (GRIs) on December 1, 2009 and January 15, 2010, that will affect all dry and refrigerated cargoes to all Asia destinations. The move follows a similar schedule of GRIs which took effect last September 1, and are part of a broad effort to restore rates to more compensatory levels that will help maintain service levels in the U.S.-Asia trade. Effective December 1, WTSA lines have recommended increases to dry cargo rates – including rates for commodities exempt from tariff filing – in the amounts of US$100 per 40-foot container (FEU) and $80 per 20-foot container (TEU) for cargo originating at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach on the U.S. West Coast; and by $150 per FEU and $120 per TEU for all other dry cargo, including other West Coast ports, all-water shipments via the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts, and intermodal moves. On January 15, 2010, WTSA lines are recommending a GRI for refrigerated cargo, of $250 per FEU and by $200 per TEU for all U.S. West Coast shipments, and by $300 per FEU and $240 per TEU for intermodal and U.S. East/Gulf Coast all-water cargo


Israel Corporation shareholders
Ok capital injection for ZIM

HAIFA — ZIM Integrated Shipping Services will receive a capital injection of US$450 million from its parent company, following a vote by Israel Corporation shareholders. Israel Corporation shareholders also approved a US$100 million safety net, taking the combined total to well over half a billion dollars. One of the major elements of the restructuring plan will see Israel Corporation's capital injection converted to equity - creating a new, strong and stable capital structure for ZIM.


Airlines expanding service menu
from Portland International Airport

PORTLAND — Delta Air Lines, Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air this fall are expanding codeshare access for customers at Portland International Airport to include more than 70 daily departures to 32 nonstop destinations. This represents a 40 percent increase in codesharing between Delta and Alaska/Horizon compared to last fall’s schedules. From Portland, Delta offers Alaska customers access to thousands of connecting flights via its international hubs in Amsterdam, Atlanta, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York-JFK, Salt Lake City and Tokyo-Narita, as well as daily nonstop flights between Portland and Honolulu. Alaska, meanwhile, offers Delta customers convenient flights from Portland to 26 connecting destinations primarily across the West Coast, Alaska and Hawaii. New nonstop routes added to Delta’s schedule from Portland via Alaska and Horizon include: Boise, Boston, Burbank, Eugene, Fresno, Spokane, Las Vegas, Long Beach, Medford, Oakland, Ontario, Phoenix, Redmond, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose, Sacramento, Orange County, Santa Rosa and Vancouver.


Coast Guard sets up safety zone
due to Columbia Channel blasting

PORTLAND — The Coast Guard established a safety zone Sunday on the Columbia River during a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers channel improvement project between Warrior Point and Bachelor Point near St. Helens, Ore. The Coast Guard Captain of the Port, Portland, established the safety zone from Duck Club Light 6, east across to Bachelor Island, downstream following the shoreline to Austin Point and across the river to Warrior Point, due to blasting of the river bed with explosives. All mariners are advised that the channel will be narrowed down to one lane in the safety zone and no passing or overtaking will be allowed. The on-scene safety boat must be contacted prior to transiting the waterway and can be reached for passing information and other requests at (503) 396-9893 or VHF-FM channel 16. Access to the Columbia River from Lake River and Lewis River will be allowed with the permission of the Captain of the Port, Portland, via the safety boat. This project is scheduled to continue through Feb. 28, 2010. For additional information contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Portland District, at (503) 808-5150 or e-mail DLL-CENWPQuestions@nwp01.usace.army.mil. Detailed information and blasting schedule is available at www.crci-project.info/.


Portland Shipping Club
needs shopping spree support

PORTLAND — The Portland Shipping Club's 21st Annual Children's Shopping Spree for kids living in shelters is scheduled for Saturday, December 5, 2009. What a wonderful way to bring in the Christmas Season! The smiles on the children's faces reminds everyone of the true spirit of the season. The club needs volunteers to assist the children with their shopping, as well as gift wrappers and more! If you can assist the club with a donation, that would also be greatly appreciated- their goal is $7,500 to make this special event happen, and they have $250 so far. The club wants to thank everyone for helping the childern and making this event happen for the last 20 plus years. See the flyer for the 2009 December 5th Shopping Spree on: http://www.pdxmex.com/bulletins/psc/09SPREE.pdf


NEWS BULLETIN
Monday, November 2, 2009

Port of Portland completes
PDX runway construction phase

PORTLAND — With the completion of the first of three construction phases improving runways at Portland International Airport, Port of Portland has reopened the north runway, beginning to return aircraft to regular routes. The reopening follows a six-month north runway closure allowing completion of the first half of the rehabilitation and extension of the runway. The extension is needed to accommodate larger aircraft that require the extra length for takeoff at PDX when the longer south runway closes for rehabilitation in 2011. Construction activities completing the north runway will take place when the runway closes again during the May-October 2010 construction season. The south runway will close for rehabilitation from May-October 2011.


Panama Canal Authority
releases 2009 operational metrics

PANAMA CITY — The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has announced its operational metrics for the 2009 fiscal year (FY 2009). Canal Waters Time (CWT), the average time it takes a vessel to navigate the canal, including waiting time, decreased. Fiscal year 2009 (October 2008 – September 2009) statistics show a decline in total transits and tonnage compared to FY 2008. In addition, the canal experienced growth in some principal segments, most notably, general cargo, dry bulk, and tanker transits. In FY 2009, CWT decreased 26.9 percent – from 31.55 to 23.06 hours. For booked vessels (those ships holding reservations), CWT declined 16.1 percent – from 18.52 in FY 2008 to 15.54 hours this year. Total canal transits experienced a decline of 2.4 percent – from 14,702 to 14,342 transits. Panama Canal/Universal Measurement System (PC/UMS) tonnage decreased 3.4 percent – from 309.6 million PC/UMS tons to 299.1 million PC/UMS tons.


Crowley repowering program
means cleaner air for Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES — The air is a little cleaner at the Port of Los Angeles these days. Last month, the new and improved Crowley harbor class tug LEADER re-entered the ship assist and escort fleet of vessels following an extensive repowering of the vessel's main engines and generators. The repower project, the first of four Crowley tug engine replacements, will help reduce emissions and lessen overall environmental impact and is part of a larger Port of Los Angeles emissions and air quality initiative requiring vessel operators to upgrade their engines to be Tier II emissions compliant by 2013. The repower will reduce particulate matter emissions by 3.24 tons and mono-nitrogen oxides by 109.52 tons per year for all four tugs combined. Repowering each tug costs Crowley more than $1 million and is largely being funded with a portion of a $4 million Port of Los Angeles Air Quality Mitigation Incentive Program air quality improvement grant. This project also benefits the neighboring Port of Long Beach, which has environmental goals and clean air quality initiatives that are closely aligned with those of the Port of Los Angeles.


OOCL plans series
of freight rate increases

HONG KONG — Ocean freight rates continue to be below the required level to cover basic operating costs or transportation costs. Considering that current ocean freight rate levels are unsustainable for the long term, OOCL has announced the second phase of a rate restoration program which will be applied on January 1, 2010. The increases, which are required in order to maintain a viable service level and a comprehensive liner network for all OOCL customers, are as follows: Rates for cargo transiting ports of Canada, US East Coast, US Gulf, and Mexico will be increased by US$320 per 20’ container and US$400 per 40’ container. Rates for cargo transiting ports on the US West Coast will be increased by US$480 per 20’ container and US$600 per 40’ container.


MAERSK ALABAMA Captain
plans to publicly thank rescuers

NORFOLK, VA— For the first time since his rescue at sea, Captain Richard Phillips of the MAERSK ALABAMA will publicly thank the commanding officer and crew of the USS BAINBRIDGE during a ceremony in Norfolk, Virginia on November 19. The ceremony will take place on the fantail of guided missile cruiser at 2 p.m. The USS BAINBRIDGE will be moored on the downtown Norfolk waterfront. The Maersk container ship was captured by rogue pirates off the
coast of Somalia on April 8. Captain Phillips offered himself as a hostage in exchange for the safety of his crew. For four days, while the world watched, Capt. Phillips was held captive in a 25-foot lifeboat. On Easter Sunday, April 12, Navy SEALs positioned on the fantail of the USS BAINBRIDGE opened fire and killed three of the pirates who were holding Phillips hostage. Capt. Phillips was later rescued by the crew of the guided-missile destroyer.