By Karen Robes Meeks
Port of Long Beach Executive Director Mario Cordero will serve as the next chairman of the American Association of Port Authorities.
He is expected to be installed in September at the association’s annual convention, taking over for Port of Grays Harbor Executive Director Gary G. Nelson, who has served since Oct. 15, 2019.
“With his vast experience as an attorney, on the Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners (Board) as a member, vice president and president, as a member and chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission, and as executive director of America’s second busiest container port, Mario Cordero is an outstanding choice for heading our association during the upcoming activity year,” said Chris Connor, AAPA’s president and chief executive officer. “Together with his long-standing active engagement with AAPA and our member ports throughout the hemisphere, Mario’s remarkable skills as a maritime industry leader will be of enormous value as we work together to navigate through and out of the effects of the coronavirus crisis and address other common challenges and legislative priorities.”
Showing posts with label American Association of Port Authorities. Show all posts
Showing posts with label American Association of Port Authorities. Show all posts
Friday, March 27, 2020
Friday, January 31, 2020
2020 Smart Ports Conference to Take Place in San Pedro
By Karen Robes Meeks
Artificial intelligence, automation, cybersecurity and workforce development are among the topics that will be discussed at the American Association of Port Authorities’ 2020 Smart Ports event on Feb. 5-6 in San Pedro, Calif.
Centered around the theme “Envisioning the New Decade,” the event will feature talks on digital technology, advice on how to protect from cyber threats and ways to improve cargo flow.
“AAPA’s 2020 Smart Ports seminar will provide a comprehensive drill-down into how seaports are adapting to information, mechanization, security and workforce development changes as they embrace the digitized world,” said AAPA CEO Chris Connor. “Speed-of-light electronic data exchanges and robotics are fast becoming the norm in cargo transportation and supply chain logistics. Presenters at this seminar will detail many of the changes, challenges and charges that seaports face to compete in an increasingly technological marketplace.”
“The maritime industry’s digital transformation is at our doorstep,” said Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka. “The AAPA ‘Smarts Ports’ seminar is important because digital transformation is the future of seaborne trade. Pushing it off puts ports and maritime stakeholders at risk of competitive loss.”
The event will take place at the DoubleTree by Hilton – San Pedro – Port of Los Angeles, 2800 Via Cabrillo-Marina, San Pedro, Calif., 90731.
Artificial intelligence, automation, cybersecurity and workforce development are among the topics that will be discussed at the American Association of Port Authorities’ 2020 Smart Ports event on Feb. 5-6 in San Pedro, Calif.
Centered around the theme “Envisioning the New Decade,” the event will feature talks on digital technology, advice on how to protect from cyber threats and ways to improve cargo flow.
“AAPA’s 2020 Smart Ports seminar will provide a comprehensive drill-down into how seaports are adapting to information, mechanization, security and workforce development changes as they embrace the digitized world,” said AAPA CEO Chris Connor. “Speed-of-light electronic data exchanges and robotics are fast becoming the norm in cargo transportation and supply chain logistics. Presenters at this seminar will detail many of the changes, challenges and charges that seaports face to compete in an increasingly technological marketplace.”
“The maritime industry’s digital transformation is at our doorstep,” said Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka. “The AAPA ‘Smarts Ports’ seminar is important because digital transformation is the future of seaborne trade. Pushing it off puts ports and maritime stakeholders at risk of competitive loss.”
The event will take place at the DoubleTree by Hilton – San Pedro – Port of Los Angeles, 2800 Via Cabrillo-Marina, San Pedro, Calif., 90731.
Friday, October 11, 2019
AAPA to Host Three Events on West Coast
By Karen Robes Meeks
The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) recently announced that it will host three of its events on the West Coast in 2020. AAPA, which represents 130 seaport authorities in the US, Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean, will host 10 events next year, including eight maritime industry training seminars and two conferences. Events on the West Coast include the Smart Ports seminar, which focuses on information technology, is scheduled for Los Angeles, Calif., on Feb. 5–6; the Finance Seminar, presented in partnership with SAP Concur, will be in Seattle, Wash., on April 15-16; and the three-day Port Security Seminar and Expo is slated for San Diego, Calif., on July 15-17.
The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) recently announced that it will host three of its events on the West Coast in 2020. AAPA, which represents 130 seaport authorities in the US, Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean, will host 10 events next year, including eight maritime industry training seminars and two conferences. Events on the West Coast include the Smart Ports seminar, which focuses on information technology, is scheduled for Los Angeles, Calif., on Feb. 5–6; the Finance Seminar, presented in partnership with SAP Concur, will be in Seattle, Wash., on April 15-16; and the three-day Port Security Seminar and Expo is slated for San Diego, Calif., on July 15-17.
Tuesday, August 13, 2019
Port of Longview Honored by AAPA
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of Longview recently earned two Awards of Excellence from the American Association of Port Authorities’ 53rd annual Communications Awards Program.
The program, which recognizes seaports in the Western Hemisphere for outstanding communications projects, gave Longview the highest score in the Audio Only Presentations category for its Port Talk Radio series, a one-minute radio version of the port’s monthly newsletter.
Longview was also honor in the Visual Only Presentations category for its 64-foot, outdoor educational display at the 2018 Cowlitz County fair.
Longview has garnered such recognition in the last four editions of the national contest. This time around, the port competed against the Port of New Orleans, Port of New York/New Jersey, as well as ports in the Gulf Coast.
“Year after year I continue to be impressed with our communications staff,” said Port Commission President Doug Averett. “I am exceedingly proud of their creativity and commitment to teaching the community about the complexities of the port, as are my fellow commissioners.”
The Port of Longview recently earned two Awards of Excellence from the American Association of Port Authorities’ 53rd annual Communications Awards Program.
The program, which recognizes seaports in the Western Hemisphere for outstanding communications projects, gave Longview the highest score in the Audio Only Presentations category for its Port Talk Radio series, a one-minute radio version of the port’s monthly newsletter.
Longview was also honor in the Visual Only Presentations category for its 64-foot, outdoor educational display at the 2018 Cowlitz County fair.
Longview has garnered such recognition in the last four editions of the national contest. This time around, the port competed against the Port of New Orleans, Port of New York/New Jersey, as well as ports in the Gulf Coast.
“Year after year I continue to be impressed with our communications staff,” said Port Commission President Doug Averett. “I am exceedingly proud of their creativity and commitment to teaching the community about the complexities of the port, as are my fellow commissioners.”
Thursday, June 27, 2019
New AAPA President Named
By Karen Robes Meeks
Former Global CEO of Wallenius Wilhemsen Logistics Christopher J. Connor has been tapped as the new president and CEO of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA), it was announced this month.
Connor will transition into the position on Sept. 23, taking over for longtime leader Kurt Nagle.
The AAPA represents 130 seaport authorities in the U.S., Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as over 200 sustaining and associate members and stakeholders.
Nagle, who has served in the role since 1995, will step down on Oct. 16.
“It’s an honor to have been selected as the next CEO of the AAPA,” said Connor. “I’ve spent over 35 years working in the ocean shipping industry and through that lens I’ve developed a deep appreciation and respect for the vitally integral role that ports play in global commerce.”
Connor arrived at WWL in 1994, taking on several commercial and operational roles leading the company as CEO in 2013. He previously worked for Crowley Maritime Corporation for seven years, and United States Lines for six years
Former Global CEO of Wallenius Wilhemsen Logistics Christopher J. Connor has been tapped as the new president and CEO of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA), it was announced this month.
Connor will transition into the position on Sept. 23, taking over for longtime leader Kurt Nagle.
The AAPA represents 130 seaport authorities in the U.S., Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as over 200 sustaining and associate members and stakeholders.
Nagle, who has served in the role since 1995, will step down on Oct. 16.
“It’s an honor to have been selected as the next CEO of the AAPA,” said Connor. “I’ve spent over 35 years working in the ocean shipping industry and through that lens I’ve developed a deep appreciation and respect for the vitally integral role that ports play in global commerce.”
Connor arrived at WWL in 1994, taking on several commercial and operational roles leading the company as CEO in 2013. He previously worked for Crowley Maritime Corporation for seven years, and United States Lines for six years
Tuesday, June 18, 2019
AAPA Workforce Development
By Karen Robes Meeks
The American Association of Port Authorities will co-host its first Workforce Development Summit on June 25-27 in Long Beach.
The association will partner with the Port of Long Beach, Long Beach City College and TransPORTS, the US Department of Labor-endorsed industry intermediary aimed at growing registered apprenticeship in ports and the multi-modal transportation, distribution logistics industry across the US.
“Our industry faces increasing challenges in filling port-related jobs that require highly skilled or specialized technical training,” said Mary Beth Long, AAPA’s vice president of external affairs. “The pool of viable candidates to fill these jobs is diminishing as other industry sectors, such as technology and manufacturing, are competing for applicants from the same job pool.”
The American Association of Port Authorities will co-host its first Workforce Development Summit on June 25-27 in Long Beach.
The association will partner with the Port of Long Beach, Long Beach City College and TransPORTS, the US Department of Labor-endorsed industry intermediary aimed at growing registered apprenticeship in ports and the multi-modal transportation, distribution logistics industry across the US.
“Our industry faces increasing challenges in filling port-related jobs that require highly skilled or specialized technical training,” said Mary Beth Long, AAPA’s vice president of external affairs. “The pool of viable candidates to fill these jobs is diminishing as other industry sectors, such as technology and manufacturing, are competing for applicants from the same job pool.”
Tuesday, March 26, 2019
Grays Harbor Director Named AAPA Chairman
By Karen Robes Meeks
Gary G. Nelson, the executive director of Port of Grays Harbor, has been chosen to be board chairman of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) for the 2019–20 activity year starting this upcoming October.
“With his valuable experience as a port director involved with diversified cargo, his international trade background, and his longstanding active engagement with AAPA and our member ports throughout the hemisphere, Gary Nelson is an outstanding choice for leading our association during the upcoming activity year,” said Kurt Nagle, AAPA’s president and chief executive officer. “Gary’s outstanding leadership and business skills, together with his easy-going demeanor, will be of enormous value as our member ports work together to address common challenges and legislative priorities.”
Nelson, who’s been with Grays Harbor since 2000, takes the one-year baton from outgoing chairman, William D. Friedman, president and chief executive officer for Northeast Ohio’s Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority.
Gary G. Nelson, the executive director of Port of Grays Harbor, has been chosen to be board chairman of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) for the 2019–20 activity year starting this upcoming October.
“With his valuable experience as a port director involved with diversified cargo, his international trade background, and his longstanding active engagement with AAPA and our member ports throughout the hemisphere, Gary Nelson is an outstanding choice for leading our association during the upcoming activity year,” said Kurt Nagle, AAPA’s president and chief executive officer. “Gary’s outstanding leadership and business skills, together with his easy-going demeanor, will be of enormous value as our member ports work together to address common challenges and legislative priorities.”
Nelson, who’s been with Grays Harbor since 2000, takes the one-year baton from outgoing chairman, William D. Friedman, president and chief executive officer for Northeast Ohio’s Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority.
Tuesday, October 23, 2018
AAPA President Retiring
By Karen Robes Meeks
After 33 years leading the American Association of Port Authorities, AAPA President and CEO Kurt J. Nagle will retire this fall.
Nagle started at AAPA as the membership services director in 1985 before taking the reins 10 years later. During his tenure, he guided the organization that now represents140 seaport authorities in the US, Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean.
“It’s been an honor to serve the public ports in the Western Hemisphere and a privilege to work with so many dedicated professionals,” said Nagle. “This industry is blessed with professionals willing to share their experiences and lessons-learned with their colleagues, and to collaborate on common challenges and policy issues. This positive and beneficial culture, along with the wonderful professional staff here at AAPA, have made it a pleasure to be a part of this great industry.”
After 33 years leading the American Association of Port Authorities, AAPA President and CEO Kurt J. Nagle will retire this fall.
Nagle started at AAPA as the membership services director in 1985 before taking the reins 10 years later. During his tenure, he guided the organization that now represents140 seaport authorities in the US, Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean.
“It’s been an honor to serve the public ports in the Western Hemisphere and a privilege to work with so many dedicated professionals,” said Nagle. “This industry is blessed with professionals willing to share their experiences and lessons-learned with their colleagues, and to collaborate on common challenges and policy issues. This positive and beneficial culture, along with the wonderful professional staff here at AAPA, have made it a pleasure to be a part of this great industry.”
Friday, October 19, 2018
Grays Harbor Commissioner Dies
By Karen Robes Meeks
Longtime Port of Grays Harbor Commissioner Jack Thompson passed away on Oct. 4. He was in Chile attending the American Association of Port Authorities’ 107th Annual Convention when he fell and sustained a head injury on Sept 30.
“The sudden and devastating passing of Commissioner Thompson is a tremendous loss that will be felt throughout the Port community and beyond,” Executive Director Gary Nelson said. “On behalf of our entire port family, we extend our deepest condolences to Commissioner Thompson’s family during this difficult time.”
Thompson, who became a port commissioner in 1994, was serving his fifth term as District 2’s representative and was one of the longest-serving commissioners in port history. He played a role in diversifying the port’s cargo business, helping to draw more jobs to the area and supporting long-term tenants.
“Jack’s leadership, wisdom and service to his community will be deeply missed and never forgotten,” Nelson said. “His legacy of economic development and job creation will live on throughout our community and the port industry. We would also like to thank the staff of AAPA, the Port of Valparaiso, the U.S. Embassy and U.S. Department of Commerce for providing support and resources during this difficult time.” In accordance with state law, the commission is expected to fill the vacancy within 90 days.
Longtime Port of Grays Harbor Commissioner Jack Thompson passed away on Oct. 4. He was in Chile attending the American Association of Port Authorities’ 107th Annual Convention when he fell and sustained a head injury on Sept 30.
“The sudden and devastating passing of Commissioner Thompson is a tremendous loss that will be felt throughout the Port community and beyond,” Executive Director Gary Nelson said. “On behalf of our entire port family, we extend our deepest condolences to Commissioner Thompson’s family during this difficult time.”
Thompson, who became a port commissioner in 1994, was serving his fifth term as District 2’s representative and was one of the longest-serving commissioners in port history. He played a role in diversifying the port’s cargo business, helping to draw more jobs to the area and supporting long-term tenants.
“Jack’s leadership, wisdom and service to his community will be deeply missed and never forgotten,” Nelson said. “His legacy of economic development and job creation will live on throughout our community and the port industry. We would also like to thank the staff of AAPA, the Port of Valparaiso, the U.S. Embassy and U.S. Department of Commerce for providing support and resources during this difficult time.” In accordance with state law, the commission is expected to fill the vacancy within 90 days.
Friday, July 27, 2018
Vancouver USA Wins AAPA Awards
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of Vancouver USA won four 2018 Communications Competition awards from the American Association of Port Authorities.
The port nabbed an Award of Excellence for its 2017 Virtual Holiday Card; Awards of Distinction for its Community Report and “Connecting with the Community” social media campaign and an Award of Merit for its Jobs & Economic Impact video.
“Much of the port’s work happens behind the scenes in industrial centers and marine terminals – areas people usually don’t see unless they happen to work there,” said port CEO Julianna Marler. “This can make it challenging to connect with our community in a meaningful way, but our staff continues to do great work, using a variety of tools to reach community members where they are and making it interesting and engaging.”
The Port of Vancouver USA won four 2018 Communications Competition awards from the American Association of Port Authorities.
The port nabbed an Award of Excellence for its 2017 Virtual Holiday Card; Awards of Distinction for its Community Report and “Connecting with the Community” social media campaign and an Award of Merit for its Jobs & Economic Impact video.
“Much of the port’s work happens behind the scenes in industrial centers and marine terminals – areas people usually don’t see unless they happen to work there,” said port CEO Julianna Marler. “This can make it challenging to connect with our community in a meaningful way, but our staff continues to do great work, using a variety of tools to reach community members where they are and making it interesting and engaging.”
Friday, August 4, 2017
Vancouver USA Wins AAPA Awards
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of Vancouver USA has won six 2017 Communications Competition awards presented by the American Association of Port Authorities, whose awards have acknowledged excellence in port communications since 1966.
The port was honored with the Awards of Excellence for its 2017 Lecture Series and Terminal 1 Waterfront Master Plan, it also received the Awards of Distinction for its 2016 Christmas Ships event, Terminal 5 Statement of Interest and “Happy” video, and also received the Award of Merit for “1 Great Region, 3 Great Ports,” which teamed Vancouver port with the ports of Camas-Washougal and Ridgefield for the marketing and government affairs effort.
The judges commended the port’s strategic planning and analysis, diverse use of media and attractive marketing materials, according to the port.
“These awards recognize best practices and effectiveness in communications,” said CEO Julianna Marler. “International ports are complex organizations with many stakeholders. It can be challenging to reach everyone, but we’re making great strides with proactive and creative communications that help us engage with neighbors, community partners, tenants and future customers.
The port is expected to accept the awards in October at the association’s 106th Annual Convention and Expo in Long Beach, California.
The Port of Vancouver USA has won six 2017 Communications Competition awards presented by the American Association of Port Authorities, whose awards have acknowledged excellence in port communications since 1966.
The port was honored with the Awards of Excellence for its 2017 Lecture Series and Terminal 1 Waterfront Master Plan, it also received the Awards of Distinction for its 2016 Christmas Ships event, Terminal 5 Statement of Interest and “Happy” video, and also received the Award of Merit for “1 Great Region, 3 Great Ports,” which teamed Vancouver port with the ports of Camas-Washougal and Ridgefield for the marketing and government affairs effort.
The judges commended the port’s strategic planning and analysis, diverse use of media and attractive marketing materials, according to the port.
“These awards recognize best practices and effectiveness in communications,” said CEO Julianna Marler. “International ports are complex organizations with many stakeholders. It can be challenging to reach everyone, but we’re making great strides with proactive and creative communications that help us engage with neighbors, community partners, tenants and future customers.
The port is expected to accept the awards in October at the association’s 106th Annual Convention and Expo in Long Beach, California.
Thursday, May 25, 2017
Proposed Trump Budget Would Impose Maritime-Related Funding Cuts
By Mark Edward Nero
This week, the Trump Administration released its proposed budget for 2018 and among the proposals listed was the elimination of the US Department of Transportation’s Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant program.
The program, which provides funding to port, road, rail and transit projects nationwide, awarded US ports $61.8 million in multimodal infrastructure grants such as dock, rail and road improvements last year.
The proposed budget also calls for a steep cut to the Department of Homeland Security’s Port Security Grant Program (PSGP), which Congress last funded at $100 million, and which provided 35 port security-related grants in fiscal 2017. The program’s funding would be reduced by 52 percent, to $47.8 million.
Trump has also proposed drastically decreasing the Environmental Protection Agency’s Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) grants. DERA grants help ports make investments in clean diesel equipment and reduction strategies. Funds help businesses buy newer, cleaner-burning trucks, locomotives and vessels. DERA grants are currently funded at $60 million, while Trump’s fiscal 2018 budget calls for only $10 million in funding.
American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) President and CEO Kurt Nagle said that his organization, which represents the interests of seaports across the US, has issues with the proposed cuts.
“We’re concerned about the significant reductions proposed for fiscal 2018 in many of the programs critically important to ports, such as TIGER discretionary grants, HMTF (Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund) outlays, port security grants, and assistance in reducing diesel emissions,” Nagle said in a statement.
AAPA has called for $66 billion in federal funds for port-related infrastructure over the next decade to “ensure US job creation, economic growth, safe and secure ports and tax fairness.” On the water side, AAPA has recommended investing $33.8 billion to maintain and modernize deep-draft shipping channels, and $32 billion to build vital road and rail connections to ports and improve port facility infrastructure.
Activities at US seaports account for more than a quarter of the nation’s economy, support over 23 million American jobs and generate more than $321 billion a year in federal, state and local tax revenue, Nagle said.
This week, the Trump Administration released its proposed budget for 2018 and among the proposals listed was the elimination of the US Department of Transportation’s Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant program.
The program, which provides funding to port, road, rail and transit projects nationwide, awarded US ports $61.8 million in multimodal infrastructure grants such as dock, rail and road improvements last year.
The proposed budget also calls for a steep cut to the Department of Homeland Security’s Port Security Grant Program (PSGP), which Congress last funded at $100 million, and which provided 35 port security-related grants in fiscal 2017. The program’s funding would be reduced by 52 percent, to $47.8 million.
Trump has also proposed drastically decreasing the Environmental Protection Agency’s Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) grants. DERA grants help ports make investments in clean diesel equipment and reduction strategies. Funds help businesses buy newer, cleaner-burning trucks, locomotives and vessels. DERA grants are currently funded at $60 million, while Trump’s fiscal 2018 budget calls for only $10 million in funding.
American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) President and CEO Kurt Nagle said that his organization, which represents the interests of seaports across the US, has issues with the proposed cuts.
“We’re concerned about the significant reductions proposed for fiscal 2018 in many of the programs critically important to ports, such as TIGER discretionary grants, HMTF (Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund) outlays, port security grants, and assistance in reducing diesel emissions,” Nagle said in a statement.
AAPA has called for $66 billion in federal funds for port-related infrastructure over the next decade to “ensure US job creation, economic growth, safe and secure ports and tax fairness.” On the water side, AAPA has recommended investing $33.8 billion to maintain and modernize deep-draft shipping channels, and $32 billion to build vital road and rail connections to ports and improve port facility infrastructure.
Activities at US seaports account for more than a quarter of the nation’s economy, support over 23 million American jobs and generate more than $321 billion a year in federal, state and local tax revenue, Nagle said.
Tuesday, April 4, 2017
US Transportation Secretary to Speak at Ports Conference
By Mark Edward Nero
US Congressman Steve Scalise (R-LA) and US Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao will serve as keynote luncheon speakers on April 4 and April 5, respectively, during the 2017 spring conference of the American Association of Port Authorities.
In addition to the two keynote addresses and honoring Scalise with AAPA’s 2017 Port Person of the Year award, Adam Goldstein, president and COO of Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, is expected to present remarks after receiving AAPA’s 2017 Cruise Award on April 5.Other dignitaries, including House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Chairman Garret Graves (R-LA), will discuss how port priorities will stack up under the Trump Administration and in the 115th Congress.
“In addition to the honor of having Secretary Chao and Congressman Scalise serve as our keynote speakers and kicking off the event with a celebration of the second annual Western Hemisphere Ports Day, we’re looking forward to the many informative and provocative discussions at this year’s program,” AAPA President and CEO Kurt Nagle said in a statement.
Western Hemisphere Ports Day – which in 2017 is celebrated on April 4 – is an annual recognition of the unity, importance and value of seaports throughout the Americas.
The conference takes place at the Renaissance Washington DC Downtown Hotel in Washington, DC.
More information about the event, including the agenda and speakers, is available at https://my.aapa-ports.org/Public/Events/Event_Display.aspx?EventKey=17SPRING
US Congressman Steve Scalise (R-LA) and US Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao will serve as keynote luncheon speakers on April 4 and April 5, respectively, during the 2017 spring conference of the American Association of Port Authorities.
In addition to the two keynote addresses and honoring Scalise with AAPA’s 2017 Port Person of the Year award, Adam Goldstein, president and COO of Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, is expected to present remarks after receiving AAPA’s 2017 Cruise Award on April 5.Other dignitaries, including House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Chairman Garret Graves (R-LA), will discuss how port priorities will stack up under the Trump Administration and in the 115th Congress.
“In addition to the honor of having Secretary Chao and Congressman Scalise serve as our keynote speakers and kicking off the event with a celebration of the second annual Western Hemisphere Ports Day, we’re looking forward to the many informative and provocative discussions at this year’s program,” AAPA President and CEO Kurt Nagle said in a statement.
Western Hemisphere Ports Day – which in 2017 is celebrated on April 4 – is an annual recognition of the unity, importance and value of seaports throughout the Americas.
The conference takes place at the Renaissance Washington DC Downtown Hotel in Washington, DC.
More information about the event, including the agenda and speakers, is available at https://my.aapa-ports.org/Public/Events/Event_Display.aspx?EventKey=17SPRING
Tuesday, March 28, 2017
AAPA Launches Port Infrastructure Advocacy Campaign
By Mark Edward Nero
The American Association of Port Authorities has launched a campaign that will advocate for transportation infrastructure investment on behalf of the nation’s manufacturers, farmers and other workers who count on modern and efficient seaports to move American products to vital overseas markets.
Called the “America: Keep It Moving” campaign, AAPA’s US members in the coming months plan to coordinate actions to inform policymakers, and those who influence policy, about the job-creating power of US ports as the Trump Administration and Congress consider plans for national infrastructure improvements and funding.
“The nation’s seaports serve a vital role in US job creation, economic prosperity and international competitiveness,” AAPA President and CEO Kurt Nagle said in a statement. “To help American businesses compete in overseas markets, the Administration and Congress must make investments today to build a 21st century seaport infrastructure.”
Port activity supports 23 million American jobs and generates $321 billion in federal, state and local tax revenue each year, according to the AAPA, while the total value of economic activity related to America’s ports is $4.6 trillion. “Ports send products made in America’s cities, towns and rural communities to markets around the world,” Nagle said. “This activity is critical to the workers and management of US manufacturers, service companies, farmers and nearly every other kind of business across the nation.”
One of every three acres on American farmland is planted for export markets, according to the US Chamber of Commerce, and nearly 12 million jobs are supported by exports nationwide, including a quarter of all manufacturing jobs. Infrastructure investment impacts how efficiently US goods are transported to port facilities for export. Among the highways that take US goods to market, some 1,200 miles of the nation’s road, bridges and tunnels serve as vital freight connections to ports, much of which is in dire need of investment.
According to the American Society of Civil Engineers, the cost of deficient highways could cost US businesses and households up to $575 billion by 2025, reaching a $3.2 trillion loss by 2040.
The volume of freight in the US is projected to grow more than 40 percent by 2045, while the value of that same freight is projected to increase about 92 percent, according to the US Department of Transportation. By 2037, the US is expected to export over 52 million shipping containers through US seaports annually.
“We must prepare the nation’s infrastructure to meet a growing demand for the safe, efficient movement of freight,” Nagle said. “To keep America moving, the time to invest in port infrastructure is now.”
The American Association of Port Authorities has launched a campaign that will advocate for transportation infrastructure investment on behalf of the nation’s manufacturers, farmers and other workers who count on modern and efficient seaports to move American products to vital overseas markets.
Called the “America: Keep It Moving” campaign, AAPA’s US members in the coming months plan to coordinate actions to inform policymakers, and those who influence policy, about the job-creating power of US ports as the Trump Administration and Congress consider plans for national infrastructure improvements and funding.
“The nation’s seaports serve a vital role in US job creation, economic prosperity and international competitiveness,” AAPA President and CEO Kurt Nagle said in a statement. “To help American businesses compete in overseas markets, the Administration and Congress must make investments today to build a 21st century seaport infrastructure.”
Port activity supports 23 million American jobs and generates $321 billion in federal, state and local tax revenue each year, according to the AAPA, while the total value of economic activity related to America’s ports is $4.6 trillion. “Ports send products made in America’s cities, towns and rural communities to markets around the world,” Nagle said. “This activity is critical to the workers and management of US manufacturers, service companies, farmers and nearly every other kind of business across the nation.”
One of every three acres on American farmland is planted for export markets, according to the US Chamber of Commerce, and nearly 12 million jobs are supported by exports nationwide, including a quarter of all manufacturing jobs. Infrastructure investment impacts how efficiently US goods are transported to port facilities for export. Among the highways that take US goods to market, some 1,200 miles of the nation’s road, bridges and tunnels serve as vital freight connections to ports, much of which is in dire need of investment.
According to the American Society of Civil Engineers, the cost of deficient highways could cost US businesses and households up to $575 billion by 2025, reaching a $3.2 trillion loss by 2040.
The volume of freight in the US is projected to grow more than 40 percent by 2045, while the value of that same freight is projected to increase about 92 percent, according to the US Department of Transportation. By 2037, the US is expected to export over 52 million shipping containers through US seaports annually.
“We must prepare the nation’s infrastructure to meet a growing demand for the safe, efficient movement of freight,” Nagle said. “To keep America moving, the time to invest in port infrastructure is now.”
Tuesday, March 21, 2017
AAPA Concerned About Port Funding Cuts Under Trump
By Mark Edward Nero
The American Association of Port Authorities said March 16 that it has concerns regarding the potential of significant declines for most federally funded, port-related programs in President Trump’s first proposed fiscal budget.
Proposed for the budget chopping block is the US Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grants program, which last year awarded US ports $61.8 million in multimodal infrastructure grants such as dock, rail and road improvements. Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security’s Port Security Grants Program (PSGP), which Congress last funded at $100 million and provided 35 port security-related grants in fiscal 2017, is expected to experience a significant cut.
“We’re apprehensive about the fiscal 2018 budget,” AAPA president and CEO Kurt Nagle said. “Adequate federal investments into US port-related infrastructure, both on the landside and waterside, are crucial for the efficient movement of goods so the nation can remain globally competitive.”
Activities at US seaports account for more than a quarter of the nation’s economy, support over 23 million American jobs and generate more than $320 billion a year in federal, state and local tax revenue, according to the AAPA.
“International trade through ports is vital to our economy,” Nagle said.
The AAPA has also given its key recommendations for the fiscal 2018 budget. They include:
• Expand the USDOT’s TIGER program, or create a similar new, multimodal discretionary grant program, and fund it at $1.25 billion annually.
• Continue funding USDOT’s FAST Act programs at currently authorized levels, which includes formula funds to states and grants for nationally and regionally significant transportation projects.
• Increase funding to $400 million for the Department of Homeland Security’s Port Security Grant Program and increase the number of Customs officers in the maritime environment by 500.
“While the president’s budget request includes significant funding cuts to some port-related programs, we’re hopeful that, as the fiscal 2018 budget process as well as the anticipated sizable infrastructure package moves forward, that significant federal investments will be made in port-related infrastructure. Such investments will pay huge dividends in terms of economic growth, American jobs and tax revenues.”
The American Association of Port Authorities said March 16 that it has concerns regarding the potential of significant declines for most federally funded, port-related programs in President Trump’s first proposed fiscal budget.
Proposed for the budget chopping block is the US Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grants program, which last year awarded US ports $61.8 million in multimodal infrastructure grants such as dock, rail and road improvements. Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security’s Port Security Grants Program (PSGP), which Congress last funded at $100 million and provided 35 port security-related grants in fiscal 2017, is expected to experience a significant cut.
“We’re apprehensive about the fiscal 2018 budget,” AAPA president and CEO Kurt Nagle said. “Adequate federal investments into US port-related infrastructure, both on the landside and waterside, are crucial for the efficient movement of goods so the nation can remain globally competitive.”
Activities at US seaports account for more than a quarter of the nation’s economy, support over 23 million American jobs and generate more than $320 billion a year in federal, state and local tax revenue, according to the AAPA.
“International trade through ports is vital to our economy,” Nagle said.
The AAPA has also given its key recommendations for the fiscal 2018 budget. They include:
• Expand the USDOT’s TIGER program, or create a similar new, multimodal discretionary grant program, and fund it at $1.25 billion annually.
• Continue funding USDOT’s FAST Act programs at currently authorized levels, which includes formula funds to states and grants for nationally and regionally significant transportation projects.
• Increase funding to $400 million for the Department of Homeland Security’s Port Security Grant Program and increase the number of Customs officers in the maritime environment by 500.
“While the president’s budget request includes significant funding cuts to some port-related programs, we’re hopeful that, as the fiscal 2018 budget process as well as the anticipated sizable infrastructure package moves forward, that significant federal investments will be made in port-related infrastructure. Such investments will pay huge dividends in terms of economic growth, American jobs and tax revenues.”
Friday, March 17, 2017
April 4 is ‘Ports Day,’ AAPA Announces
By Mark Edward Nero
The American Association of Port Authorities says that its entire membership in North, South and Central America and the Caribbean will celebrate Western Hemisphere Ports Day on Tuesday, April 4 in recognition of the industry’s role in supporting job creation and propelling the economies of the nations they serve across the Americas.
“As the unified and recognized voice of the port industry in the Western Hemisphere, AAPA is excited to continue to share its story around the globe,” AAPA’s president and CEO, Kurt Nagle, said in a statement.
“Ports Day is part of an ongoing commitment to remind our policymakers, policy influencers and the public about the important role ports play in facilitating the movement of trade and linking their nations to the global economy,” Nagle said.
Combined international sea trade moving through Western Hemisphere ports in 2015 totaled 3.45 billion metric tons in volume and $3.36 trillion in value, according to IHS Inc. World Trade Service. Of that total, North American ports handled 1.76 billion metric tons of goods, valued at $2.21 trillion, while ports in Central and South America handled 1.69 billion metric tons of cargo, valued at $1.15 trillion.
A report by Martin Associates on the national economic impact of the US coastal port system, found that in the U.S. alone, ports’ contribution to the national economy reached nearly $4.6 trillion in 2014.
“Seaports of the Western Hemisphere are job creators and stimulators that deliver prosperity around the globe,” Nagle said. “It’s critical that wise investments are made to our transportation infrastructure to ensure that our industry can continue to make a valuable contribution to the economy.”
“We’re proud to recognize the contributions of our member ports as we celebrate Western Hemisphere Ports Day,” he added. “In support of workers, farmers, employers, manufacturers and consumers everywhere, our ports are united in planning for the future, creating jobs and propelling the economy.” More information about Western Hemisphere Ports Day is available at www.aapa-ports.org.
The American Association of Port Authorities says that its entire membership in North, South and Central America and the Caribbean will celebrate Western Hemisphere Ports Day on Tuesday, April 4 in recognition of the industry’s role in supporting job creation and propelling the economies of the nations they serve across the Americas.
“As the unified and recognized voice of the port industry in the Western Hemisphere, AAPA is excited to continue to share its story around the globe,” AAPA’s president and CEO, Kurt Nagle, said in a statement.
“Ports Day is part of an ongoing commitment to remind our policymakers, policy influencers and the public about the important role ports play in facilitating the movement of trade and linking their nations to the global economy,” Nagle said.
Combined international sea trade moving through Western Hemisphere ports in 2015 totaled 3.45 billion metric tons in volume and $3.36 trillion in value, according to IHS Inc. World Trade Service. Of that total, North American ports handled 1.76 billion metric tons of goods, valued at $2.21 trillion, while ports in Central and South America handled 1.69 billion metric tons of cargo, valued at $1.15 trillion.
A report by Martin Associates on the national economic impact of the US coastal port system, found that in the U.S. alone, ports’ contribution to the national economy reached nearly $4.6 trillion in 2014.
“Seaports of the Western Hemisphere are job creators and stimulators that deliver prosperity around the globe,” Nagle said. “It’s critical that wise investments are made to our transportation infrastructure to ensure that our industry can continue to make a valuable contribution to the economy.”
“We’re proud to recognize the contributions of our member ports as we celebrate Western Hemisphere Ports Day,” he added. “In support of workers, farmers, employers, manufacturers and consumers everywhere, our ports are united in planning for the future, creating jobs and propelling the economy.” More information about Western Hemisphere Ports Day is available at www.aapa-ports.org.
Thursday, January 19, 2017
AAPA Looks to ‘Maximize’ Number of Cruise Guests
By Mark Edward Nero
Maximizing the number of cruise guests and ensuring they have a favorable cruise experience are among the key topics to be addressed at the American Association of Port Authorities’ 2017 Cruise Seminar, set for Feb. 14-15 in San Diego.
Updates on the state of the cruise industry, environmental-related issues and port security, along with a 2.5-hour “Shorex Experience” to discover San Diego as a cruise guest does during a port-of-call, are also on tap for participants.
“While the networking opportunities are reason enough to attend this program, the caliber of speakers and business program content make it all the more worthwhile,” said Susan Monteverde, the AAPA’s vice president of government relations and liaison to AAPA’s Cruise Committee.
“For the many professionals who work in the cruise industry at ports, there’s nothing like getting together with their industry colleagues to learn new and innovative ideas, and avoid ‘re-creating the wheel’ in addressing industry issues,” she said.
In addition to port authority leaders from the US, Mexico and Canada, prominent speakers from several major cruise lines, the US Environmental Protection Agency, US Customs and Border Protection and Mexico’s Office of Tourism are scheduled to speak.
More information about AAPA’s Cruise Awards is available at http://www.aapa-ports.org/unifying/content.aspx?ItemNumber=21058. More information about the agenda for the AAPA’s 2017 Cruise Seminar is available at https://my.aapa-ports.org/Public/Events/Event_Display.aspx?EventKey=17CRUISE.
Maximizing the number of cruise guests and ensuring they have a favorable cruise experience are among the key topics to be addressed at the American Association of Port Authorities’ 2017 Cruise Seminar, set for Feb. 14-15 in San Diego.
Updates on the state of the cruise industry, environmental-related issues and port security, along with a 2.5-hour “Shorex Experience” to discover San Diego as a cruise guest does during a port-of-call, are also on tap for participants.
“While the networking opportunities are reason enough to attend this program, the caliber of speakers and business program content make it all the more worthwhile,” said Susan Monteverde, the AAPA’s vice president of government relations and liaison to AAPA’s Cruise Committee.
“For the many professionals who work in the cruise industry at ports, there’s nothing like getting together with their industry colleagues to learn new and innovative ideas, and avoid ‘re-creating the wheel’ in addressing industry issues,” she said.
In addition to port authority leaders from the US, Mexico and Canada, prominent speakers from several major cruise lines, the US Environmental Protection Agency, US Customs and Border Protection and Mexico’s Office of Tourism are scheduled to speak.
More information about AAPA’s Cruise Awards is available at http://www.aapa-ports.org/unifying/content.aspx?ItemNumber=21058. More information about the agenda for the AAPA’s 2017 Cruise Seminar is available at https://my.aapa-ports.org/Public/Events/Event_Display.aspx?EventKey=17CRUISE.
Tuesday, July 19, 2016
Grays Harbor Port Wins Excellence Award
By Mark Edward Nero
The Port of Grays Harbor is one of three seaports – and the only one on the West Coast – to be named a winner of the American Association of Port Authorities’ Communications Awards Program’s annual excellence award.
In addition to the Port of Grays Harbor, the other two recipients of the 2016 Overall Award of Communications Excellence trophies are Port Everglades in Florida and St. John’s Port Authority in Newfoundland and Labrador.
In total, the AAPA plans to recognize 25 seaports for exemplary communications projects and programs at its annual convention and awards luncheon this fall. Winning entrants in the Association’s 50th annual Communications Awards Program are to be lauded at an Oct. 26 awards luncheon in conjunction with the organization’s 105th Annual Convention and Expo in New Orleans, set for Oct. 23-26.
Other West Coast ports announced as winners in various categories include those in Longview, Washington; Los Angeles; Long Beach, California; Stockton, California.
“This competition helps our member ports by rewarding effective communications and highlighting best practices and lessons learned,” AAPA President & CEO Kurt Nagle.
The Communications Awards Program utilized 48 professional public relations practitioners from the Washington, D.C. area who cumulatively spent nearly 200 hours over three weeks judging the 15 classifications of entries, ranging from advertisements and periodicals to videos and websites.
Based on the number of points awarded each entry by the judges, three entries earned an Overall Award of Communications Excellence and 31 entries earned an Award of Excellence, while 46 entries scored an Award of Distinction, and 26 entries received an Award of Merit.
All 106 of the winning submissions in the 2016 AAPA Communications Awards Program can be seen at http://www.aapa-ports.org/unifying/content.aspx?ItemNumber=21375&RDtoken=21609&userID=5980.
The Port of Grays Harbor is one of three seaports – and the only one on the West Coast – to be named a winner of the American Association of Port Authorities’ Communications Awards Program’s annual excellence award.
In addition to the Port of Grays Harbor, the other two recipients of the 2016 Overall Award of Communications Excellence trophies are Port Everglades in Florida and St. John’s Port Authority in Newfoundland and Labrador.
In total, the AAPA plans to recognize 25 seaports for exemplary communications projects and programs at its annual convention and awards luncheon this fall. Winning entrants in the Association’s 50th annual Communications Awards Program are to be lauded at an Oct. 26 awards luncheon in conjunction with the organization’s 105th Annual Convention and Expo in New Orleans, set for Oct. 23-26.
Other West Coast ports announced as winners in various categories include those in Longview, Washington; Los Angeles; Long Beach, California; Stockton, California.
“This competition helps our member ports by rewarding effective communications and highlighting best practices and lessons learned,” AAPA President & CEO Kurt Nagle.
The Communications Awards Program utilized 48 professional public relations practitioners from the Washington, D.C. area who cumulatively spent nearly 200 hours over three weeks judging the 15 classifications of entries, ranging from advertisements and periodicals to videos and websites.
Based on the number of points awarded each entry by the judges, three entries earned an Overall Award of Communications Excellence and 31 entries earned an Award of Excellence, while 46 entries scored an Award of Distinction, and 26 entries received an Award of Merit.
All 106 of the winning submissions in the 2016 AAPA Communications Awards Program can be seen at http://www.aapa-ports.org/unifying/content.aspx?ItemNumber=21375&RDtoken=21609&userID=5980.
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Obama Signs FAST Act Into Law
By Mark Edward Nero
On Dec. 4, 2015, President Obama signed into law H.R. 22, also known as the “Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act (FAST Act),” $305 billion legislation that authorizes budgetary resources for surface transportation programs for fiscal years 2016-2020.
The US Senate and House of Representatives approved the bill just hours before President Obama signed it.
The FAST Act provides $6.3 billion for the new National Highway Freight Program, which will now provide dedicated formula funding to states for freight projects, including 1,400 miles of connections with ports and other intermodal facilities.
The legislation also funds $4.5 billion for the Nationally and Significant Freight and Highway Projects program, including $500 million for multi-modal freight projects and a $450 million ‘carve-out’ for projects ranging from $5 million to $100 million.
In a statement, Kurt Nagle, president and CEO of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) applauded the government’s actions.
“The FAST Act is a major achievement, and not just for seaports and the freight community,” he said. “Passenger mobility will also be improved through congestion relief with the FAST Act provisions that fund and promote more efficient goods movement mobility. These provisions will enhance our international competitiveness in the global economy.”
The legislation also converts the Surface Transportation Program (STP) to a block grant program, maximizing the flexibility of STP for state and local governments, and increases the amount of STP funding distributed to local governments from 50 percent to 55 percent over the life of the bill.
Additionally, the Act expands eligibility for the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) program by allowing states to use National Highway Performance Program, STP block grant and NSFHP funds to pay the subsidy and administrative costs associated with providing TIFIA credit assistance.
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
POLB Wins Excellence Awards
By Mark Edward Nero
The Port of Long Beach won 22 awards for outstanding security, communications, and environmental programs during the annual American Association of Port Authorities in Miami earlier this month.
Among the awardees during the Nov. 2-4 event were:
- “Virtual Port,” a program that allows the port’s security team to monitor the harbor with surveillance tools and shipping and transit data. It received the Best Information Technology Award.
- The “West Anaheim Street Improvement Project” won the Best Environmental Improvement Award. The project, which beautified and modernized a heavily traveled corridor in the harbor district, was recognized for its sustainable design and practices, which included drought-resistant landscaping and low-energy lighting.
- The port’s trade and summer community advertising campaigns won for best advertisements. Both campaigns incorporated the tagline “Better Together,” referring to the collaboration between the port and its stakeholders to improve the harbor by making it a safe and efficient place to do business.
- Marketing videos, educational programs, and a Wi-Fi/recharging station at the Breakbulk Americas 2014 conference each won praise. In all, the port won 20 communications awards.
“These awards are a source of tremendous pride for the Port of Long Beach,” CEO Jon Slangerup said. “Being recognized not once, not twice, but 22 times by the North and South American port association is an exceptional salute from our peers.”
The AAPA represents 160 of the leading seaport authorities in North America, Latin America and the Caribbean, and has over 300 sustaining and associate members.
