Virginia Maritime Bulletin, Vol 88, #11 by VAmaritime

$4M SECURED TO ADVANCE DEEPENING OF ELIZABETH RIVER CHANNELS

CHESAPEAKE, VA | On October 16, 2024, Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) delivered $4,000,000 in community project funding to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to deepen the Elizabeth River and its Southern Branch. The funding, secured in the FY 2024 Consolidated Appropriations Act with support from Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, will advance preliminary engineering and design to deepen key sections of the waterway. This includes deepening the 40-foot channel to 45 feet, the Southern Branch’s 42-foot channel, and a portion of the 35foot channel to 39 feet.

This project is critical for the Port of Virginia and the Hampton Roads region, allowing vessels to carry fuller loads of commodities such as soybeans, grains, and wood pellets for export, while efficiently handling imported goods like fertilizers and industrial materials.

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MICROPOROUS TO INVEST $1.35 BILLION IN PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY

PITTSYLVANIA, VA |

Microporous LLC, a prominent battery separator manufacturer, is set to make a transformative $1.35 billion investment in Pittsylvania County, Virginia. The company will establish a new manufacturing facility on the Southern Virginia Megasite, spanning over 1 million square feet across two phases, each approximately 500,000 square feet. This project is anticipated to create 2,015 jobs,

significantly boosting the local economy and solidifying Virginia’s position in the advanced manufacturing sector. Governor Glenn Youngkin emphasized the historic nature of this investment, noting its role in positioning Virginia at the forefront of the nation’s manufacturing resurgence. The decision to locate in Pittsylvania County was also supported by federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which was championed by U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine. Local officials, including Pittsylvania County Board Chairman Darrell Dalton and Danville Mayor Alonzo Jones, expressed their excitement for the project, highlighting its potential to enhance economic development and workforce opportunities in the region. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership and other local agencies played crucial roles in securing this project, which is expected to further attract businesses and investments to the area.

Source: Office of the Governor, Commonwealth of Virginia

h Association in Action (6)

h Celebrating Roger Giesinger (7)

h New Members (7)

Photo:

OFFICERS

Chairman of the Board

Michael Coleman

President

Judy Barrett

Vice Presidents

Lang Williams

Capt. Kenneth Flowers

Capt. Whiting Chisman

Executive Director & Secretary

David White

Treasurer Camille Cherry

Assistant Treasurer Tracy Gregorio

STAFF

Senior Vice President....................... Will Fediw

Vice President of Finance & Administration.............................. Sam Davis

Director of Membership

Development............................ Kristen Greene

Executive Assistant.................... Shayla Prince

Event Manager & Accounting Assistant................ Jennifer Parham

Marketing Manager ................ Jennifer Deason

Membership & Publications

Coordinator........................... Susan Wisniewski

INDUSTRY COMMITTEE & CHAPTER UPDATES

TOWING & BARGE OPERATORS - 08/21/24: The recent Beltline Bridge allision and pending investigation were reviewed, alongside concerns over Inner Harbor no-wake zone infractions, with plans to draft a letter through the VMA to the U.S. Coast Guard and Department of Wildlife Resources. Other business covered included James River Bridge operations, BOEM’s new Central Atlantic lease area, and AWO’s bridge event reporting, with the committee favoring VMA-led reporting for Virginia. Additionally, severe delays at the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center were highlighted, prompting a plan for a VMA-drafted letter, and future events like the 2026 Harbor Fest and the possible 2025 Towing Vessel Safety Seminar were discussed.

WAREHOUSING & DISTRIBUTION CENTERS - 09/11/24:

David White reviewed the ILA labor negotiation process, upcoming updates for VMA members, and responses to queries on detention and demurrage, while Lauren Foley from VIT suggested extended gate hours to manage cargo flows as of October 1. Trevor Dunlap shared insights on a new California law regulating warehouse temperatures, with further discussion on indirect source emissions tracking. Chris Gullickson and Lauren Foley presented Virginia Port Authority updates on long-range transportation planning, and Lang Williams discussed trends in rental rates, vacancies, and rising costs in statewide commercial real estate.

INLAND TRANSPORTATION - 09/17/24: Brian Leffel presented an overview of the South Norfolk Jordan Bridge’s Discounted Toll Rate Program, with discussions on possibly expanding it to ship repair and marine terminal drivers and ongoing partnerships with trucking companies for Trucker Appreciation Week. Charles Glover updated the TMTA Pier Committee’s activities, including the Key Bridge response and the TRAC Reporting function for truckers, alongside discussions on Hampton Blvd. enforcement and a possible presentation by Dale Bennett on upcoming trucking legislation. Ed Mihalski from EcoLogix Group reviewed the Green Operator and GO-Zero programs, touching on EV charging infrastructure and alternative-fuel trucks, with David White providing a brief labor negotiations update.

OFFSHORE WIND - 09/19/24: The state budget was approved on May 13 with no significant changes from March regarding our concerns. At the federal level, discussions covered funding for navigation projects and the USACE’s FY24 Work Plan, along with updates on North Atlantic Right Whale regulations, USACE 408 permits, and subsea cable crossings. Upcoming initiatives include a summer outreach strategy and chapter engagement with elected officials, focusing on tours and in-district visits.

SUPPLY CHAIN TECHNOLOGY- 09/26/24: Chair Kevin Speers opened the meeting by reaffirming the committee’s mission, emphasizing marketing and education as initial focal points. Discussions included

improving company access to APIs at VIT terminals, submitting VMA comment letters on data standards affecting state policies, and launching an “Embracing Technology as an Industry” series with open case studies and webinars. Additional ideas involved quarterly tech articles in the Bulletin, rebranding the committee to emphasize “innovation”—highlighting practical problem-solving like the “Cargoyle.”

ALL HAZARDS RESPONSE - 10/22/24: Burket provided updates on port activities, highlighting the Port of Virginia’s $1.8 million PSG award allocation for 2024-2027 and the recent completion of the 35th Marine Firefighting Command School. The upcoming National Port Partner Emergency Response Summit on November 5-6 will address hazard preparedness, while discussions covered incidents like the Baltimore bridge collapse and the arrival of the damaged vessel Dali for repairs. Amanda Krugler from the FBI briefed the committee on unidentified military-style drones and requested the shipping community report any sightings to aid in the investigation.

MEMBERSHIP - 10/23/24: The meeting aims to prepare a recommendation for the November 20th Board meeting, focusing on adjustments to the VMA membership dues structure. The committee proposed new membership levels—Anchor, Unlimited, and Standard— with corresponding rates and decided to eliminate the Young Maritime Professional rate to promote unlimited memberships.

CENTRAL CHAPTER - 10/24/24: The Central Chapter held a wellattended meeting on October 24th at Ocean Network Express headquarters in Richmond, featuring informative presentations on VEDP highlights, workforce development objectives, and the Greater Richmond Partnership’s role in Central Virginia. These presentations addressed key economic projects, workforce demands, and future initiatives, reflecting feedback from a chapter survey. The meeting, which welcomed nine new members, concluded with an announcement for the Central Chapter’s Holiday Mixer scheduled for December 5th at Casa Del Barco in Richmond.

HARBOR-ANCHORAGE DREDGING

AND

NAVIGATION

RULES - 10/30/24: Captain Rabena provided updates on Anchorage F, highlighting collaborative efforts by the VMA, Pilots, and VPA to secure approval for its deepening and widening, noting concurrent US Navy operations in the area. He also covered specifics of the VIG and NIT dredging projects, the 55’ project maintenance beginning in 2025, and a new rule on North Atlantic right whale vessel speed regulations currently under White House review. Additional discussions included Dominion Energy’s offshore wind fleet speed restrictions, protocols for the MV ORION and CHARYBDIS, and upcoming navigation priorities to be addressed at the Virginia Navigation Summit.

FUNDING CONT.

At a celebration held at the Perdue Agribusiness Chesapeake Grain Elevator, David White, Executive Director of the Virginia Maritime Association, highlighted the importance of the project:

“We are fortunate to be a diverse port, the second largest on the U.S. East Coast by tonnage. Deepening these channels will reduce transportation costs, making U.S. exports more competitive

globally and lowering costs for imports vital to agriculture, construction, and manufacturing.”

The deepening project will enhance terminal and vessel operations, supporting economic growth and reinforcing the Port of Virginia’s standing as a vital hub for domestic and international trade. Source

Photo: VMA

19TH ANNUAL NAVIGATIONAL SUMMIT: ADVANCING

UNRESTRICTED NAVIGATION FOR HAMPTON ROADS

NORFOLK, VA | The Virginia Maritime Association (VMA), Virginia Port Authority, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers hosted the 19th Annual Hampton Roads Navigational Summit on Friday, November 1, at the Norfolk Yacht & Country Club in Norfolk, VA. This annual event serves as a vital forum, bringing together business leaders, elected officials, and agency partners to prioritize and advance key navigation and infrastructure projects critical to the Port of Hampton Roads. The summit underscored the collective mission of ensuring “Unrestricted Navigation for the Port of Hampton Roads” and highlighted the region’s transformational advancements in federal navigation projects and infrastructure investments.

Michael Coleman, Chairman of the Virginia Maritime Association, opened the summit with welcoming remarks, followed by insights from Colonel Sonny Avichal, District Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Norfolk District), and Stephen Edwards, CEO of the Virginia Port Authority. Their addresses emphasized the strategic importance of navigation improvements for sustaining and enhancing the region’s maritime capabilities.

The summit’s agenda featured updates on priority navigation projects led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Presentations included progress on Norfolk Harbor Operations & Maintenance

Joe McMahon, and Southern Branch Navigation Improvements by Heather Lockwood. Victor Roberts provided updates on both Norfolk Harbor Navigation Improvements and the Craney Island Eastward Expansion. These updates offered attendees valuable insights into the technical and logistical strides being made to enhance the port’s capacity and efficiency.

Key presentations further explored challenges and opportunities in maritime navigation. Captain Frank Rabena, Vice President of the Virginia Pilot Association, discussed “Regional Vessel Movements & Navigational Challenges,” while CAPT Peggy Britton, Commander of USCG Sector Virginia, addressed “Harmonizing Growth in the Offshore Environment.”

The luncheon panel, titled Why Navigation Matters, brought commercial maritime leaders together to discuss the broader economic impact of navigation projects. Moderated by Cody McMahan, Operations Manager at Host Agency, the panel featured insights from Ray Keating of Perdue Agribusiness and Heather Wood of CMA CGM (Americas). Their discussion highlighted how improved navigation infrastructure drives cargo growth, boosts revenues, and supports the local workforce.

Afternoon sessions included presentations on emerging challenges and strategic planning for future navigation needs. Keith Lockwood, Water Resources Division Chief at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, shared findings from the James River TOYR Study and outlined the “Way Ahead.” Mike Anderson discussed the pressing issue of limited regional dredge capacity, and Keith Lockwood concluded with a forward-looking presentation on “Future Navigation Priorities.”

The 19th Annual Navigational Summit reinforced the essential collaboration between public and private stakeholders in advancing navigation priorities. With continued investment and innovation, the Hampton Roads region is poised to maintain its status as a global hub for maritime commerce and trade.

(O&M) by Stephen Powell and Ian Uliana, James River O&M

Source: Virginia Port Authority

RECEIPTS

VIRGINIA CUSTOMS DISTRICT

VMA ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING, HOLIDAY

CELEBRATION,

& UNITED WAY DRIVE

The Virginia Maritime Association invites you to our Annual Business Meeting and Holiday Celebration on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at the Neon House in Norfolk. The Annual Business Meeting is free to attend, providing a look back at the year’s accomplishments, election of officers and directors, and insights for 2025.

Join us afterward for VMA’s Holiday Celebration to connect and celebrate the season. Tickets are $95 for members and $125 for nonmembers and include heavy hors d’oeuvres and two drink tickets.

In the spirit of giving, VMA is excited to partner with the United Way this holiday season to give back to our community. We’re collecting essential items, and you can participate by dropping off donations at:

• VMA Office until 12/10/24.

• Annual Business Meeting on 12/10/24.

• Holiday Celebration on 12/10/24.

LEARN MORE at VAmaritime.com/News.

ASSOCIATION IN ACTION

Simply stated, active VMA members are Better Connected, Better Informed, and Better Represented. This segment of the Bulletin aims to provide insights into some of the ways in which the interests of VMA members were Better Represented during the previous month.

Over October 1-3 the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) went on strike for the first time since 1977. The ILA returned to work after an agreement was reached on wages and to extend the Master Contract until January 15, 2025, and return to the bargaining table to negotiate all other outstanding issues. Prior to and during the strike the VMA was a trusted resource of information for our membership, the media, and elected and un-elected government officials.

The second week of October was all about VMA’s annual events: the annual Maritime Golf Outing, VMA24 International Trade Symposium, inaugural International Bulk Conference, and 104th Annual Maritime Banquet; as well as numerous events affiliated organizations held in conjunction with the VMA events.

VMA was proud to partner with the International Marine Contractors Association for a full-day offshore wind safety seminar on October 22, where Senior Vice President Will Fediw along with other key industry stakeholders, shared insights on offshore wind in Virginia.

On October 16, VMA’s Executive Director David White joined Congressman Bobby Scott and others at the Perdue Agribusiness marine terminal to announce the delivery of $4 million in

community project funding for Pre-engineering and Design work to deepen the Southern Branch of the Elizabeth River.

During the October 23-24 annual Governor’s Transportation Conference, VMA’s David White moderated a discussion on the opportunities for multi-modal freight transportation - connecting port, rail, truck, and air freight to greater economic opportunity.

VMA contributed to discussions during the October 24 GO TEC® Maritime Industry & Education Exchange. Topics covered GO TEC® and its role in middle school career pathways, innovations with maritime infusion into in the GO TEC® program, and shaping curriculum and creating meaningful maritime career connections for students.

Other notable events and meetings in which VMA made presentations or represented the membership included:

• Virginia Chamber of Commerce Supply Chain Advisory Committee

• 460 Commerce Center Beam Signing Ceremony

• Virginia Offshore Wind Development Authority, Chaired by VMA’s Will Fediw

• Virginia Philippines Economic & Security Partnership Forum

• City of Norfolk Hampton Boulevard Advisory Taskforce

• Hampton Roads Caucus of the Virginia General Assembly

• U.S. Coast Guard Area Maritime Security Committee

• Hampton Roads Executive Roundtable

VMA NEW MEMBERS

DASCOM AMERICAS

Moving Cargo/Maritime Related Manufacturers and Distributors 34 Lakeview Court Verona, VA 24482 dascomamericas.com

Ron Acorn President (540) 209-4109 racorn@dascom.com

INTERNATIONAL REGISTRIES INC.

Non-profit

Non-profit organization 427 Fourth Street Annapolis, MD 21403 register-iri.com

EASTERN ATLANTIC STATES REGIONAL COUNCIL OF CARPENTERS

Silver Anchor Labor Organization

Jesse Stacy II Senior Regional Manager 4600 Camden Avenue Parkersburg, WV 26101 millwrightlocal443.org (304) 494-6027 jstacy@eascarpenters.org

Jeremy Garrett Council Representative 302 Roxbury Industrial Center Charles City, VA 23030 (804) 910-3544 jgarrett@eascarpenters.org

PACTIV EVERGREEN

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF SOUTH HAMPTON ROADS

Non-profit Non-profit organization 900 Tidewater Drive Norfolk, VA 23504 shrhabitat.org/ Frank Hruska Executive Director (757) 837-0082 frank.hruska@shrhabitat.org

Moving Cargo/Maritime Related Manufacturers and Distributors 332 Clearfield Avenue Chesapeake, VA 23320 pactivevergreen.com

Simeon Petradakis Deputy Commissioner of Maritime Affairs (571) 352-7146 spetradakis@register-iri.com

Lynn Sorey Manager, International Compliance & Logistics (757) 403-8638 lynn.sorey@pactivevergreen.com

INTEGRITY STAFFING SERVICES

Business Service

Employment Services 615 Lynnhaven Parkway Suite 201 Virginia Beach, VA 23452 integritystaffing.net

Allie Coneys VP of Business Development (757) 420-0355 aconeys@integritystaffing.net

RANDSTAD U.S.

Business Service

Employment Services 1333 Cornwall Plaza Norfolk, VA 23508 randstadusa.com

Mike Bartels Area Vice President (908) 601-1277 mike.bartels@randstadusa.com

CELEBRATING ROGER GIESINGER AT NAUTICUS REIMAGINED GRAND UNVEILING

NORFOLK, VA |

On November 7, 2024, Virginia’s maritime community gathered at Nauticus for the unveiling of “Nauticus Reimagined,” which embraces the successes of the past while charting a sustainable course for the next generation of visitors, including young people who may discover their interest in working in the maritime industry. A highlight of the evening was the dedication of the crane operator exhibit for Roger J. Giesinger, who served as President & Chief Negotiator for the Hampton Roads Shipping Association (HRSA) from 1994 to 2023. Presented by the Virginia Maritime Association (VMA) and Hampton Roads Shipping Association (HRSA), this dedication recognized Roger’s nearly 30 years of commitment

to the growth and success of Virginia’s maritime industry.

Friends and colleagues enjoyed and were challenged by operating a ship-to-shore crane simulator to virtually load a container ship, which is a part of the new “Our Port” exhibit. This exhibit highlights Virginia’s maritime community through a unique collaboration, distinguishing it from typical industrial stories in museums. “Our Port” combines traditional exhibit methods with innovative approaches to create a more engaging and informative experience for visitors.

Roger Giesinger’s dedication at the Nauticus exhibit is a tribute to his role in shaping the Hampton Roads maritime landscape. Known for his leadership and negotiation skills, Roger played a key role in building labor relations and promoting industry goals. His commitment to the HRSA helped establish Hampton Roads as a stronghold in maritime commerce.

“Nauticus Reimagined” celebrates the contributions and the growth of Virginia’s maritime industry, connecting history with innovation in a way that informs and engages visitors.

Photo

P.O. Box 3487

Norfolk, Virginia 23510