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TOTE, Saltchuk enter next phase of construction on Marlin Class vessels

July 16, 2014

Engine and LNG Tanks Delivered to General Dynamics NASSCO

World's first ME-GI engine pierside at NASSCO.

World’s first ME-GI engine pierside at NASSCO.

San Diego –  The arrival of the world’s first dual-fuel slow-speed engine to General Dynamics’ NASSCO’s shipyard marks the next phase of construction for TOTE’s Marlin Class vessels, projected to be the world’s safest and cleanest containerships.

Doosan Engine, under license from MAN Diesel and Turbo, delivered the first 8L70ME-GI engine. Earlier this year, Doosan completed the engine’s Factory Acceptance Tests, a culmination of months of testing to ensure compliance with U.S. regulations and restrictions. TOTE is the launch customer of the ME-GI engine, a significant advancement in propulsion technology.

“The Marlin class vessels, powered by Doosan’s dual-fuel engine, will provide the most modern and reliable service available” stated Anthony Chiarello, President and CEO of TOTE. “These ships will increase shipping capacity, reduce air emissions, and ensure a cleaner environment for our workers and port communities.”

In addition to the engines, two 900 cubic meter tanks, manufactured by Cryos, were delivered. These massive stainless steel cryogenic tanks weigh 380 tons each and will store liquefied natural gas aboard the Marlin ships.

Marlin Vessel Emissions Graph“The arrival of the dual-fuel main engine and LNG tanks at the NASSCO shipyard marks a milestone in the lead ship construction as well as a landmark in the era of green ship technology,” said NASSCO Program Manager for the TOTE Marlin Class, Eric Icke. The first vessel is nearly 40 percent complete and the start of construction on the second Marlin vessel in late May means the shipyard and its more than 3,000 skilled workers will be in full swing to ensure delivery of  the Marlins in late 2015 and early 2016.

“These vessels are the largest investment in our company’s history” said Denise Tabbutt, one of the three sisters who are primary shareholders in TOTE’s parent company, Saltchuk Resources. “We have a tremendous amount of confidence in the NASSCO team . . and we are lucky to have such incredible partners.”

For more information about TOTE’s LNG project visit: www.toteinc.com/about/lng

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About General Dynamics NASSCO

General Dynamics NASSCO designs, builds and maintains ships for the U.S. government and commercial customers. For more than 50 years, it has been a vital part of the San Diego waterfront and economy. For more information, please visit www.nassco.com.

Aloha Air Cargo takes flight again newly replacing two aircraft in fleet

July 3, 2014

HONOLULU – Aloha Air Cargo, Hawaii’s leading all-cargo air carrier, announced today the initiation of its fleet replacement plan with the purchase of two, new Boeing 737-300SF All Cargo Converted aircraft. The first B737-300 (KH301) recently entered operations with the second plane (KH302) currently in its initial maintenance check, and scheduled to be delivered into Honolulu during the third quarter of this year – enhancing the carrier’s fleet mix to two B737-300s, two B737-200s, and three Saab 340A Turbo-props.

Photo courtesy of Commercial JetThe B737-300 boasts nine full cargo positions totaling upwards of 39,000 lbs of payload capacity; that is two positions and nearly 10,000 lbs more than its sister aircraft, the B737-200 that Aloha currently flies. With ETOPS (Extended Range Twin Operations) capability, more fuel efficient and quieter engines, and a greatly reduced environmental footprint, the airframe is superior in every way.

“Our current fleet of four Boeing 737-200 aircraft has served Aloha and our predecessor very well over the last several decades, but timing is key to begin transitioning to a newer airframe,” said Pat Rosa, Chief Operating Officer for Aloha Air Cargo. “We are excited to invest in the future of our company and its employees by adding the 737-300s to our fleet. With this addition, Aloha Air Cargo will continue to build upon its 30 year history for providing safe and reliable cargo services to our communities in Hawaii and beyond.”

As a leader in aviation and air cargo transportation, Aloha Air Cargo is continually exploring innovative ways to grow its business, while providing the greatest value for its customers. The addition of these two B737-300 planes shows Aloha’s long term vision to transition to a more widely supported airframe which it has had proven experience with under its predecessor, Aloha Airlines.

Aloha Air Cargo offers a number of unique services such as Aloha Same Day, Overnight, and FlexShip including shipping of: animals and high-value items, plus perishable and dangerous goods. Carrying nearly 70 percent of the total interisland air-freight, monthly operations include approximately 1,000 departures to or from every major airport destination within the state of Hawaii, including: Honolulu, Kahului, Lihue, Hilo and Kona. Aloha Air Cargo is committed to meeting any cargo need with the care and attention that it has provided to its customers for more than three decades.

For more information on Aloha Air Cargo, please call toll free 888-94-ALOHA (26542) or visit AlohaAirCargo.com.

Aloha Air 100x100-01About Aloha Air Cargo

Headquartered in Honolulu, Aloha Air Cargo delivers fast, economical and reliable transport of goods between the Hawaiian Islands of Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Island of Hawaii. It became an independent cargo operator after the closure of Aloha Airlines passenger services in May 2008. Aloha Tech Ops is a division of Aloha Air Cargo and provides maintenance and engineering services to airlines in the State of Hawaii.

Aloha Air Cargo is owned by Seattle-based Saltchuk, which has been doing business in Hawaii since 2000 when it acquired Young Brothers/Hawaiian Tug & Barge. Committed to the welfare of Hawaii and strengthening the local economy, the company also acquired Hawaii Fuel Network, Maui Petroleum and Minit Stop Stores in 2006.

Foss Maritime Celebrates 125 Years of Maritime Innovation & Expertise

May 22, 2014

Honoring over a century of success, looking forward to a bright future

SEATTLE-  Seattle’s Foss Maritime, a company that has evolved from a single rowboat into one of the world’s leading marine transportation and harbor services companies, celebrates its 125th anniversary this year.

Foss 100x100-01The company was founded in Tacoma, Washington by Thea Foss in 1889, and now serves customers around the world, operating over 130 vessels and employing 1,500 people.

“We have great and strong traditions here at Foss, and the hard work and creative thinking of our employees has propelled us to where we are today,” said Paul Stevens, Foss president and CEO.

Over the past 125 years, Foss Maritime has grown out of its humble beginnings into a global company that offers a wide range of marine services. Today, Foss continues to pursue growth opportunities in a variety of areas, such as expanding its scope of services and clients in Alaska and the Arctic. The company has already been involved in a number of projects for major oil companies in the past few years, and three Arctic-class tugs currently under construction at the Rainier Shipyard will only enhance Foss’ Arctic capabilities.

Foss’ Seattle shipyard, traditionally involved in maintenance and repair work, expanded into new-vessel construction in early 2014, further diversifying the company’s business. As a result, employment at Foss Seattle shipyard ascended to its highest levels ever, with about 265 welders, electricians, carpenters and other craftsmen on the job there since November 2013.

In addition, Foss’ Rainier, Oregon shipyard recently expanded its footprint by 11,000 square feet with the construction of a bulkhead and other support services.

Recent major construction accomplishments include: the new Sanpoil ferry, a 20-car aluminum-hulled vessel with advanced technology for cleaner air constructed in partnership with Washington state and the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and the pilot boat Connor Foss built with increased stability and efficiency to replace the aging Arrow 2 on the Columbia River at Astoria, Oregon.

Two state of the art fireboats are currently under construction at the Seattle shipyard. The first was recently christened and construction has already commenced on the second.

Foss has also been at the forefront of delivering emergency aid and providing necessary assistance in recent years, most notably during the devastating natural disasters in Haiti and the U.S. East Coast. The company delivered nearly 80,000 tons of food aid in 4,000 containers over eight-months to Haiti, and gathered relief supplies, helped resolve flooded areas and provided power to affected locations after Hurricane Sandy.

To honor the tremendous growth and change over the last decades, the company is marking the occasion with a special celebration in June, and the publication of a limited edition book about the company’s history, dedicated to the hard working and talented men and women that make up the Foss family.

The anniversary book is an exquisite collection of historical photos and inspiring stories revealing the company’s rich history and current activities, both locally and around the world. It will be available for purchase on the Foss website, www.foss.com.

“The future looks bright to us,” says Stevens, “We are looking forward to the next 125 years with both enthusiasm and excitement.”

Foss Honors New Fireboat in Blessing Ceremony at Seattle Shipyard

May 15, 2014

State of the Art Firefighting

SEATTLE-  The first of two new technologically advanced fireboats under construction by Foss Maritime for the Port of Long Beach (POLB) was dedicated in a blessing ceremony on Thursday, May 1 at Foss Maritime’s Seattle Shipyard.

The vessel, named Fireboat 20, is being readied for service and is scheduled for delivery to Long Beach, Calif., this summer.

Foss FireboatGary Faber, Foss Senior Vice President, made opening remarks and praised the hardworking men and women who helped construct the vessel. Peter Forsythe, POLB Deputy Chief Harbor Engineer spoke with excitement about the forthcoming delivery, and Mike Magill, Vice President of Foss’ Technical Services, introduced the Rev. David Marshall of St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church of Shoreline who blessed the vessel.

Xavier Espino, Battalion Chief of the Long Beach Fire Department, and his wife Colleen, who had the honor of breaking the ceremonial bottle of champagne across the Fireboat 20’s mighty hull.

Fireboat 20 has a Voith Schneider Cycloidal propulsion system that allows for exceptional maneuverability, a firefighting system with a pumping capacity of 41,000 gallons per minute, and seven caterpillar engines. It is designed to be a state-of-the-art command center, with a CBRN System that protects the firefighters from chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear threats.

A second fireboat for the POLB is under construction and will be delivered in late 2014 or early 2015.

TOTE CEO honored by White House as a “Champion of Change,” leading the U.S. maritime industry toward natural gas as fuel

May 14, 2014

WASHINGTON –  TOTE, Inc. President & CEO Anthony Chiarello is among 11 individuals honored by the White House as 2014 transportation industry “Champions of Change.” Chiarello was chosen for his role in leading the U.S. maritime industry toward natural gas as fuel.

Anthony Chiarello and Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx at the Champions of Change eventChiarello joined fellow honorees and guests in the South auditorium of the White House yesterday to accept recognition and share insights during a panel discussion titled: “Opening Doors for Opportunity.”

TOTE is building the first natural gas-powered container ships in the world to serve Puerto Rico and is converting its ships in Alaska to natural gas; TOTE is the first in the United States to convert its fleet to liquefied natural gas (LNG).

The experience has been both exciting and humbling for Chiarello, a fourth-generation member of the shipping and logistics industry.

“As a Jones Act domestic carrier, we’re uniquely positioned to create real change in the supply conundrum – availability of fuel is a big hurdle for most transportation sectors to change over to clean-burning natural gas,” Chiarello wrote in a post he prepared for the White House Champions of Change blog. “Our regular service routes create enough of a steady demand to entice fuel partners to build liquefaction plants in our ports of call, thus making LNG supply available to others in those markets. Supply in Jacksonville, Florida and Tacoma, Washington will serve the Southeast and Pacific Northwest with natural gas that can be used for ships, trucks, and rail.”

TOTE announced plans to convert its fleet to natural gas in 2012. Since then, natural gas suppliers have begun creating distribution networks in major U.S. ports, making gas available to all transportation modes in those markets. Natural gas-powered ships will achieve emissions reductions far below even the world’s most stringent regulatory standards. These emissions reductions will have long-lasting and far-reaching positive effects on the health and safety of citizens along the U.S. coastline – particularly in Washington, Alaska, Florida, and Puerto Rico, where TOTE ships are part of the critical domestic supply chain. As the adoption of natural gas fuel spreads, air emissions will be lowered along the coastline as part of the North American Emissions Control Area, and additional environmental benefits will accrue in ports, and on roads and rail lines.

“It is an honor to stand among the 2014 Transportation Champions of Change representing TOTE and Saltchuk,” Chiarello continued. “My colleagues and I are proud of our investments into new technology as a reflection of our commitment to the people and customers of Alaska and Puerto Rico. We’re equally pleased to help move the U.S. toward natural gas as a marine transportation fuel while providing the most advanced, safe, reliable service possible.”

To learn more about the White House Champions of Change program, visit www.whitehouse.gov/champions. To learn more about TOTE and its conversion to natural gas visit: www.toteinc.com/about/lng

Chiarello pictured with Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx.

Video Clip from the Champions of Change Awards Ceremony

  Courtesy of the White House communications staff

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