of houstonportarchive.com/2014/pha-mag-2014-01.pdf30 spotlight on small business nation waste inc....

THE PORT OF HOUSTON

SPRING 2014

Gate Technology Reduces Emissions

CONTENTS

SPRING 2014

IN EVERY ISSUE

FOCUS ON ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES A PRIORITY

12 FEATURE 18 Getting the Job Done:

New Executive Director Roger Guenther

23 Partners in Action

28 Ready to Succeed:First Job, New Career

24 Expanded Hours: Attracting More Riders on Veteran Sam Houston

6 A Message from Port Commission Chairman Janiece Longoria

8 The Manifest

Port of Houston Authority News Highlights

30 Spotlight on Small Business Nation Waste Inc.

EXECUTIVE OFFICE Port of Houston Authority111 East Loop North, P.O. Box 2562, Houston, TX 77252-2562 Phone: 713-670-2400 Fax: 713-670-2429 Executive Director Roger D. Guenther

Deputy Executive Director, Legal, and General CounselErik A. Eriksson

Deputy Executive Director, Finance and AdministrationThomas J. Heidt

Deputy Executive Director, Corporate AffairsPhyllis Saathoff

Harris County Auditor Barbara J. Schott

Harris County Treasurer Orlando Sanchez

FIELD OFFICES

Central & South America(excluding Brazil)Arturo GamezCentral & South America RepresentativePort of Houston AuthorityAvenida Aquilino De La Guardia y Calle 47Ocean Business Plaza Building, MezzaninePanama, Republic of PanamaTel.: +(507) 340-0205Fax: +(281) 754-4647Houston Access (713) 491-4607Email: [email protected]

THE PORT OF HOUSTON

AUTHORITY

BrazilJohn C. CuttinoBrazil RepresentativePort of Houston AuthorityAv. Paulista, 2300-Andar PilotisSao Paulo, SP Brazil, CEP: 01310-300Tel.: +55 (11) 2847-4931Fax: +55 (11) 2847-4550Houston Access (832) 239-5076Email: [email protected]

Port of Houston Magazine’s editorial staff: Phyllis Saathoff, deputy executive director, corporate affairs | Lisa Ashley, director, corporate communications | Bill Hensel, manager, corporate communications | Edwin Henry, senior corporate communications specialist | Maggi Stewart, senior corporate communications specialist | David Bray, photographer | Chris Kuhlman, photographer | Esther de Ipolyi, contributor | Gilbreath Communications, Inc.

This publication is not copyrighted and permission is given for the reproduction or use of any original materials, provided credit is given to the Port of Houston Authority. Additional information, address changes, extra copies, or advertising specifications may be obtained by writing to the Port of Houston Magazine.

The Port of Houston Magazine is published by the Port of Houston Authority, P.O. Box 2562, Houston, Texas 77252-2562, and is distributed free to maritime, industrial and transportation interests in the United States and foreign countries.

Visit the Port of Houston Authority online www.portofhouston.com

AsiaMatthew Soloman Port of Houston Authority c/o Ben Line Agencies Email: [email protected] Tel: +84 838 256 148 x 147 Mobile: +84 903 943 886

Head Office200 Cantonment Road, #13-05Southpoint, 089763 SingaporeTel.: +65 6420 9013Fax: +65 6224 0163

STEPHEN H. DONCARLOS Commissioner

JANIECE LONGORIAChairman

DEAN E. CORGEYCommissioner

THELDON R. BRANCH, IIICommissioner

JOHN D. KENNEDYCommissioner

CLYDE FITZGERALDCommissioner

ROY D. MEASECommissioner

4 Port of Houston Authority | Spring 2014

Untitled-1.indd 1 9/28/11 10:00 AM

THE LONG VIEWA MESSAGE FROM PORT COMMISSION CHAIRMAN

JANIECE M. LONGORIA


When you power a good idea with effective partnership, there is no limit to what can be accomplished. The Port of Houston is a prime example. The visionary civic and business leaders who championed the dredging of a 52-mile deep-water channel from the Gulf to the fledgling community of Houston a century ago understood the importance of having a marine link to the world so that Texas’ commodities could be traded throughout the world. But the realization of their bold idea to dredge the Houston Ship Channel has brought Houston, this region, Texas and the nation much more than those early visionaries could have imagined. Because of that bold idea and an effective cost-sharing partnership to dredge the channel, the Port of Houston hosts the largest petrochemical complex in the nation; Houston has grown to be the fourth-largest city in the nation and the premier exporting metropolitan region in the country; and Texas has been recognized as the leading export state for 13 years in a row.

This year, we are pleased to join with the more than 150 manufacturers and other industry stakeholders to celebrate the centennial of the Houston Ship Channel. Having been opened on November 10, 1914, it is important to recognize its importance later this year.

The Port of Houston Authority continued its strong performance in 2013 and is on track to meet or beat 2013 performance in 2014. A record-setting 36 million tons of cargo moved across Port of Houston Authority docks in 2013, a 2 percent increase over tonnage handled the previous year.

In addition, 1.95 million container TEUs moved through our container terminals at Barbours Cut and Bayport. The Port Authority’s 6-percent increase in movement of loaded containers outpaced U.S. East and West Coasts in that category. Improved grain and coal exports over the prior year enabled the Port Authority to post a 13-percent increase in bulk cargo (11 million tons). Hefty year-over-year increases in bulk commodities such as grain (76 percent) and coal (41 percent) helped boost our bulk cargo tonnage 13 percent over what it was in 2012. We are proud to be the leading container port on the Gulf Coast and the leading breakbulk port in the nation.

The Port of Houston Authority realized a 4-percent increase in 2013 operating revenue over what was generated the year before. Because of continued economic recovery, and the significant impact of shale exploration and production, which has driven steel imports, and the export of manufactured products, it marked the fourth

Spring 2014 | Port of Houston Authority 7

consecutive year of robust growth for our business lines. We generated $231 million in operating income and also realized significant increases in net operating revenue and net income.

Keeping the port a strong economic engine that provides jobs and opportunity is our mission, and we have confidence in our talented management team. Because of 26 years of port operational experience, Executive Director Roger Guenther has and will continue to manage our operations to meet the growing needs of our customers. Through effective management and Commission guidance, the Port of Houston Authority will continue to fulfill its mission and will play a pivotal role in the economic expansion that drives growth for our region and our economy.

With that said, it is imperative that our permit for the deepening and widening of our facilities be granted so that we are ready for the larger ships that are likely to call on our facilities after the opening of the expanded Panama Canal in 2015. The Commission and staff are working diligently with the Army Corps of Engineers and with our federal delegation to achieve success, and we will keep our stakeholders apprised of our progress. It is also imperative that we have the resources necessary to maintain our channel at the authorized depth to assure

uninterrupted movement of cargo through our channel. We continue to work with our federal delegation and Congress to achieve progress in receiving a fair share of the Harbor Maintenance Tax that is collected and intended to provide funding for channel maintenance and dredging.

As it was 100 years ago, partnership is the key to our continued success. In partnership with industry, our elected officials, business leaders, community leaders and our important labor force, we will continue the legacy that has been entrusted to us. On the cusp of another historic economic expansion, driven by the exploration and production of prolific stores of domestic energy, and in anticipation of increased cargo through the Panama Canal, we look forward to partnering with you to drive success for our region, our state and the nation. n

THE MANIFESTNEWS HIGHLIGHTS

The buildout of the Port of Houston Authority’s Bayport Container Terminal was the primary focus of a visit in February by Acting U.S. Maritime Administrator Paul (Chip) Jaenichen and staff, along with Texas Department of Transportation officials.

PHA Executive Director Roger Guenther provided an overview of the port and its economic benefits to the state and nation, followed by a tour of the container terminal. The tour included the Wharf 12 extension project at Bayport, which will be funded in part by a $10 million Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant.

When awarded the grant last year, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) cited the Bayport expansion as a prime “example of a project that will help jumpstart local and national economic growth.”

The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation and promotes waterborne transportation and ensures it is integrated into the nation’s transportation system.

MARAD, TXDOT TOUR BAYPORT CONTAINER TERMINAL

Structural improvements that are under way at the Port of Houston Authority’s Turning Basin Terminal were highlighted during a steel roundtable that was held in February at PHA’s Executive Office Building.

A total of $4.8 million worth of improvements began in February and should be completed in June, according to Randy Stiefel, PHA’s Director of General Cargo Facilities. A total of $6.7 million in improvements at City Dock 23 will start after the first project is completed.

The executive director of the American Institute for International Steel, Richard Chriss, also addressed the attendees during the roundtable and took note of activity at the Turning Basin.

“What a great backdrop to talk about international trade and steel,” Chriss said. “It doesn’t get any better than this.”

The Port of Houston Authority handles more breakbulk cargo than any other port in the United States.

PORT OF HOUSTON AUTHORITY HOSTS STEEL ROUNDTABLE



Texas Railroad Commissioner Christi Craddick visited the Port of Houston Authority Executive Office Feb. 5, where she was provided a briefing about the port by Port Commission Chairman Janiece Longoria, Executive Director Roger Guenther and members of PHA’s staff.

Craddick, an Austin lawyer who was elected to the Texas Railroad Commission in 2012, was provided background on the port’s history, economic impact and global reach and also on PHA facilities. Additionally, she was provided information about the Port Authority’s role regarding the licensing and permitting of pipelines located along the Houston Ship Channel.

The railroad commissioner also was briefed about the West Gulf Maritime Association by the WGMA during the meeting.

The oldest regulatory agency in Texas, the Railroad Commission is the primary regulator of the oil and gas industry in the state. Its mission is to ensure the efficient and safe production and transportation of the state’s energy resources, with minimal impact to the environment.

TEXAS RAILROAD COMMISSIONER VISITS PORT AUTHORITY

Commercial Real Estate Services firm Colliers International, which previously dubbed the Port of Houston as North America’s most irreplaceable port, now has named the Port of Houston the “Gulf’s Darn Profitable” (GDP) Port.

“What can be said about the Port of Houston that we haven’t already said?” noted Colliers, which has offices in 62 countries. “Not only is it Colliers’ view that it’s the

‘Most Irreplaceable Port’ in North America, it’s proven to be quite profitable.”

Representatives of Colliers presented the GDP Award to the Port Commission during its regular monthly meeting in February.

The “Irreplaceable” designation was bestowed by the firm on the Port of Houston Authority in 2012 based on the vital nature of the port’s physical aspects, but the latest award recognizes the PHA’s operational excellence.

The firm noted that operating revenue and net income at the PHA in 2013 was up significantly year-over-year. Citing problems being experienced by ports in some other areas of the country, Colliers noted that port leadership and operational efficiency are cornerstones to port profitability.

“In 2013, Houston has been firing on all cylinders,” Colliers said. “It takes more than great physical facilities and deep water to be a great port; it takes a great port director and board of directors. Houston has both.”

COLLIERS INTERNATIONAL RECOGNIZES PORT AUTHORITY – AGAIN!

THE MANIFEST spotlights news briefs exclusively from Port of Houston Authority, its customers, trading partners, and community stakeholders. Submit information in the form of a letter or press release via e-mail to [email protected] or via fax 713-670-2425. The Port of Houston Magazine does not guarantee publication and reserves the right to edit submissions for content and style.

The Port of Houston Authority has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Accounting awarded by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its Comprehensive Annual Financial report for the fiscal year ending in 2012.

The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and the most recent award marks the 39th year in a row the Port Authority has been so honored.

PHA Controller Tim Finley and members of the financial and accounting team were recognized for their work during the regular monthly meeting of the Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority in February.

CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING AWARDED

A plaque presentation commemorating the maiden voyage of the Bahri Jazan was held in late January.

The celebration was held at the Port of Houston Authority’s Turning Basin Terminal, where Bahri began calling last year. The line previously had been calling at the Barbours Cut Container Terminal.

Bahri, which formerly was the National Shipping Company of Saudi Arabia, is providing monthly roll on/roll off (RO/RO) service using a fleet of six brand-new vessels to carry vehicles, railway and project cargo to the Middle East. Bahri has said it is committed to expanding services by upgrading its entire fleet.

The Bahri Jazan is the fourth of six vessels being built for the company by Hyundai MIPO of South Korea.

Bahri has a fleet of 55 vessels that operate in the RO/RO, oil and gas, chemical tankers and dry-bulk sectors.

Bahri is one of the world’s largest shipping companies and is a longstanding customer of the Port Authority.

BAHRI JAZAN MAIDEN VOYAGE CELEBRATION HELD

A PAGE FROM THE PASTIn celebration of the Houston Ship Channel’s Centennial this year, we will be featuring pages from the Port of Houston Magazine’s archives. This entry comes from the June 1924 issue and demonstrates a long history of record-breaking cargo.


FOCUS ON

A PRIORITY

ENVIRONMENTAL

INITIATIVES

In 2002, the

Port of Houston

Authority became

the first U.S. port

authority to attain the

international standard

for environmental

management systems,

known as ISO 14001.



A host of FORWARD-LOOKING environmental initiatives are either under way or are under consideration by The Port of Houston Authority in 2014.


PHA’s Clean Air Strategy Plan (CASP), which was put in place about four years ago, uses public/private partnerships to target sources of emissions with specific reduction goals and strategies and to identify funding opportunities to support those goals. It was created using the initial Goods Movement Emissions Inventory as a base.

The GMEI was last updated beginning in 2007. The new review will be an attempt to get a current estimate of the amount of pollutants and greenhouse gases at Port Authority terminals. Among the different sources of emissions that will be studied are ocean-going vessels, harbor vessels, locomotives, cargo-handling equipment and heavy-duty trucks.

The 2007 GMEI showed that nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions related to activity at Port Authority terminals accounted for 3.1 percent of the total NOx emissions generated in the Houston-Galveston-Brazoria (HGB) non-attainment area for ground-level ozone.

But the Port Authority has been working to help facilitate and encourage significant emission reductions

Among the green initiatives are an updated Goods Movement Emissions Inventory (GMEI) study, a truck registry initiative, and an incentive program aimed at ensuring more trucks are being converted to newer and cleaner engines.

Additionally, the Port Authority is eyeing the possibility of instituting a truck idling program, an electric vehicle fleet program and also is considering the purchase of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered vans for the Port Authority-sponsored van pool program.

These proposals are in addition to numerous environmental initiatives already in place, which are not new to the Port Authority. In 2002, it became the first U.S. port authority to attain the international standard for environmental management systems, known as ISO 14001. That is a systematic approach to dealing with the environmental aspects of an organization, which can be used as a tool to control the impacts of the Port Authority’s activities. PHA subsequently has been recertified to that standard.

The proposed initiatives are all part of a continual environmental assessment at the Port Authority, notes Charlie Jenkins, Managing Director of Channel Development and Environmental Affairs.

“Environmental stewardship is one of the Port Authority’s core values,” says Jenkins. “This new study is being undertaken as part of our commitment to continuously evaluate and improve environmental practices.”

Last year, a new gate system, the Navis SPARCS N4 terminal operating system, was implemented at Bayport. The integration of gate, yard and vessel operations has led to shorter truck turnaround times, meaning less emissions. A new mobile app for truckers also was introduced, improving efficiency.

The Port Authority has been working to help facilitate and encourage significant emission reductions and to promote air quality awareness all along the Houston Ship Channel.


and to promote air quality awareness all along the Houston Ship Channel.

The Port Authority has received more than $2.2 million during the past decade under the Texas Emissions Reduction Plan (TERP), which was used to replace 20 terminal tractors, to repower PHA’s tour boat and a fireboat and repower 14 Rubber Tired Gantry cranes, among other things. Additionally, federal Diesel Emission Reduction Act (DERA) grant funding has been used in recent years to update cargo-handling equipment.

Since the number of trucks that travel to and from the port on a regular basis make up a majority of emissions, a variety of programs and proposals focus almost solely on trucking.

The idea behind developing a truck registry is based on a simple concept: obtain baseline data on the truck population at Port Authority facilities, then use existing data collection systems to collect emission information on the trucks.

While the truck registry proposal is new, the program to find monetary incentives for trucks to convert to newer and cleaner engines is something the Port Authority has done for a number of years. The idea behind it is to leverage grants and assist the industry with innovative ideas for converting to newer or cleaner engines.

For example, the drayage loan program is a low-interest program that enables eligible truck owners to finance newer, cleaner trucks. Loans from $5,000 to $100,000 cover the difference between the cost of the vehicle and the incentive grant. It is used toward the purchase of a low-mileage 2010 or newer engine.

The Port Authority, the Environmental Defense Fund and the Houston-Galveston Area Council partnered with the Environmental Protection Agency’s SmartWay Program on the clean truck program, with the EPA initially awarding $9 million to H-GAC for administering the grant for the Drayage Truck Loan program. n


An external audit of the EMS System, which recently has been expanded to include Engineering and Real Estate, was just completed this spring and we have maintained our certification.”

— Jill Burris, Director, Environmental Affairs

“

2007 2017 2025 2030

PHA Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) Emissions Reduction 2007–2030

8500

8000

7500

7000

6500

6000

5500

5000


PHA NOx Emissions Reduction by Terminal Type2007–2030

2007 2017 2025 2030

Container TerminalsGeneral Cargo Terminals

(tons per year)

600

500

400

300

200

100

0


GETTING THE

JOB DONENew Executive Director Roger Guenther

has long tenure with Port Authority


Sometimes, you don’t have to look too far to find the best person for

the job — someone with a track record, who understands the business

top to bottom and has established working relationships with others

in the industry. That is why Port Commissioners appointed Baytown

native Roger Guenther, a 26-year Port of Houston Authority employee,

as PHA’s Executive Director at their January 31, 2014, meeting.

He succeeds Leonard Waterworth, who had served for two years. Waterworth helped the Port Authority through recent transitions and used his U.S. Army Corps of Engineers background to help obtain permits to deepen and widen PHA’s container terminal channels.

On appointing Guenther, Port Commission Chairman Janiece Longoria said, “Given his background and experience, the growth in our business under his operational leadership, and his long and positive service to the Port of Houston Authority, we are confident that Mr. Guenther is the right choice as successor to lead the institution as we move forward.”

Guenther, who joined the Port Authority in 1988 as Manager of Maintenance at Barbours Cut Terminal, explains, “I have been fortunate to have had a lot of portwide experience. Working with and for many talented people, I’ve had the opportunity to understand many aspects of the organization during my 26-year career.”

Growing up near the Houston Ship Channel as a member of a hard-working family in a city with much port-related industry, Guenther says he is most thankful to his parents. They instilled a good work ethic and gave him and his brother an opportunity that hadn’t been possible for them: a college education. Still living in Baytown, they are very proud of him.

“They couldn’t be happier for me,” he says. Guenther says he was taught that life centered around

“family, friendship and faith…and just good, hard work. That was the way we were brought up.”

He continues that tradition with his own family, wife, Fabiana, and their two teen-agers.

Guenther also credits a host of good friends and influences as he was growing up. “They taught me the right way to do things,” he says.

He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from Texas A&M University and has an M.B.A. in international trade and finance from the University of St. Thomas.

Through his many years at the Port Authority, Guenther served in increasingly important positions. He was general manager of container terminals, overseeing master planning of the Bayport Container Terminal and redevelopment of the existing Barbours Cut Terminal.

Named vice president of container terminals, in 2010, he directed activities related to both the Barbours Cut and Bayport container terminals. His oversight included strategic planning, capital development programs, operations and maintenance of the facilities.

As deputy executive director of operations, since November 2012, he was responsible for all container and breakbulk cargo operations, management and construction of capital development projects, facility and asset maintenance, and real estate interests.

JOB DONE


His main role as executive director (the 13th since Benjamin Casey Allin

began his tenure in 1919) is to run the day-to-day operations of the Port Authority. He

says he will get involved as needed to make sure initiatives as set out by the policy of the Port

Commission are carried out appropriately. “I want to serve the people I work with and make sure they all

have the tools to do their jobs well. I believe that we have the opportunity and the obligation to have a significant influence on this port for the next century,” he says.

He made his first adjustment soon after being named. The Trade Development and Marketing group now reports directly to Guenther, along with the General Counsel, Operations, Finance and Administration and Corporate Affairs.

“As executive director, I feel strongly that I need to remain in close contact with our customer base and stakeholders and continue to integrate the trade group with our revenue-producing business units,” he says.

Among Guenther’s main priorities are to be prepared for continued regional growth and to ensure that waterways are dredged to the proper width and depth, and maintained adequately for the effective flow of cargo. That also means ensuring that all cargo-handling facilities are current, efficient and capable of serving the cargo that needs to come through Houston. He notes potential opportunities related to the Panama Canal expansion to be completed in 2016.

“We must stay ahead of the demand curve and expected growth by planning improvements to our facilities and ensuring we have funding for these capital investments,” he says.

“Our next major project is the deepening and widening

of the Barbours Cut and Bayport channels,” he notes. “This is a critical project as we continue the expansion of our container terminals and commission newer, larger cranes to handle the increased size of vessels coming our way.”

Guenther believes a long-term strategy is vitally important, understanding what the needs are at least a decade in advance and making sure the port has the assets to move the goods.

Challenges, he says, will always be related to the availability of funding, whether for facilities or for federal funds to maintain the waterways.

“We must be able to continue to capture growth and maintain sustainable, competitive trade in an environmentally sound, secure and safe manner,” he says.

Guenther emphasizes that he is a person who understands the port business, has established a good, working relationship with the shipping lines, the trucking community, the users of Port Authority facilities and the communities in and around the port.

“We must listen to our stakeholders so that we can take the right measures and make this port better,” he says.

“Every day brings something new, something we haven’t seen before,” he continues. “I have seen a tremendous amount of growth and change in the industry since coming here. I think I’m very lucky to be able to serve in a leadership role during the 100-year anniversary of this great waterway, and I’m excited about the celebration.

“The success of the port will continue because we have great people who know their jobs and are eager to take part and succeed each and every day,” he says. “The Port Commission choosing me sends a strong message to the staff that they are confident and trust in our ability to get the job done.” n

“ We must listen to our stakeholders so that we can take the right measures and make this port better,” he says.

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When an incident, whether man-made or natural such as a hurricane, occurs on the Houston Ship Channel, affecting the flow of vessel movement or impacting the environment, the Port Coordination Team (PCT) is activated.

The PCT allows the U.S. Coast Guard’s Captain of the Port to establish shipping priorities, implement port reopening protocols and better manage the flow of vessel movements without compromising the safety and security of the affected ports.

The PCT is composed of members from the Port of Houston Authority and the ports of Galveston, Texas City and Freeport, the U.S. Coast Guard, three Pilot organizations, shipping companies, harbor tug operators, and businesses using the channel. As core constituents, they are responsible for consolidating information from their respective groups to keep the Captain of the Port informed.

The U.S. Coast Guard is the lead agency in coordinating emergency response efforts, along with the Texas General Land Office (for oil spills) and other agencies for the PCT. Captain of the Port Brian Penoyer directs all Coast Guard missions in Eastern Texas and Western Louisiana. Different agencies get involved, depending on the circumstances, such as the FBI if it is a terrorist event, TCEQ if it is a HAZMAT incident on land.

In late March, a collision between two vessels in the Houston Ship Channel caused an oil spill, resulting in a closure of the ship channel. The incident warranted the PCT to go into effect.

The incident put the Texas General Land Office’s Oil Spill Prevention and Response Program into action to respond to the oil spill. The TGLO worked closely with the U.S. Coast Guard, which quickly closed the ship channel, handled coordination of the spill containment and ongoing emergency response efforts.

The Port of Houston Authority’s fireboat Farnsworth was among emergency response vessels deployed from several agencies. PHA Fire Chief William Buck said the Farnsworth crew’s role was to monitor the situation, report back to the command center, and ensure that the safety zones were secure.

The Port Coordination Team met twice a day to determine when and what ships could move. A Joint Information Center was set up in Texas City for media and other inquiries.

The Galveston Bay Foundation coordinated volunteers and trained professionals to help impacted wildlife, in particular, local and migratory birds that use numerous nesting areas in the bay.

These jointly coordinated efforts significantly lessened impacts to Galveston Bay and the Gulf Coast and permitted the ship channel to be reopened to vessel movements within three days of the incident.

The Houston Pilots then worked to return the flow of vessel movement through the channel.

Marcus Woodring, Managing Director of Health, Safety, Security and Emergency Management for the Port Authority and a member of the PCT, said, “During a crisis, the cooperation of all maritime industry partners to get traffic moving and commerce flowing again is remarkable. Everyone puts aside their differences and competitive natures to work together for the greater good.”

The collaborative efforts of the various agencies resulted in a relatively quick re-opening of the channel.

Regarding the coordinated emergency response efforts, Port Commission Chairman Janiece Longoria summed it up: “This clearly demonstrates the importance of partnerships and how effectively they work along the Houston Ship Channel.” n

These jointly coordinated efforts significantly lessened impacts to Galveston Bay and the Gulf Coast...

Cooperative Efforts Assure Vessel Movement, Environmental Protection Continues

PARTNERS IN ACTION

100 millionNational market reach from Houston


HOURS

Now in its 56th year, the M/V Sam Houston public tour boat is attracting even more visitors to its free, 90-minute tour of the Houston Ship Channel with expanded hours that began in June 2013.

Attracting More Riders on Veteran Sam Houston


“We wanted to make the best use of our popular tour boat by expanding the schedule, especially in anticipation of centennial celebrations later this year,” says Gilda Ramirez, Port of Houston Authority Managing Director, Community Outreach.

The schedule now includes tours at 6 p.m. Friday, Saturday and holidays, in addition to two tours a day Wednesday through Saturday, and one on Sunday.

“Based on the passenger count from the last six months of 2013, the new schedule has already made a big difference,” says Pedro Gonzalez, Small Business Development Manager.

More than 28,000 passengers took the tour in 2013. That annual total increased by 750 during the six months since the new schedule was implemented.

“It’s been busy, busy, busy,” says Sr. Captain Doug Mims, who joined the Port Authority in 1987, the Sam Houston a year later and became its captain in 1997. “People are enjoying the weekend evening tours — it’s given them a different look at the ship channel as the sun goes down.”

Named for the legendary military commander who led the fight for Texas independence from Mexico and later for statehood, the M/V Sam Houston offers round-trip tours through one of the busiest ports in the world.

HOURS

“People are enjoying the weekend evening tours —it’s given them a different look at the ship channel as the sun goes down.”

Reserve an unforgettable tour on the Sam HoustonReservations are required for a free tour of the Port of Houston and can be made up to three months in advance online at www.portofhouston.com under Free Boat Tours or by calling 713-670-2416 Tuesdays through Saturdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. The Sam Houston tours Wednesday through Sunday, at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, and 2:30 p.m. only on Sunday. Limited 6 p.m. tours Friday and Saturday. Check Online Reservations for availability.

The M/V Sam Houston, the Port of Houston’s third tour boat, has been operating as the public tour vessel since its first voyage on July 30, 1958.

As the port has grown, so has the size of its tour boat. The first vessel, with capacity for 24 passengers, was purchased in 1928, and named the R.J. Cummins after the longest-serving port commissioner at that time. In 1948, it was replaced by the Sam Houston I, a converted coast guard cutter that could carry up to 60 passengers.

Designed by L. B. Christenson Engineers, Inc., the current vessel is 95 feet long, with capacity for 90 passengers. A spring 1958 account in the Port of Houston Magazine’s predecessor, the Houston Port Book, describes its comparatively luxurious interior: “outfitted in a manner comparable with a fine hotel because it will have the assignment of carrying many thousands of visitors from all parts of the world on cruises down the Houston Ship Channel.”

The vessel features air-conditioned lounge seating as well as standing room outside on the boat’s deck. The tour gives visitors a unique close-up of the inner workings of the Port of Houston. They also get a glimpse at some of the thousands of vessels from such countries as Brazil, China,

Germany or Mexico that come through the port each year.In 2010, the vessel received new, low-emission fuel

engines and a new generator with Texas Emissions Reduction Plan (TERP) grants through EPA’s National Clean Diesel Funding Assistance Program.

The six-member crew is committed to regular maintenance of the veteran vessel, and it has paid off.

“We’re proud of our safety record,” says Mims. “That’s 56 years without an incident involving the vessel.”

This year, the vessel will be out of commission for the last three weeks in July for routine maintenance in advance of the Houston Ship Channel’s centennial this fall. The Sam Houston Pavilion, opened in 1992, was razed in April due to safety concerns. Visitors can still enjoy the historic murals on the exterior walls of the pavilion buildings, commissioned for the Houston Ship Channel’s 90th anniversary, courtesy of the Museum of Cultural Arts Houston.

Through its more than half-century history, the Sam Houston has had its share of celebrity guests, from prime ministers to princes, but Mims emphasizes, “We treat all our passengers like VIPs.” n


Star Attractions During its long journey, the M/V Sam Houston has attracted stars from around the world. Just like their everyday counterparts, political leaders, members of royal families and show business celebrities also enjoy the free public boat tours of the ship channel.

A Houston Port Book feature from the 1950s noted that the guest log “reads like the registry of a great continental hotel.”

Touring in the predecessor boat in 1950 were the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, the Prime Minister of Pakistan and President of Chile. They were among about 4,000 to tour that year, one-seventh of today’s annual ridership.

The current M/V Sam Houston even had a mascot, “SquareKnot,” a small, black-and-white dog whose image appeared in the November 1959 issue.

In 1960, the stars of possibly the first reality TV show, “Queen for a Day,” toured the ship channel. During that decade, visitors included Texas Governor Price Daniel and a contingent of Japanese women studying American consumer habits.

In September 1971, local artist Judith-Ann Saks immortalized the Sam Houston in a painting, which was featured on the cover of the Port of Houston magazine. She had been commissioned to do a series of paintings for the port’s bicentennial in 1964.

The 1980s saw separate visits from Norway’s King Olav V, Great Britain’s Princess Anne and Prince Charles, Houston’s Mickey Gilley and James Drury (of TV’s “The Virginian”). A delegation from several West African nations toured in the late 1990s.

Norway’s King Harald V came in 2005. Astronauts, diplomats, prime ministers and other elected officials are also among the distinguished guest list.

Of course, most visits on the Sam, as it is affectionately called, are from business, civic, school and club groups and the everyday tourists from Houston or the world who have one thing in common: they want to learn more about the Port of Houston.

Businesses both large and small are involved in the maritime industry neighboring the Port of Houston. Finding good employees is not easy for them, because far too many potential candidates don’t know about the opportunities available. Introducing high school students to the maritime industry is helping fill those career opportunities.

Two June 2013 graduates of the four-year maritime education program at the Houston Independent School District’s Austin High School are happily employed with Gulf Stream Marine, one of the largest privately owned stevedore companies in the Gulf Coast area. In fact, each has already moved up in the company.

Mayra Saldana doesn’t recall signing up for the maritime education program. Truth be told, the school’s best students were recruited, and if they didn’t sign up, like Mayra, they were assigned to the classes to give it a try. “Before I started the maritime education program, I had no idea what I wanted to do for a career,” says Saldana. “Once I got started, I thought it was pretty interesting, so I decided to stick with it.” During her senior year, Gulf Stream Marine went to the school and passed out job applications. “I was called back later for orientation and an interview, and then a job offer,” says Saldana.

READYtoSUCCEEDFIRST JOB, NEW CAREER


Joshua Northcutt, who was Gulf Stream Marine’s human resources manager before joining the Port Authority in the same role, is a big believer in the maritime education program having served on the Port of Houston Partners in Maritime Education committee.

“Last year was the first year we hired at the high school level directly from a program like this,” explains Northcutt. “I see a huge value in it — growing and developing students at the high school and college level. You can really career map them. There is no need to retrain because there are no bad habits to overcome.

“Mayra jumped right into the work. She’s very quiet with a determination you don’t see until you talk to her. When she asked questions, they were very in-depth. It showed that she had definitely done her homework and represented herself well to the managers. ‘I just need another one of her,’ the managers say,” says Northcutt.

Saldana works in the traffic department, handling paperwork for the truckers pick-up/imports side. She works closely with customers every day.

Gladiz Valdez was also hired out of the Austin High School program by Gulf Stream Marine. “The first time I met Gladiz was in February of her senior year. I went to talk to the students and the first thing out of her mouth was ‘I want to work for you in this department.’

“She had already figured out what she wanted to do. She had a desire and she wasn’t going to fail at it. As soon as she arrived, she hit the ground running — came in and moved up quickly. She runs circles around people despite being the youngest in the office.”

Valdez first learned about the maritime education program while at Jackson Middle School. But it was a field trip to the port that really sparked her interest.

“When I saw the port and the boats, I thought it was cool and interesting. I liked the idea of working there. I didn’t see myself flipping burgers or anything,” says Valdez.

She also began by handling truckers’ paperwork and entering the information into the database. She has moved into customer service, closing the reports and making sure the cargo goes on the right vessel.

Valdez loves her work so much that she’s recruited her sister to also work at Gulf Stream Marine. “I am so proud of her. She is following in my footsteps, working part-time at Manchester while attending the maritime program at Austin High School. She’ll graduate this year and come to work full time.”

Northcutt credits the maritime education program’s instructors with the success of the program. “They are not just hiring teachers but hiring professionals from the maritime industry.

“Linda Clary (who taught in Yates High School’s maritime education program) was an agent and understands traffic and documentation. Rick Martinez (who teaches in Austin High School’s program) retired from the U.S. Coast Guard and understands maritime rules and regulations,” says Northcutt.

Clary currently is the maritime academy coordinator for the Port of Houston Authority. The Maritime Academy is a four-year curriculum for high school students developed by educators and private industry in partnership with the Port Authority.

“Providing the students in all our maritime education efforts with instructors who have actually worked in the maritime field, have in-depth understanding of the industry and its myriad needs and occupational opportunities is essential to the success of the program,” says Clary.

“The involvement of the maritime industry through employers such as Gulf Stream Marine means we are offering students the best chance to step into real jobs that can develop into a life-long career path.”

The Port of Houston Partners in Maritime Education is comprised of educators, private industry, the Port Authority, the Houston Pilots Association, Houston Harbor Tugboat Operators, West Gulf Maritime Association, Houston ISD, Houston East End Chamber of Commerce, Houston Maritime Museum, Houston Community College, San Jacinto College District, Texas A&M University at Galveston, Texas Southern University, University of Houston, Texas Waterway Association, Pasadena ISD and La Porte ISD. n


Maria Rios, president and CEO of Nation Waste Inc., took a simple truth (“there will always be waste and it will need to be removed”) and turned it into a thriving small business. While attending the University of Houston, Rios worked for a large waste removal company. That experience inspired her to see a niche for a company that focused on the highest caliber customer service while offering both waste removal and recycling services. Upon graduation in 1997, she purchased two trucks, and Nation Waste Inc. was born.

Rios says Nation Waste Inc. (NWI) is the first female Hispanic-owned waste solutions provider in the U.S. NWI is a Historically Underutilized Business (HUB)-certified commercial waste disposal company specializing in construction, demolition, commercial and industrial non-hazardous waste removal, portable toilets and recycling services. NWI offers a full range of compactor, front-end load dumpsters and large roll-off waste container solutions.

“If you own a small business, the chance to grow your business is always your foremost goal,” says Rios, a Port University graduate. “Becoming a registered small business with the Port of Houston Authority opens a door for the small business in a myriad of ways.”

NWI now provides service to a range of customers, employing 28 full-time employees and serving Houston and Austin and surrounding communities. NWI staff have more than 20 years of experience in all facets of waste removal.

“Our commitment to performance allows us to offer our customers the greatest value and the highest caliber of service with the greatest savings possible,” Rios says. “We are always working to develop new strategies for a cleaner environment that can help communities and organizations.”

“It is important to us not to be another collector but the best we can be,” she says. “Through our training and certifications, we feel we are on the right path.” n

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