| Today in Great Lakes History – February 28, 1998 INCAN SUPERIOR was launched February 28, 1974 OUTARDE (2) was launched February 28, 1906 as a) ABRAHAM STEARN. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
Vessel Bought by Transport Desgagnes 02/27: Reported by: René Beauchamp and John Whitehead |
|
Earlier Opening Date for the Welland Canal 02/27: MONTREAL – LAKE ONTARIO SECTION: Mariners are advised that due to the high water levels on Lake Ontario, the International Joint Commission authorized on February 3, 1998 the implementation of criteria (K). This criteria allows flows to be increased to levels which may affect navigation during the opening period. A review of the ice conditions, water levels and flows, and consideration of any requests for an earlier opening will be carried out the first week of March. A notice confirming the opening date will be issued on March 5, 1998. Reported by: The St. Lawrence Seaway Authority |
|
Medusa Corporation Declares Regular Quarterly Cash Dividend 02/27: Reported by: James Neumiller |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 27 GOLDEN SABLE was launched February 27, 1930 as a) ACADIALITE. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
Algosar visits Montreal 02/26: Reported by: John Whitehead |
|
Flag contest 02/26: Reported by: Max Hanley |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 26 The completed hull of the BELLE RIVER (b) WALTER J. McCARTHY JR.) was floated off the ways February 26, 1977. JOSEPH L. BLOCK was launched February 26, 1976. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
Ice clears as season is ready to start 02/25: Reported by: Al Miller |
|
LTV shuttle continues 02/25: Reported by: Rex Cassidy |
|
Oglebay Norton fit-out 02/25: Reported by: Neil Schultheiss |
|
Probe of CLS owner 02/25: The parties accused the Liberal minister of an apparent conflict of interest because of a proposed bill which would give tax incentives to foreign shipping firms moving their operations to Canada. Martin, widely respected internationally and in the Canadian business community for successfully cutting the country’s chronic budget deficits, is a multi-millionaire shipowner with extensive foreign holdings. He has put them under “blind management” and disclosed all his assets. The four parties, ranging from socialist to right-wing to Quebec separatist, asked for the establishment of a subcommittee of the Finance Committee to probe the whole matter. They have been stonewalled by the ruling Liberals. “The finance minister has put himself in a very bad position, a conflict of interest, by sponsoring (bill) C-28, which would allow for major tax exemptions for shipping companies,” the opposition Bloc Quebecois member Odina Desrochers told Parliament. Martin, who says he fell in love with ships when he was 10, owns the Montreal-based Canada Steamship Lines (CSL) and a number of affiliated shipping companies based in Liberia, Barbados and elsewhere. Many of his ships are foreign-flagged. His office on Thursday refused official comment, except to label the whole affair as theatrics ahead of the presentation of the federal budget to Parliament on Tuesday. The affair has dominated the daily Question Period in the House of Commons for the past couple of days. Under a barrage of questions on Thursday Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chretien frequently jumped to his feet to defend Martin, who is widely seen as his possible successor if the Liberals are re-elected for a third term. “The minister of finance is a man of honesty and integrity and competence and he will deliver his budget next Tuesday,” Chretien told the House of Commons. Martin was absent from Parliament at the time. “The ethics commissioner clearly said that there was no conflict of interest,” Chretien said. “Everyone knows that the family of the minister of finance owns ships. There’s nothing hidden. They are just trying to destroy the minister of finance because he is hurting the opposition, because he brings in good budgets and the finances of the country are so good.” Ethics Counsellor Howard Wilson, who was appointed by Chretien to police ethics in the federal government, said Martin had been careful to separate himself from any drafting of bill C-28’s maritime provisions and any discussions about the legislation. “I can be clear,” Wilson said on Wednesday when called to testify to the Finance Committee. “There is no substance to the allegations. Mr. Martin has not been in a conflict of interest.” At a news conference, the opposition parties said they were dissatisfied with Wilson’s remarks and that too many questions remain unanswered about whether Martin’s companies could profit from the changes proposed in bill C-28. “We’re going on what we think is a prudent and efficient way of doing this,” said left-wing New Democratic Party member Nelson Riis. He added that it was essential to begin the investigation immediately “so we don’t go into the budget tabling on Tuesday with a cloud hanging over the integrity of the process as well as the integrity of the minister of finance.” Reported by: James Neumiller |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 25 CREEK TRANSPORT was launched this day in 1910 as a) SASKATOON (1) Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
Block to open Escanaba’s 1998 season 02/24: Jim Grill |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 24 The KINSMAN INDEPENDENT (2) was launched February 24, 1923 as a) RICHARD V. LINDABURY. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
Earl W. Oglebay on the move 02/23: Rex Cassidy |
|
Bubblers on in Escanaba 02/23: Rod Burdick |
|
Great Lakes Maritime Academy in Ann Arbor 02/23: Gary Schweitzer |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 21 The EDWIN H. GOTT arrived at Two Harbors (her first trip) February 21, 1979 with the loss of one of her two rudders during her transit of Lake Superior. Also the other rudder post was damaged. She was holed in her bow and some of her cargo hold plating ruptured as a result of frozen ballast tanks. Even the MACKINAW suffered damage to her port propeller shaft on the trip across frozen Lake Superior. The keel of the new bow section for the HILDA MARJANNE was laid on February 21, 1961 while at the same time the tanker hull forward of her engine room bulkhead was being cut away. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
Former Package Freighter for sale 02/20: Roger LeLievre |
|
Berube reappointed to Canada Ports 02/20: Berube served on the board between 1984 and 1986 and returned in 1997. He is an engineer and has been vice president of corporate affairs and director for Ciment Quebec Inc. since 1993 and was executive vice president and director between 1976 and 1992. Berube was also chief executive officer of several businesses, including including Beton Morin Inc. and Verrault Frontenac Inc. between 1984 and 1993. Berube has also been a consulting engineer of the Association Beton Quebec, a lecturer at the Ecole Polytechnique of the University of Montreal, Laval University and the University of Sherbrooke and an engineer at the research laboratory of the Quebec Ministry of Transport. A director of the corporation of the Charlesbourg Institute for the Deaf since 1992, Berube is a member of the Canadian Engineering Management Association and the Quebec Order of Engineers, and was a member of the Board of Trade and Industry of Metropolitan Quebec. Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
|
Agency rules on foreign-flagged vessels 02/20: In decisions handed down during the past week, the Agency ruled against permitting the foreign-flagged ships to operate in direct competition with Canadian-flagged vessels operated by Shaker Cruise Lines of Toronto. Hydrofoil Jet Lake Cruises proposed using the Katran IV, a Panamanian-flagged Hydrofoil, to link the Niagara Region with Toronto. Waterways Transportation Services proposed using a Maltese-flagged Catamaran between Jordan Harbour and Toronto. Both companies would be competing against Shaker in a market which was reopened to water travel by Captain Ihab Shaker and his 275-passenger m/v Lakerunner (formerly Marine Courier of the Marine Atlantic fleet). Shaker operated his vessel between Port Dalhousie (St. Catharines) and Toronto, and was the focus of a great deal of media attention for the success of his business in it’s first year. Shaker Cruise Lines was the lead story on CBC Venture, and was seen most recently in Profit Magazine. The Agency ruled that since there is a Canadian-flagged vessel already operating in the market, there was sufficient basis for denial of the applications. Copies of the decision are available on the CTA Website. Captain Shaker is quoted as saying “I do not deny that competition would be healthy for developing the market, but I believe that it is in the best interest of the cross-lake Ferry service on Lake Ontario that operators make a committment to the Industry and flag their vessels Canadian”. Captain Shaker, a Deep-sea Master, previously operated a Ferry Service on the Red Sea. Shaker is expanding his fleet and services for the coming season and will commence operations again in April of this year. |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 20 On February 20, 1959, the Herbert C. Jackson was launched at Great Lakes Engineering Works in River Rouge, Michigan. The DES GROSEILLIERS was launched February 20, 1982. Data from: Jody Aho, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
Opening of the 1998 Navigation Season 02/19: Montreal-Lake Ontario Welland Canal Vessel transits will be subject to weather and ice conditions. Navigation may be restricted to daylight hours in some areas until lighted navigation aids have been installed. Mariners are advised that due to the high water levels on Lake Ontario, the International Joint Commission on February 3, 1998, authorized the implementation of criteria (K). This criteria allows flows to be increased to levels which may affect navigation during the opening period. A review of the ice conditions, water levels and flows, and consideration of any requests for an earlier opening will be carried out the first week of March. A notice confirming the opening date will be issued by March 6, 1998. The Seaway entities also announce that, for the 1998 navigation season, the clearance date for the Montreal-Lake Ontario Section has been designated as December 20, 1998, 2400 hours. The “clearance date” is the date by which vessels must report at the applicable callin-in point referred to in subsection 97(3), Part X, of the Seaway Handbook, for the final transit of the Montreal-Lake Ontario Section of the Seaway. Sault Ste. Marie Locks and Canals 2. United States Reported by: Ron Walsh and The St. Lawrence Seaway Authority |
|
More on the Townsend 02/18: Reported by: Andy LaBorde |
|
Canada Maritime Services gets award 02/18: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
|
Montreal in 1997 02/18: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 18 IMPERIAL ST. CLAIR participated in an historic special convoy with DOAN TRANSPORT, which carried caustic soda, led by CCGS GRIFFON arriving at Thunder Bay, Ont. on February 18, 1977. The journey took one week from Sarnia, Ont. through Lake Superior ice as much as six feet thick, and at one point it took four days to travel 60 miles. The trip was initiated to supply residents of the Canadian Lakehead with 86,000 barrels of heating oil the reserves of which were becoming depleted due to severe weather that winter. The JOSEPH S. YOUNG (1) was towed to the Great Lakes via the Mississippi River and arrived at the Manitowoc Ship Building Co., Manitowoc, WI on February 18, 1957 where her selfunloading equipment was installed. This was the last large vessel to enter the Lakes via the Mississippi. She was the first of seven T2 tanker conversions for Great Lakes service. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
Salt and Potash Up In ’97 02/17: Shipments of potash on the Great Lakes in 1997 totaled 767,400 net tons, an increase of 29 percent (172,000 tons)compared to 1996. All Lakes potash shipments originate at Thunder Bay, Ontario. Reported by: The Lake Carriers’ Association Visit the LCA’s home page for complete details and a comparison of past years. |
|
Gemini on the move in Buffalo 02/16: Brian Wroblewski |
|
Update on the Enerchem fleet 02/16: Enerchem Trader, at Quebec since 0130 John Whitehead |
|
Goderich Shipping Season Ends 02/16: Philip Nash |
|
Oberstar offers bill to restructure St. Lawrence Seaway 02/16: The bill would also create the Great Lakes Development Bank to provide financial assistance to transportation-related businesses. Canada and the United States would be required to contribute U.S.$600 million each in long-term loans for initial capital. Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
|
Recent appointments on the North American Great Lakes 02/16: The Seaway Port Authority of Duluth in Minnesota has named Steve Raukar to its board of commissioners. He will serve a six-year term. Raukar, 45, is a commissioner for St. Louis County, which includes Duluth. He also serves on 18 other boards, commissions and committees including vice chairman of the Arrowhead Regional Development Commission. Great Lakes Towing Co. and Tugz International L.L.C. have appointed Joseph P. Starck Jr. as vice president of engineering. He will oversee the company’s Cleveland shipyard, maintenance of the tug fleet and construction of Tugz International’s six new tractor tugs. Starck has been with Great Lakes Towing for six years. Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
|
Former Milwaukee harbormaster dies at 70 02/16: After returning to Milwaukee, he became deputy harbormaster in 1962 and harbormaster a year later. Swinford left in 1972 after the position became political, he said, and became the master of a research vessel for Limnetics, an environmental consulting firm, on Lake Michigan. Swinford also worked seasonally at Wisconsin Dells, Wis., as a pilot aboard the Apollo No. 2, a paddle-wheel steamboat. He finally retired around 1990 after three years as a Milwaukee bridge tender. Swinford is survived by his wife; a daughter, Jean Kwiatkowski, of Byron, Ill.; and a son, Clayton III, of Milwaukee. Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 16 The EDWIN H. GOTT sailed on her maiden voyage February 16, 1979 in ballast from Milwaukee, bound for Two Harbors, MN. This was the first maiden voyage of a laker ever in mid-winter. She was in convoy with three of her fleetmates; CASON J. CALLAWAY, PHILIP R. CLARKE and JOHN G. MUNSON, each needing assistance from the U.S.C.G. MACKINAW to break through heavy ice 12 to 14 inches thick the length of Lake Superior. The GOTT took part in a test project, primarily by U.S. Steel, to determine the feasibility of year around navigation. The JAMES E. FERRIS was launched February 16, 1910 as the ONTARIO (4). On February 16, 1977 a four hour fire caused major damage to the crews’ forward quarters aboard the W.W. HOLLOWAY while at American Ship Building’s Chicago yard. Data from: Jody AhoAhoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 14 The MESABI MINER was launched on this day in 1977 becoming the fourth thousand foot bulk carrier on the Great Lakes and Interlake’s second. She had been built under Title XI of the Merchant Marine Act of 1970 at a cost of $45.1 million. Ford Motor Co., looking to expand its fleet, purchased the JOSEPH S. WOOD on February 14, 1966 for $4.3 million On February 14, 1973 the LEADALE’s forward cabins burned during winter lay-up at Hamilton, Ont. and were later repaired. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
New Post-Recession Peak For Great Lakes Iron Ore Trade 02/13: Reported by: The Lake Carriers’ Association Visit the LCA’s home page for complete details and a comparison of past years. |
|
Michigan and the TITANIC 02/13: Maritime Cabotage Task Force home page |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 13 The POINTE NOIRE was launched February 13, 1926 as a) SAMUEL MATHER (4). Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
Canada Steamship Lines in Australian venture 02/13: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
|
Jackman to the Wall 02/12: Reported by: Peter |
|
Port of Toledo update 02/12: Reported by: J. R. Hoffman |
|
More on Milwaukee-Muskegon ferry 02/12: The ferry route would take two and a half hours to cross 144 kilometers/90 miles, carrying 50 vehicles and 250 passengers at 30 to 35 knots. The vessel(s) may have a catamaran design with waterjet propulsion and are being referred to as the Turbo Cat. Food and entertainment will likely be included aboard the vessel. The cost is estimated at U.S.$10 million to U.S.$30 million and will probably be privately financed. The cost for two tickets with a vehicle has been put at U.S.$115 one-way or and U.S.$150 for a four with a vehicle. Operations would be from May to mid-October. A final report by Anderson & Roethle is expected by March. A decision on whether to move ahead will be made this spring and building the vessel or vessels will take at least a year and a half. Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
|
Former Coast Guard station may become environmental center 02/12: The county owns the 83-year-old building at 1600 N. Lincoln Memorial Dr. and the Parks, Energy and Environment Committee has authorized discussions for its further use. Under the latest plan for its future use, a public-private group, Great Lakes Future Inc., will convert the site into an “education center that celebrates the uniqueness and significance of fresh water.” A visitor to the center will assume the role of a drop of water as it travels through the ecosystem. Tentatively called the Great Lakes Environmental Education Center, the former station will have offices and classrooms while a new structure will have exhibit halls, an auditorium, a cafe, a gift shop and a library. The surrounding land will be landscaped for outdoor learning. The entire project is estimated to cost U.S.$5.9 million with U.S.$500,000 to U.S.$600,000 in annual operating costs. Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 12 RED WING (2) was launched February 12, 1944 as a) BOUNDBROOK Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
1998 season begins 02/11: Reported by: Marine Historical Society of Detroit |
|
Jackman to enter lay-up today 02/11: Reported by: Richard Weiss and Andrew Torrence |
|
Canadian port appointments 02/10: Collenette also announced 6 Feb. that Jacques Portelance of Charlesbourg, Quebec, has been appointed to the board of directors of the Quebec Port Corp. Portelance has a bachelor of arts degree from the University of Ottawa, a bachelor’s degree in pedagogy from Laval University and an master of science from University College in Springfield, Mass. He has more than 34 years of experience as a teacher and school administrator and has served as municipal councillor for Charlesbourg since 1984; as chair of the city’s finance committee between 1995 and 1996; as vice chair of its economic development committee between 1994 and 1997; and as chair of the Charlesbourg Municipal Housing Bureau between 1984 and 1988. Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 10 UHLMANN BROTHERS (2) was launched February 10, 1906 as a) LOFTUS CUDDY The MARKHAM (Twin Screw Hopper Suction Dredge ) was delivered February 10, 1960 to the Army Corps of Engineers at Cleveland, OH. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
Algo tanker first report 02/09: This is the first run for the tanker under Algoma colors. Reported by: John Whitehead |
|
Jackman continues late season salt runs 02/09: Todd Davidson reports that Saturday the 7th the Jackman was eastbound thru the Straits of Mackinaw. She was heading back to Goderich to load a salt cargo for Detroit, due sometime today. Ice conditions were very light to non-existent in the Straits, with open water at the northern end of Lake Michigan. The USCG cutter/tender Biscayne Bay passsed thru the area Friday with no problems. Reported by: Andy LaBorde, Greg S. and Todd Davidson |
|
Stinson Gets Paint job 02/09: Reported by: Paul G. Wiening and Roger LeLievre |
|
Paterson docked at Ojibway 02/09: Reported by: Dave Wobser |
|
Carferry crew ready to return 02/09: Reported by: Max S. Hanley |
|
Milwaukee group studies new cross lake service 02/09: A final decision by the private investment group on whether to launch the cross-lake service is just months away, but with no starting date. Plans have advanced to the point that local tourism groups are involved in a marketing survey on how the ferries would help their businesses. The brand-new ferry boat or boats would be of innovative catamaran hull designs and would use the latest maritime technology. Ferries would make the trip between port cities in about 21/2 hours. Local and Milwaukee officials say the investors are serious and likely have enough financial backing to make the multi-million-dollar service a reality. They are already spending money on the plan. The investors and the Milwaukee port authority have hired Anderson/Roethle Inc. of Milwaukee to update an old marketing study of high-speed ferry service that should be completed by the end of March, according to Harold E. Whitely of the Milwaukee-based marketing firm. A final decision on whether to launch the service with at least one new ferry boat will be made this spring. Officials from Milwaukee and Muskegon will not say when the service would begin operating; it would take at least 11/2 years to build the kind of high seas-capable ferry boat that investors want to buy. According to the Anderson/Roethle survey, here is what is being proposed: Muskegon and Milwaukee would be linked by a new water-jet powered catamaran that could carry up to 250 passengers and 50 automobiles. The ship builder says the high-tech design is much faster and more stable than conventional designs. Nicknamed the “Turbo Cat” by Anderson/Roethle, it would be similar to – but larger than – ships in use as ferries to Mackinac Island, Catalina Island and in the Nantucket area. The vessel could cruise at speeds of 30 to 35 knots and complete the 90-mile trip in about 21/2 hours. The service envisioned would provide three round trips a day. Reported by: Steve Vanden Bosch and The Muskegon Chronicle |
|
Upper Great Lakes Industry Days 02/09: Reported by: Capt. Dean Hobbs |
|
Win a Trip on the Kaye E. Barker 02/09: Click here for more information and the order form. |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 09 EAGLESCLIFFE, loaded with 3,500 tons of grain, sank two miles east of Galveston, TX on February 9, 1983 after the hull had fractured from a grounding the previous day. She began taking on water in her forward end en route to Galveston. To save her the captain ran her into shallow water where she settled on the bottom in 20 feet of water with her bridge and boat deck above water. All 16 crew members and one dog were rescued. The ALEXANDER LESLIE was launched February 9, 1901 as a) J.T. HUTCHINSON The HOMER D. WILLIAMS suffered extensive fire damage to her side plating and forward lower cabins during her lay-up at Toledo, OH on February 9, 1971. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 08 While in lay-up on February 8, 1984, a fire broke out in the WILLIAM G. MATHER’s after accommodations killing a vagrant from Salt Lake City, Utah who had started the fire which caused considerable damage to the galley. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 07 HURON (4) was launched February 7, 1914 Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
Ranger moved from dry dock 02/06: Reported by: Ron Konkol |
|
Shipwreck Festival to open Feb. 21 02/06: Reported by: The Detroit News |
|
North American Vessel/Rail Iron Ore Shipments 02/06: As in 1996, the iron ore shipping terminal with the principal improvement in 1997 was Duluth Missabe & Iron Range Ry’s Two Harbors docks at which 12,112,000 gross tons were loaded into vessels for a 2,019,000-ton or 20% gain. At Presque Isle near Marquette, the Lake Superior & Ishpeming Railroad Co. was second with a 840,000-ton or 12% increase. Third was Northshore Mining Co. handling 4,494,000 tons for a 293,000 or 7% increase at Silver Bay. Fourth was DM & IR’s Duluth docks at 6% higher. The remaining three Great Lakes ports were LTV Steel Mining’s Taconite Harbor with a 5% decline to 7,055,000 tons, Burlington Northern Santa Fe’s Allouez taconite facility with a 12% reduction to 9,556,000 tons, and Sault Ste. Marie Bridge Company’s Escanaba facility with a 15% decrease to 6,180,000 tons. On the lower St. Lawrence, the three Wabush Mines ports dropped 7% to 3,919,000 tons, Quebec Cartier Mining’s Port cartier with 16% less shipments into the Great Lakes, and Iron Ore Company of Canada with a drop of 23% down to 2,894,000 tons. On the other hand, US all-rail moves were 9,478,00 gross tons, off about 1%. Reported by: Dave Wobser |
|
Port of Milwaukee dredging spoils plan 02/06: Relatedly, the Army Corps of Engineers has decided not to expand the existing spoils disposal area at the south end of Hoan Bridge, which crosses the port. Two years ago, the Army Corps of Engineers said that the area would be filled by the end of the decade but a new study has shown there is about 243,000 cubic meters/320,000 cubic yards of space remaining, enough to handle all spoils from the harbor for the next 20 years. Apparently, the spoils in the disposal area settled more than expected. Further, annual accumulation of sediment in the harbor has decreased. The Army Corps of Engineers estimates that dredging will have to be done every four years with 38,000 cubic meters/50,000 cubic yards of spoils collected each time. Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 06 The LORNA P. was damaged by fire ignited by a welder’s torch on February 6, 1974. ALVA C. DINKEY was launched February 6, 1909 The HALLFAX was launched February 6, 1962 On February 6, 1904 the ) PERE MARQUETTE 19 went aground on Fox Point, WI approaching Milwaukee, WI in fog. Engulfed in ice and fog, she quickly filled with water. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
Great Lakes Maritime Academy in Toledo 02/05: Reported by: Gary Schweitzer |
|
Lakes water levels 02/05: The International Joint Commission today invoked criterion (k) of its Orders of Approval for Lake Ontario-St. Lawrence River regulation based on high water supplies to Lake Ontario and a recommendation by its International St. Lawrence River Board of Control. Under high water supply conditions, criterion (k) gives precedence to shoreline property owners on Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River from the Thousand Islands to past Montreal when setting flows through the international hydropower project at Massena, New York and Cornwall, Ontario. The Board of Control’s recommendation was based on the determination that water “supplies of the past, as adjusted” have been exceeded. Criterion (k) is an extraordinary measure that is invoked when Lake Ontario water supplies exceed those experienced prior to 1954. Water supplies to Lake Ontario in January 1998 were the highest January supplies on record. Since fall, the Board of Control’s strategy has been to release more water from Lake Ontario than would have been called for under the current regulation plan, known as Plan 1958-D, whenever it could do so without adversely affecting other interests. Though the water level of Lake Ontario is high, it would presently be 0.56 metres (1.8 feet) higher had the project not been built. The International St. Lawrence River Board of Control and the International Joint Commission acted on criterion (k) at this point in time to set clear priorities and provide the authority that may be needed to achieve them. Invoking criterion (k) has no immediate effect on flow releases, because the Board of Control is presently setting flows that will allow a stable ice cover to form. Forming a stable ice cover helps prevent underwater ice blockages that can restrict flows. Once the ice cover is formed, the Board of Control will release flows as high as possible without causing downstream flooding, as permitted under the winter operations provision of the Commission’s Orders of Approval. However, at the conclusion of winter operations, criterion (k) provides the authority to release higher flows as necessary to achieve the specified priorities. The level of Lake Ontario is presently at 75.02 metres (246.13 feet) above sea level (IGLD 1985), which is approximately 0.44 metres (1.4 feet) above its long term average for this time of year. The inflow to Lake Ontario from Lake Erie will remain high for the foreseeable future because of high water levels on Lake Erie. The outlook for the rest of the year, however, depends on several factors and is highly uncertain. If the Board of Control were to strictly follow Plan 1958-D, Lake Ontario would peak at 75.84 metres ( 248.82 feet) at the end of June under a high precipitation scenario or at 75.02 metres (246.13 feet) at the end of April under a low precipitation scenario. It must be noted, however, that the Board of Control will be releasing significantly more water than the plan calls for at every available opportunity. In addition, projections of the peak lake level are likely to change over time. For example, projections made just one month ago have changed dramatically because of the unusually high precipitation that occurred during the month of January. Water levels that will actually occur this year under criterion (k) operations will depend on several factors, including precipitation and temperature in the Lake Ontario and St. Lawrence River basin, the extent to which flows in the St. Lawrence River are constrained by ice conditions, flooding conditions downstream, particularly during the spring runoff from the Ottawa River basin, and the potential for serious adverse effects to any other interest, including commercial navigation. Under criterion (k), the Board of Control will continue to monitor conditions upstream and downstream to determine the appropriate flow through the power project. The Commission and its Board of Control will continue to carefully consider conditions on Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River to determine the appropriate duration of criterion (k) operations. The International Joint Commission was created under the Boundary Waters Treaty of 1909 to help prevent and resolve disputes over the use of waters along the Canada-United States boundary. Its responsibilities include approving certain projects that would change water levels on the other side of the boundary. If it approves a project, the Commission’s orders of approval may require that flows through the project meet certain conditions to protect interests in both countries. The International St. Lawrence River Board of Control was established by the Commission in its 1952 Order of Approval. Its main duty is to ensure that outflows from Lake Ontario meet the requirements of the Commission’s Orders. The Board also develops regulation plans and conducts special studies as requested by the Commission. Reported by: John Whitehead and Ron Walsh |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 05 The ASHLAND in a critically leaking condition barely made Mamonel Colombia on February 5, 1988 where she was scrapped. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
Port of Toledo update 02/04: Reported by: J. R. Hoffman |
|
Toronto Harbor Commission changes 02/04: The board also confirmed John Morand, formerly Toronto’s commissioner of Urban Development Services, as director of strategic planning. Morand has been chief administrative officer of Kingston, Ontario, and was a senior diplomat for the Canadian Department of External Affairs. He also held the chair of the American Economic Development Council. The meeting was the first since the City of Toronto appointed three new members to the board: Councillors Tom Jakobek (the city’s budget chair), Norm Kelly and Jack Layton. Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 04 The two sections of the a) WILLIAM J. DE LANCEY (b PAUL R. TREGURTHA) were joined at Lorain and float-launched on February 4, 1981 as Hull #909. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
Federal Marine Terminals starts Cleveland operation 02/03: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
|
Groupe Desgagnes, Petro-Nav buy tanker 02/03: Reported by: Steve Schultz From the weekly electronic publication “The World Maritime News” |
|
LCA Speech on-line 02/03: Reported by: Lake Carriers’ Association |
|
Oglebay Norton Reports Record Net Income Per Share for 1997 02/02: Income from continuing operations for the fourth quarter for 1997 was $5,989,000 on revenues of $43,221,000, compared to $3,813,000 on revenues of $39,537,000 for the same quarter in 1996. Net income for the fourth quarter of 1997 was $3,814,000 ($.80 per share), compared to $5,257,000 ($1.09 per share) for the same quarter in 1996. In the fourth quarter of 1997, the Company reported an after-tax loss of approximately $2,200,000 with respect to its discontinued Engineered Materials business unit, and recognized a charge against earnings in connection with supplemental retirement benefits to its former President and Chief Executive Officer. For 1996, the Company reported net income and a gain on the sale of discontinued iron ore operations of $1,100,000 for the fourth quarter and $4,500,000 for the full year. In other news, Oglebay Norton Company’s Board of Directors declared a regular dividend of $.20 per share, payable on March 31,1998 to stockholders of record on March 10, 1998. Reported by: James H. Neumiller |
|
American Steamship Achieves Improved Results 02/02: Demand remained strong throughout 1997 due to both the favorable economy and the increase in demand for shipping tonnage on the Great Lakes. American Steamship’s fleet of ten self-unloading vessels transported 26.4 million tons of product in 1997 versus 24.6 million tons in 1996. In addition, the results for 1997 included a $1.3 million after-tax gain related to a transaction in which American Steamship partnered with GATX Capital in a third-party vessel financing and remarketing. This transaction was previously announced with 1997’s second quarter results. Reported by: James H. Neumiller |
|
Medusa Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year Earnings 02/02: Continued strong construction activity in the U.S. lifted cement consumption to record levels in 1997. Medusa expects its cement plants will continue to run full out in 1998. Record production was recorded at three of Medusa’s four cement plants in 1997 resulting in record output for the company as a whole. Medusa Corporation produces and sells portland and masonry cements; mines, processes, and sells aggregates, home and garden and industrial limestone products; and provides construction services for highway safety. Medusa operations are principally in the eastern half of the United States. Reported by: James H. Neumiller |
|
Rouge Earnings 02/02: Sales were 2.6 percent higher than 1996. Earnings per share were slightly less than the $1.07 per share in 1996, primarily due to lower selling prices and higher costs for purchased slabs. For fourth quarter 1997, the Dearborn steel producer reported a net loss of $4.5 million compared to a net loss of $8.5 million in fourth quarter 1996. The losses in both fourth quarters resulted primarily from costs associated with relining blast furnaces. Reported by: Detroit Free Press |
|
Informal poll 02/02: |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 02 On February 2, 1981 ARTHUR SIMARD grounded in the St. Lawrence River on her way from Montreal to Sept Iles, Que. with a cargo of diesel oil and suffered extensive bottom damage. The SAMUEL MATHER (6) (a) PILOT KNOB (1) had her keel laid February 2, 1942. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |
|
Today in Great Lakes History – February 01, 1998 On February 1, 1990 the MESQUITE was officially decommissioned. In February 1951 the b) CHARLES M. WHITE was towed from the James River with two other C4s, LOUIS McHENRY HOWE and SCOTT E. LAND, to the Maryland Dry Dock Co., Baltimore, MD to be converted to a Great Lakes bulk carrier according to plans designed by J.J. Henry & Co., New York, NY. Data from: Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great LakesShips We Remember series This is a small sample, the books include many other vessels with a much more detailed history |