July 2010

PRESIDENT'S NOTES

Social awareness that impels action results in "e3" which represents Energy, Environment and Education (www.enereducation.com). It is an education forum created to build a better link between the community, energy and marine transportation. This initiative was supported by CMA and created by CMA members. It has the communication platform capable of reaching out to the public and younger generations to share the expertise and knowledge of the CMA community. What a better way to ensure the future of the industry than with informed and educated people communicating with each other. Support of the workshop, website and student initiative reflects the CMA's commitment to education.

The first event, The US Gulf Oil Spill Awareness Workshop will be held July 21 from 6-8PM at the Norwalk Maritime Aquarium and presentations will explain the nature of the official response system - the Deepwater Unified Command currently headed by former United States Coast Guard Commandant Thad Allen, and the Tri-State regions contribution to the response; The Connecticut Audubon Society will demonstrate how birds are cleaned; and, there will be discussion on how we can all make a difference through conservation in our lives and by being prepared and understanding how we can help if some accident should occur in Connecticut's waters.

I am proud of the efforts of our members and the supporting companies in this initiative. My sincere thanks to Bob Kunkel, Jim Lawrence, Johnny Kulukundis, Mike Hanson, Lorraine Parsons, and high school student, Kelsey Kunkel for all their hard work in launching and updating the website, facebook page, and organizing the workshop. My thanks to the Maritime Aquarium, the Audubon Society, Mystic Aquarium and the sponsors: AMA Capital Partners, Petromar, MTI Network, Marine Oil Transportation Consultants, NAMEPA, and Alternative Marine Technologies for their support of this important initiative.

In addition to the US Gulf Oil Spill Awareness Workshop, CMA hosts two annual events in July, the popular picnic and lobster bake (with dart tournament this year) and the tennis tournament. Both are great opportunities to network or simply have fun with friends.

I credit the following phrase to World Link Communications and close my July notes with a little summer inspiration and a reminder to appreciate our precious environment. "Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink in the wild air!"

Best regards,
Beth Wilson-Jordan
CMA President