DECEMBER 2018 • FOGHORN 5 LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR John Groundwater would be a priceless commodity if such a thing existed at all. Those in business strive to get the latest information on all of these things as they plan for the future or make short term operational decisions. Yet, future economic conditions are extremely difficult to predict even for the most sophisticated analyst. Along these lines, PVA is particularly fortunate to have a highly respected and recognized economic expert partici- pate in the PVA Annual Convention at MariTrends 2019 in New Orleans. Dr. Stephen Barnes, who is the Director of the LSU Economics & Policy Research Group and an associate professor in the Department of Economics at Louisiana State University, will give a keynote address at the convention’s General Session on January 18 from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Dr. Barnes has published peer-reviewed articles on China, health insurance, crime, oil spill contingencies and labor. He will give an informative presentation on the U.S. economy and all of its influencers in a manner that is both interesting and understandable to the layman. You are certain to come away with a solid understanding of what is in store for our economic future. Be sure to attend this thought-provoking convention General Session. Recruiting the Next Generation of Mariners The passenger vessel industry, and the maritime industry at-large, are faced with a shortage of mariners.As industry workers age, it is important to ensure that a new generation of employees are in the pipeline. As a result, PVAhas taken solid steps to develop and broaden working relationships with the nation’s maritime academies. The PVA Annual Convention at MariTrends 2019 is an integral part of this outreach. This year’s convention will feature presentations and exhibit booths manned by representatives from maritime academies such as the Maine Maritime Academy. These individuals will interact with passenger vessel operators with the sole purpose of helping the industry recruit the next generation of mariners. I encourage you to attend the convention, visit with representatives from the maritime academies and as a result, identify future employees. Hybrids, Lithium-Ion Batteries and Propulsion Technology The passenger vessel industry is diverse in its range of activities. Whether it is ferry operations, excursion vessels, overnight cruise ship or dinner cruise vessels, all are inter- ested in achieving operational efficiency and savings while also being environmentally responsible. The PVA Annual Industry Leaders and Business Experts to Keynote at MariTrends 2019 The PVA Annual Convention at MariTrends 2019, scheduled January 17-20 at the Hyatt Regency in New Orleans, is an important event for PVA members. A vast program of social events, seminars, workshops and roundtables offers countless opportunities to learn, contribute and to build relationships. In addition to these forums, the convention also includes General Sessions feature industry leaders and experts who share their knowledge about business, government and provide insights which are helpful to PVA member businesses. New Coast Guard Commandant to Speak at PVA Convention The U.S. Coast Guard has a new leader; Admiral Karl L. Schultz. On June 1, 2018, Admiral Karl L. Schultz became the 36th Commandant of the Coast Guard. PVA is fortunate that the Commandant has agreed to join us at the PVA Annual Convention at MariTrends 2019 to deliver the convention’s Opening KeynoteAddress on January 17, from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. It is an honor and a significant benefit to have the Commandant take part in our convention. As you know, PVA has a long history of working closely with the Coast Guard and its leadership. Because Admiral Schultz is re- sponsible for setting the priorities and direction for the Coast Guard for the next four years and developing a relationship with him and to familiarize him with the passenger vessel industry, its issues and its priorities is extremely important. As Commandant, Admiral Schulz oversees all Coast Guard activities worldwide. He leads 41,700 active-duty military; 7,800 reserve military part-time employees; 8,300 civilian full-time employees; and 31,000 civilian auxiliary volunteers. Many of you will remember Admiral Schultz when, as the Coast Guard’s Atlantic Area commander, he oversaw the Coast Guard’s response to Hurricanes Irma, Maria, and Harvey in 2017. We are looking forward to learning first-hand about the Commandant’s vision for the Coast Guard and how his policies will impact the passenger vessel industry. I hope that you will join us for this important keynote address. The Economy, Stock Markets, Tariffs, Oil Prices: What Does the Future Look Like for U.S. Business A crystal ball that shows future economic conditions, interest rates, fuel prices and stock market conditions EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CONTINUED ON PAGE 42 Admiral Karl L. Schultz Dr. Stephen Barnes