Thursday, June 2, 2011
Iceberg Ahoy?
Towing an iceberg to more quench some of the worlds thirst no longer science fiction but reality? Check out 'Times' Article on the subject here and when your done check out Explorer's Guide Towing Course here.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Counterfeit TWICs
Based on this report by gcaptain we suspect we will be seeing more restrains placed on the merchant mariners
Federal Investigators Breach Ports With Counterfeit TWICs
By John Konrad
From day one the Department of Homeland Security’s TWIC program has faced opposition from mariners and security experts who have raised questions about its security features (like biometrics). Today the government accountability office has released a 64 page report targeted at the question “To what extent has DHS assessed the effectiveness of TWIC, and does the Coast Guard have effective systems in place to measure compliance?“. In addition to the report, which is critical of the TWIC program, the GOA made recommendation:
Among other things, GAO recommends that DHS assess TWIC program internal controls to identify needed corrective actions, assess TWIC’s effectiveness, and use the information to identify effective and cost-efficient methods for meeting program objectives. DHS concurred with all of the recommendations.
The report comes after undercover government investigators were able to get into major U.S. seaports — at one point driving a vehicle containing a simulated explosive — by flashing counterfeit or fraudulently obtained port “credentials” to security officials — raising serious questions about the program which, to date, has issued more than 1.6 million TWIC cards.
In addition to port entry, the undercover investigators conducted covert tests at enrollment centers and found that counterfeit documents could be used to obtain legitimate TWIC cards. Specifically, the report states, “the TWIC program’s background checking processes are not designed to routinely consider the results of controls in place for assessing whether an applicant’s identity documents are authentic.” They also found other ways for a unqualified individuals, including illegal immigrants, to acquire an authentic TWIC.
In response to the report Sen. Frank Lautenberg, D-New Jersey told CNN “This investigation raises a disturbing question: Are America’s ports actually safer now than they were a decade ago?” and said “Not only were they able to access the port facilities, but they were able to drive a vehicle with a simulated explosive into a secure area,” he said.
Federal Investigators Breach Ports With Counterfeit TWICs
By John Konrad
From day one the Department of Homeland Security’s TWIC program has faced opposition from mariners and security experts who have raised questions about its security features (like biometrics). Today the government accountability office has released a 64 page report targeted at the question “To what extent has DHS assessed the effectiveness of TWIC, and does the Coast Guard have effective systems in place to measure compliance?“. In addition to the report, which is critical of the TWIC program, the GOA made recommendation:
Among other things, GAO recommends that DHS assess TWIC program internal controls to identify needed corrective actions, assess TWIC’s effectiveness, and use the information to identify effective and cost-efficient methods for meeting program objectives. DHS concurred with all of the recommendations.
The report comes after undercover government investigators were able to get into major U.S. seaports — at one point driving a vehicle containing a simulated explosive — by flashing counterfeit or fraudulently obtained port “credentials” to security officials — raising serious questions about the program which, to date, has issued more than 1.6 million TWIC cards.
In addition to port entry, the undercover investigators conducted covert tests at enrollment centers and found that counterfeit documents could be used to obtain legitimate TWIC cards. Specifically, the report states, “the TWIC program’s background checking processes are not designed to routinely consider the results of controls in place for assessing whether an applicant’s identity documents are authentic.” They also found other ways for a unqualified individuals, including illegal immigrants, to acquire an authentic TWIC.
In response to the report Sen. Frank Lautenberg, D-New Jersey told CNN “This investigation raises a disturbing question: Are America’s ports actually safer now than they were a decade ago?” and said “Not only were they able to access the port facilities, but they were able to drive a vehicle with a simulated explosive into a secure area,” he said.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
One strike and you're out.
The Pacific Maritime Association enforces its long-standing "one-strike rule" policy, under which any applicant who fails a standard drug test is eliminated from consideration for employment and permanently disqualified from future employment.
More and more maritime groups and employers are looking at this "one strike" policy. Read more about what the policy prohibits and if it would affect you by clicking here.
More and more maritime groups and employers are looking at this "one strike" policy. Read more about what the policy prohibits and if it would affect you by clicking here.
Friday, April 15, 2011
National Maritime Center improves medical review process.
One of the worst frustrations mariners encounter during the licensing process is the painstaking medical review. And the worst part about that was that there was no one at the NMC to actually speak to about questions or concerns regarding medical review. Well mariners have spoken up and the NMC has answered with the addition of a medical review officer available through the help desk to finally answer those tough questions.
Actions to Improve Mariner Medical Evaluations Processing April 12, 2011
(For the complete memo visit us at MyCaptainsclass.com)
The Commanding Officer of the National Maritime Center (NMC) has made several changes within the Mariner Medical Evaluations Division in order to improve customer service, while ensuring marine and public safety remains the priority for Mariner credentialing at the NMC.
1) Add a Mariner Medical Point of Contact: The NMC has assigned a full-lime, on-call government medical evaluator to receive calls from mariners and their physicians regarding their submitted applications. They can be contacted through the NMC Help Desk at 1-888-427-5662
2) Increase in Government Medical Personnel: Over the past 24 months. the Coast Guard has significantly increased the number of permanent government medical screeners, evaluators and reviewers.
3) New Medical Services Contract: In December of 2010, the Coast Guard awarded a new Medical Evaluations and Services contract to RGB Group Inc. of Miami, Florida. Adjustments to the review and processing of medical applications have been transitioned to the new contract provider and many revisions and improvements.
4) Adjustments to Medical Screening Procedures: Within the past several weeks, the NMC has conducted processing reviews in the medical state of application processing. These reviews have identified some measures for adjustment and alignment with the regulations. Incomplete medical applications remain the single largest cause for delays.
Updates will be made to the medical information on the NMC website to more clearly explain requirements and to improve our customer service in this area. Currently the average net processing for mariners without medical issues or lower risk medical reviews remains at around 16 days.
Actions to Improve Mariner Medical Evaluations Processing April 12, 2011
(For the complete memo visit us at MyCaptainsclass.com)
The Commanding Officer of the National Maritime Center (NMC) has made several changes within the Mariner Medical Evaluations Division in order to improve customer service, while ensuring marine and public safety remains the priority for Mariner credentialing at the NMC.
1) Add a Mariner Medical Point of Contact: The NMC has assigned a full-lime, on-call government medical evaluator to receive calls from mariners and their physicians regarding their submitted applications. They can be contacted through the NMC Help Desk at 1-888-427-5662
2) Increase in Government Medical Personnel: Over the past 24 months. the Coast Guard has significantly increased the number of permanent government medical screeners, evaluators and reviewers.
3) New Medical Services Contract: In December of 2010, the Coast Guard awarded a new Medical Evaluations and Services contract to RGB Group Inc. of Miami, Florida. Adjustments to the review and processing of medical applications have been transitioned to the new contract provider and many revisions and improvements.
4) Adjustments to Medical Screening Procedures: Within the past several weeks, the NMC has conducted processing reviews in the medical state of application processing. These reviews have identified some measures for adjustment and alignment with the regulations. Incomplete medical applications remain the single largest cause for delays.
Updates will be made to the medical information on the NMC website to more clearly explain requirements and to improve our customer service in this area. Currently the average net processing for mariners without medical issues or lower risk medical reviews remains at around 16 days.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Boat Captain Training Approved Under Workforce Investment Act
Explorer’s Guide Maritime Training, based out of Appleton, Wisconsin, was just approved as an eligible training provider through the Bay Area Workforce Development Board under the Workforce Investment Act (WIA). Those who qualify for WIA programs can now receive the necessary education for a merchant mariner’s license (Captain’s license) through Explorer’s Guide to get back into the workforce.
“This is great news,” states Captain Gary Kulibert, lead instructor for Explorer’s Guide Maritime Training. “The addition of this funding adds to the variety of financial assistance options for our students. Displaced workers and other adults affected by lay-offs or business closings in the economic downturn now have a chance to get their Captain’s license and a new start in an exciting career field.”
This Wisconsin approval also permits people in other areas of the country to work with their local workforce development boards and case workers to determine if they qualify for this job retraining opportunity. “With this new approval, we already are helping an individual in Montana get his license for a job in Alaska,” says Kulibert. “This is a terrific opportunity to develop added skills in the competitive maritime trade.”
Explorer’s Guide offers accredited classroom, online, and blended maritime courses. Applicants should meet the minimum USCG requirements for a license. Individualized degree programs in the maritime trade are also available through a partnership with Northeast Wisconsin Technical College in Green Bay, Wisconsin. For more information, contact Captain Gary at (800) 487-6029 or go to the website www.mycaptainsclass.com.
Interview Contact: Gary Kulibert,
Explorer’s Guide Maritime Training
3019 W Spencer St,
Appleton, Wisconsin, 54914
Tel: 800-487-6029
gary@explorers-guide.com
http://www.explorersguidellc.com
“This is great news,” states Captain Gary Kulibert, lead instructor for Explorer’s Guide Maritime Training. “The addition of this funding adds to the variety of financial assistance options for our students. Displaced workers and other adults affected by lay-offs or business closings in the economic downturn now have a chance to get their Captain’s license and a new start in an exciting career field.”
This Wisconsin approval also permits people in other areas of the country to work with their local workforce development boards and case workers to determine if they qualify for this job retraining opportunity. “With this new approval, we already are helping an individual in Montana get his license for a job in Alaska,” says Kulibert. “This is a terrific opportunity to develop added skills in the competitive maritime trade.”
Explorer’s Guide offers accredited classroom, online, and blended maritime courses. Applicants should meet the minimum USCG requirements for a license. Individualized degree programs in the maritime trade are also available through a partnership with Northeast Wisconsin Technical College in Green Bay, Wisconsin. For more information, contact Captain Gary at (800) 487-6029 or go to the website www.mycaptainsclass.com.
Interview Contact: Gary Kulibert,
Explorer’s Guide Maritime Training
3019 W Spencer St,
Appleton, Wisconsin, 54914
Tel: 800-487-6029
gary@explorers-guide.com
http://www.explorersguidellc.com
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Explorer's Guide Joins Linked In
For all of you that enjoy following us on our blog or Facebook join us in our new adventure on Linked In. Explorer's Guide not only let you take your classroom with you with our many great online and blended options, we also let you take trade news with you as well. Join in for all the latest news and updates right here or on one of our many other media outlets.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Our New Office Has Opened!
Explorer's Guide has finally made the big move to our new office in Appleton Wisconsin. The Office Staff includes Lead Instructor Gary Kulibert, Owner and head of Marketing, Brenda Kulibert and New to the Staff, Student Manager, Ben Korinek. Stop on down to meet the crew and check out our new digs at 3019 West Spencer Street in Appleton today!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Caution is advised for world travelers on the open sea
Mariners please be advised. Pirate attacks are becoming rampant in parts of the world. This is a sad story of just how it is affecting everyone, not just the big ships. Our thoughts go out to the families of these latest victims. Click here for video
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Delays in Mariner licenses
News from one of the NMC's Marine Credentialing Agents states that there are significant delays in the medical review area of the License processing.
According to Mr. Rivera there is a backlog in review in the medical area at NMC resulting IN DELAYS CURRENTLY RUNNING 78 days or longer. This is just for the medical portion of the application.
This delay in processing applications is virtually eliminated for mariners provided there are ABSOLUTELY NO issues with an applicant's medical (719-K) portion as an application devoid of any medical condition will be picked up in pre-screening at NMC and circumvents the medical review requirement.
This is done once your completed batch file arrives at NMC and is reviewed by the pre-screener. Again, in order for this to happen, an applicant's "K" form has to be completely clear of any medical issues with absolutely no medical conditions reported or medications taken - not even over the counter. As an example, if the mariner lists that he or she takes vitamins or supplements of any kind, then all bets are off and the application would go to the bottom of the medical pile awaiting assignment.
Explorer's Guide Prides ourselves in keeping mariners informed of any news that could affect them. Keep watching our blog for updates and news that could affect you.
According to Mr. Rivera there is a backlog in review in the medical area at NMC resulting IN DELAYS CURRENTLY RUNNING 78 days or longer. This is just for the medical portion of the application.
This delay in processing applications is virtually eliminated for mariners provided there are ABSOLUTELY NO issues with an applicant's medical (719-K) portion as an application devoid of any medical condition will be picked up in pre-screening at NMC and circumvents the medical review requirement.
This is done once your completed batch file arrives at NMC and is reviewed by the pre-screener. Again, in order for this to happen, an applicant's "K" form has to be completely clear of any medical issues with absolutely no medical conditions reported or medications taken - not even over the counter. As an example, if the mariner lists that he or she takes vitamins or supplements of any kind, then all bets are off and the application would go to the bottom of the medical pile awaiting assignment.
Explorer's Guide Prides ourselves in keeping mariners informed of any news that could affect them. Keep watching our blog for updates and news that could affect you.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Marine Accidents
You have just gotten into an accident on the water, your boat is damaged and the Coast guard and the insurance company want answers right now. What do you do? Do you even know where to start? In times like this it’s nice to know you have someone to turn to help guide you through.
Accidents happen, instead of fearing the unknown, get the information you need to help yourself get through this situation and back on the water.
*The first step in any marine incident is to document exactly what happened in writing, with pictures, and witnesses if there are any. The best defense is knowing the facts and keeping them well documented.
* Find out the amount of damages inflicted to the boat, you passengers, other boats and see if it requires that you notify the coast guard. These amounts vary depending on the state but you can find links to this information on Explorer’s Guide’s Web page under resources.
*Report any necessary accidents to the Coast Guard with an accident report form that you can download at www.explorersguidellc.com
*Report your claim with all your documentation to your insurance company.
*Get a drug test done within 32 hours of the incident. If it happens on a weekend or you have trouble getting into see someone for this test call Toni at Explorer’s Guide at 715-360-3273 or download the drug test forms and take them to any Quest Lab that has available openings, you can see what labs are near your location and their hours at www.questdiagnostics.com
* The most important things to remember are to 1. stay calm, 2. document, document, document, and 3. get everything completed as soon as possible after the accident happens.
Accidents happen, instead of fearing the unknown, get the information you need to help yourself get through this situation and back on the water.
*The first step in any marine incident is to document exactly what happened in writing, with pictures, and witnesses if there are any. The best defense is knowing the facts and keeping them well documented.
* Find out the amount of damages inflicted to the boat, you passengers, other boats and see if it requires that you notify the coast guard. These amounts vary depending on the state but you can find links to this information on Explorer’s Guide’s Web page under resources.
*Report any necessary accidents to the Coast Guard with an accident report form that you can download at www.explorersguidellc.com
*Report your claim with all your documentation to your insurance company.
*Get a drug test done within 32 hours of the incident. If it happens on a weekend or you have trouble getting into see someone for this test call Toni at Explorer’s Guide at 715-360-3273 or download the drug test forms and take them to any Quest Lab that has available openings, you can see what labs are near your location and their hours at www.questdiagnostics.com
* The most important things to remember are to 1. stay calm, 2. document, document, document, and 3. get everything completed as soon as possible after the accident happens.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
We grant you three wishes...
Having a say in your education is where the statement "partners in education" comes from. Are you truly a "partner" in your education? Do you get to have a say in what you learn and what's important to your specific career goals?
Don't settle for cookie cutter programs that tell you what you have to take even if it doesn't apply to you. Be a real partner in your education and take only the classes you need and want to match your unique goals. You're not the average Joe, so why settle for an average education?
Explorer's Guide is embarking on a new e-learning service. A site where all the options are laid out before you like a smorgasbord of choices. Pick and choose the courses that fit your needs and even suggest new topics. It's better than all you can eat, it's all you can learn, and you can never get too full on knowledge.
Here's your chance to be our partner in your education. Tell us what classes you need or would like to see and get that course added to our growing list of available online sessions. Don't sit on the sidelines, speak up now and get your ideas and questions answered.
The site will have resources on topics ranging from small engines and outboard motors
to celestial navigation. Tell us what topics you want to see. We're looking forward to your suggestions and to showing you our new site soon. Have a site where you learn the topics you want by getting involved today.
Don't settle for cookie cutter programs that tell you what you have to take even if it doesn't apply to you. Be a real partner in your education and take only the classes you need and want to match your unique goals. You're not the average Joe, so why settle for an average education?
Explorer's Guide is embarking on a new e-learning service. A site where all the options are laid out before you like a smorgasbord of choices. Pick and choose the courses that fit your needs and even suggest new topics. It's better than all you can eat, it's all you can learn, and you can never get too full on knowledge.
Here's your chance to be our partner in your education. Tell us what classes you need or would like to see and get that course added to our growing list of available online sessions. Don't sit on the sidelines, speak up now and get your ideas and questions answered.
The site will have resources on topics ranging from small engines and outboard motors
to celestial navigation. Tell us what topics you want to see. We're looking forward to your suggestions and to showing you our new site soon. Have a site where you learn the topics you want by getting involved today.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
How much does getting a license actually cost?
Getting your Captain's license isn't as easy as just walking in and applying for one. Just as many other careers in transportation have become more in depth in their training and licensing procedures, the maritime industry has stepped it up a couple notches. Some will argue the pros and cons of this upswing in protocol but that's not the point of this discussion.
What we're after for the moment is what's involved in getting your Captain's license and what, on average, is it going to cost you.
First things first, would you even qualify? You can't even start the process if you don't meet the requirements of the license.
*Are you a US Citizen?
*Are you at least 18?
*Do you have 360 days on the water since age 15?
Even if you answered yes to these things it does not automatically mean you qualify. There are other factors that contribute to your ability to obtain a license. Such as:
*recent convictions
*health issues such as color blindness, diabetes, heart issues, epilepsy and even your weight
*ability to pass the written exam either with an approved school or at the REC
These are not all automatic disqualifiers but they are items you need to be aware of that could prohibit you from getting a license.
So now that you've made it past the qualifiers here's what you'll need to do to get that license process started.
1. The application package must be completed, cost: Free (if you do it yourself) (some companies charge up to $90 to help you fill it out or to fill it out for you)
http://www.explorersguidellc.com/images/stories/pdf/newnmcapplication-2.pdf
2. The exam. You can take the exam at a school with an approved USCG course, or you can take it at the REC closest to you when they offer them. There are pro's and cons to each option. Cost can range any where from $1200.00 for some schools to as low as $495.00 at others (only 695.00 at Explorer's Guide) and $95.00 to take the exam at the REC. (if you take the course with a school you have a better chance at passing than at the REC because of size of the pool of questions they pull from, but it's really your call)
3. CPR and First Aid courses. Cost: any where from free to $250.00 depending on where in the country you are and other factors. Be sure the classes you take are accepted courses by the National Maritime Center ( you can find this out easily by visiting their website link below)
http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/approved_courses_course.asp
4. Drug Test. This can be done at any approved lab or doctors office. The form can be downloaded for free. The cost for the drug test can be anywhere from free (if you are already in a drug consortium) up to $100.00, again, depending on your situation and location.
5. Physical. This must be done using the USCG form. (find at link below) The cost can range anywhere from free (if covered by your insurance) to $100-$300.00 depending on your health care plan, facility you're using and location in the United States.
http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/forms/medical/cg719k.pdf
6. TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Card) This is done at your local TSA office. They will do your fingerprinting and photo here. This card (if you pass the required background check ) will cost you $132.50.
7. Your oath. This can be given by any notary of the public. Some charge more than others depending on your states laws. Cost: free to $20.00
8. The sea service forms and the three letters of recommendation should be free, I guess that depends on if your references think you deserve to get their praises for free or if you have to buy their love.... But for the blog's sake we're going to assume they will be free.
9. The USCG has fees for applications as well. They charge $100.00 to review your application and $45.00 to issue your license. Both which must be paid before they will process your application and neither will be refunded if you are, for whatever reason, refused a license.
10. There are other odd ball costs that you may also incur as well, anything from gas and lodging to and from a class or REC, postage if you plan on mailing in your application (you can now email your application in, but if you are going snail mail we suggest using a service with a tracking number and signature upon receipt, this is all your personal information and you would hate to have that "lost" in the mail) You may end up paying to take the exam over if you fail the first time or may even have to pay for more intense medical checks if the medical review has issues with your physical. These costs are too variable to come up with an estimate, but we wanted you to be aware they may pop up and to be prepared for them.
So now that you know the amount of time and effort it takes to actually obtain your license and an average of the cost, you can make an informed decision on if getting a license is right for you. And if and when you do go with the pro's who can help you through, here at Explorer's Guide.
What we're after for the moment is what's involved in getting your Captain's license and what, on average, is it going to cost you.
First things first, would you even qualify? You can't even start the process if you don't meet the requirements of the license.
*Are you a US Citizen?
*Are you at least 18?
*Do you have 360 days on the water since age 15?
Even if you answered yes to these things it does not automatically mean you qualify. There are other factors that contribute to your ability to obtain a license. Such as:
*recent convictions
*health issues such as color blindness, diabetes, heart issues, epilepsy and even your weight
*ability to pass the written exam either with an approved school or at the REC
These are not all automatic disqualifiers but they are items you need to be aware of that could prohibit you from getting a license.
So now that you've made it past the qualifiers here's what you'll need to do to get that license process started.
1. The application package must be completed, cost: Free (if you do it yourself) (some companies charge up to $90 to help you fill it out or to fill it out for you)
http://www.explorersguidellc.com/images/stories/pdf/newnmcapplication-2.pdf
2. The exam. You can take the exam at a school with an approved USCG course, or you can take it at the REC closest to you when they offer them. There are pro's and cons to each option. Cost can range any where from $1200.00 for some schools to as low as $495.00 at others (only 695.00 at Explorer's Guide) and $95.00 to take the exam at the REC. (if you take the course with a school you have a better chance at passing than at the REC because of size of the pool of questions they pull from, but it's really your call)
3. CPR and First Aid courses. Cost: any where from free to $250.00 depending on where in the country you are and other factors. Be sure the classes you take are accepted courses by the National Maritime Center ( you can find this out easily by visiting their website link below)
http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/approved_courses_course.asp
4. Drug Test. This can be done at any approved lab or doctors office. The form can be downloaded for free. The cost for the drug test can be anywhere from free (if you are already in a drug consortium) up to $100.00, again, depending on your situation and location.
5. Physical. This must be done using the USCG form. (find at link below) The cost can range anywhere from free (if covered by your insurance) to $100-$300.00 depending on your health care plan, facility you're using and location in the United States.
http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/forms/medical/cg719k.pdf
6. TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Card) This is done at your local TSA office. They will do your fingerprinting and photo here. This card (if you pass the required background check ) will cost you $132.50.
7. Your oath. This can be given by any notary of the public. Some charge more than others depending on your states laws. Cost: free to $20.00
8. The sea service forms and the three letters of recommendation should be free, I guess that depends on if your references think you deserve to get their praises for free or if you have to buy their love.... But for the blog's sake we're going to assume they will be free.
9. The USCG has fees for applications as well. They charge $100.00 to review your application and $45.00 to issue your license. Both which must be paid before they will process your application and neither will be refunded if you are, for whatever reason, refused a license.
10. There are other odd ball costs that you may also incur as well, anything from gas and lodging to and from a class or REC, postage if you plan on mailing in your application (you can now email your application in, but if you are going snail mail we suggest using a service with a tracking number and signature upon receipt, this is all your personal information and you would hate to have that "lost" in the mail) You may end up paying to take the exam over if you fail the first time or may even have to pay for more intense medical checks if the medical review has issues with your physical. These costs are too variable to come up with an estimate, but we wanted you to be aware they may pop up and to be prepared for them.
So now that you know the amount of time and effort it takes to actually obtain your license and an average of the cost, you can make an informed decision on if getting a license is right for you. And if and when you do go with the pro's who can help you through, here at Explorer's Guide.
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