The Martha's Vineyard Times The Martha's Vineyard Times
The Martha's Vineyard Times The Martha's Vineyard Times The Martha's Vineyard Times
The Martha's Vineyard Times The Martha's Vineyard Times

Achievements

Achievements

Posted January 5, 2006

Jim Jackson, Charles Lehman, Loretta May, Tom Rancich, Sandra Demel, Ted Cammann, Emily Vanderhoop, and Chet Bartels
Seven newly qualified Island captains pose with their instructor. Pictured from left to right: Massachusetts Maritime instructor captain Jim Jackson, Charles Lehman, Loretta May, Sail MV executive director Tom Rancich, Sandra Demel, Ted Cammann, Emily Vanderhoop, and Chet Bartels.

Islanders pass captain's license course

The seven men and women successfully completed the 100-ton Master's Licensing Course and test, qualifying them for a Coast Guard Captain's License. The course was a joint project sponsored by the Mass Maritime Academy and Sail Martha's Vineyard and underwritten with a $7,000 grant from the Goldberg Trust.

"I thought it was a great success," said Tom Rancich, Sail MV executive director.

Mr. Rancich said that teaming up with Mass Maritime, an institution with a reputation for marine education excellence, was a rewarding experience. The class was offered at Sail MV's recently opened Seafarers' Center, which also houses the office of Sail MV, located opposite Owen Park in Vineyard Haven. According to a press release, Sail MV plans to use the Seafarers' Center to provide a focal point for maritime activity and continuing education. Winter educational opportunities are expected to include courses in navigation, marine electronics, marine engines, and knots and splicing.

"The concept is create a focal point for maritime activity and to tap into local knowledge for the betterment of the Martha's Vineyard maritime community" said Mr. Rancich. "There is a great deal of interest on the Island in this idea, and we are looking forward to some great opportunities." For more information, call Sail MV at 508-696-7644.

Noelani Scott of Vineyard Haven has been placed on the dean's list at Becker College for the fall 2005 semester.

Elizabeth T. Blackinton of Edgartown has received a bachelor of arts degree in interdisciplinary studies from the University of Northern Colorado.