b'meetingswithmembersofCongressries function as critical extensions ofsharedinformationontheCapital and their staff allowed PVA representa- the highway system, or how a reliableConstruction Fund (CCF) programtives to directly convey the importanceinspectionschedulehelpsseasonalits recent improvements, how to open of federal support for maritime infra- operators stay on track, PVA membersan account, and how to manage it ef-structure and regulation. Our messagebrought credibility and urgency to thefectively over time. With so many PVA was grounded in real-world experience. issues that matter most. members now eligible to invest in fleet upgrades, the CCF session was perfect-For many first-time participants, theBREAKFAST WITH MARAD:ly timed and enthusiastically received.Fly-InwasanintroductiontotheA PRACTICAL HIGHLIGHTpower and responsibility of advocacy.The day began with a valuable sessionParticipantscamearmedwith For seasoned veterans, it was a returnfeaturingstafffromtheMaritimethoughtful questions about eligibility, totheessentialworkoftellingourAdministrations Office of Marine Fi- record keeping, and withdrawal rules. story in the rooms where decisions arenancing. Over breakfast, the team fromMARADsteamofferedpractical made.Whetherexplaininghowfer- MARAD responded to questions andguidanceandreaffirmedtheircom-Clockwise from top left: The day started with a presentation from MARAD staff members about the Capital Construction Fund.; Attendees sat with Congresswoman Chellie Pingree.; PVA members broke into small groups to visit lawmakers; Representative Mike Ezell met with attendees.33 MAY 2025'