WHY are government sites so NON intuitive? On most any site from which you’d like to purchase something, the principles have figured out how to make it easy. Good on them. But woe to the poor sole who has to pre-enroll for a TWIC card, look up a Coast Guard regulation, renew an FCC license, or apply for a Federal grant. Might as well book an appointment with the massage therapist before getting online. You’ll need it.
I now, as Vice-President of Association for Maritime Preservation, have obtained a DUNS, CCR, received a confirmation number, then a MPIN, TPIN, AOR, password and username, not necessarily in that order or that quickly. I’ve filled out two 52 page forms with numbers for titles and questions such as "Who is the Authorized Organization Representative?" What is that? Why can’t they just say "the guy who signs everything?"
And miracle of all miracles, I’ve just submitted and received confirmation that the 19-step grant process I’ve just traversed is, hallelujah, completed.
And now we wait.
I think I might have grown some gray hairs in the past few weeks. Clearly, applying for a large grant while getting ready for the sailing season are not compatible. Someone please remind me next year….
You may have seen this picture before. Here’s that funny story about the Portland Press Herald.
Annie
Penobscot Bay, take me awaaay!
