Newsletter December 2021


From The Captain's Chair

From The Captain's Chair

December 2021



Captain's Chair: 2021, A Year to Remember

The holidays are in full swing. As in most parts of the world, families and friends are gathering in South Florida to celebrate this special time of year. One big difference when spending the holidays here, though, is that boating is a big part of the season.
 
Whether it’s a day fishing, exploring sandbars, or docking at any of our wonderful waterfront restaurants, families and friends are creating boating memories that will be treasured for years to come. We are blessed to have so many healthy, safe outdoor activities at our fingertips. Never has that been truer than this past year.
 
As we at the Marine Industries Association of South Florida prepare to wrap up our work for 2021, we’re also reflecting on the past 12 months. We’re counting our wins as we overcame obstacles thrown in our path by a virus that appears to have no backend.
 
Despite ongoing concerns, we celebrate that the marine industry remained open for business. Workers stayed on the job, businesses continued to serve customers, and the 62nd annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show went off without a hitch. In fact, attendance is set to break a record for this year’s show. And new to the show this year, Short Shoot activated a Satellite Media Tour to broadcast live from the top of the MIASF Hospitality Lounge. This initiative reached 12 unique networks, including national networks like Fox & Friends, accounted for almost an hour of total air time, and garnered more than 2 million total views.
 
We’ve also been reflecting on giving back, not just this year but in the future. We’re extremely proud of plans to continue our work with Habitat for Humanity to build new homes for our community members in need. We’re also grateful our scholarship programs continued contributing to education expenses for students in the area. And best of all, we are grateful to our members and our partners who rolled up their sleeves for our back-to-school supply drive and stepped up with food and toy donations to share their blessings with their neighbors.
 
As we stand on the precipice of 2022, I look forward to building upon this momentum. While we can’t control the economy, it is reassuring to know that Florida is a proven, pro-business state. This attitude provides a solid base for continued growth. It is also what attracts and retains investors and end-users particularly in the marine industry.
 
Of course, this solid foundation doesn’t exempt us as an industry from working hard to ensure continued economic success in the coming year. Marine businesses must put the focus on attracting and retaining customers by providing exemplary service not just at the sale, but beyond. Our customers are more than just singular transactions, they are lifelong - and even multi-generational relationships that deserve to be nurtured.
 
A focus on our employees is also critical. We must keep our current workforce motivated and satisfied, so we don’t lose them to other industries. Attrition across industries is at an all-time high, and the marine industry isn’t exempt from this trend. The true cost of replacing a worker goes well beyond their salary.
 
Coming up with creative solutions to ensure worker satisfaction is a continuing priority in 2022. One solution MIASF implemented several years ago was a modified work schedule to accommodate a four-day workweek for every member of our staff. We’re still open Monday through Friday, but our employees work together to cover every day of the week. This flexibility is just one example of a solution that encourages employee retention, longevity and improves their lives.
 
We must put an emphasis on recruiting and mentoring the next generation of marine industry employees, too. Programs like our Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program is one way to attract future superstars to the marine industry. If your business is not yet a part of this innovative program, we invite you to join us in 2022. Together, we can work as one to build a strong marine workforce for decades to come.
 
Just a few final thoughts as we move into the new year. Protecting a working waterfront must remain a top priority for all marine businesses. The threat of prime waterfront development is always lurking, and we as an industry must remain on alert. Our efforts must focus on getting it right. Making a mistake today or doing nothing at all, could result in unintended consequences for yards, marinas, and even FLIBS.
 
Likewise, our local infrastructure must keep pace with increasing population demand. Florida is the third largest state and Broward County is the sixth largest region in the U.S. The transportation status quo isn’t working anymore here, nor does it reflect our ever-growing stature. Whether we end up with a tunnel or a bridge, something must be done to ease congestion and promote future growth. Doing nothing is not the answer.
 
To be certain, there’s a lot of work to be done in the coming 12 months. We look forward to working together with all members, elected officials and the community to make 2022 a banner year for our marine industry.
 
I look forward to seeing you in the new year.
 
Phil Purcell
CEO/President



Advocacy Report

Advocacy Report

The end of the year presented a significant amount of activity. MIASF Staff, Lori Wheeler and Patience Cohn, traveled to Dealer Week to attend the Advisory Council of Marine Associations (ACMA) meeting. This annual meeting provides a platform for each region of the country to bring their legislative issues and concerns to the table to discuss and prioritize as one industry. The shared experiences and goals help everyone keep a better pulse on the entire industry throughout the year. The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA), host of Dealer Week and ACMA, uses the input provided when their board of directors outlines their advocacy priorities each spring. MRAA’S 2021 priorities were protecting small business growth, promoting recreational fishing, safe boating environment and securing strong recreational infrastructure.
 
The Port Everglades Pilots Association hosted a tabletop “blocked channel” exercise which the MIASF participated in. It is very interesting and rewarding to watch the variety of partners work through the scenarios and solutions and see the process firsthand. The MIASF legislative team met with IYBA to discuss our federal legislative initiatives and how best to support each other.
 
MIASF has been given a seat on the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary – Water Quality Protection Plan Steering Committee. The group is dedicated to protecting and preserving the Keys through years of research and proactive changes. We are appreciative that they have included our association to assure consistent input from the recreational boating industry.
 
The Broward Delegation kicked off the legislative season with a reception at the newly renovated Parker Center now called – The Parker. The venue is tasteful and maintains a lot of the old charm that made the theater unique but with many modern improvements. The speakers at the event included Broward Delegation Chair, Representative Michael Gottlieb, Representative Debbie Wasserman Shultz, and Mayor Dean Trantalis.
 
Safe boating is an important topic around the country, and especially in Florida, as the number first-time boaters continues to climb. The US Coast Guard Auxiliary Station 84 is continuing to do their part with education as they offer a Safe Boating Certificate Course each month to local boaters. We have partnered with them to use the MIASF Office every other month. Starting off 2022, the first class will be held at our office on January 15th. The most exciting news is their involvement with New River Middle School Marine Magnet Program. Station 84 has been teaching safe boating to the 6th grade class one hour a week in the classroom, and to the 7th grade class virtually so they can learn at their own pace. This project has resulted in 300 students becoming certified safe boaters!


YSTAP Report

YSTAP Report

The Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program has been full speed ahead this past month.
 
The inaugural class of apprentices is wrapping up their time in the program and has their sights set on graduation. We want to take the time to recognize the dedication and commitment this class of apprentices has exhibited over the past two years learning and growing their skill set in the program, working full-time while attending class one night a week at Atlantic Technical College. They leave the program having earned nationally recognized credentials in a plethora of shipyard skills and have received classroom instruction and on-the-job training in a wide range of competencies. Congratulations to the three apprentices in this first class: Erena Fridman (Derecktor Shipyards), Tai Tran (Bradford Marine), and Andy Camblor (MarineMax). We are excited to see how your path continues in the industry and you continue to grow and excel in your future endeavors!
 
The program is currently in a transition period of instructors and seeking a new full-time teacher to take the helm of the program. In the meantime, however, we are excited to welcome Bruce Evangelista from High Seas Hydraulics to serve as the temporary instructor. Bruce brings to the program a positive energy and commitment to invest in this next generation workforce and help them all succeed. Bruce has served on the committee since its inception and is a great asset to help bridge the gap as the program seeks a new full-time instructor.
 
With one class ending, that means it’s time for a new one to begin! As the program prepares to launch its third class in January, many additional companies are seeing the benefits the program offers them, their organization, and their employees and are coming aboard. New to the program as of late, we are excited to welcome Frank & Jimmie’s Propeller, Griffin’s Yacht Service, Starboard Yacht Group, and TDW Marine. These companies join the already more than a dozen other companies participating in the program and supporting this vital workforce initiative. While the runway is becoming shorter, there is still time for additional companies to join the team and participate in the program. This program is no cost to the employer with the exception of paying their employees’ wages and there are reimbursement opportunities for wages for those employees who qualify through CareerSource Broward. What better way to invest in your business, whether it be a current employee that has the potential to grow in your organization or an opportunity for a new hire to grow their skill set and join your team. If you’re interested in learning more, contact Lori Wheeler at Lori@miasf.org or visit our website to learn more.


Business Highlight: Reverso Pumps

Business Highlight: Reverso Pumps

When it comes to keeping engines running, nobody does it better than Reverso Pump. They’re our final member spotlight selection for 2021, and we’re pleased to share some highlights about this longtime MIASF member.
 
Reverso delivers products that keep engines performing at peak capacity – not just in the marine industry but well beyond. Reverso provides solutions for construction, transportation, agriculture, data storage, industrial and power generation applications. Reverso products have been trusted by customers, including the U.S. military, for nearly 30 years.
 
Reverso’s systems for fuel polishing, automatic outboard flushing, and oil changes are used by boat owners and operators around the world for vessels of all sizes. Whether you want to keep your outboard protected against saltwater corrosion, the fuel feeding your diesel engine free from water and particulates or make your next oil change fast and mess-free, there’s a Reverso product to fit the bill.
 
To serve their clients, Reverso offers a robust network of dealers and distributors all around the world. They also offer a web store where you can find and order spare parts. If you’re not close to a service center, the parts you need are only a click away.
 
Reverso Pumps is headquartered at 4001 SW 47th Avenue, Suite 201, Davie, FL. You can call them at (954) 522-0882, email them at contact@reversopumps.com, or visit their website to learn more: www.reversopumps.com.


Faces in the Industry: YSTAP Graduates

Faces in the Industry: YSTAP Graduates

This month we’re excited to be highlighting three faces in the industry, Erena Fridman, Tai Tran, and Andy Camblor who make up the first class of apprentices graduating from the Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program at the end of the year. Get to know these three faces that have already made their mark in our industry and will continue to learn and grow on their own paths at the conclusion of the program.
 
Erena Fridman, Derecktor Shipyard
Erena is a member of the first class of graduates from the Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program (YSTAP). Originally from Maldova, Erena began her professional career in digital marketing after earning her degrees from the University of Minnesota (Bachelor of Science in 2005 and Masters in 2014). She spent 8 years in that field but always had a passion for mechanics, boats, and the ocean. Combining all three, Erena took the plunge into the marine industry where she earned her Associates Degree in Marine Engineering from Broward College. From there she joined the team at Derecktor Shipyard and was identified as an ideal candidate for YSTAP. Throughout the two-year program, Erena has most enjoyed the departmental rotations in the on-the-job training as she has gained a broader understanding of the entire marine industry. Upon graduating, she will continue her path in our industry, continuing to study, learn, and grow professionally.
 
 
Tai Tran, Bradford Marine
A local to Fort. Lauderdale, Tai Tran is on track to graduate from the Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program (YSTAP) in December 2021. Growing up watching his dad work as a painter in the marine industry, Tai’s interest in our industry piqued early. This led him to his first, and current job with Bradford Marine where he began working with his dad and enrolled in the YSTAP. Two years later, Tai has most enjoy learning the ins and outs of a yacht and the required service to maintain it properly. As the program teaches a wide range of shipyard competencies, Tai enjoyed the carpentry module most of all. Upon earning his certificate from the program, Tai plans to continue in his father’s footsteps becoming a finish painter at Bradford Marine.
 
 
Andy Camblor, MarineMax, Inc.
With a high school diploma and experience as a server at a high-end restaurant, Andy, a local to Fort Lauderdale, immediately knew he wanted to follow his passion for the marine industry and enter the workforce right away. He was hired by MarineMax, Inc. and identified by their leadership as a great candidate for the Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program. Two years later, upon graduating from the program in December 2021, Andy will have gone from no marine industry knowledge to a wealth of knowledge of all the basic shipyard competencies. He has most enjoyed learning about all the different parts of the boat and their functions, specifically the running gear mechanics. Once he completes the program, Andy plans to continue to develop his skills in the industry and become a certified yacht mechanic.


Phil Purcell Florida Trend 500 Honoree

Phil Purcell Florida Trend 500 Honoree

MIASF’s CEO/President, Phil Purcell, was recognized this year by Florida Trend as one of the 500 most influential executives. Across a variety of different economic sectors, Phil’s was honored in the professional services category. The fourth edition of this special publication identifies the state’s most influential leaders across the state in a year-long research initiative. This recognition is a testament to the entire MIASF team, the MIASF Board of Directors, and all its members. It is an honor that the overall strength and continued growth of our entire industry was recognized with this award, and we thank Phil for his steadfast and tremendous leadership through it all. Phil, you’re an amazing leader for this industry and this award is very well-deserved!


A Comfy & Cozy Marine Industry Holiday Party

A Comfy & Cozy Marine Industry Holiday Party

Five industry associations once again came together to throw the Marine Industry Holiday Party at the Flagship Room at the MIASF Office. IYBA, ISS, MIASF, USSA, and YPY know how to come together and celebrate any occasion, and this year’s party was no exception. This year’s theme was a holiday pajama party and our attendees showed up in style. They were able to show off their festive and comfy attire by taking a strut on our ‘catwalk’ for a pajama contest. The contest featured different categories for party-goers to enter which included Most Festive, Most Creative, Funniest, Best Couples Costume, and Best Group Costume and win incredibly valuable, limited-edition light up necklaces. Holiday joy and cheer was felt throughout the event as attendees celebrated the season with one another over drinks, breakfast bites, and mini donuts.
 
Most importantly, this event also celebrates the true reason for the season of giving back to those in need. Party attendees were encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to the party to donate to the Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center. The CDTC collects toys each year for their Annual Toy Shop that benefits more than 3,000 kids on their holiday list. This is always our favorite part of the party each year, seeing the pile of toys pile up throughout the night and knowing the smiles each toy is going to put on a child’s face. Thank you to the other associations for all they do in working together to put on this party and all attendees for coming to celebrate!


MIASF Participates in the 50th Anniversary Winterfest Boat Parade

MIASF Participates in the 50th Anniversary Winterfest Boat Parade

After a year without it, South Florida was more than ready and excited to welcome back the Winterfest Boat Parade and celebrate its 50th anniversary! MIASF was a founding sponsor of this parade when it began years ago and is still proud of this unique and exciting community event that shows off the best of what South Florida has to offer- our waterways and boats! This year, MIASF got in the spirit of celebrating even more and had a boat in the parade. The Summer Wind, owned by Charter One Yachts, hosted the MIASF team and its members for a ride in the parade. To fit in with the Rock ‘n’ Roll theme for this year, the MIASF Boat was named ‘Don’t Stop Boating’ for a special nod to Journey’s popular song Don’t Stop Believing, complete with icicle lights throughout, a disco Santa, and our personal favorite, Santa riding a jet ski with Rudolph hanging on. Holiday cheer flowed throughout the boat as we rode in the parade singing carols, spreading holiday cheer, and spending time with some of the people who matter most.


Matt Sacco Participates in Galleria Fort Lauderdale's Ford Men of Style

Matt Sacco Participates in Galleria Fort Lauderdale's Ford Men of Style

MIASF was proud to have its local lobbyist, Matthew Sacco, Government Consultant with Rubin, Turnbull & Associates as an honoree for the 15th Annual Galleria Fort Lauderdale’s Ford Men of Style. This annual, high-energy event showcases prominent men who are making a positive impact in our community while raising money for several good causes throughout South Florida. Each honoree donated their time and energy to represent a different local charity they were raising money for. Matt Sacco walked the runway benefitting History Fort Lauderdale. In total, the event historically raises thousands of dollars from ticket donations, sponsors, contributors, and auction items. Way to go, Matt!


Announcing the 45th Annual Broward County Waterway Cleanup

Announcing the 45th Annual Broward County Waterway Cleanup

The 45th Annual Broward County Waterway Cleanup is set to take place on Saturday, March 5th, 2022! While March seems far away, it will be here in the blink of an eye, so it is never too early to get involved and support the county’s largest and longest-running environmental event. After a few adjustments to last year’s event, this year’s event will return to its one day, on the first Saturday of March, offering volunteers more than 30 sites across Broward County to choose from to clean up, and ending the day celebrating all that we accomplished together at the Trash Bash. Sponsorship opportunities are now open for this year’s event and you can view the complete list of opportunities here. If interested in sponsoring this event at any level, please contact info@miasf.org to secure your spot and have any of your questions answered. Blue meets green at this event, and we can’t wait to meet you out there on the waterways to keep our community clean and pristine!


MIASF Attends Dealer Week

MIASF Attends Dealer Week

MIASF’s Vice President, Lori Wheeler, represented the association at Dealer Week, the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) Conference and Expo in Austin, Texas. MIASF is a proud supporter of this annual event and was once again a co-host of the conference. Among some of the many breakout sessions, seminars, and discussion groups Lori attended, two highlights for her was the opening keynote from best-selling authors, Chester Elton & Adrian Gostick , and the breakout session “Dealer Cast Study: Support & Retain Your Techs” with Yvonne Lieblein to gain insight into workforce challenges and help spark ideas on continuous improvement of our apprenticeship program. Sharing challenges, ideas, and insights in our industry is how we can best come together to grow and overcome any obstacles facing us and Dealer Week creates a great platform to do so. Lori was also joined briefly by MIASF team member, Patience Cohn, as they both attended the Advisory Council of Marine Associations’ (ACMA) at the conference. This working group is comprised of state, regional, and national marine trade associations who meet to collaborate on current state and federal legislative priorities relevant for our industry.


New MIASF Member Benefit - Group Dental Insurance

New MIASF Member Benefit - Group Dental Insurance

MIASF is proud to announce that we are now offering group dental insurance as an additional benefit of membership with the association. Last year, MIASF teamed up with John Galt Insurance to begin offering group health insurance to its members. We have now teamed up with Beam Dental to offer members the opportunity to enroll in the program and offer their employees dental insurance. Beam Dental offers digital-first and preventive-focused care through their digital app, smart toothbrush, and 100% coverage of preventative procedures, and many other features. Additionally, they have teamed up with VSP to offer packaged vision insurance as well. If this is something your organization is interested in participating in, or learning more, contact Jim Hopgood, John Galt Insurance, at jamesh@john-galt.com.  


Member News: Boatyard

Member News: Boatyard

Boatyard, the first customer experience platform designed for the marine industry, announced today the launch of a new suite of tools for its best-in-class customer experience software.
Boatyard’s newest features include photo and video sharing, one-click status updates, integration with Outlook and Google Calendar and a fully integrated web application to enable boat owners to place service requests 24/7 from any of its customers’ websites.
“Our goal is to eliminate unnecessary administrative work for service teams, while creating remarkable customer experiences for boat owners,” says Nathan Heber, CEO of Boatyard, “The release of our new dashboard and web app is the next step on our mission to transform the boat service experience.”
During Boatyard’s successful private beta, early users of the new platform saved an average of 10 minutes per service order. Boat owners can now request service appointments, share scheduling preferences, securely submit payment info and upload photos and videos directly from the website of any boat dealer or marine businesses.
The web app is fully integrated with Boatyard’s customer experience platform, so team members are immediately notified when a new service request is received. From there, it only takes a couple of clicks to send status updates, chat with a customer, share photos and videos, schedule service, assign jobs to team members, or process payments.
“Boatyard’s new platform has a lot of added functions that make our jobs easier and more profitable,” says Andrew Armao, parts and service director for MarineMax Miami, “It has instant status updates, which take less than two seconds to send, and the upload capability of photos and videos. And the messaging capabilities of this new platform are amazing.”


Member News: MarineMax

Member News: MarineMax

The Sea Tow Foundation and its Boating Safety Advisory Council announced six winners today of their National Boating Industry Safety Awards which recognizes the best boating safety work in the for-profit section of the recreational boating industry. Sponsored for the second year by KICKER Marine Audio, the six top contest winners were revealed in a special awards recognition segment held during the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas national Dealer Week.
MarineMax was recognized as a third-year winner and took home repeat honors for the Top Marine Retailer Award with More Than Three Locations.
“MarineMax utilized multiple methods of outreach including face-to-face opportunities in their locations along with printed flyers, social media, e-mailed newsletters, YouTube, podcasts, and their website,” said Kulp. “Everything was well-produced, professional and easy to digest. They also heavily promoted National Safe Boating Week and focused messaging on the importance of life jacket wear and designating a sober skipper.”
“This year’s competition reflects a strong and growing commitment among the for-profit segment of the marine industry to actively promote and advocate for boating safety,” she added. “Our judges were overwhelmed by the quality of the submissions
and the excellent contributions of many companies who are committed to making the waterways safer for everyone.”
“The Sea Tow Foundation appreciates the efforts of our council members in judging this year’s competition, along with the continued support of our title sponsor KICKER Marine Audio in making this year’s competition possible,” she said.


Member News: Bradford Marine

Member News: Bradford Marine

Bradford Marine, home to yacht repair facilities and marinas for more than 50 years, has announced that both Bradford Marine Fort Lauderdale and Billfish by Bradford have earned designations as Clean Marinas and Clean Boatyards by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The designations make Bradford Marine the 329th Clean Marina and 49th Clean Boatyard in the state, adding 92 wet slips and six dry storage racks to the Clean Marina community. 
“It’s truly an honor to receive these designations and we’re proud to join the Clean Marina community in its larger mission to support ocean conservation,” says John Kelly, Chief Executive Officer of Bradford Marine. “As lifelong boaters we’re passionate about the oceans and waterways, and it’s incredibly important to us that we’re doing our part in protecting its ecosystems by ensuring that our facility follows environmentally conscious practices, while still providing best in class service for vessel safety and maintenance.”
The Florida Clean Marina Program is a voluntary designation program with a proactive approach to environmental stewardship. Bradford Marine Fort Lauderdale and Billfish by Bradford Marine’s inductions into the program underlines their commitment to ocean conservation, ensuring their facilities meet environmental Best Management Practices (BMPs) designed to protect Florida’s waterways, as outlined by DEP. These BMPs address critical environmental issues such as sensitive habitats, waste management, storm water control, spill prevention and emergency preparedness.
“DEP is proud to recognize companies like Bradford Marine that go above and beyond to ensure their operations not only protect water quality but also enhance these resources for the enjoyment of Floridians,” says Octavio Franco, Southeast Regional Coordinator for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. “We are proud to partner with companies working to restore their water quality and protect Florida's environment, such as Bradford Marine's establishment of a storm water management plan, and we hope this will encourage other marinas to join our program.” 


Member News: Suntex Marinas

Member News: Suntex Marinas

Suntex Marina Investors has made another marina acquisition in Florida — its fourth in the Sunshine State this year — adding Seahaven Marina in Dania Beach.
Just minutes from Fort Lauderdale International Airport, Seahaven offers drawbridge-free access to the Atlantic Ocean for vessels up to 250 feet.
“Seahaven is a first-class marina with exceptional amenities in the ‘Yachting Capital of the World’,” Suntex vice president Sam Chavers said in a statement. “We are excited to add this location to our portfolio as it is a perfect complement to our other premier mega yacht destinations on the Eastern Seaboard.”
The full-service site, which is a Florida Clean Marina-certified facility, offers bulk fuel delivery and pump-out services for superyachts, a private club for captains and crew, a fitness center, office space with a conference room and a recreation center.
Earlier this year, Suntex bought Faro Blanco Marina in the Florida Keys, the Marinas at Little Harbor in Ruskin and Prime Marina Miami, which it renamed Bayshore Landing.
“This is our third asset in Broward County and our tenth asset in South Florida, and Suntex plans to announce additional growth in the Florida market in the very near future,” said CEO Bryan Redmond.


Member News: Port 32

Member News: Port 32

PORT 32, an owner, operator, developer, and acquirer of Class A coastal marinas, announced the acquisition of The Marina at Ortega Landing. Situated in Jacksonville, FL, the marina is part of Ortega Landing, a luxury marina and river home development at the intersection of the St. Johns and Ortega Rivers. The marina consists of 192 wet slips, accommodating boats from 30 to 130 feet, in a protected cove. The marina will be renamed PORT 32 Jacksonville.
The Marina at Ortega Landing features a desirable Jacksonville location with protected anchorage and a best-in-class Bellingham concrete floating dock system. Ortega Landing boasts numerous amenities for tenants including a professionally designed Captain's clubhouse, pool & hot tub, outdoor grilling patio, secure docks, and a variety of hosted weekend events, that together make for the most desirable lifestyle marina in the surrounding trade area and greater Jacksonville. Following this acquisition and the completion of redevelopments in Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach Gardens, PORT 32 will own and operate approximately 4,300 dry and wet slips and over 140,000 SF of commercial tenant space. 
Joe H. Miller, IV, Chief Executive Officer of PORT 32, stated "The Marina at Ortega Landing is an extremely well built and fully occupied wet slip marina in a core Florida market. Ortega fits well into our portfolio of Class A marina assets. We believe we are buying the best wet slip marina in the Jacksonville market both from a physical plant and amenity standpoint. The marina has a very loyal and discerning customer base which creates a unique and welcoming community environment. We embrace this lifestyle culture and intend to preserve that legacy." 


Member News: New River Middle School, Mission Possible

Member News: New River Middle School, Mission Possible

New River Middle School, home of the county’s marine magnet program for middle school students, is launching a new event, Mission Possible: Sharks in Action on Saturday, January 29th, 2022. This event aims to engage students, families, and the community in a Mission Possible: Marine Plastics/Pollution. This is a school-wide initiative at New River Middle School aimed to heighten awareness about environmental problems, build knowledge of the impact of human behaviors, and reduce marine plastics/pollution. The students are currently working on their owned project-based-learning assignments that they will present at the event and explore the event’s theme of reducing marine plastics and pollution in their community and environment. This event is in need of all levels of support and sponsorship to kick it off for its inaugural year. It’s an opportunity to give back to the community, support future generations and environmental education, and give your organization some exposure with marketing opportunities. If interested, please contact Katherine O’Fallon Magnet Coordinator at Katherine.ofallon@browardschools.com.


Upcoming Events in 2022

Upcoming Events in 2022

Save the date, the annual Miami Member Luncheon will be on January 26th, 2022 at Briza on the Bay (1717 N Bayshore Drive Miami, FL, 33132). Join fellow MIASF members at this lunch event to hear from those involved in the production of the new Discover Boating Miami Boat Show. Moderated by Phil Purcell, this panel will share insight and information about all that is coming to this year’s show. Tickets to this event are $45 and include complimentary valet parking at the DoubleTree Hotel where the venue is located. You can RSVP to the event soon and we look forward to seeing you in Miami!
 
The MIASF Membership Committee has been hard at work planning the upcoming year of Member Connect events to offer the best opportunities for fellow MIASF members to network, connect, and learn about a variety of relevant topics. Save the date for these monthly events and stay on the lookout to register and reserve your spot!
·      January – Miami Member Luncheon, January 26th
·      February – Trivia Night, February 9th
·      March – Cryptocurrency Panel Discussion, March 15th
·      April – RMK Merrill-Stevens Member Connect, April 13th
·      May – MIASF Annual Meeting Luncheon, May 18th
 
If you’re interested in sponsoring one of these upcoming events, reach out to info@miasf.org to get more information.
 
SAVE THE DATE! The 45th Annual Broward County Waterway Cleanup will be coming to a site near you in Broward County on Saturday, March 5th, 2022. Sponsorship opportunities are officially open for the county’s largest and longest running environmental event that will welcome more than 1,000 volunteers coming together to clean up our waterways and community. You can view the sponsorship package here and direct any questions you have to info@miasf.org. This event is a great chance for students to earn community service hours, the community to celebrate the beautiful waterways South Florida offers and give back in a meaningful way.
 
The 45th Annual Broward County Waterway Cleanup will return with its annual kick-off party, and you’re invited! On February 3rd, 2022, from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm we invite you to the Flagship Room at the MIASF Office to build excitement for the upcoming cleanup event over light bites, drinks, and the reveal of the 2022 Waterway Cleanup artwork! An invitation to RSVP for the event will be sent out soon. 


Past Events

Past Events

‘Tis the season the be jolly and wear comfy holiday pajamas to the Marine Industry Holiday Party. Hosted by IYBA, ISS, MIASF, USSA, YPY, this year’s holiday party at the Flagship Room was a comfy and cozy night filled with delicious breakfast bites, holiday movies, and a pajama contest fashion show on a catwalk. The holiday party is an event we all look forward to every year to come together as one industry and celebrate the season and all that was accomplished over the past year. This year’s party was extra special as it marked the return of the event after a year off. One of the best parts about the party each year is contributing to the Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center’s Annual Toy Shop. Party attendees were encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate to the CDTC and there is absolutely nothing better than seeing that pile of toys grow throughout the night which will be gifted to more than 3,000 children this holiday season in Fort Lauderdale.


Salty Jobs - New Episode!

Salty Jobs - New Episode!

Co-hosts David Chew and Megan Piggott navigate the warehouse and their jobs in the latest episode of Salty Jobs. At Lewis Marine it’s all about getting products in their door and out for delivery as quickly as possible. So will David and Megan get the job done before the delivery truck pulls out for the day? Watch now to find out!


Did You Know...?

Did You Know...?

Did you know… the MIASF Office will be closed beginning December 23, 2021, and will reopen on Monday, January 3, 2022. We wish you and your family a happy holidays and look forward to another successful year in 2022!


Featured Job: YSTAP Instructor

Featured Job: YSTAP Instructor

Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program Instructor
The Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program is actively searching for a new instructor for the state-approved 2-year program.
 
Job Description:
 
Position: Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Instructor

Qualifications: Must be eligible for a Broward District teacher's certificate in the area of shipyard/mega-yacht service technician. Documented knowledge and skills as a shipyard/ yacht service technician in the areas basic electric, general maintenance, hydraulic systems, pumps and plumbing, running gear and machining, shipyard lifting, safety, welding and fabrication, woodworking and carpentry, workplace employability, and yacht painting, and verification of industry certifications/credentials held. 

• Document six (6) years of full-time (40 hours a week) experience performing the skills and activities of that occupation with at least one (1) year of full-time experience working in the trade during the last five (5) years (Recency). Submit an Employment Verification of Occupational Experience Form to each employer for whom you have worked. Self-employment or experience in a family ownedfamily-owned business must be verified by the accountant or attorney of record verifying the type of business and the services provided by the business. Verification forms must be notarized. 

• Provide verification that you are a high school or GED graduate.

Salary: $24.50 per hour, 40 hours per week, 50 weeks per year following the approved School Board of Broward County calendar

Start Date: ASAP

Interested applicants can send their resume to Lori Wheeler - E-mail: lori@miasf.org


Welcome Aboard New Members!

Welcome Aboard New Members!

Starboard Yacht Group
Jake Stratmann

Email: jake@starboardyacht.com

Website: www.starboardyacht.com

Address: 850 NE 3rd St, Suite 208
Dania Beach, FL 33004

Phone: 954-376-5400

Company Description: Leaders in Marine Stabilization! Keep your yacht in top condition and enjoy boating when you want it with our yacht maintenance management, stabilization, restoration, and scheduled service programs! Starboard Yacht Group brings a deeper understanding of boat mechanics to the table in order to properly and thoroughly service your yacht from top to bottom and every subsystem in between.
We offer the right information, the right parts, and the right employees to maintain your yacht to its highest degree of safety and functionality.

Business Category:
·       Yacht Maintenance
·       Boatyards / Shipyards
·       Yacht Refinishing
·       Specialty Products
 
Meridian°
Stacy Geddis

Email: SGeddis@MeridianGo.com

Website: www.MeridianGo.com

Address: 1323 SE 17th Street, #174
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

Phone: 954-764-8995

Company Description: Meridian° is a global all-in-one yacht crew hiring platform that allows individual employers, recruiters, and management companies to easily find, interview, vet, and manage crew.  Our mission is to provide the yachting industry a single platform where crew can easily manage their employment status and employment files, provide employers access to all crew seeking employment, and the tools necessary to identify and vet the best candidates quickly.

Business Category:
·       Crew Placement / Employment Agencies
·       Computer Software / Services