Newsletter March 2020


From The Captain's Chair

From The Captain's Chair

March 2020



A SPECIAL SECTION ON COVID-19

This page will continuously be updated so please check back often for the latest news and notices regarding COVID-19.

OSHA COVID-19 Workplace Safety Guidelines

Executive Order on Promoting COVID-19 Safety in Domestic and International Travel (issued 1/21/21)

IMPORTANT FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR EMPLOYERS

Section 2301 Employee Retention

SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans

Paycheck Protection Loans

Paycheck Protection Program Application

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For a running list of all State of Florida Executive Orders please see below:

Governor DeSantis Executive Orders

Division of Emergency Management Orders

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For the latest Emergency Orders released by the City of Fort Lauderdale please see below:

Declaration of Emergency Regulations (issued 9/30/20)

Declaration of Emergency Regulations (issued 7/16/20)

Declaration of Emergency Regulations (Temporary Beach Closures) (issued 6/29/20)

Amended Declaration of Emergency Regulations (Phase 1 Reopening) (issued 5/28/20)

Declaration of Emergency Regulations (AMENDED) (issued 5/1/20)

Declaration of Emergency Regulations (issued 4/28/20)

Declaration of Emergency Regulations (issued 4/17/20)

Declaration of Emergency Order Requiring Face Coverings (issued 4/10/20)

Declaration of Emergency and "Safer at Home Regulations" (issued 3/27/20)

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For the latest Emergency Orders released by Broward County please see below:

Current COVID-19 Testing Sites

Emergency Order 21-01 Updated Comprehensive Emergency Order [CEO] (issued 4/19/2021)

COVID-19 Comprehensive Emergency Order (CEO)

Emergency Order 20-28 (issued 10/16/20)

Emergency Order 20-27 (issued 9/30/20)

Emergency Order 20-26 (issued 9/25/20)

Emergency Order 20-25 (issued 9/25/20)

Emergency Order 20-24 (issued 8/21/20)

Emergency Order 20-23 (issued 7/29/20)

Emergency Order 20-22 (issued 7/17/20)

Emergency Order 20-21 (issued 7/8/20)

Emergency Order 20-20 (issued 7/1/20)

Emergency Order 20-19 (issued 6/29/20)

Emergency Order 20-18 (issued 6/24/20)

Emergency Order 20-17 (issued 6/12/20)

Emergency Order 20-10 (issued 5/14/20)

Emergency Order 20-09 (issued 5/7/20)

Emergency Order 20-08 (issued 4/28/20)

Emergency Order 20-04 (issued 3/30/20)

Emergency Order 20-03 (issued 3/26/20)

Emergency Order 20-02 (issued 3/23/20)

Emergency Order 20-01 (issued 3/22/20)


For the latest Emergency Orders released by Miami-Dade County please see below:

Emergency Order 27-20 (issued 7/2/20)

Amendment No. 1 to Executive Order 20-20 (issued 7/2/20)

Emergency Order 25-20 (issued 6/28/20)

Amendment No. 3 to Emergency Order 23-20 (issued 6/19/20)

Amendment No. 3 to Emergency Order 21-20 (issued 6/7/20)

Emergency Order 24-20 (issued 5/31/20)

Amendment No. 1 to Emergency Order 23-20 (issued 5/27/20)

Emergency Order 23-20 (issued 5/15/20)

Emergency Order 21-20 (issued 4/27/20)

Executive Order Extending Declaration of Local State of Emergency (issued 4/15/20)

Emergency Order 20-20 (issued 4/9/20)

Amendment No. 3 to Emergency Order 06-20 (issued 3/23/20)

Amendment No. 2 to Emergency Order 06-20 (issued 3/21/20)

Amendment No. 1 to Emergency Order 06-20 (issued 3/19/20)

Emergency Order 06-20 (issued 3/18/20)


For the latest Emergency Orders released by Palm Beach County please see below:

Emergency Order No. 13 (issued 6/29/20)

Emergency Order No. 12 (issued 6/24/20)

Emergency Order No. 11 (issued 6/11/20)

Emergency Order No. 7 (issued 5/16/20)

Emergency Order No. 6 (issued 5/16/20)

Emergency Order No. 5 (issued 4/27/20)

Emergency Order No. 3 (issued 3/25/20)

Emergency Order No. 2 (issued 3/25/20)

Amendment to Emergency Order No. 1 (issued 3/23/20)

Emergency Order No. 1 (issued 3/22/20)


For the latest U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Information Bulletin please see below:

MSIB Number 02-21 (issued 2/1/21)

MSIB Number 02-20 (issued 4/23/20)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Clarification for Boarding Crew (issued 3/19/20)

MSIB Number 13-20 (issued 4/3/20)

MSIB Number 08-20 Change 1 (issued 3/30/20)

MSIB Number 11-20 (issued 3/27/20)

MSIB Number 09-20 (Issued 3/26/20)

MSIB 02-20 Change 3 (issued 03/16/20)

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For the latest Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Executive Order please see below:

FWC Executive Order No. 20-09 (issued 03/27/20)

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The following information was posted in March 2020:

On March 16th, the MIASF team took part in a Broward Business Leaders COVID-19 response telephone conference with several industries in our local community. The call, led by the Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance, hosted more than 245 business leaders in the medical industry, the United Way, law firms, hospitality, Broward County government, Fort Lauderdale government, the Fort Lauderdale International Airport, Port Everglades, and was joined by Congressman Ted Deutch. The intent of the community-wide call was to craft and disseminate a cohesive message on best work practices, proper hygiene, working from home, eliminating face-to-face contact whenever possible, and spreading awareness of social distancing, as well as share updates on the impact of the virus in our community, and determine a path forward to collectively flatten the epidemic.

·         At the time of the call, Fort Lauderdale International Airport managers confirmed the airport is open and fully operational. Its three main carriers, Spirit, Southwest, and JetBlue airlines, all plan to decrease their respective flights soon. Managers addressed the report of a TSA agent who tested positive for coronavirus and made clear that the employee hadn’t worked since March 3rd and has remained asymptomatic. All precautionary measures were taken and there is no risk for additional spread from that employee.

·         Memorial Healthcare System leaders, as well as those of other medical facilities, stated they are currently limiting patient visitors – however many hospitals have begun implementing a no visitor policy since.

·         United Way Broward County is launching two initiatives that will assist effected residents who are unable to receive their normal wages and those who need supplemental food supplies.

·         Tech Lauderdale representatives discussed an in-process plan for a free “Work from Home Best Practices” webinar to help educate the business community on implementing technology, cybersecurity risks, and legal/HR information.

The group will routinely meet via conference call to share accurate information and quell any unconfirmed rumors. Below is a list of helpful links for individuals and businesses needing additional information and assistance.

Fisher Phillips Comprehensive and Updated FAQs For Employers on the COVID-19 Coronavirus

https://www.fisherphillips.com/resources-alerts-comprehensive-faqs-for-employers-on-the-covid  

Broward County Coronavirus Site

https://www.broward.org/Coronavirus/Pages/default.aspx 

Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development

https://www.broward.org/econdev 

Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan

The Governor has activated $50 million for the Bridge Loan program

https://floridadisasterloan.org/ 

City of Fort Lauderdale Coronavirus Information

https://www.fortlauderdale.gov/Home/Components/News/News/4074/16?backlist=%2f 

Florida Department of Economic Opportunity's Short Time Compensation program for Employers

http://www.floridajobs.org/office-directory/division-of-workforce-services/reemployment-assistance-programs/short-time-compensation-program-for-employers 

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Governor Ron DeSantis announced the activation of the Business Damage Assessment survey to assess the impact of COVID-19 on Florida’s local business operations. The survey, managed by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), will evaluate businesses affected by COVID-19 and the impacts the virus has had on the local economy so actions to implement appropriate relief programs can begin.

The Business Damage Assessment Survey can be taken online at https://floridadisaster.biz/. Results from this survey will be shared with state agencies and local partners. Surveys submitted by small businesses can be used to access the Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan, made available for COVID-19 through the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act. For inquiries or assistance with the survey, businesses can contact Emergency Support Function 18 at ESF18@em.myflorida.com.

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SBA Disaster Assistance in Response to the Coronavirus

The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering designated states and territories low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Upon a request received from a state’s or territory’s Governor, SBA will issue under its own authority, as provided by the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act that was recently signed by the President, an Economic Injury Disaster Loan declaration.

•             Any such Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance declaration issued by the SBA makes loans available to small businesses and private, non-profit organizations in designated areas of a state or territory to help alleviate economic injury caused by the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

•             SBA’s Office of Disaster Assistance will coordinate with the state’s or territory’s Governor to submit the request for Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance.

•             Once a declaration is made for designated areas within a state, the information on the application process for Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance will be made available to all affected communities as well as updated on its website: www.SBA.gov/disaster.   

•             SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans offer up to $2 million in assistance per small business and can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing.

•             These loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that can’t be paid because of the disaster’s impact. The interest rate is 3.75% for small businesses without credit available elsewhere; businesses with credit available elsewhere are not eligible. The interest rate for non-profits is 2.75%.

•             SBA offers loans with long-term repayments in order to keep payments affordable, up to a maximum of 30 years. Terms are determined on a case-by-case basis, based upon each borrower’s ability to repay.

•             SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans are just one piece of the expanded focus of the federal government’s coordinated response, and the SBA is strongly committed to providing the most effective and customer-focused response possible.

For additional information, please contact the SBA disaster assistance customer service center. Call 1-800-659-2955 (TTY: 1-800-877-8339) or e-mail disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. 

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Governor DeSantis activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. The bridge loan program, managed by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity will provide short-term, interest-free loans to small businesses that experienced economic hardships due to COVID-19. The application period runs through May 8, 2020. Up to $50 million has been allocated for the program.

Florida small business owners with two to 100 employees affected by COVID-19 can apply for short-term loans up to $50,000. The loans are interest-free for up to one year and are designed to bridge the gap between the time a major catastrophe hits and when a business has secured longer term recovery resources. For information on the program, visit www.floridadisasterloan.org, call the Florida Small Business Development Center Network at 866-737-7232 or email Disaster@FloridaSBDC.org

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In the first of a multi-step plan to support marine dealers with their response to the coronavirus and ensuing economic challenges, the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) has launched a webpage with resources for the industry to tap into.

MRAA’s COVID-19 resource page, available at www.MRAA.com/COVID-19, provides a listing of national- and state/province-provided resources for small businesses in the United States and Canada. They include links to organizations like the U.S. Center for Disease Control, Small Business Administration, the Society for Human Resource Management, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and Employment and Social Development Canada.

In addition, the site includes links to useable resources like sample communication plans, social distancing guidelines for the workplace and more. Also listed are links to several articles with worthwhile insights into how dealers might consider navigating today’s uncertainty. They include a list of employer FAQs for responding to the coronavirus from workforce attorneys and a National Law Review article, “The Emergency Coronavirus Bill: What Employers Need to Know Regarding the Legislative Response to COVID-19.”

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The National Marine Manufacturers Association has called on the federal government to take action and help marine manufacturers respond to COVID-19. In addition, NMMA is aligned with organizations including the National Association of Manufacturers, US Chamber of Commerce, the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable and others to ensure our industry’s voice is heard. Learn more by visiting https://www.nmma.org/coronavirus. 

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On March 14, President Trump issued a proclamation to suspend entry of certain immigrants and nonimmigrants who could pose a risk of transmitting COVID-19. Anyone who was in one of the 26 Schengen Area countries of Europe during the 14-day period preceding their entry into the United States would not be admitted. Among others, the ban does not apply to U.S. citizens or permanent residents or those traveling on a C-1/D visa “as air or sea crew”. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has clarified that the travel ban on foreign nationals who were in Europe up to 14 days prior to their entry into the U.S. does not apply to yacht crew on valid B1/B2 visas.

As of March 19th, the U.S. State Department advised that it is suspending routine visa services in most countries worldwide. The suspension applies to all routine immigrant and nonimmigrant visas and will last until further notice. U.S. embassies and consulates will continue to provide urgent and emergency visa services where possible.

 


Captain's Chair: An Essential Industry amid COVID-19

Captain's Chair: An Essential Industry amid COVID-19

During this unprecedent moment in world history it is important to remember that we are all in this public health emergency together. There is no part of the globe that will be physically or financially untouched by COVID-19 but we must remain vigilant against this invisible enemy in our effort to safeguard our families, our loved ones, and the viability of our marine businesses now and when this pandemic is diminished.

Understanding the marine industry is directly tied and undeniably essential to the robust economy in South Florida, our local, state, and federal government agencies and elected officials continue to work diligently with MIASF to address pertinent issues in advance and as they arise.

MIASF is participating in County preparedness conference calls with local and regional business leaders, economic development organizations, and elected officials focusing on unintended activity that impacts all industries, as well as working directly with U.S. Customs and Border Protection regarding crew visa issues and vessels returning to the U.S. abiding by U.S. Coast Guard regulations. Whether it is visa protections and extensions for crew members or disseminating U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Information Bulletins, MIASF has been, and will remain, a reliable source of information and action.

Hundreds of services that the marine industry provides are essential to South Florida boatyards and marinas, and critical to the certifications that maritime schools provide for crew, as we truly are the yachting capital/hub of the United States. Marine services are essential to the vessels that remain here. No different than the transportation industry, our boatyards and marine businesses uphold the covenants that are required by insurance companies, as these vessels cannot merely be shut down. It is essential to crew and service personnel that they have access to the vessel on which they work in order to perform their duties.

Every service that brings value to the marine industry, including electricians, mechanics, plumbers, welders, and more, needs to remain accessible and available to displaced owners, captains, and crew, who will also shelter onboard these vessels and rely on all of us to be there.  Many, if not most, yards contain multiple acres, easily allowing for social distancing to be accomplished in outdoor spaces, and are employing recommended screening processes by stopping visitors, vendors, and employees at a centralized gate, asking specific travel questions, taking temperatures, and refusing facility access to those in question.

There are many informational resources available to individuals and businesses, including specific local and national COVID-19 websites that offer links to government programs that can help people stay afloat and businesses plan through these hardships. Visit the Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development at https://www.broward.org/econdev for more information.

I am encouraged by how decisive many of our leaders at all levels have been in trying to mitigate the spread of this dangerous illness in our communities, neighborhoods, businesses, and government offices by communicating the gravity of the threat and offering actions that we can all take. We all have a responsibility to adhere to social distancing guidelines, isolation when sick or experiencing symptoms, and personal hygiene.

Please know we are working expeditiously on all fronts and ask you to reach out to us if we can offer any assistance with a question or concern.

Above all, please stay safe and be well. We will get through this.

 


Advocacy Report

Advocacy Report

The 2020 Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance Leadership Study Group visited Charlotte, North Carolina, a city growing in popularity among site selectors as an area of innovation and excellence. Past leadership trips to study best practices have included Austin, Texas in 2016 and Nashville, Tennessee in 2018.

This was a working event with goals and metrics. By studying specific elements of Charlotte, there is an opportunity to learn best practices that can be employed in our own community.

Charlotte was chosen for many reasons:

•             Like Greater Fort Lauderdale, Charlotte has a thriving business community with a world class reputation for quality of life

•             Its population is approximately 890,000 within a general metropolitan area of 2.53 miles, while Fort Lauderdale’s is 1.9 miles

•             Both are home to many distinct local communities that collectively fall under a larger umbrella name

•             Both are car-loving communities

•             Greater Fort Lauderdale’s medium household income is about the same at a little over $60,000 (2017), yet Charlotte’s housing and transportation costs as a percentage of income is 51% and Greater Fort Lauderdale’s is 64%

•             For Greater Fort Lauderdale, natural assets include the beaches, Everglades National Park, and many outdoor offerings. For Charlotte, it’s NASCAR, the U.S. National Whitewater Center, and parks galore.

•             Charlotte is the unofficial home of the banking industry in the southeast United States. Fort Lauderdale claims innovative tech company headquarters among its business strengths. 

•             Both have sports teams named Panthers - the Florida Panthers hockey team and the NFL Carolina Panthers.

•             Charlotte is home to the largest cluster of biomedical device companies in the state of North Carolina. Florida ranks #2 in the country for FDA registered medical device manufacturing facilities with most of those companies located in South Florida, along the 1-4 Corridor, and in the Jacksonville area.

Key areas of study included Business Best Practices, Education, Housing, Healthcare/Life Sciences, Quality of Life, Transportation & Infrastructure, and Workforce/Talent Hub.

MIASF participated in tours and panels for both Transportation & Infrastructure as well as Workforce/ Talent Hub. A striking difference in Charlotte’s transportation system was group collaboration on joint projects being key to the successes in light rail, which has been in operation since 2007, and the current streetcar project. Chris Waters, Head of Broward County Transportation, assured us that Charlotte is ahead in rail transit, but Broward County surpasses it in the utilization of the bus system. Walkability of the downtown was notable with a trail along the light rail tracks that has transformed an industrial area into a new urban recreational community hub. Charlotte’s sports areas and arts district are all centrally located downtown within walking distance of each other. The marine industry in South Florida does seem to be ahead of Charlotte in the training and educational opportunities in a specific sector. The educational philosophy in Charlotte is that all companies are tech companies, and each provides a different service. Example a Yacht Broker sells boats but markets the product online (tech). There is a very strong push for tech education, however, Charlotte is just beginning to address trade skill training and apprenticeship programs. The group is currently digesting the highlights of the trip, which will be utilized to create a comprehensive report that will be shared when made available.


Faces in the Industry - Julia Russell

Faces in the Industry - Julia Russell

Tell us where you are from, what brought you to Florida, and how long you’ve lived here. I am originally from Philadelphia, PA, “The City of Brotherly Love.” After graduating with a degree in Business and Marketing from Temple University, I went right into the workforce at a full-service Digital Agency serving as an Account Manager for four years. I then realized I had enough of the grueling winters and wanted to take part in the endless summer here in South Florida. I’ve lived here for almost five years now and recently bought my very first home!

Where do you work, what is your job title, and what does your job entail? I work at GMT Global Marine Travel, industry leader in special airfares for the Marine Industry, headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, FL serving as their Marketing Manager. My duties include event planning, coordinating various partnership and sponsorship opportunities, social media management, website management, print and digital campaign management, public relations, assisting with new brand/product launches, and overall boosting brand awareness for GMT to build customer loyalty and increase sales in all sectors of the Marine Industry.

How did you initially become interested in the marine industry? Before I could even remember, my summers were spent at the Jersey shore. My Father, being a big boater and fisherman, would take my family out off the coast of Long Beach Island for a full day of water activities. I loved being on the boat so much that it influenced my decision years later to take a Semester at Sea where I was able to live and travel around the world for four months on a cruise ship earning college credit. From then on, I got the travel bug and knew that someday I would combine my passions for both the Marine and Travel Industries which is why GMT is such a perfect fit.

What is your favorite or most valuable benefit of membership in MIASF? I am the type of person who loves to seek knowledge and hear about the economic impact and various perspectives of our Industry. There is so much information and experience amongst all the members of MIASF that it is invaluable to be a part of this organization. I am also a firm supporter of MIASF’s impactful programs such as Salty Jobs, the Broward County Waterway Cleanup, Plywood Regatta and more.

Describe any other community organizations or events with which you are involved. I currently serve as the Mentorship Chair for the Young Professionals in Yachting. I am also a member of the International Superyacht Society, International Yacht Brokers Association and the US Superyacht Association.

Tell us about your hobbies and what kinds of things you do for fun. Traveling probably takes the cake when it comes to my hobbies. There’s nothing like experiencing a new country and fully immersing yourself in their culture. Someday I dream of going castle hunting throughout Europe. When I’m home in Fort Lauderdale, I enjoy going to all types of concerts, sporting events, keeping active and kicking back at the beach.


News - 2020/2021 MIASF Officers and Directors Nomination Slate

News - 2020/2021 MIASF Officers and Directors Nomination Slate

MIASF members were recently sent an email announcing the 2020/2021 MIASF Officers and Directors Nomination Slate. In accordance with the MIASF Bylaws, the Board of Directors has voted upon and approved the slate of Officers and Directors proposed by the Nominating Committee.

The slate of nominees is as follows: 

Officer Nominations (one-year term):

Chairman:                                   Doug West, Lauderdale Marine Center                   

Vice Chairman:                            Jimmie Harrison, Frank & Jimmie's Propeller

Secretary/Treasurer:                    James Brewer, Derecktor of Florida

Immediate Past-Chairperson         Jim Naugle, Lauderdale Boatyard

 

Director Nominations for five vacant directorships follow in alphabetical order (two-year terms):

Glenn Allen               Fleet Miami

Julie Berry                Marina Investments Group, Stiles Realty

Garnett Byrd             Marquipt, Inc.

Tyler Chappell           The Chappell Group

Andrew Doole            Informa Markets

Dean Du Toit             National Marine Suppliers, Inc.

Michael Kelly             Bradford Marine

Ben Koppenhoefer     Elite Marine AC

Brooks Smith            Lewis Marine and Jerry’s Marine    

Scott Stamper           Atlass Insurance Group

 

Additional Director and Officer nominations will be accepted from the general membership. If you wish to make additional nominations, use the form linked here and email patience@miasf.org or nicole@miasf.org no later than Monday, April 6th to confirm. Each nomination for a Director must carry five signatures of bona fide, regular members of MIASF. Each nomination for office of Chairman, Vice Chairman or Secretary/Treasurer requires: (1) the nominee be a current or former member of the MIASF Board of Directors; (2) an agreement to serve if elected; and (3) ten signatures of bona fide, regular members of MIASF. A final ballot will be emailed to all regular members on Thursday, April 16th.


News - Dillard High School Annual Career Fair

News - Dillard High School Annual Career Fair

MIASF participated in the Dillard High School Annual Career Fair again this year. Sean Smith, director of development, and Megan Piggott, digital media and outreach coordinator, who also co-host the Salty Jobs video series, manned a booth at the event to raise awareness for marine industry career paths and job opportunities. Dillard High School has participated in the Marine Industry Summer Camp in years past, and several students recognized the hosts from the series and/or referenced the camp as the reason for their interest in the marine industry.  


News - Elevator Pitch Competition

News - Elevator Pitch Competition

22 students from South Broward High School participated in this year’s Elevator Pitch Competition this month and each gave about a one-minute pitch on a marine industry career in which they had an interest. Several industry-related judges volunteered to grade the students on a pre-defined rubric of professional dress, presence, industry knowledge, persuasion, and overall quality. The judges were also able to ask follow-up questions to the students. Many thanks to the following judges who gave of their time and talent to participate in this phase of the competition:

·         David Rose, Bennett Marine

·         Lisa Samuels, T. Spencer Samuels Insurance & Financial Services

·         Pam Stolarz, Centennial Bank

·         John Burke, TDW Marine

·         Brooke Joiner, Videoworks Group of America

·         Tim Davey, Global Marine Travel

·         Katie Hagan, FHG Marine Engineering

·         Nick DeSantis, Marsh & McLennan Agency

·         Bruce Evangelista, High Seas Hydraulics

·         Laura Wilson, Broward Schools


News- Safely Responding to the 2020 Census

News- Safely Responding to the 2020 Census

The 2020 Census is here, and it is so important that you participate. The Census Bureau mailed a Census invitation to every household, which you should have received on or shortly after March 12. Responding to the Census is easy and convenient — whether online, over the phone, or by mail—all within the comfort of your home. In fact, over five million people have already responded online! Responding to the Coronavirus Pandemic is an example of why it is so critical to respond to the Census. An accurate count allows public health officials to monitor the spread of communicable diseases and provides funding for vital health services and emergency response planning. Data collected in the 2020 Census will be essential for identifying the locations in our community with the greatest need for new hospitals and health centers. A flawed Census will compromise efforts to track and effectively manage these emergent public health threats, so it is critical that you and every member of your household is counted in the Census this year. We need your help to ensure that Broward County receives its fair share of federal funding. Remember - the Census touches every life, every day! Use your 12-digit Census ID you received in the mail and visit: https://www.2020census.gov. *If you have not received your ID, you can also respond by going to the same web address and typing in your home address.

 


Member News - IGY Marinas

Member News - IGY Marinas

St. Katharine Docks Marina in London has joined IGY Marinas, making it the network’s 18th marina across 11 countries. As of February 7th, IGY Marinas now operates, markets, and brands the 5 Gold Anchor, 185-slip facility that can accommodate yachts up to 130 feet (40m). St. Katharine Docks Marina is central London’s only marina. It is located about 40 nautical miles up the Thames River, adjacent to the Tower of London and close to many of the city’s famous tourist attractions. The Docks has a cobblestone promenade of boutiques, eateries, pubs and markets, and the marina offers waste management, concierge services, provisioning, a fitness center, and showers.


Member News - Denison Yachting

Member News - Denison Yachting

Denison Yachting has announced the launch of “A Boat Show From Your Couch,” a friendly and safe way to experience a boat show in a time of social distancing. Denison has long been a leader in the yachting industry with a rich family history dating back to 1948.

On March 27 from 9am to 5pm, visitors to Denison’s Virtual Boat Show will be able to access hundreds of Walkthrough Videos, Virtual Tours, and Live Chats with experts, brokers, captains and personalities from all corners of the yachting industry.

The Virtual Boat Show also will include specific factory incentives that will be available only during Denison’s Virtual Boat Show from new boat brands, including Bertram Sportfish, Beneteau Sailing Yachts, Monte Carlo Motoryachts, Swift Trawlers, Horizon Motoryachts, and XCS Catamarans. Click here to join. 


Member News - FB Marine Group

Member News - FB Marine Group

With marinas and launch ramps in South Florida shut down until further notice in response to social-distancing concerns—a key element of federal, state, and local municipality strategies to combat the COVID-19 pandemic—FB Marine Group is taking its act on the road, literally and figuratively. The Fort Lauderdale, Fla.-headquartered Company, has a mobile fleet of 13 service technicians making house calls to waterfront homes with boats at docks and on lifts throughout the area.

The company, which currently has most of its administrative staff working remotely, has dubbed the program its Mobile Marine Unit. In addition, through its Porter Team, FB Marine Group also has created a parts and boat delivery service as part of its “Customer Experience Strategy.”


Member News - MarineMax

Member News - MarineMax

MarineMax announced it has acquired Boatyard, a ‘pioneering’ on-demand digital platform to enhance the boating experience for its customers. The new MarineMax Customer Experience Platform will be led by Boatyard Founder and CEO Nathan Heber, who will become president of Boatyard at MarineMax. The Boatyard digital platform seeks to eliminate the confusion, guesswork, and stress of boating, making it accessible and easy for customers to have an exceptional experience, including an expansive range of on-demand services to streamline the boating experience by qualified service providers with only a few clicks on a smartphone. The platform was named to Boating Industry magazine’s Top Products of 2015 list. Boatyard will remain an independent brand.


Member News - Maritime Professional Training

Member News - Maritime Professional Training

Congratulations to Lisa Morley, VP of Maritime Professional Training, for being named as one of 25 South Florida Business Journal’s 2020 Influential Business Women. Here is an excerpt from the recent publication highlighting her accomplishments: “Morley plays a leading role in preparing the next generation of marine professionals to grow South Florida’s $12 billion maritime sector. Her students and clients include commercial shipping companies, marine corporations, the military, vessel management firms, and captains guiding the world’s largest superyachts. In the community, Morley has worked with groups such as The Marine Industry Cares Foundation, Kids in Distress, and the Children’s Diagnostic and Treatment Center.”


Member News - Lewis Marine

Member News - Lewis Marine

The team at Lewis Marine Supply is taking the problem of Coronavirus COVID-19 seriously and putting measures in place to protect the health of its team and customers. Currently, all stores remain open for business, are fully operational, and deliveries are on schedule. To support safe and easy business it has launched two new initiatives.

·         Curb Side Will Call - any order placed online or over the phone can be picked up at any location without entering the facility.

·         Qwik Order - orders can be placed online 24/7 and will automatically be fulfilled during normal business hours. Customers who have previously used the Lewis Marine online ordering will receive a message showing how to log in and use the new site. New customers can get login and directions by contacting orderonline@lewismarine.com.  


Upcoming Events - Notice of Cancellations/Postponements

Upcoming Events - Notice of Cancellations/Postponements

In accordance with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control, many events have been cancelled in response to the pandemic, including MIASF’s annual Plywood Regatta scheduled for April 4th and 5th and its monthly Maritime Monday networking events until further notice.

The History Fort Lauderdale annual event, History Makers, which this year honors MIASF and the Denison family for contributions to the marine industry, has been postponed to a date that will be determined.

The U.S. Coast Guard Foundation has postponed its annual Fort Lauderdale dinner currently planned for April 29th and is in the process of rescheduling it.

Though it was undoubtedly a difficult yet prudent decision, Informa Markets U.S. Boat Shows rescheduled the Palm Beach International Boat Show to May 14th through 17th and postponed Superyacht Show Palm Beach to debut at the Flagler Museum March 25th through 28th in 2021. Informa, which is a London-based company that specializes in business-to-business events around the world, has postponed or cancelled almost 130 events worth more than £400 million in revenue due to the worldwide coronavirus outbreak. Its events account for about 65% of £2.9 billion in total group revenues. So far, it has rescheduled about 45 large events and 70 smaller events and has cancelled 13 events.


Past Event - 43rd Annual Broward County Waterway Cleanup

Past Event - 43rd Annual Broward County Waterway Cleanup

On March 7th approximately 1,200 volunteers participated in the 43rd Broward County Waterway Cleanup, the county’s largest and longest-running environmental event. Presented by the Florida Inland Navigation District (F.I.N.D.) and National Marine Suppliers and organized by the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF), the Broward County Waterway Cleanup resulted in the collection of nearly 25 tons of trash and debris from 35 sites across the county. Volunteers, ranging in age from nine months to 81, participated on land and in water with 121 vessels, including boats, kayaks, and paddleboards. Following the cleanup, volunteers were invited to attend the Trash Bash Thank You party at MIASF Headquarters, where participants were treated to live music, free food and beverages, and more than a dozen raffle prizes.

MIASF also hosts middle school and high school recycled-art, essay, and short-story contests during the waterway cleanup. Multiple scholarships are awarded at the Trash Bash, and this year’s winners are:

•             $500 Essay Contest Winner: Bria Weisblat, Western High School

•             $250 Short Story Contest Winner: Miles D’Errico, New River Middle School

•             $250 High School (9-10) Recycled-Art Contest Winner: Destiny Pantoja, South Broward High School

•             $250 High School (11-12) Recycled-Art Contest Winner: Dubraska Robles, College Academy

•             $250 Middle School Recycled-Art Contest Winner: Riley McClanahan, New River Middle School

Sponsors of the Broward County Waterway Cleanup included Bluewater Yachting (USA), Boatsetter, Broward County, Carefree Boat Club, City of Fort Lauderdale, Cliff Berry, Coastal Tank, Coral Springs Improvement District, CRYC Sailing & Water Sports Foundation, Derecktor Shipyard, Dometic, Dumpster King, Environmental Marine, Florida Inland Navigation District, Gold Coast Marine Distributors, Harbour Towne Marina, IsoFlex, JM Family Enterprises, Land and Sea, Lauderdale Isles Water Management District, Margate Waterfront Foundation, National Marine Suppliers, National Save the Sea Turtle Foundation, City of Oakland Park, Resolve Marine Group, Rush Roll-Off, The Chappell Group, Trac Ecological, Water Taxi, and Wright Maritime Group.

Mark the calendar for next year’s cleanup on Saturday, March 6, 2021! For more information, visit www.waterwaycleanup.org. 


Past Event - Pier Sixty-Six Ground Breaking

Past Event - Pier Sixty-Six Ground Breaking

A ceremonial groundbreaking for the new complex at Pier Sixty-Six took place on March 12th with local leaders and elected officials praising the much-needed renovation of the hotel and historic rotating roof top venue, which holds fond memories for many longtime Fort Lauderdale and South Florida residents. The new facility will include an additional hotel building, high-end residences, eight restaurants, and a two-story pool experience. Construction is underway and is expected to be completed in phases, with an eventual promenade under the 17th Street Causeway bridge connecting to a redeveloped Pier South in the future.


Salty Jobs

Salty Jobs

Sean Smith and Megan Piggott co-host the latest episode of Salty Jobs with Global Marine Travel, taking to the air to meet discerning clients’ needs. Megan truly soared in her first appearance in front of the camera, as she is typically behind the scenes as the executive director of the series. View it, and all the salty episodes, by visiting www.saltyjobs.org.          

Job Highlight – MIASF Office Assistant

Description: Assist the Vice President, and other staff as assigned, in the daily management and operations of the Association. Must have a minimum of five years working in an office atmosphere or similar. Must be a team player, proactive, self-motivated, and self-disciplined. Must also possess writing skills, Microsoft Office skills, organizational skills, presentation skills, and good time management. Good verbal communication, ability to communicate and work effectively with other team members as well as MIASF Members. Adobe Creative Suite knowledge a plus. If interested, send resume to lori@miasf.org. 


New Members

New Members

REGULAR MEMBERS:

 

Atlantic Refinishing Crew, Inc.

Debbie Bailey

Email: info@atlanticrefinishingcrew.com 

Website: www.atlanticrefinishingcrew.com 

845 NW 65th Ave.

Plantation, FL 33317

Phone: (954) 394-0608

Company Description: Yacht refinishing, yacht maintenance.

 

S&S Propeller South

Kathleen Georgio

Email: kat@sspropeller.com 

Website: www.sspropeller.com 

33069 SW 10th St.

Pompano Beach, FL 33069

Phone: (954) 979-5220

Company Description: S&S Propeller is a family-owned and operated company spanning four generations and has served the marine industry since 1946. We specialize in marine propulsion and state-of-the-art propeller technology. S&S Propeller has two marine machine shops, enabling us to support all our customers’ needs. S&S Propeller provides complimentary computer analysis to access best size, price, and lead time for new propellers, as well as new stainless-steel shafting, and all components from transmission down.

 

Willy’s Metal Piling Caps

Ariel Ramirez

Email: arielramirez95@gmail.com 

Website: www.metalpilingcaps.com 

2109 W 76th St.

Hialeah, FL 33016

Phone: (786) 873-9814

Company Description: Willy’s Metal Piling Caps is owned and operated by the same team as Metal Spinning and Polishing Services, LLC. Although Willy’s Metal Piling Caps has only been in existence for a few years, our parent company Metal Spinning and Polishing Services has been around for 20 years. Willy’s Metal Piling Caps manufactures custom made piling caps out of copper and aluminum, for all piling sizes and shapes. Contact us for more information and a free quote.