Newsletter May 2020


From The Captain's Chair

From The Captain's Chair

May 2020



From the Captain's Chair

I hope most of you saw the results of the economic impact study that was conducted following the 60th Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in November 2019. The significant increases in major financial categories solidifies FLIBS position as a critical component of the economy. FLIBS generated $1.3 billion in economic output throughout the state of Florida, up from $857 million in 2015, and total sales were calculated at $715.4 million, up from $508 million, or more than $143 million in direct sales per day of the five-day show. This year, FLIBS is anticipated to be a major turning point and a reset for the global marine industry.

As always, the start of hurricane season is a time to reflect on important planning, preparation, and precaution for everyone in the marine industry. Remember to stay abreast of the Marine Safety Information Bulletins issued by the U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port, especially in times of a hurricane watch or warning, as rules and procedures can change rapidly. Please also take advantage of the many groups, organizations, businesses, and publications that offer detailed specifics and timelines that help boaters be as prepared as possible before, during, and after a storm or major wind event and share the information with customers and clients.

With May somewhat synonymous with Memorial Day, it is fitting to mark this month with a certain measure of gratitude. There is no better time to take a moment to remember our fallen military heroes and regard our personal freedoms with a new perspective. No doubt, this is a difficult economic time for many businesses, families, and individuals, however, there is also much for which to be thankful. With the first phase of opening in Broward County, amid a revered holiday weekend, residents did their part to celebrate the day with respectful, responsible, and long-awaited outings. Boaters, beachgoers, picnickers, and others let caution prevail as they dipped their toes in the water of this small sense of normalcy. As our community, state, and nation begin to carefully reestablish the economy, personal interaction, and new ways of safely operating in a post-pandemic world, it is encouraging to watch a high level of courtesy being exhibited by so many.

The value of relationships has come sharply into focus during these past months, and our marine community can be proud of its earned reputation and ingrained heritage of lending a helping hand in times of need. I want to thank everyone for their perseverance, intelligence, steadfastness, and intuitiveness as we continue to understand the new normal and navigate these unchartered waters.


Advocacy Report

Advocacy Report

Advocacy has remained very active through the shutdown. MIASF received daily calls about expiring visas, extension of cruising licenses, and possibilities in the change in charter law, if only temporary. The solution was a meeting organized between Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the marine industry to get answers directly from the administrators of the regulations. Leadership of CBP from South Florida’s three ports were in attendance, along with various divisional heads from the ports. The industry representatives were made up of a small representation from agents, yacht managers, and the leadership from the trade organizations.

·         Visas- the recommendation is to file as soon as possible. If you have filed and not received a determination you are still in good standing. Arrival on visa waiver is possible for a 30-day extension, but that is all the rule allows.

·         Cruising license- little less adaptable on this. Borders are closed, and we are currently under restrictions. Vessels can move with permission to proceed. Each application is a case-by-case decision, based on the information given.

·         Demised charter- rules have not changed.

 

Work continues on the federal level to try and get cruising licenses and demised charter regulations amended to encourage yachting throughout the U.S. to help with economic recovery. Shortly after presenting our concerns to our Congressmen, both Representative Ted Deutch and Senator Marco Rubio sent letters to committees of jurisdiction about visa extensions. The clarifying language found here was subsequently published. Discussion continues to make a more streamline process for NVRP applications.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has allowed its emergency rule on the number of passengers onboard a vessel to expire – it is now regulated local orders as we enter the phased return to operations. We continue to monitor State actions and the impact to the marine industry and any guidelines that will impact the industry or boat shows.

Locally, MIASF has met with Broward County staff to discuss the current available slip permit shortage in the south section of Broward County and is working with both our state and local lobbyists to amend the current plan to make more slips available.

Closer to home, MIASF public relations specialist, Kelly Skidmore, is continuing to follow her passion for politics and has thrown her hat in this year’s election, running to represent her hometown district, HD 81, in the Florida House of Representatives in Tallahassee.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

Our borders remain closed by presidential order. Not all areas are accepting visiting yachts at this time and it is important to confirm your arrival well in advance and be aware of quarantine restrictions.

Yacht owners and guests do not enjoy the same exception offered to B1 visa crew members and are still subject to restricted travel from Schengen countries.

HURRICANE NOTICE

Here is the link to this season’s MSIB from Miami. It is important because it requires any vessel over 500gt to take action when the Captain of the Port (COP) moves the area to Situation Yankee. This action is not exclusive to the ports, but all the area within the COP’s authority. Vessels are required to leave but can request permission to stay by providing information of its safe harbor and providing no threat to navigable channels.

 


Business Highlight - General Fabrics

Business Highlight - General Fabrics

General Fabrics was founded in 1947 by Robert Norem, Sr., one of the sons of the H.P. Norem and Sons canvas and awning business in Wilmington, Delaware in the early 1940s. In 1947, Robert Norem, Sr. decided to move to Fort Lauderdale and subsequently established General Fabrics in the old Allied Marine Building. By the mid-1960s he bought the land and the building at 621 SW 2nd Avenue and made it the permanent home of General Fabrics, producing canvas, upholstery, and interiors for yachts.

In the 1980s he passed the well-established and well-known business down to his own son, Robert Norem, Jr., who today runs the business with the help of his son Greg and his daughter Tonya. The family-owned company still produces quality fabrics using paper patterning and “old school” craftsmanship with a group of talented seamstresses and an upholsterer, earning its reputation through word of mouth advertising. For more than 70 years, General Fabrics has offered its’ time-tested assistance to yacht owners in reimagining interiors for yachts of every size.


Faces in the Industry - Emily Burchwell

Faces in the Industry - Emily Burchwell

Tell us where you are from, what brought you to Florida, and how long you’ve lived here.

I’m originally from Missouri, and I moved to Florida in 2010 for my first job in advertising. I then left for three years to live in Chicago, came back in 2016 and have been in Fort Lauderdale ever since.

Where do you work, what is your job title, and what does your job entail?

I am the Marketing Manager at Lauderdale Marine Center. I am responsible for all marketing activities, from the website, to PR, to social, to event coordination and much more! It’s a varied role with a wide range of responsibilities that emphasizes promoting the LMC brand.

How did you initially become interested in the marine industry?

I thought it was interesting how I lived in Fort Lauderdale, however didn’t have anything to do with the marine industry. I found this job opportunity, and the rest is history!

What is your favorite or most valuable benefit of membership in MIASF?

The people at MIASF are incredible. They’re so involved with the community, and I look up to and admire their commitment to the marine industry.

Describe any other community organizations or events with which you are involved.

I am a member of Emerge Broward, which is a leadership and community engagement organization for young professionals in South Florida. I am also a member of YPY, Young Professionals in Yachting.

Tell us about your hobbies and what kinds of things you do for fun.

I love group fitness classes, albeit lately, they take place in the form of an Instagram live or Zoom class. I also love to run, dance, and play pickleball (the fastest growing sport in America ;))

 


News - Economic Impact Study for FLIBS 60th Anniversary

News - Economic Impact Study for FLIBS 60th Anniversary

Following the 60th Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), held October 30th through November 3rd, 2019, Thomas J. Murray and Associates, Inc. conducted a study on the economic impact of the world’s largest in-water boat show. The Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF), owners of the show, and Informa Markets U.S. Boat Shows, producers of the show, released the impressive results of the now completed study this week.

The major findings in the report indicate FLIBS generated $1.3 billion in economic output throughout the state of Florida. That number is up from $857 million from the previous study conducted in 2015. Other increases include total sales of $715.4 million, up from $508 million, or more than $143 million in direct sales per day of the five-day show.

Other highlights in the study include:

•             sales and excise taxes of $69 million in Florida, with $20.7 million occurring in Broward County (up from $51.2 million in taxes, with $16.9 million in Broward County)

•             61% of nearly 100,000 visitors came from outside the region, 49% were from outside Florida, and 10% were from outside the U.S. (up from 58%, 54%, and 10%, respectively)

•             visitors spent an average of $226 per day and were responsible for more than 72,000 room nights in local hotels (up from an average of $208 per day and 69,000 room nights)

•             more than 8,000 full-time jobs are associated with the show and exhibitors expended $13.1 million in exhibit space and local goods and services (up from 6,000 jobs and $12.9 million in exhibitor expenditures)

•             More than 200 vessels of 80’ or greater were displayed

The latest FLIBS economic report can be found by visiting www.miasf.org and clicking on Library in the upper righthand corner.


News - Plywood Regatta Scholarships

News - Plywood Regatta Scholarships

As with many events this year, the 24th Annual Plywood Regatta, hosted by the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF), was cancelled due to health concerns amid the coronavirus pandemic. But that did not stop four dedicated students and MIASF from proceeding with the coinciding scholarship opportunity that is an additional highlight to the two-day team boat building and racing competition for middle school, high school, and technical school students.

The winners are high school seniors who previously participated in Plywood Regatta and applied for the scholarship opportunity despite missing out on the actual event.

•             Kayla Blum, College Academy at Broward College - $500

•             Daniel Kwak, Nova High School - $500

•             Kai Lawracy, Inlet Grove Community High School- $1,000

•             Dubraska Robles, College Academy at Broward College - $750

The announcement was delivered via video and included a guest appearance by Broward County Public Schools Superintendent, Mr. Robert Runcie. The video announcement can be viewed by visiting https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQ60g_8_XzA. MIASF plans to reinstate the event in April 2021.


News - Natalie Gadelrab

News - Natalie Gadelrab

Congratulations to longtime Plywood Regatta participant and mentor, Natalie Gadelrab, on her recent graduation from the Florida Institute of Technology with a degree in Ocean Engineering! MIASF was proud to provide Natalie with a scholarship each year she attended FIT and wishes her all the best as she embarks on an exciting career in the marine industry! Great job, Natalie!


News - Jon Lowell Named Instructor for Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program

News - Jon Lowell Named Instructor for Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program

MIASF and Atlantic Technical College have selected Jonathan Lowell, founder of Iguana Marine, as the instructor for the first yacht service technician apprenticeship program in Florida. The two-year program, which will be administered online for the time being, gives apprentices a basic set of shipyard skills to jump start a career in the marine industry with on-the-job-training and coursework in areas such as, rigging, forklift and crane operation, pipefitting/plumbing, welding/fabricating, carpentry, and painting.

Lowell grew up boating in Maine, where he says he learned the value of a strong work ethic. After high school, he joined the U.S. Army and spent the next several years working on heavy equipment and generators as a diesel mechanic. His service in the Army further reinforced the principles of honesty, perseverance, leadership, and the commitment to excellence. He holds all seven professional designations offered by the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) and has earned the prestigious title of ABYC Master Technician certified in marine electrical, diesel engines, gasoline engines, marine systems, AC/refrigeration, corrosion, and composite materials. Lowell is also a professor in the Marine Engineering program at Broward College and an honors graduate of that program.          

The apprentices work locally and are selected by their respective employers to attend class in the evening once a week. New apprentices are being sought for the August and January semesters! Contact Lori Wheeler at lori@miasf.org for more information.

 


News - Megan Piggott

News - Megan Piggott

MIASF is pleased to announce that Megan Piggott, MIASF digital media and outreach coordinator, has earned a coveted MBA in marketing from Nova Southeastern University. She has gained impressive skills in video, editing, and design and has been putting that knowledge to work on behalf of MIASF. Megan, who earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a minor in sports management also played on NSU’s women’s basketball team, helping the team make it to the Elite Eight in 2019. Congratulations, Megan! We are thrilled to have you on our team!


News - Sean Smith

News - Sean Smith

MIASF bids a final farewell to Sean Smith, whose official last day will be May 30th. Sean has been with MIASF for six years and has been an incredible member of the team, building membership, helping to launch Salty Jobs, shepherding the Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program, and growing member-focused events. Although we are saddened to see him go and we will miss his fun and good-natured personality, we couldn’t be more proud or happier for him as he joins the team at Glidecoat and takes his career in an exciting new direction within the marine industry. Smooth sails and calm seas on your journey, Sean!


News - Winterfest Boat Parade Dockwalker Volunteers

News - Winterfest Boat Parade Dockwalker Volunteers

Winterfest Boat Parade is looking for “Dockwalker Volunteers” to help with the annual event. Dockwalker Volunteers are invited to attend all boat committee meetings and the Captain’s Meeting and are treated to a volunteer party held in January or February. On parade day, Dockwalkers help with communication between captains, law enforcement, and the control room, and assist with the timing of boats being released from their respective zones. For more information on volunteering, contact Kathy@winterfestparade.com.


News - Membership Committee

News - Membership Committee

MIASF extends its sincere gratitude to four hard-working members of the membership committee who are stepping down this year. Please join us in thanking Jay Strauss, Lisa Samuels, Pam Stolarz, and George Schmidt for their years of dedicated service on the membership committee and helping MIASF to develop excellent programming. They are all dedicated members of MIASF who always answered the call for volunteers, whether for Waterway Cleanup, Marine Industry Day, or FLIBS, they didn’t hesitate to pitch in. We will miss you on the committee!


News - 3rd Annual Marine Industry Elevator Pitch Competition

News - 3rd Annual Marine Industry Elevator Pitch Competition

Congratulations to the winner of MIASF’s 3rd Annual Marine Industry Elevator Pitch Competition, Logan Mazor, an 11th grade student at South Broward High School in the Marine Magnet Program, who won a $500 scholarship. The other finalists, also from South Broward High School, included Michael Gonzalez, Victoria Sandino, and Henry Hill, who each received a gift card in appreciation of their participation.

Held virtually this year, the competition was completed in a series of online semi-final rounds and one final round. Judges, which were selected from within the industry and from the greater business community, evaluated the high school students on professional dress, presence, industry knowledge, and persuasion.

Many thanks to the student applicants, the teachers, and the judges who helped make this year a great success!


Member News - The Nassau Yacht Haven Marina

Member News - The Nassau Yacht Haven Marina

On April 1, 2020, The Nassau Yacht Haven Marina launched a new opportunity for yachts 80’ and larger visiting the Bahamas by teaming up with MegaSlip.com to offer free dockage for any qualifying vessel including MIASF members and/or their clients that fit the criteria. No fees or hidden costs or even utility usage requirements. Visit www.MegaSlip.Com to learn more and sign up.

 


Member News - Brownie's Marine Group

Member News - Brownie's Marine Group

Brownie’s Marine Group announced several business updates on their existing businesses and new opportunities. The company has taken several steps to ensure the long-term viability of operations, including the shift of focus onto developing a ventilator prototype using the company’s existing IP. On April 14th, BWMG received a purchase order from a third-party to produce several ventilator prototypes. BLU3 Vent is a development stage emergency ventilator in the prototype phase that has been in development over the past 30 days based on a call-to-action for innovators to help create solutions during this crisis. BLU3 Vent has undergone preliminary testing but is not yet ready to be put on the market. The core technology of BLU3 Vent is BLU3’s proprietary breathing air pump and respiration detection sensor originally invented for a tankless diving system called ‘Nemo.’

 


Member News - Azimut Yachts

Member News - Azimut Yachts

Azimut Yachts has launched a Virtual Lounge and will hold a series of e-Boat Shows. The Italian builder said that its first e-Boat Show will run from May 27 to 30. The Azimut-Benetti Group is the world’s largest builder of yachts over 78 feet. The e-Boat Show will have product exhibitions and include Live Chat sessions with Azimut sales managers and other experts.


Member News - Westrec Marinas

Member News - Westrec Marinas

Westrec Marinas has announced major improvements to Florida properties, Hall of Fame Marina and Sunrise Harbor. Westrec has been hard at work on upgrades to some of its Florida facilities to best accommodate the needs of today’s yachts. Hall of Fame recently reopened after a renovation project that added 5 mega-yacht slips to their marina basin. The piers in the new slips are some 155’ feet long easily accommodating vessels to 170’. They also provide the power needed for these larger vessels 2-240v single phase, 2-208v 3 phase, and 2-480v 3-phase pedestals. The project included removing 400' of wooden docks and replacing them with 600' feet of concrete Bellingham Marine floating docks. Just north of Port Everglades, Hall of Fame provides complete personalized customer service.

Sunrise Harbor Marina completed major dredging of the marina basin and complete remodeling of the Marina office. Located on the Intracoastal, in the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s bustling yachting community, Sunrise Harbor offers impeccable service for yachts within the context of a luxurious residential community. The property has undergone a series of renovations over the last two years. These include:

•             Dredging the marina basin to a deep draft of 11’—accommodating larger boats with deeper drafts throughout the entire marina footprint

•             Fitness Center remodel—including increased recreational space, adding state-of-the-art exercise equipment, and new men’s and women’s facilities with saunas and changing rooms

•             Marina office upgrade—complete remodel, including updated furnishings

•             New security system—operating all doors, elevators and controlling garage access

•             Wi-Fi—reaching the entire marina with 5.0 megs of high-speed service

•             Spa services—on-property Casbah Spa renovations as well as being adjacent to the Galleria Mall with its shopping and epicurean dining

Both Hall of Fame and Sunrise Harbor Marina have earned the State of Florida’s Clean Marina designation. Ensuring environmental responsibility of yacht owners and all marina workers and guests is integral to Westrec’s marina operations throughout the country, preserving our waterways for future generations to enjoy.


Past Events - Palm Beach International Boat Show

Past Events - Palm Beach International Boat Show

The Palm Beach International Boat Show was held virtually this year in response to concerns due to coronavirus. Informa Markets U.S. Boat Shows and the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach made the decision to hold the event on a sophisticated web-based platform that allowed for interesting video and live events. Exhibitors showcased itemized products, which customers could find by browsing or searching by category. Kudos to Informa and MIAPB for creating an environment where buyers and sellers could come together and stimulate the economy!


Did You Know?

Did You Know?

Did you know it is time to renew your MIASF membership? Make sure you’re up to date on dues payments by logging in to your account. If you need help, contact megan@miasf.org


Salty Jobs Featured Job: FHG

Salty Jobs Featured Job: FHG

FHG is looking to hire 1-2 Technical Assistants to join its team to support engineers in: diesel engine services, in-frame overhauls, electrical systems, hydraulics, generators, OWS servicing, control systems servicing, air conditioning (HVAC-R), troubleshooting, and general repair/routine maintenance. The ideal candidate will possess either a High School diploma or Associate Degree and/or 1-2+ years of technical experience. Candidates must have knowledge of basic hand tools and be able to carry 50+ lbs. of equipment. The candidate must be an organized, personable, team player, with a positive attitude. Former experience in maritime or yachting industry, veteran-status, and/or 2nd language skills a plus. Please email fhgrecruitment@gmail.com for full job description.


Welcome Aboard New Members!

Welcome Aboard New Members!

Regular Members:

 

Florida Coastal Services, LLC

Dominick Landi

Email: dominick@floridacoastalservices.com 

Website: www.floridacoastalservices.com 

3601 SW 21st St.

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312

Phone: (954) 494-4681

Company Description: Marine insulation, yachting insulation

 

Hill Robinson

Barrett Wright

Email: barrett@hillrobinson.com 

Website: www.hillrobinson.com 

1845 Cordova Rd.

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

Phone: (954) 792-6112

Company Description: Hill Robinson is the leading independent yacht management company offering unparalleled services to international clientele worldwide to assist in running yachts safely and efficiently. Our highly qualified and versatile multi-lingual team is available 24/7 to provide the essential support that makes the entire yachting experience a success.