Newsletter September 2022 Newsletter


From The Captain's Chair

From The Captain's Chair

September 2022 Newsletter



From the Captain's Chair: FLIBS 2022 is on the Horizon

FLIBS’ Significance to South Florida
It’s that time again when the world’s largest in-water boat show flexes its economic muscles. The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) is owned by Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF) and it’s a force to be reckoned with in terms of economic impact in the region. This year, the 63rd running of the show will be held October 26-30 and although records were broken at last year’s show, 2022 promises to be even better as travel has eased, allowing more international visitors to attend again.
 
Show Stats
The show offers three million square feet of exhibit space and roughly seven miles of dockage where boats of all sizes are showcased. FLIBS attracts over 100,000 attendees from 52 countries and has over 1,300 boats on display. The post-Covid loosening of travel restrictions should be an attendance booster since typically, 10% or 10,000 visitors come from international destinations to see the pinnacle of in-water shows.
 
MIASF also expects an uptick in the attendance of European boatyard leadership. These builders understand the importance of Fort Lauderdale since approximately 70% of foreign-built yachts come into this market via Port Everglades. Yard leaders will be in attendance at a show that showcases their creations while it generates $899 million in direct sales over 5 days, that’s $173 million per day.
 
The Venues
This year, the show will span six venues. MIASF continues to work with the Broward County Convention Center and will have a ribbon-cutting ceremony onsite there on opening day. We’re also working with the Las Olas Marina on the marina expansion and supporting upland structures including restaurant, ship’s store and offices. The marina is scheduled to be in operation for 2023 FLIBS. Meanwhile, Pier Sixty-Six Marina will once again host the Superyacht Village for vessels over 300 feet and Bahia Mar will be the epicenter of the action as usual.
 
Special Programs
Present again will be the Best of Show program with five judges choosing from finalists. This prestigious award will be featured in the one-hour Fox Sports showcase and any boat (from a center console to a superyacht) is eligible to win.
 
You can cruise the boat show by day and then in the evening, visit the second annual Fort Lauderdale Concours on Friday night at Super Yacht Village “where cars and culture intersect”. Admire over 40 vintage, exotic and iconic cars, enjoy cocktails and canapes, and check out fine art as well as a curated sneaker collection. The word eclectic doesn’t begin to describe it.
 
Don’t forget the “Living Seawall”, a project designed to mimic native eco-scapes that combat the effects of climate change on coastal communities. These 3D-printed structures replace natural defenses rather than using hard seawalls that can make matters worse. The concept began in Australia and is spreading throughout the world in the most at-risk locations.
 
And of course, we’ll hold the 8th annual Global Business Luncheon on opening day featuring Superyacht owner, Carl Allen, entrepreneur, philanthropist and treasure hunter.  Invitees include elected officials, C-suite executives and industry professionals who come together to share ideas. The event is sponsored by the South Florida Business Journal and as usual, it’s bound to be a draw.


September 2022 Advocacy Report

September 2022 Advocacy Report

This month, Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND) held their annual meeting in Fort Lauderdale and our county’s commissioner, Frank Gernert from Safe Harbor LMC organized a public outreach tour of the New River. Assistant city manager, Anthony Fajardo, was also on board to join the tour of the New River with FIND. This was a great opportunity to introduce and educate FIND on the importance of the navigability to and from the boatyards at the head of the river. A maintenance dredge was proposed to be included when the plan to dredge the Dania Canal and ICW was made by the commission. Funding for this maintenance dredge project is available, however, it is necessary to have a local agency/government take the lead. MIASF will be discussing the possibilities with the City of Fort Lauderdale at the regular meetings the new city manager, Greg Chavarria, has coordinated with the marine industry and relevant city staff to keep current on our issues.


Navigability of the New River and continued encroachment into the channel was highlighted last week when a barge working at Bradford Marine could not make the return trip down New River without first coordinating with the vessel docked on the river to move in order not to risk hitting it. Navigability concerns remains high on MIASF’s radar as we work to continue to advocate for our industry and its businesses.


The good working relationship the marine industry enjoys with the US Coast Guard was emphasized this week when a vessel arrived without submitting the correct paperwork. In an effort to resolve without aggressive enforcement, USCG reached out to MIASF for contact information of the captain and together with IYBA we were able to find the captain and he was immediately in touch with the correct officer to resolve the issue. Associations in other areas of the country are reporting they do not always have the close communication South Florida enjoys.


The election of 3 new City of Fort Lauderdale Commissioners in November is important to MIASF and as a result we are dedicating a day for leadership to meet with the candidates and get to know them and give them an opportunity to learn about the marine industry and of its economic impact as an important part the community.


September 2022 YSTAP Report

September 2022 YSTAP Report

This month, both the first-year and the second-year students continued to work in the carpentry module of the curriculum, taught by Anthony Minimi, the carpentry instructor at Atlantic Technical College. 


In the classroom, they continue working on their cabinet making, with an ongoing cabinet project the apprentices are each working to complete in the lab at the school. Some of the aspects of this project have included continued planning, discussing next steps, prepping cabinets and prepping tables with coverage. Additionally, this project has been great to introduce the apprentices to the router, other safety measures, handling of specific tools and equipment, and changing bits.
Specifically for their cabinets, each apprentice selected their chosen mica to make the project their own. They were able to demonstrate routing techniques for plastic laminates and sequences. Routing the sides before assembling the top piece of laminate and continuing to glue and assemble the top piece of their cabinet. The object is to have the cabinets fully plastic laminated, cleaned and stacked.


Recruitment is officially underway for our next class, which begins January 2023. If you are interested in getting your business onboard as a participating employer, hiring a new employee to send to the program, sending one of your newer employees or want to send a current employee to gain additional skills, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Lori@miasf.org to secure your spot. If you have any questions or would like to setup a meeting to discuss further, please reach out. Space is limited and first come first serve.


Business Highlight: Everglades Diesel

Business Highlight: Everglades Diesel

This month’s business highlight is Everglades Diesel Fuel Injection & Turbo Service. Noah Dermody, Director of Membership and Events at MIASF, was able to tour the facilities at Everglades Diesel to learn more about their company and see what sets them apart from their competition. With an expertise in diesel engine fuel and air systems, they specialize in the repair and rebuild of diesel fuel pumps, diesel fuel injectors, and turbochargers. Everglades Diesel was founded in 1966 in Fort Lauderdale and has continuously adapted to the ever-changing technological landscape in their industry. This ability to adapt and evolve has allowed them to maintain their vision of growth and innovation.


Diesel fuel systems are complex mechanisms that are imperative to an engine’s function, so Everglades Diesel’s customers rely on their highly experienced technicians and staff to keep them moving. Noah was thoroughly impressed by the technicians he met, and how easily they were able to break down and explain the projects they were each working on. Everglades Diesel’s impressive machinery allows them to run tests, diagnose problems, and quickly implement solutions. Maintaining a customer first mindset allows them to focus on providing the highest quality service and parts while completing their projects on time.  Everglades Diesel is looking to hire technicians who are eager to learn while being part of a great team, and they are willing to train technicians who want to expand their skill set. Go to their website, https://evergladesdiesel.com/, to learn more about their team and the services they offer. 


Faces in the Industry: Matt Ramirez, Informa Markets

Faces in the Industry: Matt Ramirez, Informa Markets

Matt Ramirez – Marketing Director, Informa Markets


Tell us where you are from, what brought you to Florida, and how long you’ve lived here.
 
I was born in California and moved to Florida when I was two years old. I grew up in Palm Beach County and attended the University of Florida in Gainesville. I recently moved to Fort Lauderdale to be closer to the three boat shows we produce down in South Florida.
 
Where do you work, what is your job title, and what does your job entail?
 
I am the Marketing Director for Informa Markets, U.S. Boat Shows. I lead marketing for five boat shows, including the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show, and the Palm Beach International Boat Show.
 
My primary focus is on boat show ticket sales and streamlining our communication efforts with new activations, products, and boat debuts from participating dealers and manufacturers. 
 
How did you initially become interested in the marine industry?
 
Since I can remember, I’ve always loved being in the water, from family beach trips to kayaking the intercostal with friends to all-day fishing trips with my dad. Living in South Florida has afforded me experiences that have shaped who I am today and what got me interested in the marine industry.
 
What is your favorite or most valuable benefit of membership in MIASF?
 
Witnessing the passion and entrepreneurial drive of MIASF members is truly inspiring. It’s great to hear from business leaders across the marine industry and their stories of building their businesses to what they are today.
 
Describe any other community organizations or events with which you are involved?
 
Aside from the three boat shows that Informa produces in South Florida, I also lead marketing for two boat shows on the west coast of Florida. These include the St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show and the Suncoast Boat Show in Sarasota.
 
Tell us about your hobbies and the kinds of things you do for fun.
 
I am very much a foodie! I love cooking competition shows like Top Chef. If there is a new restaurant opening in Fort Lauderdale, I’m probably already following their page on social media. I also enjoy traveling internationally and experiencing new cultures through food. When I’m not traveling, I am a gym junkie so that I can prepare for my next food adventure.


The 411 About FLIBS 2022 Tickets

The 411 About FLIBS 2022 Tickets

For the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, MIASF members receive two complimentary tickets to the show, good for any one day (including Opening Day) as well as the perk of being able to purchase additional tickets at a special discount. Preview Day Tickets, that are valid on Opening Day of the show, are available for purchase at a discounted rate of $37 (regular price $60) and General Admission Tickets, that are valid Thursday-Sunday, for $24 (regular price $39).


By now, each bundle administrator of the member account will have received an email from Tiffany Fascher at Informa Markets with a unique promo code to give them access to claim your two complimentary tickets and access to purchase additional tickets. Marine Trade Credentials are also available for purchase at the rate of $250. Click here to use your promo code and purchase additional tickets and credentials.


Global Commerce Exchange at FLIBS 2022

Global Commerce Exchange at FLIBS 2022

Throughout the 5-days of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the MIASF Hospitality Lounge will host a variety of events. The Global Commerce Exchange is an annual event hosted onboard and is open to all MIASF members to attend. The event is hosted by MIASF, the District Export Council and the Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport and will take place on Thursday, October 27th from 4 pm to 6 pm. At this year’s event, the audience will be treated to a presentation by Jonathan Daniels, Director of Port Everglades about the changes and recent developments coming to the port. Light bites and drinks will be served, and additional details with an invitation and directions to RSVP will be sent out soon.


FLIBS 2022: Top 3 Must-Sea

FLIBS 2022: Top 3 Must-Sea

FLIBS is the largest in-water boat show in the world and can be overwhelming with all that is offered to see and do throughout the five days. Here are 3 must-‘seas’ at this year’s show:


1.     Windward VIP Experience – Purchase a Windward VIP ticket to experience a luxury retreat within the show. Located at the Bahia Mar Yachting Center’s Captain’s Lounge, VIP ticket holders receive access to the indoor/outdoor venue on any one day of the show, including Opening Day. Within the Windward VIP Club, guests will be treated to gourmet dining, premium bar, private restrooms, and exclusive sponsorship activations. Additionally, ticket holders will be able to enter the show an hour early at the Bahia Mar South Entrance and receive complimentary shuttle and Water Taxi service to and from all show sites.


2.     Educational Seminars – Learn something new when attending this year’s show at one of the many interactive presentations by an incredible line up of speakers by industry professionals. Seminars are included with your show ticket and will be hosted at the Broward County Convention Center on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of the show. There is a seminar for everyone and will be hosted by organizations such as the International Game Fish Association, Ladies Let’s Go Fishing, The Blue Wild, CHAOS, and more!


3.     Fort Lauderdale Concours – The Fort Lauderdale Concours debuted on Friday night of the show last year on top of the Las Olas Parking Garage. After a wildly successful event last year, the event returns this year at a new location – Superyacht Village! Once again on Friday night from 5 pm to 10 pm, you can purchase a ticket to experience this event where collectible cars, sneakers, art, and music all collide. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be served throughout the night as guests dance to live music, enjoy the classic and iconic cars on display, and view the art gallery and fashion. Individual tickets to this event will be available for purchase and is a great way to end your evening after spending the day at the show!


MIASF's Megan Piggott Presents to HANDY

MIASF's Megan Piggott Presents to HANDY

One of MIASF’s education and workforce initiatives is to partner with local youth organizations to introduce and build awareness of the marine industry and all of the career opportunities within it. One of MIASF’s partners is HANDY which is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping disadvantaged youth with their programs at multiple campuses throughout the community. The month of September was Marine Industry Month and Megan Piggott, Director of Marketing & Workforce Development, presented to a different group of students each week exploring the careers and pathways of the industry. Over zoom, the youth learned about the 149,000 jobs in the industry, the size and scope of the industry, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and its impact on our community. They also learned how they can get involved in our industry now through resources such as Salty Jobs and our scholarship and event opportunities such as the Broward County Waterway Cleanup and Plywood Regatta. 


MIASF Members Cruise Down Miami River

MIASF Members Cruise Down Miami River

On September 14th, MIASF members traveled down to Miami and boarded the Miami Lady for a tour of the Miami River. With a buffet lunch served and networking opportunities, attendees then enjoyed a scenic cruise down the river to see all of the updates and changes and its ongoing development. From the Miami River Commission, Brett Bibeau narrated the tour to providing insights and details on many of the projects. With our association representing the entire South Florida region, it was a great event to extend our reach and provide members a unique experience they don’t always get the chance to take part in.


MIASF Wins Multiple Sunsational Awards

MIASF Wins Multiple Sunsational Awards

Last month, Megan Piggott and Noah Dermody attended the Florida Festivals & Events Association in Orlando, Florida. A highlight of this conference each year is the Sunsational Awards and Luncheon that recognizes outstanding marketing, programming, service, and innovation of events hosted by members of the association. This year, MIASF is proud to have received first place for the Broward County Waterway Cleanup’s promotional item that was raffled off at the Trash Bash. The promotional item was a custom designed skateboard designed by Lori Wheeler based on this year’s artwork design and logo. Additionally, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show received second place for its banner and street sign designs at last year’s show. A special congratulations to the Informa Markets marketing team for their creative work and well-deserved recognition with this award!


Phil Purcell Moderates Panel at FLDCP Luncheon

Phil Purcell Moderates Panel at FLDCP Luncheon

MIASF's CEO/President, Phil Purcell, was invited to moderate the panel discussion at the Florida Design and Construction Professionals monthly luncheon event. For September, the luncheon was focused on the marine perspective, specifically about Yacht Design. Over lunch at the Tower Club in Downtown Fort Lauderdale, Phil had a stimulating conversation with the 3 panelists:

  • Cindy Gunther - Bonville Associates
  • Karen Lynn Poulos - Karen Lynn Interiors, Inc. 
  • Patrick DuPois - William Associates

Throughout the discussion, the audience learned about some of the unique challenges that impact the design and build a yacht, the trends throughout a wide range of design specialties, and some of the exciting projects each of the panelists have completed in their careers. 


Member News: ZF Marine Hires George Lewis

Member News: ZF Marine Hires George Lewis

ZF Marine today announced the hiring of George Lewis as product line head for Commercial Fast Craft in North America, Central America and the Caribbean. He will report to Wolfgang Schmid, Industrial Division head for North America.
“With his deep industry knowledge and technical skill as a trained naval architect and proven sales leader, George is sure to be a valued asset for our customers, partners and the industry as a whole,” Schmid said in a statement.

ZF Marine said Lewis has years of engineering and sales experience across the recreational and commercial marine sectors. He previously worked at Humphree AB as regional sales manager and at Sea Ray Boats, where he was senior naval architect and naval propulsion supervisor for sport cruisers and sport boats.


Upcoming Events in 2022

Upcoming Events in 2022

October 12th: MIASF Member Connect at the Maren
Enjoy light bites and drinks with fellow members at the Maren Hotel, across the street from the main show site of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show to network and get excited for the upcoming show!

Register Here


October 14th: Breakfast with the Business Journal
In partnership with the South Florida Business Journal, MIASF members are invited to the 8th Annual Breakfast with the Business Journal for the release of the Special Marine Industry Section in the publication, which also includes the coveted Book of Lists, recognizing the top marine businesses in both revenue and number of employees. A light breakfast will be served, and attendees will receive a copy of the publication and hear remarks from CEO/President, Phil Purcell.


October 26 – 30: 63rd Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show
Come and experience the world’s largest in-water boat show throughout its five days. Visit all seven show sites, attend an educational seminar, step aboard the Water Taxi to easily move from site to site, and more!


Salty Jobs

Salty Jobs

Salty Jobs is still celebrating the release of its 40th episode! In case you've missed it, you can watch the 40th episode special on YouTube. Watch and learn about all of the prep work that is done by the First Mate of a charter boat before the guests arrive and the boat leaves the dock!


Salty Jobs is looking ahead to its next 40 episodes - if your company is interested in being a part of the video series, please contact Megan Piggott at Megan@miasf.org


Featured Job: Marine Mechanic, 1st Performance Marina

Featured Job: Marine Mechanic, 1st Performance Marina

Marine Mechanic - 1st Performance Marina


Job Description:
·      Experience in diagnosing and repair of gas and diesel engines, electric
·      Perform routine tune-ups and maintenance
·      Deadline and detail-oriented


Qualifications:
·       Mechanical aptitude
·       Positive team player with a ‘roll up your sleeves’, service-oriented attitude
·       Attention to detail, well-organized
·       No objection to working outside


How to Apply: Call Bob or Mike 954-763-8743 or visit 1st Performance Marina at 1900 SE 15th Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316


Did You Know...About FLIBS Tickets?

Did You Know...About FLIBS Tickets?

Did you know… each MIASF member company receives 2 complimentary tickets to the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and a special discount to Opening Day Tickets and General Admission Tickets as a benefit of membership?! Bundle administrators have been sent an email from Tiffany Fascher with their unique promo code to claim their tickets and purchase additional tickets and credentials.


Welcome Aboard September 2022 New Members

Welcome Aboard September 2022 New Members

REGULAR MEMBERS:
 
Neptune Boat Lifts
Don Lunardini
Email: don@neptuneboatlifts.com
Website: www.neptuneboatlifts.com
Address:
228 SW 21st Terrace
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
Phone: (954) 524-3616
Company Description: Neptune designs, engineers and builds the world’s finest boat lifts and provides amazing customer service to marine contractors and customers.  Each boat lift is engineered to provide reliable operation and to have a high degree of resistance to saltwater, high winds, and frequent use. The lifts were designed for durability.
Business Category: 
Boat Lift
 
 
ASSOCIATE MEMBERS:
 
Red-D-Arc Welder Rentals – Associate 
Tom McGill
Email: tom.mcgill@airgas.com
Website: www.red-d-arc.com
Address:
12438 Wiles Road
Coral Springs, FL 33076
Phone: 813-362-9242
Company Description: Red-D-Arc’s philosophy of providing great customer service along with reliable welding equipment that’s most suited to the job requirements hasn’t changed over the years. Today, Red-D-Arc is the largest provider of welding-related rental products and services in North America. Our fleet of welders, welding positioners, and specialty equipment are available through over 70 service centers.
Business Category: 
Welding / Metal Fabrication