Newsletters

FEBRUARY 2025

We got through the first month of the new year!

Team MIAPBC participated in a few more Career Exploration Fairs last month with Junior Achievement of the Palm Beaches and Treasure Coast. The excitement for careers in the marine industry has been very refreshing—including many students interested in the trades.

We ended the last week of the month with a fantastic member awards dinner. The event was SOLD OUT and we were overjoyed to honor each and every nominee and recipient. If you keep scrolling, you will be able to see the album of photos and full list of award recipients. Thank you again to our cocktail sponsor MM Designs and Student Table sponsor JAMCO. Please consider nominating an individual or business for next year!

The following night, MIAPBC hosted a reception to honor all 29 grant recipients this year receiving a total of $500,000 in funds from Palm Beach International Boat Show Gives Back. You can find the list of grant recipients and photos below.

MIAPBC Annual Member Awards

Tom Serio Photography

PBIBS Gives Back Grant Reception

Tracey Benson Photography

Shortly, you will be receiving an email proof of the new Boater’s Directory, our printed directory of MIAPBC members. Please make sure to check your listing for accuracy before we go to print. There is also the opportunity to purchase an ad and/or submit a coupon. If you have not done so please make sure to renew your membership ASAP to be included. As a reminder, the Boater’s Directory is mailed to all MIAPBC members and distributed at local fishing tournaments and other events such as the boat show.

Any new members joining from now until PBIBS will receive six complimentary tickets to the show, and if they are referred by a current member, that member will receive an additional four tickets to the show. Spread the word!

Please consider sponsoring the PBIBS Kickoff Party this year, to take place on March 19 (invite to come). This event is open to members and their guests. The Business Leader Luncheon on Friday, March 21 featuring Carl Allen is open for all to attend and also has sponsorships available. You can find more information about these events below.



Lastly, we are partnering with The Palm Beach Post again to publish Boating South Florida in advance of the Palm Beach International Boat Show. There is limited ad space available!



Let’s keep charting a course to success this month. 

Alyssa

Palm Beach International Boat Show Expands to Five Days to Support Growing Demand

Building on 43 years of excellence, the Palm Beach International Boat Show promises an unmatched experience in 2025. 

 The Palm Beach International Boat Show (PBIBS), owned by the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County (MIAPBC) and produced by Informa Markets, is thrilled to announce its expansion to five days in 2025. The event will take place from Wednesday, March 19 to Sunday, March 23, 2025, along Flagler Drive in downtown West Palm Beach. This expansion is in response to the high demand from exhibitors, attendees, and the community, all eager to explore and engage with one of the largest and most prestigious boat shows in the world.

“This expansion will elevate the Palm Beach International Boat Show to new heights, allowing us to showcase the latest innovations in boating and water sports, while further enhancing the experience for our visitors,” said Andrew Doole, President of U.S. Boat Shows with Informa Markets. “We’re excited to offer a more immersive and enriching experience for all who attend, ensuring this event continues to be a key gathering point for boating enthusiasts, professionals, and families alike.”

The Palm Beach International Boat Show continues to solidify its position as the leading force in South Florida’s boating and marine industry, serving as a key economic driver for the Palm Beach community. According to a 2022 analysis, the event generates an estimated statewide economic impact of more than $1.05 billion, with over $725 million in sales attributed to the show. The continued growth and success of PBIBS have prompted new enhancements to meet the rising demand and elevate the overall experience for attendees.

“This expansion reflects the overwhelming demand from those who are eager to engage with the marine industry,” said Alyssa Freeman, executive director of the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County. “The demand speaks volumes about the strength of the boating market and its contributions to the local economy. We’re thrilled to extend the boat show by an extra day to maximize its impact.”

To accommodate increasing interest, the expanded show will introduce a dedicated “preview” day on Wednesday, providing an exclusive first look at the exhibits. Available for more than 55,000 attendees, the preview day offers early access displays ranging from inflatables to superyachts, seminars and classes on various marine-related topics, and a diverse selection of marine accessories. The exciting expansion of the event will not disrupt traffic in nearby residential areas, allowing the local community to enjoy the festivities without added inconvenience.

The 2025 PBIBS will continue to showcase more than 800 boats, ranging from small, high performance vessels to luxurious, multimillion-dollar superyachts. Special activations include exciting attractions designed to provide boat showgoers with an up close and personal experience. The Windward Club offers VIP amenities with a premium open bar and gourmet food in a unique indoor and outdoor lounge setting. Additionally, Nautical Ventures’ world-famous AquaZone immerses guests with various water sports and innovative marine products.

Mark your calendars for March 19-23, 2025, and join us for another unforgettable experience in beautiful West Palm Beach.

For more information, visit PBBoatshow.com. 

Annual Member Awards

Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County, Inc. (MIAPBC) celebrated its members at the 2025 Annual Member Awards ceremony on Tuesday, January 28, at The Clubhouse at North Palm Beach Country Club. Dozens of guests enjoyed dinner, cocktails, a legislative update, and a raffle to win Windward VIP tickets to the Palm Beach International Boat Show.

The MIAPBC Annual Member Awards recognizes individuals and organizations with 10-,

20-, and 30-year memberships, and for their outstanding contributions to the marine community.

The MIAPBC award winners are:

Lifetime Achievement Award

Tom Twyford

Marine Advocate of the Year Award

Mayor Keith James, City of West Palm Beach

Excellence in Marine Education Award

Palm Beach State College

Marine Business of the Year Award

TowBoatUS Palm Beach

Martin E. Murphy, Sr. Member of the Year Award

Josh Steib, GM, Safe Harbor North Palm Beach Marina

Palm Beach International Boat Show Gives Back Awards $500,000

to Local Nonprofits at Second Annual Grant Reception

West Palm Beach, Fla. – Palm Beach International Boat Show Gives Back, the Palm Beach International Boat Show’s official grant program, awarded $500,000 across 29 local nonprofit organizations for the program’s second year. The Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County (MIAPBC) and Informa celebrated the grant program’s 2025 recipients at a cocktail reception on Wednesday, January 29, at the Lake Pavilion in downtown West Palm Beach.

The Palm Beach International Boat Show Gives Back is a collaboration between MIAPBC, the owner of the Palm Beach International Boat Show, and Informa, the producer of the show, to support environmental and marine education programs, as well as waterfront projects in Palm Beach County that serve residents and visitors. This includes educational activities, curriculum development, field trips, outreach, in-house programs, and cultural events.

“Through Palm Beach International Boat Show Gives Back, we’re fostering marine education and environmental stewardship by supporting the nonprofits that make a difference in our community,” said Alyssa Freeman, Executive Director of the MIAPBC. “This grant strengthens our commitment to preserving the environment and supporting programs that educate future generations about our oceans and waterways.”

Palm Beach International Boat Show Gives Back is funded through proceeds from the annual Palm Beach International Boat Show (PBIBS), which include ticket sales, optional add-on donations, and other boat show-related endeavors. PBIBS has a 44-year history and has made a major economic impact on the region. It is a much-loved, annual tradition for residents and visitors to South Florida, and is widely known to be among a handful of must-attend, major boating events in the world.

“The Palm Beach International Boat Show not only bolsters the economy but also supports philanthropic efforts that strengthen and sustain the local community, demonstrating how prosperity and generosity go hand in hand,” said Rena Blades, Director of Community and Government Affairs for the boat show.

The 2025 Palm Beach International Boat Show Gives Back grant recipients are:

·      Andrew “Red” Harris Foundation

·      ANGARI Foundation

·      Ballet Palm Beach

·      CareerSource Palm Beach County

·      Center for Creative Education

·      Connections Education Center of the Palm Beaches, Inc.

·      Cox Science Center and Aquarium

·      Delray Beach Public Library

·      Florida Atlantic University Foundation

·      Florida Fishing Academy

·      Friends of MacArthur Beach State Park

·      Friends of Manatee Lagoon

·      Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida

·      Inlet Grove Community High School

·      Inwater Research Group Inc.

·      Junior Achievement of the Palm Beaches & Treasure Coast

·      LagoonKeepers

·      Loggerhead Marinelife Center

·      Pace Center for Girls

·      Palm Beach State College Foundation

·      Partnership for Environmental Education

·      Sandoway Discovery Center

·      Sea Turtle Adventures

·      Shifting Gears United, Inc.

·      Talented Teen Club

·      The Coastal Stewards

·      The Reef Institute

·      Thresher Aquatics, Inc.

·      Wahine Warriors

The grant recipients will use their funding to support their programs and expand educational outreach to the community. A two-time grant recipient, ANGARI Foundation, will be using its grant to support its Coastal Ocean Explorers: Sharks (COE: Sharks) program, a series of at-sea, educational expeditions aboard the Foundation’s 65-foot research vessel, ANGARI. Educators and youth work with ANGARI Foundation and Florida International University (FIU) scientists to research sharks through tagging and data collection. Ballet Palm Beach will be choreographing and producing an original ballet about saving and protecting sea turtles inspired by the children’s book, I’ll Follow the Moon, paired with a curriculum for educators. Florida Fishing Academy will be teaching students about fishing and marine life through field trips on the Thea Marie, a 49-passenger, handicapped-accessible vessel docked at the Riviera Beach Marina.

Donations to the Palm Beach International Boat Show Gives Back program can be made while purchasing tickets to the Palm Beach International Boat Show at pbboatshow.com. Donations are distributed through the Palm Beach International Boat Show Gives Back fund, and managed by the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties.

For more information about Palm Beach International Boat Show Gives Back, visit marinepbc.org/grant-program.

About Palm Beach International Boat Show Gives Back

Through the Palm Beach International Boat Show Gives Back grant program, the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County and Informa provide funding to nonprofit organizations in Palm Beach County. The grants will help the organizations to underwrite environmental and marine education programs, and waterfront projects in Palm Beach County that serve residents and visitors. 

LAST CHANCE TO ADVERTISE IN THE

2025-26 BOATERS' DIRECTORY

Email form and graphic to paola@marinepbc.org

Due February 14

Advertisement Examples:

ADVERTISE IN THE BOATING SOUTH FLORIDA OF THE PALM BEACH POST

Email form and graphic to paola@marinepbc.org

Due February 19

FOR SPONSORSHIP INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Rena Blades

Director, Community and Government Affairs Palm Beach International Boat Show (561) 313-9381 • rblades.marinepbc@protonmail.com

JA HIGH SCHOOL CAREER EXPLORATION FAIR

We will be attending more JA Career Exploration Fairs starting in 2025. The more opportunities we have for young people in our community the higher success we will have for our workforce needs in the future!

If you would like to drop off brochures or some marketing material that we can share with the students you can do so by bringing them to our office. Please let Stephanie know when you will coming by to ensure someone is here to receive it. Also please send us info if you do (or would) offer internships or job shadowing opportunities. Please email assistant@marinepbc.org. Feel free to elaborate if there is a certain timeframe, age requirement, or any other requirements. 

Join in the fun filled day of joy and inclusivity at the Boating & Beach Bash for People with Disabilities on Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 10 AM - 3 PM at Spanish River Park in Boca Raton!

Enjoy free boat rides, beach activities, exhibits, food, train rides, and more!

They need boaters, sponsors, exhibitors, and volunteers to help make this event a success! Whether you have a pontoon, tritoon, deck boat, or any vessel—your participation can create unforgettable experiences for people with disabilities.

Be part of something truly special. Get involved today!

Contact Lori Weber at bocabeachbash23@gmail.com (616-334-5436) or John Muir at johnbmuir@gmail.com (786-339-4113).

On March 29th the North Passage Yacht Club will be having their

10th Annual Bahamas Bash POOLSIDE at the North Passage Yacht Club.

8710 SE Riverfront Terrace Tequesta.

There will be a Bahamian Buffet , including Conch, 11 Piece JUNKANOO BAND, Live Music , Dancing, Bartender serving Goombay Smash as well as Pink Sands Spirits, plus a Silent Auction and Raffle prizes. A portion of the proceeds goes to Bahamian Schools as well as to those less fortunate. To view a list of past donations click here. Resort Reps. will be present to answer any questions and give out information about the Bahamas.

Tickets are $80pp including a raffle ticket and can be purchased by contacting

Cmdr. John Buckman 561-596-1565 bornwicked2@gmail.com

Fish On Wins 88^th Silver Sailfish Derby

The coldest weather Florida had experienced in nearly 2 years swept over the paradise peninsula in early January, falling on the exact day a sold out 50 boat fleet kicked off the crown jewel of sportfishing, the Silver Sailfish Derby.   Competitors were greeted with temperatures in the low 40s, and gusting North West winds stirring up a productive bite offshore.  These are ideal conditions for flying kites and presenting live baits when anglers are seeking to tangle with the magnificent wonder that is the Atlantic Sailfish.  Some of the finest captains and crews were represented once again fishing off the Palm Beaches, braving seas 5 to 7 ft. with an occasional 9-footer in full foul weather gear, feeling sailfish season upon them. Several lead changes occurred throughout the 2-Day tournament as multiple fish hooked up at the same time aided efforts to quickly climb the leaderboard. When the 88^th running of The World’s Oldest Sailfish Tournament was all said and done, Fish On finished on top.  

Below Deck Med star Captain Sandy launches innovative specialty plate designed to feature the spirit of the marine industry

Celebrate Florida’s vibrant maritime culture with the new Boating Capital of the World license plate, now available for pre-sale through Captain Sandy Charities.

Created by Below Deck Mediterranean star Captain Sandy Yawn, this limited edition plate is more than just a way to show your love for boating – it’s a way to give back.

Every purchase helps support Captain Sandy’s mission to expand marine employment opportunities and fund critical job training and education programs throughout Florida. Whether you’re a boating enthusiast or searching for the perfect gift, this plate is the ideal way to contribute to Florida’s maritime workforce while proudly showcasing the state’s boating legacy.

Captain Sandy is excited to see this initiative take off and hopes to spot the new plates on the road soon. “Anyone with a passion for the marine industry will love this plate,” she says. “It’s a powerful way to support a cause that impacts so many lives.”

Don’t miss out! Pre-register today and join the movement to strengthen Florida’s maritime industry. Pre-register now at: boatingplate.com

World Boating Day is an international open day, set on 24 May 2025, where companies within the leisure boating sectors open their doors in a variety of formats to provide global access into their world with a focus on the people behind the scenes and the lifestyle that boating, and yachting provides. It is free to join the campaign, being listed alongside amazing events, feeding the curiosity of audiences and crafting new stories.

At MIAPBC, we encourage industry-wide involvement and are inviting you to organize your own local event.

Join by registering your interest on www.worldboatingday.com, or email info@worldboatingday.com to get access to the digital assets. Registration is now open for all leisure boating companies, and events from 19-25 May are included in the campaign!

Follow @WorldBoatingDay on Instagram.

BoatUS Consumer Alert:

Be Wary of Any Letter Arriving by U.S. Mail Offering U.S. Coast Guard Documentation Renewal Official-looking vessel documentation renewal notices can lead to confusion and higher costs

Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) is advising boaters with vessels that have a U.S. Coast Guard Certificate of Documentation to be wary of any letter arriving by U.S. mail offering renewal.

BoatUS advises that while the Coast Guard does send official annual renewal notices by U.S. mail, other notices being received by BoatUS members are not from the Coast Guard but rather third-party companies whose name or return addresses may appear similar to that of the official U.S. Coast Guard National Vessel Documentation Center (NVDC).

BoatUS members have complained that these letters direct them to websites that may be mistaken for the actual Coast Guard NVDC located in Falling Waters, West Virginia, and appear to show a significant increase in the annual fee to renew Coast Guard documentation.

FWC Applauds Governor DeSantis’ Recommended Budget for Prioritizing Florida’s Natural Resources

Recommendations include $30 million to Restore Apalachicola’s Oyster Habitat, $10 Million for Shooting Sports Facilities, and $10 million for Artificial Reefs

Governor Ron DeSantis announced his 2025-26 Focus on Fiscal Responsibility Budget recommendations, solidifying Florida’s status as the nation’s leader in fish and wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation.

“Time and again, Governor DeSantis demonstrates leadership that distinguishes Florida from the rest of the nation,” said Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Chairman Rodney Barreto. “In safeguarding Florida’s environment, he is unmatched. Thanks to his steadfast support, Florida remains the Fishing and Boating Capital of the World and continues to provide exceptional recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.”

Highlights

Promoting Floridians’ Access to Public Boat Ramps

As the Boating Capital of the World, Florida’s coastal communities must have enough publicly accessible boat ramps. As such, the budget recommends $9 million to increase public access to maritime facilities while providing a second consecutive year of flexibility in the Department of Environmental Protection’s Working Waterfronts program.

Investing in Florida’s Artificial Reefs

Florida boasts one of the country’s most active artificial reef programs, which are proven to increase reef fish habitat. The Focus on Fiscal Responsibility Budget provides $10 million to support additional reefs across Florida’s coastlines.

FWC enhances boater safety with interactive waterway app campaign

For years, waterway users in Florida have had to juggle multiple sources of information to plan, prepare and navigate safely to enjoy their time on the water. Understanding weather forecasts, finding local boat facilities, official warnings and notices, waterway zones, and safety equipment requirements often required using several apps, websites and publications, leading to uncertainty about where and when to go, what to do and how to fully enjoy a range of water activities safely.

In an exciting development for the boating community, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has announced a new initiative in collaboration with the National Safe Boating Council to pilot interactive safety content through a free mobile app called DECKEE. The app is designed to keep boaters safe and informed.

Whether you’re navigating the coastline in a powerboat or sailing yacht, paddling in Key West in a kayak, or heading out for a day of fishing with friends, content delivered through the DECKEE app unifies everything Florida’s water enthusiasts need for their next day on the water.

Over 1 million boat owners in Florida now have access to the following benefits and safety features in the free DECKEE app:

• Plan your next adventure on the water with detailed maps, facility information, official warnings, aids to navigation and community insights.
• Access personalized equipment checklists, boating forecasts, regulations and resources from the FWC to ensure you are always ready for the ideal weather window.
• Automatically log your activities while on the water and share your live location to give friends and family peace of mind.

Indiantown Marine Center is Hiring

Title: Office and Marketing Administrator

Duties: Customer Service, Compliance, Business Administration, Marketing and Events, Data Entry, Facility Maintenance.

Job Description:

Support daily organizational and general office tasks including greeting visitors and answering phones, providing information on Company Policies, and generating business related documents such as estimates, service tickets, and invoices. Promote a harmonious workplace by maintaining clear communication, handling correspondence, and interacting with customers and contractors. Plan and manage general marketing and promotional events in accordance with the Company Marketing Plan in order to heighten branding, generate sales inquiries, and increase revenue.

The Office and Marketing Administrator works with the Office and Compliance Manager to support the administrative and marketing needs of the Company, which includes but is not limited to:

• Address others with professional courtesy to develop positive relationships and encourage a friendly atmosphere for employees, customers, crew, and contractors.
• Provide Company operational information to customers, contractors, vendors, and others as relates to rates, policies, and general information and reinforce and maintain standard operating procedures.
• Prepare, distribute, receive, and file company business documents including estimates, statements, invoices, agreements, waivers, and other documentation and conduct company business in a professional and efficient manner; suggest strategies of increasing efficiency and streamlining company business practices.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute promotional activities by using the Company Marketing Plan including utilizing social media platforms, generating promotional materials, and managing boat show participation as well as development of other events centered around advertising and promotion of the Company. 
• Provide availability for occasional weekend duty roster, and also for extended hours in the event of a hurricane threat to meet the increased demand for Company operations.
• Assist Management with general office operations including assistance with bookkeeping, general cleaning and tidiness of the office, special projects, human resources, or other office functions. 
• Comply with the terms of employment in the Employee Handbook, including participating in training for safety and environmental issues and working to increase efficiency as best possible.

Supervisor: Office and Compliance Manager

MICHAEL RYBOVICH & SONS HIRING

RESPONSOBILITIES:

• Enter stock withdrawals efficiently and accurately
• Driving a fork lift
• Driving company truck for parts pickup
• Maintain a clean and organized parts area
• Receiving parts
• Able to work in an open-air parts room.
• Bilingual preferred but not mandatory
• No smoking or vaping on property

Must have a strong attention to detail, computer experience, clean driving record, excellent communication skills.

Position Title: Project Manager        

Brief Position Description: The Project Manager position is responsible for developing initial project plans and managing the service projects for Willis Custom Yachts (“WCY”). Job activities will include working with WCY business development department, WCY trade shops, WCY authorized outside contractors and WCY billing department. This position is also responsible for regular project status communication with WCY customers.    

MARINE ELECTRONIC SOLUTIONS & SERVICE, LLC

WEST PALM BEACH, FL

Full Time - Monday to Friday

Paid Holidays

Paid education for OEM Brands

This is a great opportunity for individuals who enjoy working with their hands and minds, have a strong attention to detail and thrive in a

collaborative team environment. 

MARINE HVAC Technician/Installer

The HVAC Technician/Installer will be responsible for performing routine maintenance and service repairs on heating, ventilating, air conditioning systems, and marine water maker units. This position will also be responsible for the installation according to specifications and established safety guidelines of new units or replacement parts for existing units. Candidate must be capable of working independently with high attention to detail, ability to troubleshoot and communicate equipment issues, have a plan of action, assess and order parts and supplies needed for each job to completion.

Job Description: Sales Floor

No. Of Positions Available: 3

Job Type: Full-time

Schedule: Tuesday-Saturday and Sunday-Thursday 9:30am-6:00pm



Company Overview: Boat Owners Warehouse is a fast-growing, high-volume 60+ year established Marine Distributor and Retailer located in sunny South Florida, with locations throughout the Southeastern US. We are committed to providing exceptional customer service and high-quality products to our customers and community and strive to create a welcoming environment where customers can enjoy a seamless shopping experience.

CrossCurrents Newsletter is published by the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County, Inc. in an effort to provide its members with information that will educate, while enabling members to increase networking with other marine industry businesses.

Board of Directors

Austin Burkett, President

E.J. Schrader Mattress Company, Inc.

Tamra Fitzgerald, Vice President 

Venue Marketing Group

Raymond Graziotto, Secretary

Seven Kings Holding 

Janet Zimmerman, Treasurer

Florida Inland Navigation District  

Mallory Doremus

Palmdale Oil Company

Tino Garcia

Ferreira Construction Company, Inc.

George Gentile

2GHO, Inc.

Rick Kozell

Law Office of Rick Kozell



Martin Murphy, Jr.

JAMCO, Inc.

Doug West

Westwind Marine Advisors

Staff

Alyssa Freeman 

Executive Director

Paola Pineros

Marketing & Membership Manager

Stephanie Button

Administrative Manager

Rena Blades

PBIBS Director of Community Relations and Government Affairs