WELCOME NEW MMTA MEMBERS
At the MMTA Board of Directors meeting in early November seven firms were unanimously approved for membership in the Association. We are pleased to report that MMTA membership and its strength continues to grow thanks to your referrals! Keep reaching out to your colleagues encouraging them to apply for membership in Massachusetts only statewide marine trades association.
New members listed below are welcomed with thanks to the following MMTA member sponsors: 3A Marine Service, George Hawkins, By-The-Sea and Marine Consulting Services.
Please join us in welcoming the newest MMTA members:
- Boats & Motors - Wakefield - Mary or Fred Hurley - boatsnmotors.com
- Kelley's Marine - Wareham - John Bernier or Dawn Kelley -(508) 291-7711
- Moby Dick Marina - Fairhaven - Arion Anezis - mobydickmarina.com
- New England Maritime - Hyannis - James F. Hurley - nemaritime.com
- North American Expo - Charlestown - Joe O'Neal - naexpo.com
- Northeast Maritime Inst. - Fairhaven - David Kane or Eric R. Dawicki - northeastmaritime.com
- Thurston's Marina - NH - Donald J. Thurston - thurstonsmarina.com
MMTA DELEGATION AT THE MARINE RETAILERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA CONVENTION
During the week of November 7, over 500 recreational marine retailers converged on Las Vegas, Nevada for the largest ever Marine Retailers Convention. MMTA members assumed high profile, leadership roles throughout the four day event. Russo Marine's Larry Russo, Sr. introduced convention goers to the Marine Industry Certification Program and also served as moderator of the Marine Industry Leaders Panel. Ed Lofgren of Hingham's 3A Marine Service led the call for industry support of marine trades' education efforts while Port O Call Production's Tina Giambro and MMTA Executive Director Leona Roach participated in the Advisory Council of Marine Associations daylong roundtable.
MMTA Members attending the 2005 MRAA convention included, alphabetically, Charles Allen, Jr. of Scituate's A to Z Boatworks, Tina Giambro of North Quincy's Port O Call Productions, Jack Kent III of Duxbury's Bayside Marine, Timothy Leedham of Mashpee's Bosun's Marine, Ed Lofgren of Hingham's 3A Marine Service, Larry Sr. and Bee Russo of Medford's Russo Marine and MMTA Executive Director Leona Roach. Thank you to ALL the MMTA members who participated in making our industry better for both dealers and customers. For complete coverage of the MRAA Convention visit, www.tradeonlytoday.com or www.boating-industry.com.
JANUARY 17 & 18, 2006: TWO DAYS YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO MISS
JAN 17, 2006 - PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE
Whether you sell or broker boats, market accessories, offer service and repair or operate a marina or boatyard in Massachusetts, you cannot afford to miss the 2006 MMTA Professional Development Conference scheduled for January 17 at the new Marriott Hotel in Quincy. The marine trades conference curriculum is designed for YOU and all of your staff. Mark you calendars today for January 17, 2006.
This day long conference will feature programs tailored to your Massachusetts marine business on topics ranging from regulatory compliance (OSHA, EPA, CZM) to negotiating dealer manufacturer agreements to protecting your Chapter 91 rights. Plan to join us for a full day of information, presentations, networking with your fellow MMTA members. Keep an eye out for your invitation in the mail.
JAN 18, 2006 - MARINE INDUSTRY DEALER CERTIFICATION FOR MMTA MEMBERS
On Wednesday, January 18, 2006 MMTA Members have been invited to be among the first to participate in a Marine Dealer Certification Launch Meeting. During the workshop, dealers will learn how the certification process works, and what dealerships must do to earn the "Marine Industry Certified Dealership" distinction. For additional information about the program, contact Terry Leitz at (312) 946-6212; tleitz@nmma.org, or Marge Eckenroad at (708)763-9210; meckenroad@mraa.com.
ARE YOU CERTIFIABLE?
What Is Marine Industry Certification?
The Marine Industry Dealership Certification requirements are based on what customers want in a marine dealership experience:
- To work with knowledgeable and competent employees
- A Clean and Pleasant Environment in Which to Shop
- A Friendly, Hassle Free Sales and Service Experience
- An Opportunity to Provide Feedback on the
- Experience and Resolve Issues If Necessary
Why Get Certified?
- Certification provides your dealership with a competitive advantage
- Certification demonstrates your commitment to a positive experience for every customer, every time
- Certification leads to more efficient and effective processes in all departments
- Certification leads to increased customer and employee satisfaction
- Certification leads to increased sales and profits
MMTA Membership Survey Results Are In!
During the past 6 months, MMTA members have been asked to complete several surveys. You have answered surveys about Membership Satisfaction, the Boat Show Experience, The Marine Trades Workforce Needs and the Economic Impact of your Marina.
Great thanks to each and every one who completed the surveys and shared your opinions, thoughts and your humor. Every single survey is carefully reviewed and employed to improve your experience and satisfaction. In the first of several ENews reports, below are the highlights of the Membership Satisfaction Survey taken in the fall of 2005. For a complete look at the survey results, visit the Members Only section of BoatMA.com 42 MMTA Members responded: here are the results:
- Average Length of Time in Marine Industry: 30 Years
- Average Length of Time an MMTA Member: 13 Years
- Reporting Annual Sales from $500K to 5 Million: 53%
- Average Number of Full Time Employees: 15
- Average Number of Part Time Employees: 7
- Respondents who identified themselves as: 52% Retailer; 50% Dealer; 42.5% Marina; 7.5% Manufacturer; 5% Boat Builder
- Top Reasons for Joining MMTA: 79% Gain Industry News and Information; 79% To Support the Industry; 67% Representation with Legislators & Regulators; 67% Marine Business Networking
- Most Valuable Member Benefits:# 1 Liaison with National Associations; # 2 Business Networking Opportunities; # 3 ENews Briefings; # 4 Web Listing at BoatMA.com
- Most Urgent Marine Industry Problems in MA? Loss of Slips, Moorings and Upland Storage; Lack of Skilled Marine Trades Applicants; Decreased Funding for Agencies that Help Boating; Escalating Fuel Prices; Obstacles to Waterfront Business Existence and Expansion
BOSTON INTERNATIONAL IN WATER BOAT SHOW HOSTS MOST SUCCESSFUL EVENT IN ITS SEVEN-YEAR HISTORY
Congratulations to the organizers and exhibitors of the Boston International In Water Boat Show (BIIWBS) for hosting the most successful event in the Show's seven-year history. The BIIWBS is Boston's only in water show featuring over 200 in water displays and 300 indoor boat displays. Endorsed by the MMTA, the annual fall event showcases the latest in boating technology, seminars, power and sailboats, hardware, engines, and accessories.
Despite a kickoff day filled with wind-whipping rain, turnout was high throughout the Show as savvy boaters do not miss their opportunity to buy in Boston. Key to the success of the Boston Show is its unique "Boat Buyers' Bonanza," which awards up to $250,000 in retail rebates to buyers at the Show. Upon placing a deposit on a boat during the Show, the buyer receives a "Bonanza Certificate" with a value ranging from $300 to $5,000. This year's Bonanza program topped $13 Million in retail sales in 96 hours.
The average size of a boat purchased at the show increased this year, with the greatest growth in the family express boat market, which is reflective of consumers' recognition of boating as a family-friendly and affordable form of recreation. Additionally, 41-50 foot boat sales increased by 200% compared to the 2004 Show, with outboard powered boat sales increasing 39% for the same period.
The success of the 2005 Show benefited not only the recreational boating industry and the tax base of the Commonwealth, but also the environment. Indeed, 99.1% of engines sold at the Show are classified as clean marine engines that are either four-stroke or two-stroke direct fuel injected.
"While the Show is consistently an economic success for the recreational boating industry, we are proud to host an event that promotes environmental stewardship and encourages safety and personal responsibility among boaters," stated Vernon Promotions Warren Kelly producer of the Boston International In Water Boat Show. Dates for the 2006 Boston International In Water Boat Show are September 28th through October 1st. For more information visit: www.bostoninwaterboatshow.com
MARINE TRADES EDUCATORS NEED YOUR HELP
Two marine trades programs in Massachusetts need YOUR help educating and providing proper training for the students who may become your employees, serving your customers. Please check your shop inventory and see if you can donate desperately needed equipment to these marine trades programs. Wish lists from course instructors include:
Massasoit Community College
Contact: John Bernier at 774-263-4082
Or JBernier04@hotmail.com
Massasoit Equipment Needs
- Stern Drives, Yr 2000 or Newer & Running
- Fuel Injected Engines, IO or IB
- Fuel Gauge Panels w/Control Box & Harness
- Complete Boats, 1995 + for System Instruction
- Complete Boat Loaner, 2004 + for Elec Diagnostics
- Transmissions, Hurth, Borg Warner
- Stern Drives, 1995 or Newer to Teach Resealing
- Stern Drive Holders, Bench Mount & Upright
- Special Tools for teardown & Reseal
|
Cape Cod Regional Tech
Contact: Kurt Ainsworth
508-432-4500 X 219
CC Regional Tech Equipment Needs
- CC Yards Willing to Host Student Field Trips
- Boat Dollies
- Boat Stands
- Compression Testers
- Spark Testers
- Blown Engines, OB/IO/IB esp non US
- Bilge Pumps, Blowers, Pump Rebuild Kits
- Engine Gasket Sets
- Bar Code Reader/Labeler
- Loaner Instructional Video or DVDs
|
ATTENTION MARINAS & BOATYARDS EPA REGION 1 ENFORCEMENT INITIATIVE OF SPCC
New England Region 1 of the EPA has started an enforcement initiative to determine the industry's compliance with the Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure Plan (SPCC) contained in the Oil Pollution Prevention regulation 40 CFR Part 112. The goal of this regulation is to prevent oil discharges from reaching navigable waters of the United States or adjoining shorelines.
The rule applies to any facility that stores, uses or distributes oil and oil products. The trigger for inclusion into the SPCC, is any facility that stores 1,320 gallons of petroleum based products (oils) in container sizes of 55 gallons or greater.
Typical storage containers at Marinas and Boatyards are, heating oil tanks usually (275 gallons), waste oil tanks (275 gallon), 55 gallon drums of, waste oils, waste gas water mix, waste oil water mix, virgin oils, lube, hydraulic, motor etc. Also any aboveground storage tank (AST) that might contain gas or diesel for boat fueling.
All members who might trigger the total oil storage, criteria of 1,320 gallon, are urged to perform an initial oil storage inventory to determine if they are required to develop an SPCC plan. This information was provided by MMTA Member Terry McCormack @ Fuss & O'Neill. Terry may be reached at 1-800-286-2469 ext 4553, or by e-mail at tmccormack@fando.com.
ATTENTION MARINA OPERATORS, BOATYARDS & YACHT CLUBS
MARINE INDUSTRY SURVEY & CLEAN MARINA PROGRAM
To assist The Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management improve the Clean Marina Program, CZM is conducting a survey of Massachusetts's marinas and boatyards in order to develop targeted technical assistance and training opportunities and to identify emerging regulatory challenges facing Massachusetts's marinas. CZM has hired the consulting firm Fuss & O'Neill, Inc. (an MMTA Member) to help them conduct this survey project. A PDF formatted version of this survey is available for download and printing at the Members Only Section of BoatMA.com.
Your input is essential to help CZM identify your needs and support your efforts to achieve environmental compliance and improve and protect water quality in Massachusetts. Please contact Stephen McKenna, CZM Program Manager at (508) 362-1760 if you have any additional questions.
EVER WONDER HOW CUSTOMERS COME UP WITH SOME OF THOSE QUESTIONS DURING THE BUYING OR SERVICE EXPERIENCE?
Chances are your retail and service customers are preparing for the boat buying or boat service experience with publications from Boat US. Be prepared to answer your customers' questions confidently by obtaining a complimentary copy of the BoatUS guides to Buying & Selling a Boat and the Guide to Marine Service. Be sure your sales and service staff knows in advance what the leading boating consumer organization is offering for education to boaters and prospective buyers about dealers and repairers. www.my.boatus.com/consumer/
BOATU.S. FOUNDATION SEEKS NEW LIFE JACKET LOANER SITES
The BoatU.S. Foundation is on the lookout for a few good locations to become lending sites for its free Life Jacket Loaner Program in 2006. The program loans out children's life jackets - from readily accessible sites such as marinas, boat clubs and other waterfront businesses - to boaters who have a temporary need for a kid's life jacket for the day or weekend. There is no cost to become a loaner site. The application deadline is February 21, 2006.
Launched in 1997, there are over 350 marinas and waterfront businesses participating in the program today loaning out life jackets over 50,000 times a year nationwide. Each location has a life jacket loaner kit - a protective container that holds 12 jackets of various sizes for kids up to 90 pounds, signage and easy-to-use sign-out sheets to track usage.
To download an application to become a Life Jacket Loaner Program site or for more information on the laws in your state, please visit www.BoatUS.com/Foundation/LJLP. If you need additional information about this program, please contact Billy Hudgins at 703-823-9550 ext. 3249 or at whudgins@boatus.com. Applications that have been approved will be announced in April 2006.
MARINE UNIVERSITY ROLLS OUT BOATER101 DEALER PROGRAM
Marine University has released its Boater101 Program for dealers. The nonprofit organization promotes boating, water safety and environmental awareness through online and hands-on certification training.
The Boater101 course, taught at local dealerships, is a boating safety course that is approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) and recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard. It is also recognized nationwide. Graduates of the course are often eligible to receive up to a 10 percent discount on boat insurance. Marine University and its partners are also working with boating law administrators to customize the program to meet the regulations of individual states.
Marine University offered the first online training sessions in June for dealers who intend to use the Boater101 safety course in dealerships around the nation. The organization also offers personal "train the trainers" instruction from one of its course instructors who travel to the dealership. Marine University certifies dealership personnel so that they can teach the Boater101 course to their customers or other interested participants. A schedule of training courses can be viewed at www.marineuniversity.org. If you are interested in enhancing the bond between your dealership and boat buyers, contact Marine University's Christa Jewett at 954.730.6889 or e-mail info@marineuniversity.org.
STOP CONGRESS AND THE PRESIDENT FROM TAKING AWAY THE MORTGAGE INTEREST DEDUCTION FROM BOAT OWNERS
NMMA needs your help to prevent the President and Congress from enacting harmful new tax policy that will affect your bottom line and cost consumers thousands each year. Urge the President and your member of Congress to oppose lowering the mortgage interest deduction cap or possibly eliminating it entirely for second residences.
What is the problem? Today, a tax advisory panel appointed by the President recommended slashing the current $1.1 million mortgage interest deduction cap by nearly 60% to 80% and making it unavailable for second residences, including boats.
Why should I care? Boaters are currently eligible to classify their vessel as a second residence and deduct the interest on their boat mortgage if their vessel provides basic living accommodations that include a sleeping space, a toilet, and cooking facilities. This cut will harm the industry by making boat ownership less affordable for the middle class where the median household income for new boat owners ranges between $75 K and $99K and between $50K and $74K for boaters with pre-owned boats.
Help us make sure Congress and President Bush do not repeat the disastrous luxury tax of the 1990s that destroyed the U.S. market for boats.
How do I get involved? Please contact both the President and your member of Congress and urge them to oppose the Presidential Tax Advisory Panel's recommendation and any subsequent legislation that would lower the mortgage interest deduction. You can reach the White House switchboard by calling (202) 456-1414. You can also reach your member of Congress by fax or email at www.nmma.org/grassroots/ where you will find contact information for your representatives and a form letter that you can customize to suit your company. Please let Jeffrey Gabriel (jgabriel@nmma.org) know when you respond to your elected representatives so NMMA can follow up.
NMMA NEEDS YOUR HELP TO HIGHLIGHT THE ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY OF THE MARINE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY
We are working on a whitepaper that highlights the efforts of member organizations to develop "green" products that protect the environment and promote responsible boating. We are asking you to submit examples of the environmentally friendly products you are manufacturing and information about how they promote aquatic stewardship. NMMA is proud to showcase the technological innovations and environmental responsibility of its member companies. We are looking for examples of innovative products throughout the industry, from propulsion and waste treatment systems to materials, paints and maintenance products.
To submit information about one of your products, please contact our Research Analyst, Dan Lijana at dlijana@nmma.org
THE AMERICAN BOATING CONGRESS WILL BE HELD APRIL 30 - MAY 2, 2006 AT THE L'ENFANT PLAZA HOTEL, WASHINGTON, DC.
The American Boating Congress is a comprehensive two-day legislative conference that brings together recreational boating industry leaders to formulate public policy and present a unified front on issues that impact marine businesses. ABC's schedule promises informative, engrossing seminars intended to update you on issues of vital importance to your business and your bottom line.
Who should attend?
- Executive, owners and key employees of marine-related industries, including:
- Boat Manufacturers
- Engine Manufacturers
- Marina operators and owners
- Marine Accessory manufacturers
- Industry service providers
- State and local marine trades associations
You'll never have a better opportunity to personally influence legislation and protect your business interests.
Don't be left out! Registration information will be available online in mid-January 2006 at www.nmma.org/abc/ Looking for another way to highlight your company? Become a sponsor of the American Boating Congress by contacting Matthew Long today at mlong@nmma.org to request more information.
LOOKING FOR HELP? POST YOUR JOB OPENINGS AT BOATMA.COM
Be sure to visit the MMTA Career Section for all your marine employment needs, http://www.boatma.com/jobs/bbs.pl
UPCOMING MARINE INDUSTRY EVENTS
Know of an event that you think should be included? Drop us a line at Leona.Roach@boatMA.com
MMTA-STAPLES BUSINESS ADVANTAGE PROGRAM
Deep discounts and dedicated customer service typically reserved for much larger corporations are now available to MMTA members.
How Do I Enroll?
It's easy. Visit the MMTA Members Only Section at www.BoatMA.com and click on the STAPLES LOGO.
Forgot YOUR MMTA Members Only Password? Remember they are case sensitive:
Username: MMTA
Password: hightide
After you complete the online enrollment, an MMTA-Staples Account Manager will contact you to complete the registration process and assist with any questions you have about getting started. It's That Easy!
E-MAIL CHANGES?
Unlike the US Post Office, the cyberspace postmaster does not forward your e-mail. Has your e-mail address changed? If so, be sure to let us know so you won't miss an issue of MMTA ENews: Send a notice of any email address changes or requests to opt out of future mailings to: webmaster@boatMA.com
ADVERTISE ON BOATMA.COM
THE BEST PROMOTIONAL VALUE FOR YOUR MARINE BUSINESS!
If you do ANY advertising, this is THE place to be! Only for MMTA members, the BOATMA.com web site draws thousands of boaters every single day. There is no better place to get exposure for your marine trades business! Consider adding your BANNER AD to the site as the boat show season is just around the corner when the BoatMA.com site experiences a huge jump in viewers.
MMTA also invites you to sponsor an ENews Brief. We will feature an image and some text about your company right at the top of a ENews Brief like this one, which is sent to all MMTA members. What a great business-to-business opportunity!
Email webmaster@boatma.com or call David Watson, the BoatMA.com webmaster, at 508-240-2533 to sign up today!
SHARE THE WEALTH!
Like what you have read? PLEASE share these ENews briefs with colleagues and staff of MMTA member firms. While emails are sent to one contact at a Member Firm, all employees of member firms can benefit from this information.
HAVE AN ITEM FOR ENEWS? Drop us a line at: Leona.Roach@BoatMA.co
MEMBERSHIPS SUPPORT MMTA
Do you know a firm that should be a Full or Associate member of MMTA? We want your referrals for membership: just drop a note to Membership Committee Chairman Niven Damon at Niven@nivendamon.com or signup on-line.
New Member applications submitted and approved at the December Board meeting will be eligible for a 13 month membership!
|
