Action Alert: Protect the Recreation Resource Account

NMTA's number one priority at this point of session (protecting the Recreation Resource Account) now needs your attention. Follow the link here and contact your legislators to let them know that this dedicated account matters to you.

Here's the LINK

Invasive Species Workshop (Monday, March 18)

NW Marine Trade Association in partnership with Washington state's Fish and Wildlife are hosting an invasive species seminar in Tacoma on March 18 from 9 am - 11 am.

Location: Flagship Maritime Center

Sgt Carl Klein, the state's foremost invasive species expert, will be leading the training and discussion about what we need to know and how we can serve as the first responders if (and sadly when) we come into contact with invasives. These trainings get me fired up because it's a pro-active way to get our experts (you) the tools you need to potentially save Puget Sound.

Specifically, what you can expect to learn:
- Learn more about invasive species and how to identify them on watercraft and related equipment.
- Various invasive species that pose the highest risk to Washington.
- Potential impacts these species have had when introduced in other areas.
- Information on state and federal laws pertaining to Invasive Species.
- Your role in preventing these types of species from being introduced into Washington waterways.

Cost: Free

NMTA is providing breakfast goodies, Sgt Klein is providing the knowledge and Skip Anderson from Flagship Maritime is providing the space. Thank you, Sgt Klein and Skip.

RSVP: Space is limited, please rsvp to me (peter@nmta.net)

American Boating Congress is coming up. Make plans to join us in DC

When you think about boating and destination spots, certain places jump to mind: the San Juans, the Med, Washington DC. I thought I’d stick that last one in there, but that’s what happens each year during the American Boating Congress (ABC). You see every year around April-May, the boating scene in the US gets together in DC to engage with key elected officials and colleagues from around our country. The pace is dizzying and it’s a great experience but it’s not for everyone. What I mean by that is that if you already have an interest in our system of government or if you wish you had the ear of key decision makers, then this is your trip. If you are content that sort of stuff is for other people, then I would not recommend this event.

Last year, Rick Gladych (NMTA’s Superyacht Committee Chair) joined me in DC. To mix things up a bit, here’s an interview I had with him recently on this unforgettable trip.

What did you like most about ABC? The diversity of businesses, sectors and topical discussions that pertained to them individually and as a whole. I found myself devising strategies for the issues that arose during the meetings which helped me to understand and communicate my ideas to industry leaders in other sectors.

Who is ABC for? What type of people? American Boating Congress is for any marine businessperson that is affected by laws and regulations that impact the general marine industry. It would also appeal to people who are interested in the political system in Washington D.C..

What surprised you about ABC? As someone who thought I was keeping track of my industry, the fact that I did not know about it until last year. All in all I was surprised at how much I took away from the round tables and Capitol Hill visits. I really got a thorough schooling on the subject matter.

When you came back to the Northwest, what were you telling your colleagues? We have to go in force next year! The fact that federal legislation is being made because of things that are being done at ABC means that lawmakers will thrust their laws upon us instead of for us if we are not there. To cop what you (Peter Schrappen) always say, "We have to be part of the conversation"! To take it a step further, we have to guide the conversation and commandeer it.

How has your business improved since your time at ABC? My business metrics are very simple...if I write direct business it was worth it. I am now working on a plan for NMMA members for their new export initiative. We will introduce it to businesses exporting their goods during METS. This was directly a result of showing up last May.

How has being an NMTA committee chair been enhanced by attending ABC? We were given another platform from which to spread the gospel of The Great Pacific Northwest. It gave us more relevance and started a national "buzz" that continued on through the Ft Lauderdale Boat Show and again last week in Miami.

I’m telling you the truth that this Congress brings a smile to my face. I can watch all the news I want and fire off all the emails to my delegation as possible, but if I’m not there representing you during this time, then you aren’t getting represented. That said, Rick and I would like some more company this year. George Harris has booked his (direct) flights. Have you? Please let me know if you’d like to join us for this year’s ABC.

--Peter Schrappen (peter@nmta.net)

Boat sales revenue up in February according to latest data

Preliminary reports from February boat sales data in Washington State, provided by the Washington Sea Grant program and Department of Licensice, indicate new dealer sales were up 35 percent in dollars compared to February 2012. Unit sales were off 5 percent, however. 

A complete1st Quarter report will be available in April.

NMTA hiring Full Charge Bookkeeper

The Northwest Marine Trade Association (NMTA) is a seeking a full-time full charge bookkeeper to be part of our 8-person team. The NMTA mission is to promote and grow recreational boating for our 700 members. The NMTA owns and produces the Seattle Boat Show, as well as many other northwest events and activities. The NMTA offers a flexible and upbeat work environment, great employee benefits, and a competitive compensation package. This is an incredible opportunity to join a great team.

Individual will be responsible for executing accounting processes, assisting with human resources support, and sharing office management support duties.

Specific responsibilities include: budget planning participation and continuous monitoring; accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, cash flow management; preparation of monthly financial statements; support for annual audit, tax reports and payments; investment analysis, management and reporting; HR & Payroll, 401K administration; business Insurance maintenance and review; property taxes, sales and use tax, business registrations; invoicing members dues and member events.

Skills and Experience:
• Knowledge of MAS 90 accounting software or similar
• Strong computer skills especially Microsoft Excel (and other Microsoft Office products). Microsoft Access and relational databases skills a plus.
• Ability to work in a dynamic, small staff environment 
• Superior organization skills
• 5+ years experience

Salary D.O.E. with health insurance, 401k and vacation benefits.

To apply, please submit resume and cover letter to georgeh@nmta.net.