Event Photos

The 2005 ABYC Annual Meeting was held at a new location this year, which proved to be a big success! ABYC members gathered at the Bass Museum of Art - only minutes away from the Miami Beach Convention Center as we welcomed in new Board members, recognized departing ones and presented the ABYC Annual Awards.

Our Keynote Speaker was Rear Admiral James W. Underwood, Director of Operations Policy for the United States Coast Guard, who also assisted with the presentation of awards.

ABYC would also like to thank long-time ABYC member Mr. Rich McAlpin of McAlpin & Brais, P.A. who was this year's co-sponsor of the Annual Meeting.

This year's Annual Meeting was standing room only in the main meeting room at the Bass Museum of Art.	Rear Admiral Underwood commended ABYC for all the support they have provided not only the USCG, but the marine industry overall during his keynote presentation.
The ABYC Service Award was presented to Ward Eshleman, Owner/Operator of Ward's Marine Electric for his conspicuous service through active participation on committees and boards that materially benefits the goals of ABYC.	The ABYC Horizon Award was presented to Carl Cramer, Publisher of Professional Boatbuilder magazine and co-Director of IBEX for his conspicuous contributions to the future success and growth of ABYC.
The ABYC Life Service Award was presented to Jack Riggleman. This special, first-time ever award, was given to Jack in recognition of his lifelong service to the marine industry and his profound contributions to boating safety, design and the advancement of recreational boating. Jack's close friend Kiko Villalon also made some remarks about their friendship and Jack's positive impact on the entire boating industry.
The ABYC Foundation presented the Bunzl Boating Safety Award to Charles (Charlie) Corder, for his courageous and swift action, which ultimately led to the rescue of a fellow-boater in the wake of Hurricane Frances on September 21, 2004. In addition to receiving a crystal engraved plaque, a $500.00 donation was made to the Chapman School of Seamanship in honor of Charlie's heroic act.	Mr. Rich McAlpin of McAlpin & Brais, P.A., this year's Annual Meeting co-sponsor, was presented with a gift in appreciation of his generous support of the event.
Jim Ellis was presented with a gift in recognition of his 2-year term as ABYC Board Chair from 2003 - 2005 by Skip Burdon, ABYC President and incoming ABYC Board Chair Dennis Graham.