BWI is a non-profit professional organization consisting of writers, broadcasters, editors, photographers, public relations specialists and others in the communications profession associated with the boating industry. Members include active marine journalists across the U.S., in Canada and Europe, supporting marine manufacturers and service entities, and associates in communication roles. EXCELLENCE IN BOATING JOURNALISM RECOGNIZED BWI Annual Writing Contest salutes 48 stories, awards $16,000 in cash prizes Top marine journalists in the U.S. and beyond were recognized February 15 at the Miami Boat Show in an annual writing contest conducted by the membership of Boating Writers International (BWI). Presentations for 48 articles in 16 contest categories representing $16,000 in awards were made for "Excellence in creating compelling stories about the boating lifestyle through entertaining, educational and inspiring journalism." In its 15th year, the BWI contest attracted 200 participants submitting 521 entries. To view all the results, click here. BWI MEMBER REWARDS BWI’s new service for Active members is designed to help them in their work, connect them with useful writing sources, generate story and feature ideas, enhance their on-water time and save them some good old moo-lah. “BWI Member Rewards” is a pass-along of benefits from BWI Supporting members to assist writers in their work and when appropriate, offer a discount for a product or service. To view current offerings, click here. BWI Rolls Out Speakers' Bureau A new service for members, the boating industry and public, BWI has established a Speakers' Bureau to share the expertise of boating writers in a wide range of marine, communication and promotional topics. Looking for a speaker? Click here for a roster of BWI members available for engagements. (PDF) BWI Members interested in participating in the Speakers' Bureau, click here for more details. Boating Writers' Code of Ethics After a resounding vote of support in the summer of 2002 for BWI's journalistic Code of Ethics, a number of boating magazines and industry members are supporting adherence to the guidelines. To view the principles of the "Code", click here. To view the list of supporters, click here. BWI members are expected to follow recommendations in the Code. Anyone wishing to join the honor roll should contact BWI executive director Greg Proteau at 847/736-4142 or email info@bwi.org. BWI Members Judge Innovation Awards The National Marine Manufacturers Association's Innovation Awards are judged by members of BWI to bring consistency and expertise to the process. Awards are presented at two trade venues (MAATS, the marine accessory aftermarket trade show in July, and IBEX, a trade show for boat builders in October) and the Miami International Boat Show in February. To explain the judging process and assist firms entering the competition, click here (PDF) to review former BWI Innovation Award judging chairman Roger Marshall's useful guidelines. To view recent Innovation Award winners, click here. Contact BWI