New Director Joins BWI Board

BWI members re-elected two Directors, welcomed a new Director and its Board elected three Officers in early 2019. Newly elected to the Board is Ron Ballanti while returning Officers are President Alan Jones, Editor for Boating World Magazine; 1st Vice President Charlie Levine, Editor/Publisher of FishTrack.com; and 2nd Vice President Chris Woodward, Editor of Sport Fishing Magazine.

Ballanti is a freelance writer and photographer and president of Strike Zone Communications, a marketing communications agency based in Chatsworth, CA specializing in the boating, marine electronics, fishing and outdoor markets for the past 15 years. He has been a regular editiorial contributor to marine publications for more than 25 years, including Boating, Boat/US, Salt Water Sportsman, Sport Fishing, Anglers Journal, Soundings, Western Outdoor News, Pacific Coast Sportfishing and others. Ballanti has routinely chaired and judged BWI Writing Contest categories and has earned nine Writing Awards. He is currently serving on the BWI Scholarship Committee.

Continuing as Directors are: Immediate Past President Lenny Rudow, a freelance writer, editor and Angler in Chief of FishTalk magazine; Zuzana Prochazka, a freelance writer and photographer who contributes to a number of boating titles; Jim Fullilove, currently chief editor of Marine Electronics Journal; Brady Kay, executive editor of Pontoon & Deck Boat magazine and who oversees two additional Midwestern focused boating publications; and Gary Reich, senior editor at Soundings and senior writer at Anglers Journal.

BWI Executive Director Greg Proteau serves as secretary/treasurer of the board. All Directors are profiled on the BWI website at https://www.bwi.org/about-us/.

BWI Awards First Scholarship

A key highlight of the Annual BWI Annual meeting at the 2019 Miami Boat Show was the presentation of BWI’s Inaugural Scholarship award. A check for $2,000 was awarded to Carly Sisson, currently studying at the University of Vermont. Accepting her award was Daniel Harding, Editor-in-Chief of Power & Motoryacht Magazine and Outboard Magazine. Even though she is still in college, Sisson has already had several feature articles published in the pages of these titles, proving both her journalistic talent and her passion for boating.

Perhaps neither of these qualities should come as a surprise, given that her father is Bill Sisson, Editor-in-Chief of Anglers Journal Magazine and a longtime member of the boating press corps.

Getting to this point for BWI took a lot of hard work, the bulk of which was done by member Robert Beringer, who jumped in and took on all the filings and paperwork required to establish a separate 501(c)3 organization, bank account, and the like. As a result, the BWI Scholarship Fund is ready to continue and grow in the future – and work is already underway to make it even bigger and better next year.

This year’s award was made possible through the generosity and support of two BWI Supporting Member companies. Suzuki Marine, who has been a sponsor the BWI Writing Awards every year since the beginning, and relatively new BWI Supporting Member Chevron Lubricants, each contributed $1,000 to the scholarship fund. Dean Corbisier of Suzuki Marine and Joe DeFina of Chevron Lubricants were both present at the breakfast and helped present Carly Sisson’s check.

Additional details about the Scholarship effort can be found at https://www.bwi.org/scholarship-fund/.

Best Boating Journalism Gains Annual Awards

Boating and fishing journalists, photographers and videographers were recognized at the start of the 2019 Miami International Boat Show in an annual awards program conducted by the membership of Boating Writers International (BWI). Presentations in 16 contest categories representing $16,000 in awards were made to first ($500), second ($300) and third ($200) place scorers. Cash award recipients also received a recognition plaque noting their “Excellence in creating compelling stories about the boating lifestyle through entertaining, educational and inspiring journalism.”

The BWI Writing Awards, presented for 26 years, attracted 119 participants submitting 343 entries. In addition to cash awards, 47 Certificates of Merit were presented to other entrants who scored within 95 percent of third-place tallies in each category. All submissions to the contest were published in 2018. Each of the categories (noted below along with sponsors) was judged by four active journalists in the first few weeks of the New Year. Links to the top three entries in each category are provided. Results:

The Business of Boating – sponsored by Evinrude

First, “Wanted: New Boaters” by Reagan Haynes (Soundings Trade Only, April); Second, “What Women Want in Boating” by Fiona McGlynn (BoatU.S. Magazine, Oct.); Third, “True Original” by Bill Pike (Outboard, Oct.). Haynes’ article, “Did more than merely report business news but delved into different aspects of the issues facing our industry, included numerous expert viewpoints, considered possible solutions, and managed to remain entertaining and interesting all at the same time,” said judge Lenny Rudow. Certificate of Merit: “Boating’s New Gold Rush” by Michael Verdon (Soundings Trade Only, Oct.).

Boating Photography – sponsored by Freedom Boat Club

1st, “A Last, Best Place” by Jessica Haydahl Richardson (Anglers Journal, Jan.); 2nd, “Cuba Lighthouse” by Zuzana Prochazka (Sail, Oct.); 3rd, “Running Downwind” by Craig Ligibel (Afloat Magazine, Jan.). Judge Reagan Haynes said the top award offered “The contrast and composition of beautiful scenery, human faces, fish, fishing, and food. These kinds of spreads take a lot of thought, planning, and work to create the right composition, lighting, and visual interest.” Merit Award to “From Parts to Pontooning” by Brady Kay (Pontoon & Deck Boat Magazine, March).

Boating Adventures – sponsored by Yamaha Marine Group

1st, “The Last Wave” by Herb McCormick (Cruising World, Sept.); 2nd, “Searching for Guo” by Ronnie Simpson (Cruising World, Feb.); 3rd, “Fast to the Finish” by Simon Murray (Outboard, Sept.). Judge Bob Arrington described the first choice as, “A pulse-pounding story of survival that reminds us that adventures, even for seasoned bluewater sailors, always come with life-threatening risk. The writer successfully draws the reader onboard during a harrowing experience with a brave globe-trotting couple.” Merit Awards to “The Rata of Seville” by Ed Zacko (Good Old Boat, Sept.); “An Ida May Day” by Wendy Mitman Clarke (Chesapeake Bay, May); “The 700-Mile Corner” by Webb Chiles (Cruising World, Sept.); “Aleutian Summer” by Kate Laird (Sail, May).

Boating Videos – sponsored by Boat Owners Association of the U.S.

1st, “Tige ZX1: Boat Review” by Kim Koditek (Boats.com, Nov. 30); 2nd, “Drones Measure Health of Magothy River” by Cheryl Costello (Chesapeake Bay Video, Nov. 27); 3rd, “Crab Cup Highlights Accessible Sailing on the Bay” by Cheryl Costello (Chesapeake Bay Video, Aug. 21). Judge Tony Esposito said the Tige review, “Combined a good visual depiction of the boat with some dynamic demonstrations of how the boat is actually used. Good information presented in an engaging fashion with high production values.” Merit Certificates to: “Dock Your Twin Outboard” by Paul Cronin (BoatUS Video, April 13); “Cape Horn 27 Review” by Lenny Rudow (FishTalk Video, March 11).

Technical Writing – sponsored by Dometic Marine

1st, “Fit and Fueled” by Alvah Simon (Cruising World, April); 2nd, “Back in the Saddle” by Jeff Hemmel (Boating, March); 3rd, “Love Me Tender” by Norris Comer (Northwest Yachting, March). “Fit and Fueled is well written and impeccably researched. This article is a must-read for all boaters who rely on their trusty diesel engines,” offered judge Peter Nielsen.

Fishing – sponsored by Suzuki Motor Corporation

1st, “Alaska Unfiltered” by Greg Thomas (Anglers Journal, Jan.); 2nd, “Last of Its Kind” by Lenny Rudow (Anglers Journal, Oct.); 3rd, “Calculus of Fluke” by Zach Harvey (Anglers Journal, July). Says judge Pete McDonald, “The memoir of a youth spent in Alaska deftly weaves the experiences of fishing for one’s livelihood and for fun in every angler’s dream destination. It brings to mind the enthusiasm of youth, and how going from being employed to unemployed and back again should never crush your passion for adventure.” Merit Awards: “Weed Science” by Jim Hendricks (Sport Fishing, Jan.); “You Can Go Back Again” by Alan Jones (Boating World, Sept.); “Casting for Recovery” by Marty LeGrand (Chesapeake Bay, May); and “Supershark” by Vincent Daniello (Sport Fishing, April).

Boating Travel or Destinations – sponsored by The Moorings

1st, “A Fever for South Georgia” by Thies Matzen (Cruising World, Dec.); 2nd, “You’ll Want to See This” by Jody Argo Schroath (Chesapeake Bay, Jan.); 3rd, “Northern Exposure” by Herb McCormick (Cruising World, May). Of the first award judge Alan Jones said, “This enthralling tale of two winters and three summers spent exploring Antarctic waters is poetry disguised as prose.” Merit Awards: “A Different Kind of Cruising” by Nigel Calder (Sail, June); “That Cuban Mystique” by Jennifer Brett (Cruising World, July); “Palau: An Unexpected Paradise” by Heather Francis (Cruising World, Oct.); “Favorite Harbors of the Great Lakes” by Niels Jensen (BoatU.S. Magazine, Aug.); “Going With the Flow of Time” by Bernadette Bernon (BoatU.S. Magazine, Dec.).

Boating Profiles – sponsored by ZF Marine

1st, “Lefty” by Gary Reich (Anglers Journal, Jan.); 2nd, “Cat Man” by Sam Fortescue (Multihull Sailor, Oct.); 3rd, “Roscioli Paints Career Path of Innovation, Inspiration” by Dorie Cox (The Triton, Sept.). “Now that’s a profile, and I don’t even fish! Sounds like a great guy!” exclaimed judge Adam Cort about “Lefty.” Merit Awards: “An Artist’s Eye” by Rich Armstrong (BoatU.S. Magazine, Feb.); “The Maker” by Wendy Mitman Clarke (Chesapeake Bay, Jan.); “Risen from the Ashes” by Dieter Loibner (Sail, April); “It’s Showtime” by Jeff Hemmel (Boating, Nov.); “The Maine Difference” by Daniel Harding (Power & Motoryacht, June); “Postgame” by Frank Saccente (Anglers Journal, April); “Deep Water Man” by Stephen Blakely (Fine Books & Collections, Autumn).

Boating Issues, News and Analysis – sponsored by Mercury Marine

1st, “ACLU Joins Boater’s Case Against Suspicion-less On-Water Searches” by Kim Kavin (Soundings, July); 2nd, “Future Shock” by Bill Pike (Power & Motoryacht, Oct.); 3rd, “Why I Hate Sea Lions” by Jim Hendricks (Boating, Jan.). Says judge Kelly Flory, “Kavin draws you in with an intriguing lead, then skillfully guides you through the complex legal battle one boater has faced in defending personal liberty … it was humanized by the framing and strategic use of quotes.” Merit Awards to “Living in Violation” by Diane Selkirk (Pacific Yachting, Oct.); “Hidden, Deadly Dangers in Marina Waters” by Eric Colby (Soundings Trade Only, May); “The Ethanol Alternative” by Charles Fort (BoatU.S. Magazine, Aug.); and “Driven by Design” by Chris Caswell (Power & Motoryacht, Aug.).

Environmental Awareness & Education – sponsored by Torqeedo, Inc.

1st, “The Count” by Marty LeGrand (Chesapeake Bay, June); 2nd, “Slowing Atlantic ‘Conveyor Belt’ Will Bring Rising Sea Levels” by Kim Kavin (Soundings, Aug.); 3rd, “All Washed Up” by Craig Ritchie (Boating New Zealand, Oct.). “LeGrand puts us on the water and right in the middle of one of the most fascinating and complicated U.S. fisheries management issues. This review of the plight of the Chesapeake Bay blue crab offers a fair and in-depth look at the day-to-day challenges faced by fisheries programs around the country,” offers judge Darrell Nicholson. Merit Certificates: “Wayne Gilchrest Then and Now” by Nancy Taylor Robson (Chesapeake Bay, Jan.); and “Volvo Ocean Racers Test the Waters” by Cynthia Houston (Spin Sheet Magazine, July).

Boat Tests & Reviews – sponsored by Volvo Penta

1st, “Bigger Faster Stronger” by Pim Van Hemmen (Soundings, Oct.); 2nd, “Whaler Montauk 170” by John Page Williams (Chesapeake Bay, Jan.); 3rd, “Buddy Davis 42CC” by Pete McDonald (Sport Fishing, Jan.).  Said judge John Wooldridge, “Identifying and explaining an emerging class of boats can be challenging, but Van Hemmen draws on multiple sources of information and hands-on experience, blended with well-honed writing skills, to craft a balanced, informative, entertaining feature.” Merit Awards to: “65 Feet and an Army of Horses” by Dan Harding (Outboard Magazine, Nov.); and “MJM Yachts 35Z” by Kevin Falvey (Boating, Oct.).

Boating Columns – sponsored by KVH Industries, Inc.

1st, “Between Fish” by Bill Sisson (Anglers Journal); 2nd, “On the Wind” by Chris Caswell (Sailing); 3rd, “Uncharted Waters” by Bill Pike (Power & Motoryacht). Judge Charlie Levine said the first-place entry “Uses vivid language and a reminiscent tone of voice that captures the magic and joy of time spent on the water pursing a love of fish. These columns combine a nostalgic look back at how these pursuits have shaped the author as a person.” Merit Certificate to “Editor’s Letter” by Alan Jones (Boating World).

Seamanship, Rescue & Safety – sponsored by Sea Tow Services International

1st, “Back to School” by Simon Murray (Power & Motoryacht, May); 2nd, “Crossing the Big Blue” by Alvah Simon (Cruising World, Sept.); 3rd, “Confronting Calamity” by David Schmidt (Yachting, March). “From the lead sentence, Murray captured the reader’s attention, and held it throughout this well-written article. He writes with a seemingly effortless style for easy reading with personal anecdotes that helped drive home the message,” offered judge Jim Rhodes. Merit Awards: “Rudder Failure” by Robin Urquhart (Sail, March); “Sea Tow Rescue Heroes” by Pete McDonald (Boating, May); “Rushing to the Rescue” by Chris Caswell (Dockwalk, May).

Gear, Electronics & Product Tests – sponsored by Xantrex/Schneider Electric

1st, “Snap Hooks Under the Scope” by Drew Frye (Practical Sailor, March); 2nd, “Tackle Myths, Debunked” by Lenny Rudow (FishTalk Magazine, Nov.); 3rd, “Scream Machines” by Jeff Hemmel (Boating, June). Judge Tom Serio says of the winning entry, “A tremendous amount of research must have gone into this story, as it is chock-full of information for anyone who uses snap hooks. The author started with a situation, explained what happened, introduced and compared products, and offered a recommendation. Nice work!” Merit Awards to: “Drag Queens” by Adam Cort (Sail, May); “Crew Overboard” by Jennifer Brett (Cruising World, Dec.); “Expertly Equipped” by David Schmidt (Yachting, March).

Boating Lifestyles – sponsored by Discover Boating

1st, “Floating Time” by Craig Moodie (Good Old Boat, Aug.); 2nd, “Flotilla Freedom” by Norris Comer (Northwest Yachting, Sept.); 3rd, “Cocktail Class Family Racing” by Ann Eichenmuller (Chesapeake Bay, June). Says judge Betsy Haggerty of the first place piece, “In this beautifully written short essay, the author’s vivid poetic description captures the quiet magic of spending an afternoon floating on a calm sea in a small boat that never leaves its mooring.” Certificates of Merit: “The Special, Please” by Jan Hein (All at Sea, June); “An Ode to the Shallows” by Jim Papa (BoatU.S. Magazine, Aug.); “A Matter of Time” by Jeanne Craig (Outboard Magazine, Nov.); “When Mar-a-Lago Went to Sea” by Janet Groene (Explore Magazine/Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel, June); “Sailing a Piece of History” by Craig Ligibel (Sailing, May).

Boat Projects, Renovations & Retrofits – sponsored by Evinrude

1st, “Tempest Temptations” by Gary Goodlander (Cruising World, Jan.); 2nd, “The ABCs of OCP” by Nigel Calder (Professional BoatBuilder, Oct.); 3rd, “Trailer Lovin’ Care” by Chris Caswell (Boating World, Nov.). Of Temptations, judge Dieter Loibner said, “Delightful, gratifying and educational. This piece entertains and informs while presenting a strong case for reusing what others discarded – all with a good dose of humor and caution.” Merit Awards: “Battling with Ball Valves” by Ed Zacko (Good Old Boat, Jan.); “Restoring a Beacon of Hope” by Kim Kavin (Soundings, Jan.); “A Slight Inconvenience” by Cliff Steele (BoatU.S. Magazine, Dec.).

Boat Writing Contest In 26th Year

 

BWI’s Annual Writing Contest celebrates its 26th year with 16 categories offering $16,000 in prize awards. All of the details are included on this website under “Writing Contest” and in a brochure posted at www.bwi.org/downloads/BWI-Contest-18.pdf. The electronic entry form (www.bwi.org/bwicontest) provides the process for slotting the entry and handling membership details. Entries can be made by individuals or in the name of the writer through a publisher. BWI members get two free entries; non-members can enter at $50 apiece (or join for $100 and get the two free entries).

This year’s categories include those recently added or updated including “Boating Videos,” “Boating Photography,” “Environmental Awareness & Education,” and “Gear, Electronics and Product Tests.” Entries in all categories are welcome from digital-only or print sources. Category definitions are included in the contest brochure. Deadline for entries is December 31, 2018.

The contest recognizes the best marine writing in the world and presents cash awards to first- ($500), second- ($300) and third-place ($200) scorers. Presentation of awards will be made at the Miami International Boat Show during the BWI Annual Meeting in February 2019.

Each winner also receives a handsome recognition plaque noting “Excellence in creating compelling stories about the boating lifestyle through entertaining, educational and inspiring journalism.” Certificates of Merit are presented to every writer who scores within 95 percent of third-place winners in each category.

Media & Trade Salute Innovations

What’s new and useful in boating and boat building were the focus of several award routines during recent marine industry gatherings with products and processes reviewed by panels of boating journalists.

IBEX

The 2018 International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition & Conference (IBEX) Innovation Awards were presented October 2 following scrutiny by eight BWI judges with various technical backgrounds in boating. “This year’s entries were very focused on improving the boating experience,” said Alan Wendt, chair of the judging panel. “From solving simple issues with canvas, to more complex engineering challenges with hardware and composites, there is ample evidence of innovation underway in a thriving industry.” Other BWI members serving as judges were Zuzana Prochazka (co-chair), Capt. Sergio Atanes, Phil Gutowski, Glenn Hayes, Heather Maxwell, Craig Ritchie and Ben Stein.

BWI Supporting members recognized in various categories were:

  • Boat Care and Maintenance: Awlgrip North America, Quick Build
  • OEM Electronics: Raymarine Inc., Axiom ClearCruise Augmented Reality
  • Electronics Honorable Mention: Suzuki Motor of America Inc., Multi-Function Gauge
  • Outboard Engines: Yamaha Motor Corporation, V8 XTO Offshore
  • Propulsion Parts, Propellers: Mercury Marine, Tiller Handle Assembly for Portable Outboard Motor

To see the complete list of 13 Innovation Award winners and three honorable mentions, go to http://www.nmma.org/press/article/22262.

NMEA’s Expo

Ten manufacturers took home awards across 17 categories in the annual National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) Product of Excellence Awards. Presentations were made at the combined NMEA and RTCM (Radio Technical Commission for Maritime Services) Marine Electronics Conference & Expo, held in late September.

NMEA members selected the Product of Excellence Award winners through an online voting process and at the Conference & Expo.Said Mark Reedenauer, NMEA President & Executive Director, “We saw a 25% increase in vetted votes this year, which means more members are engaging and taking part in their industry.”

BWI Supporting members receiving awards included:

  • Radar—Furuno DRS4DNXT
  • Fish Finder—Furuno DFF3D
  • Satellite Communications Antenna—KVH TracPhone V7-HTS
  • Commercial—Furuno FAR2127 IMO Radar
  • Satellite TV Antenna—KVH TracVision TV3 with HUB A+
  • AIS—Furuno FA170 Class A
  • NMEA 2000® Sensor—Furuno SC33
  • Marine Camera—FLIR M625CS

The NMEA Technology Award was presented to Garmin’s Panoptix LiveScope. The annual award recognizes benefit to boaters, practicality and value. Judges included NMEA Certified Marine Electronics Technicians Dave Luce of Atlantic Marine Electronics and Dave Laska of L&L Electronics, along with Sport Fishing executive editor Chris Woodward and Marine Electronics Journal editor Jim Fullilove. Additional details and a list of all award recipients is posted at www.nmea.org/Assets/nmea-names-2018-award-winners%20(002).pdf.

Scholarship Fund Seeks Applications & Donations

The BWI Scholarship Fund has completed the process of registering with the IRS as a 501 (c) (3) non-profit entity, and is now able to accept applications and donations. The goal of the scholarship program in its first year is to award at least one scholarship of $2,000 to a deserving student, helping a young man or woman to pursue a career in boating journalism.

Applications for the BWI Scholarship Fund which will honor undergraduate college students who demonstrate a passion for the field of boating media, may be downloaded at https://www.bwi.org/downloads/scholarship/BWI-Scholarship-App-19.pdf. They will will be accepted through January 15, 2019.

The Scholarship Fund is now able to accept contributions from active members, associate members and supporting members. Members of the scholarship committee will be reaching out to select BWI supporting members in an effort to obtain a “Title Sponsor,” for whom the inaugural scholarship award will be named with a donation of $5,000.

“We are excited about this program and what it can mean to the future of boating journalism,” said Alan Jones, BWI President and Executive Editor of Boating World magazine. “Our industry needs effective communicators who can share their passion for boats and the boating lifestyle. This is a first step in what we believe will be a growing effort to bring new people and fresh ideas to our business.

“Just how big this grows and how many scholarships we can award remains to be seen. We’ve already had donation pledges from individual members and interest from key marine manufacturers,” added Jones.

BWI members in good standing are encouraged to nominate candidates for scholarship consideration. More information will be provided about title sponsors/contributors and the nomination/application process. Questions and comments can be directed to Robert Beringer, robertberinger@yahoo.com.

New Directors Join BWI Board

BWI members elected two Directors and its Board appointed a new Director to fill a vacancy and elected three Officers in early 2018. Newly elected to the Board is Jim Fullilove while Gary Reich was re-elected, both for three-year terms. The Board voted to appoint Brady Kay to fill a Director vacancy. Officers elected by the Board are President Alan Jones, Editor for Boating World Magazine; 1st Vice President Charlie Levine, Editor/Publisher of FishTrack.com; and 2nd Vice President Chris Woodward, Editor of Sport Fishing Magazine.

Fullilove has been involved with national trade publications since 1972, as chief editor of National Fisherman, editorial director of WorkBoat, and currently chief editor of Marine Electronics Journal. As chair of the NMEA Technology Award panel for the past two years, he coordinates and manages judging with both BWI writers and electronics technicians.

Reich is a Chesapeake Bay-based freelance writer, editor, and photographer who has worked in marine for more than 25 years, the last 15 in publishing where his writing and photography regularly appear in several periodicals and online.

Kay is the executive editor of Pontoon & Deck Boat magazine and has been at the helm of this publication for nearly 20 years. He also currently oversees Houseboat magazine and Great Lakes Boating magazine, sister publications at Harris Publishing. He has served on the judging panels for the NMMA Innovation Awards several times.

Continuing as Directors are: Immediate Past President Lenny Rudow, a freelance writer, editor and Angler in Chief of FishTalk magazine; Zuzana Prochazka, a freelance writer and photographer who contributes to a number of boating titles; and Michael Sciulla, a Soundings Trade Only columnist and communications strategist. BWI Executive Director Greg Proteau serves as secretary/treasurer of the board.

All Directors profiles can be found on this website at https://www.bwi.org/about-us/.

Best Boating Journalism Recognized for 25th Year

Boating and fishing journalists were recognized at the start of the 2018 Miami International Boat Show in an annual writing contest conducted by the membership of Boating Writers International (BWI). Presentations in 17 contest categories representing $17,000 in awards were made to first ($500), second ($300) and third ($200) place scorers. Cash award recipients also received a recognition plaque noting their “Excellence in creating compelling stories about the boating lifestyle through entertaining, educational and inspiring journalism.”

In its Silver Anniversary year, the BWI contest attracted 126 participants submitting 277 entries. In addition to cash awards, Certificates of Merit were presented to writers of another 35 articles which scored within 95 percent of third-place tallies in each category. All submissions to the contest were published in 2017. Each of the categories (noted below along with sponsors) was judged by four active journalists in the first few weeks of the New Year. Results (with links provided for the top three entries in each category):

Boating Photography – sponsored by Freedom Boat Club
1st, “Just Scraping By” by Jay Fleming (Anglers Journal, Winter); 2nd, “Alligator Reef” by Robert Glover (Power & Motoryacht, March); 3rd, “The Seasoned Skipper” by Brady Kay (Pontoon & Deck Boat Magazine, March). “Fleming’s images tell a powerful story, from onboard and underwater shots, to scenes of working boats taken from removed vantage points, to the eye-catching portrait work that helps to describe and define the characters in the article’s written word,” explains judge David Schmidt. Certificates of Merit: “Fishing Rods” (cover photo) by Jody Dole (Anglers Journal, Fall); and “Near Miss Moment” by Jan Hein (Classic Boat, July).

Fishing – sponsored by Suzuki Motor Corporation
1st, “The Bay’s Tastiest Pastime” by Gary Reich (Chesapeake Bay Magazine, June); 2nd, “Noise Factor” by Jim Hendricks (Sport Fishing, Jan.); 3rd, “Uber Fish” by Doug Olander (Sport Fishing, Nov.). Says judge Alan Jones, “Reich takes us on an insider view of the world of recreational crabbing on the Chesapeake Bay and skillfully passes on local knowledge – gleaned over a lifetime – to help the reader successfully participate in this not-so-deadly catch.” Merit Awards: “Natural Attraction” by Barry Gibson (Anglers Journal, Summer); “Fight Them Fast” by Jan Fogt (Anglers Journal, Spring); “Contact Sport” by Gary Caputi (Anglers Journal, Summer).

Boat/Engine Care and Maintenance – sponsored by Pettit Paint
1st, “10 Winterizing Disasters: Don’t Do This” by Lenny Rudow (FishTalk Magazine, Nov.); 2nd, “Spin Science” by Vince Daniello (Boating, Feb.); 3rd, “The One-bucket Cleaning Kit” by Drew Frye (Practical Sailor, May). Commenting on “Winterizing, judge Zuzana Prochazka noted, “It’s nice to see the same old subject get a fresh new read.” Certificates of Merit: “Spring Commissioning Advice” by Frank Lanier (BoatUS Magazine, April); “Driven to Vigilance” by Ed Sherman (Cruising World, July); “Flushed With Success” by Mark Corke (BoatUS Magazine, April); “Shore Power Burn” by Tom Hale (Chesapeake Bay, May).

Boat Tests & Reviews – sponsored by Volvo Penta
1st, “Diving Into the Endeavor 42” by Darrell Nicholson (Practical Sailor, Feb.); 2nd, “Working Tough” by John Page Williams (Boating, Nov.); 3rd, “Return of the Beast” by Alan Jones (Boating World, May). Nicholson’s used boat review, “Presents the pros and cons of the design, and even explains how to approach the model’s most common repair needs. And it’s a rare review that will make you laugh hard and teach you something else to look for in the process,” said judge Ben Ellison. Merit Awards to: “Mas Appeal” by Marilyn Mower (Boat International, Nov.); “Not Your Father’s Grand Banks” by Kevin Koenig (Yachting, Nov.); “Pursuit of Passion” by Daniel Harding (Power & Motoryacht, Aug.).

Boating Columns – sponsored by KVH Industries, Inc.
1st, “Between Fish” by Bill Sisson (Anglers Journal); 2nd, “Logbook” by Daniel Harding (Power & Motoryacht); 3rd, “Notes from the Cockpit” by Lenny Rudow (FishTalk Magazine). Judge John Wooldridge quoted Ernest Hemingway’s “prose is architecture, not interior decoration,” to describe Sisson’s writing: “Like a modern structure, he builds his work on solid footings, satisfies the spatial needs of its occupants, and furnishes it liberally with glass walls for clear views looking inside and outside one’s imagination.”

Boating Issues, News and Analysis – sponsored by Mercury Marine
1st, “The Trump Card” by Carol Cronin (Seahorse Magazine, Oct.); 2nd, “Hard Lessons” by Bill Pike (Power & Motoryacht, Dec.); 3rd, “Salvaging Boats as Life Goes On” by Reagan Haynes (Soundings Trade Only, Nov.). The first place award offers, “A lesson all elected leaders or politicians should be required to read before running for office, after their election, and before going to bed each night. Delightful honesty while showing the sailing community there is a steady hand on the tiller,” noted judge Alan Wendt. Merit Awards to “Voice Forensics May Help Nab Hoax Mayday Callers” by Kim Kavin (Soundings, Dec.) and “Auction Kings” by Ann Eichenmuller (Chesapeake Bay, May).

Boat Projects, Renovations & Retrofits – sponsored by Pettit Paint
1st, “A New Head” by Peter Nielsen (Sail, Dec.); 2nd, “A Change of Rig” by Roger Hughes (Practical Boat Owner – UK, Aug.); 3rd, “New and Cool Underfoot” by Terry Kotas (Good Old Boat, Jan.). “Replacing your head is far from a glamour job, but Nielsen makes the process a lot easier in this thorough, well-researched and easy to follow story. Subheads such as ‘advantages’ and ‘disadvantages’ (and others) help crystalize key decisions in the process of choosing and installing a new head,” offered judge Bill Sisson. Merit Award to “Long Live Wasque” by Steve Knauth (Soundings, Sept.).

Gear, Electronics & Product Tests – sponsored by Xantrex/Schneider Electric
1st, “Bottom Paint Checkup” by Darrell Nicholson (Practical Sailor, April); 2nd, “Lessons Learned by Causing a False AIS MOB Alert” by Ben Ellison (Panbo.com, Aug. 8); 3rd, “Garmin inReach Explorer+, Armchair Transatlantics & Hands On” by Ben Ellison (Panbo.com, July 2). Judge Kim Kavin said, “Checkup was a well-thought-out, thoroughly reported, smartly put-together feature that not only educates readers about various kinds of paint, but also leaves them armed with a customized shopping list for their own boat, no matter what kind of cruising they do.” Merit Awards to: “Conductive Greases vs. Corrosion” by Drew Frye (Practical Sailor, June); and “V-Drive vs. Forward Drive” by Jeff Hemmel (Boating, Jan.).

Boating Lifestyles – sponsored by Discover Boating
1st, “The Boy & His Raft” by Jeff Bolster (Soundings, Aug.); 2nd, “Into the Quiet” by David Buckman (Sail, June); 3rd, “Family Ties” by Bob Arrington (PassageMaker, Jan.). Says judge Betsy Haggerty of the first place piece, “The author combines poetic description and poignant detail to tell the story of a quiet sailing day and the family dynamics that turned it into a magical adventure.” Certificates of Merit: “Beyond Wind and Water” by Dieter Loibner (Soundings, March); “School is in (Surf) Session” by Pete McDonald (Boating, June); and “Catboat Postcards” by Craig Moodie (Good Old Boat, May).

Boating Profiles – sponsored by ZF Marine
1st, “A Madman In a League of His Own” by Dieter Loibner (Soundings, Feb.); 2nd, “Monster Man” by Ron Ballanti (Anglers Journal, April); 3rd, “Against All Odds” by Dieter Loibner (Sail, Dec.). Judge Steve Blakely called the winning article, “A vivid portrait of an extreme character even by the standards of extreme sailing.” Merit Award to “The Story of Gar Wood” by Heather Steinberger (Lakeland Boating, April).

Boating Adventures – sponsored by Yamaha Marine Group
1st, “Chasing Icebergs” by Tom Zydler (Cruising World, April); 2nd, “Rite of Inside Passage” by Dieter Loibner (Soundings, Sept.); 3rd, “First Time with a Frenchman” by Annie Dike (Multihull Sailor, May). Judge Bob Arrington described “Icebergs” as, “A beautifully detailed account of a once-in-a-lifetime cruise along the western coast of Greenland. A true adventure!” Certificates of Merit: “Cakewalk to Nova Scotia” by Adam Cort (Sail, Nov.) and “Because it’s There” by Simon Murray (Power & Motoryacht, June).

Environmental Awareness & Education – sponsored by Torqeedo, Inc.
1st, “Lone Cedar Tree Opposite Shore” by Marty LeGrand (Chesapeake Bay, Nov.); 2nd, “Fishing for an Enigma” by Wendy Mitman Clarke (Chesapeake Bay, Jan.); 3rd, “Bitter Soup” by Stacey Wigmore (BoatUS Magazine, Aug.). The top selection, “Is a wonderful story about the history and science behind mapping the Eastern oyster, the Chesapeake’s most important filter feeder,” says Judge Gary Reich. “Oyster surveying is potentially boring, but the author colored the story in such a way to make it an easy and entertaining read.” Merit Awards: “Whales Return to the Big Apple” by Kim Kavin (Soundings, Nov.) and “Weapons of Mass Construction” by Lenny Rudow (FishTalk Magazine, Nov.).

Seamanship, Rescue & Safety – sponsored by Sea Tow Services International
1st, “Take It Slow” by Gary Goodlander (Cruising World, Nov.); 2nd, “Hypothermia Myths and the Truth About Cold Water” by Mario Vittone (Soundings, Oct.); 3rd, “When the Call Came” by Kim Kavin (Yachting, April). Goodlander’s piece was described by judge Jim Rhodes as, “Reader-friendly boating journalism at its best, drawing on personal experience and subject-matter knowledge to tackle a complex topic. It delivers in a conversational style punctuated with humorous anecdotes adding up to a rollicking good read.” Merit Awards: “Aground: When There is No Coast Guard” by Diane Selkirk (Yachting Times, March); “Know What to Do Before the Flood” by Dan Parrott (Soundings, Nov.); “A Small Boat For the Big Emergency” by Heather Francis (Cruising World, Nov.).

Technical Writing – sponsored by Dometic Marine
1st, “Sanitation System Shutdown: 10 Things to Know” by Frank Lanier (Sea Magazine, Oct.); 2nd, “The New Frontier” by Charles Doane (Sail, April); 3rd, “Computer-Assisted Groundings?” by Ben Ellison (Panbo.com, Dec. 7). Judge Mike Smith said, “Sanitation Shutdown was a surprise since it addresses such a mundane topic. We’ve all written that article many times; however, the author did a good job of covering it once again.” Merit Awards: “How Did We Get from This . . . To This?” by Ralph Naranjo (Practical Sailor, March); “Cape Effect” by Fiona McGlynn (Pacific Yachting, Oct.).

Boating Travel or Destinations – sponsored by the BWI Membership
1st, “Black Sands & Black Magic, Vanuatu by Sail” by Heather Francis (Cruising Helmsman, Oct.); 2nd, “Rum Runners” by Mark Pillsbury (Cruising World, Aug.); 3rd, “54 Days of Rain” by Paula Casanovas (Soundings, Feb.). The first award was described by judge Gary Beckett as, “A compelling, detailed and at times riveting first-hand account of the writer’s adventures cruising waters of the Vanuatu Islands chain.” Merit Awards: “We Done Reach” by Robert Beringer (Sail, Oct.); “Fancy Dancing in Pine Island” by Douglas Bernon (BoatUS Magazine, Feb.); “Greenland High” by Tom Zydler (PassageMaker, Oct.).

Boating Videos – sponsored by Boat Owners Association of the U.S.
1st, “Crestliner 240 Rally DX: Video Boat Review” by Ed Kukla (Boats.com, Aug. 20); 2nd, “How to Repair Gelcoat” by Mark Corke (BoatUS Video, Nov. 12); 3rd, “Boston Whaler 330 Outrage: Video Boat Review” by Lenny Rudow (Boats.com, April 27). The first place award, “Blended a sense of humor with detailed reporting and editorial insight by the narrator and top-notch video and audio editing by the videographer. It was a fun visual ride,” offered judge Chris Woodward. Certificates of Merit awarded to: “How to Choose a Life Jacket” by Paul Cronin (BoatUS Video, Dec. 15); “How to Back a Boat Trailer” by Rich Armstrong, (BoatUS Video, May 2); and “How to Change the Engine Oil in Your Boat” by Charles Fort (BoatUS Video, July 3).

The Business of Boating – sponsored by Home Port Global
First, “Where Are All the Young Boaters?” by Fiona McGlynn, (BoatUS Magazine, Oct); Second, “Multi Country” by Peter Nielsen (Multihull Sailor, Sept.); Third, “Total Connectivity” by Zuzana Prochazka (Marine Electronics Journal, Sept.). Says judge Kimberly Koditek, “In ‘Where Are All the Young Boaters?’ the personal connection to the author’s life, its timeliness and relevance to the industry as a whole, truly took on a unique approach in examining this important topic.”

Summer Boating Season Resources

Boaters and anglers in “endless summer” locations may know no boating season, but many on-water aficionados often mark their first launch with the U.S.’s Memorial Day. At that same time, boating safety organizations and advocates across the U.S. and Canada team up to promote safe and responsible boating, including consistent life jacket wear every time boaters are on the water. These groups spread life-saving messages with a yearlong outreach to promote voluntary, consistent life jacket wear.

Access to water-based activities is a priority for outdoor recreationists, whether they are spending free time near home or on vacation. Discover Boating resources suggest great getaways are a boat trip away with ways to get out on the water even for those who don’t own a boat: Rentals, charters and peer-to-peer options offer opportunities to enjoy boating. To find those options, visit http://www.discoverboating.com/get-on-the-water.aspx.

The Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation compiles an annual list of Best Family-Friendly Places to Fish and Boat, a collection of publicly accessible gems. These aquatic resources can be found at TakeMeFishing.org/best-places-to-fish. An interactive map shows where those who want to wet a line can do so near or away from home.

Wearing a life jacket is the simplest life-saving strategy for safe recreational boating. Each year hundreds of people lose their lives, and they may have survived by wearing a life jacket. U.S. Coast Guard statistics show that drowning was the reported cause of death in three-fourths of recreational boating fatalities in 2015, and that 85 percent of those who drowned were not wearing life jackets. Additional statistics can be found at http://www.safeboatingcampaign.com/resources/boating-safety-facts/.

New life jackets are much more comfortable, lightweight and stylish than the dated bulky orange styles. There are innovative options, such as inflatable life jackets, allowing mobility and flexibility for activities like boating, fishing, paddling or hunting, and are much cooler in the warmer weather. Find more detail at http://www.safeboatingcampaign.com/resources/life-jackets/.

In addition to consistent life jacket wear, boating sober, knowing navigational rules and having a proper lookout are life-saving practices. National Safe Boating Council partners (www.safeboatingcouncil.org/) host local events, teach classes, offer on-water training, distribute educational materials, and perform free vessel safety checks.

For the media, BoatBeat/Media Toolkit is a national online resource that provides recreational boating information, state and federal resources, and numerous other media assets in one location. Issues and tips are provided for lifevests, boating under the influence, emergency locator beacons, engine cutoff switches, safe boating courses, vessel safety checks and more. It’s a collaborative effort with support from the National Safe Boating Council, the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, and the U.S. Coast Guard. Access the resources at http://boatbeat.org/.

Scholarship Program Underway

BWI has launched a new Scholarship Program designed to help young men and women enter the exciting world of boating journalism. Plans are to have the program in place and ready to unveil to members and the boating industry during the 2018 Miami Boat Show Annual BWI meeting.

Long-time Ohio-based boating/outdoor journalist and BWI member Dan Armitage offered to spearhead the effort calling on his familiarity with a successful scholarship program offered by the Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA). Among others that are joining the effort are Robert Beringer, who has worked with universities and dealt with scholarships before, and Ron Ballanti who brings experience in public relations and marketing communications to help spread the word about the program.

Says Ballanti, “This is not only a great opportunity for positive exposure among boating writers and the marine industry, but also a chance to help shape tomorrow’s boating writers. We are also setting up the necessary infrastructure to allow other Supporting Members to sponsor the scholarship program on different levels and encourage individual Active and Associate Members to contribute as well.”

For more information or to join the effort, contact Dan Armitage at armitage@wowway.com or BWI Headquarters.