b'LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENTAT THE HELM PVAs Future isBright with Your SupportJIM SWINDLER // PRESIDENTIinterests of PVA members from every corner of the United must say, having passed the six-month mark as PVAs pres-ident, I have gained a broader perspective and a greaterStates, and from all industry segments, have an equal voice appreciation for the many ways in which our associationon the board as it considers matters of industry importance.functions and serves the needs of its members. From this van-tage point, I am extremely optimistic about the future for ourCONTRIBUTE YOUR TIME, ENERGY,association. Our members are exceptionally loyal, the prod- AND EXPERTISE TO PVAucts and services that PVA creates and provides for membersVolunteerism is at the heart of our association, and I encour-continue to grow, and we continue to attract a steady flow ofage you to get involved. A great starting point is to volunteer to new members with each passing month. serve on one of PVAs standing committees. Each of these com-mittees analyzes a wide range of issues affecting the passenger As an organization, we are also fortunate to have a nev- vessel industry. All PVA members are encouraged to make er-endingarrayoftirelessandknowledgeablememberstheir opinions known. Each business is different, and this is who are committed to contributing their time and energythe strength of having numerous volunteers on committees. to programs and activities that continuously improve ourAll perspectives are important. Following is a list of our stand-industry and its overall operations. To add to this strength,ing committees with a brief description of their involvement we are equally fortunate to have an expert and dedicatedand activities:staff who consistently support the association with their expertise and counsel.PVA Legislative CommitteeThe PVA Legislative Committee guides the development of PVAs federal legislative policy as it relates to the passenger I am thrilled to welcome Richardvessel industry. With input from PVA legislative staff, the Patch to PVA as our new legislativecommittee considers and recommends legislative positions director. Richard comes to us withand strategy to the PVA Board of Directors for approval.extensive Congressional experienceCo-chair: Tim Agra, Chicagos First Lady Cruises,in Washington, D.C. Chicago, Ill.Co-chair: Jenna Deegan-Brown, Grand Lady Cruises, Inc., Buffalo, N.Y.In addition, our PVA Board of Directors, who are electedStaff Liaison: Richard Patch, rpatch@passengervessel.comby the general membership, lend much sought-after lead-ership, diversity, and representation from all corners of thePVA Regulatory Committeepassenger vessel industry, while also charting the strategicThe PVA Regulatory Committee monitors the promulga-directionofourassociation.ThePVABoardcomprisestion of federal regulations relating to the passenger vessel operators of dinner boats, ferries (both public and private),industry. With staff guidance, the committee develops and watertaxis,sightseeingandexcursionboats,andsailingrecommends PVA positions to the board and responds to vessels. In addition, there are board members who representregulatory matters when appropriate.the interests of PVA associate members, who are extremely important to our association and who provide products andChairperson: Steve Jones, Gateway Clipper Fleet, services to PVA members. This diversity ensures that thePittsburgh, Pa.Continued on page 59FOGHORN 4'