Senator Whitehouse, Peter Van Lancker to be honored in Newport

by Cynthia Goss on 11 Sep 2013 On Saturday, September 14, the Rhode Island Marine Trades Association (RIMTA) and its members will convene in Newport to honor Senator Sheldon Whitehouse and Peter Van Lancker, president of Hunt Yachts. Each individual will be awarded with the organization’s Anchor Award, an accolade presented annually to individuals who have had a significant impact on the state’s marine trades.

The awards will be presented at RIMTA’s fourth Annual Industry Partnership Breakfast (details below); the annual gathering is being held during the same weekend as the Newport International Boat Show.

At the annual breakfast, industry members will not only recognize past success through the achievements of Senator Whitehouse and Van Lancker. They will also hear from individuals who will put forth ideas on how to ensure the continuing strength of the marine trades, one of Rhode Island’s leading business sectors.

Evan Smith, president and CEO of Discover Newport, will talk about the critical connection between tourism and boating—evidenced by large events such as the 2012 America’s Cup World Series, which drew 65,000 spectators and generated $38.2 million for Rhode Island businesses. RIMTA CEO Wendy Mackie and RIMTA President Andy Tyska will also make presentations on marketing opportunities that will be available to the trade for the 2014 season.

See below for more details on the annual breakfast.

What: Fourth Annual RIMTA Industry Partnership Breakfast

When: Saturday, September 14 / 8 AM – 9:30 AM

Where: Newport Yacht Club (110 Long Wharf, Newport, R.I.)

Speakers:

· U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse
· Peter Van Lancker, President, Hunt Yachts
· Evan Smith, President and CEO, Discover Newport
· Wendy Mackie, CEO, RIMTA
· Andy Tyska, President, RIMTA