April 23, 2008

NPBA HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES:

The Inaugural Ceremony to Award Inductees into The NATIONAL POWERBOAT ASSOCIATION’s HALL OF FAME “Offshore Powerboat Racing Champions” will take place at The NEW YORK CITY POWERBOAT POKER RUN on Friday Night, June 13, 2008. Charlie McCarthy and Rich Luhrs will each make presentations on the history of our sport.
The following have achieved the required votes to be inducted on June 13th, 2008 at the NEW YORK CITYPOWERBOAT POKER RUN. More Candidates may follow. Dated: March 26, 2008
1 Pete Aitkin: BLACK DUCK RACING; 30 Shadow Cat w/twin Merc O/B’s then triples…became a legend!
2 Jim McIntyre: MAD MAC RACING, 32 Scorpion, triple Merc O/B’s…this was just the beginning, he is still in the “game” today in a big way.
3 Ron Barrette: OVERDOSE, SUPERDOSE, MAXED OUT RACING, 30 Superboat w/O/B’s, 40 Skater Cat. …names say it all!!!
4. Rich Luhrs: SHADOW RACING, Image 21 O/B and the 1st 30 Shadow Cat…Designer, Builder, Commentator Extraordinaire…he knows everything about the “game”.
5 Joe Sgro: FEVER RACING, 28 Manta w/Small Blocks …ran over 80 mph back in the 80’s, realized you go faster by chine-walking since you only use half the “coefficient of drag”…currently a star on the OUTERLIMITS/LUCAS Race Team… Tester of the new Racing neck/helmet support brace.
6 Guy LaMotta: DRY MARTINI, 27 Magnum w/Holman & Moody’s, 40 Cigarette, 53 Magnum…a great competitor, innovator, and connoisseur to our sport!
7 Sal Sciandra: AWESOME RACING, 32 Scorpion, 36 Eliminator Cat, 40 Skater Cat…1986 NPBACHAMPION and still one of the fastest guys on the water!
8 Chris Lavin and Mark Lavin (Deceased): JESSE JAMES RACING, 28 Cigarette in 1984, 30 Chris Cat, 35 Conquest Cat…Courageous is a term that fits the Lavin Bros and their memorable style!!! “Hats-off” to their dedication & contributions to the sport…forever!
9 Larry Smith: OUTRAGEOUS RACING, 30 Sutphen in 1979, 33 Sutphen, initially powered by Jim Ross Engines in the 30 and later powered by Bill Flynn’s small-blocks in the 33, throttleman Billy “HOT SHOT” Frenz would bend the tachometer’s needles past 9,000 rpms(no rev-limiters) to make 92+ mph…!
10 Steve Berk: GREAT ADVENTURE, WINGS RACING, 30 Sutphen, 28 Cigarette,…numerous fast boats since then…he loves the rough water where real men race!
11. Pete Mazzo: DYNAMITE RACING, NO DISCIPLINE; presently runs a 46 Outerlimits and is a “legend” on the Poker Run circuit.
12. John Bochis: CRAZY GREEK; the name says it all, racing on Barnegat Bay since 1974, rose to “fame” on the NPBA Circuit and still goes faaaast!
13. Michael Georgio (Deceased): S and S Propellers’ Patriarch and an asset to all teams that wanted to go faster. Michael ran with the EXTRACTOR RACE TEAM on the NPBA Circuit.
14. Tom Akouri, HIGH ROLLER, BLACK DUCK RACING; Throttleman extrordinaire, started on the NPBA Circuit and conquered APBA also.
15. Joey Detore, (Deceased), M-77 SUPERBOAT, started in 1976 at Billy’s Gateway Powerboat Regatta and achieved “fame” while racing with Reggie and beating those “Movie Stars” on Lake Ponchetrain.
16. Joey Impresscia, EAST COAST MARINE PERFORMANCE; started racing with Joey Detore in 1976 at the Gateway Powerboat Regatta and has made a “World Class” profession of it.
17. Charlie McCarthy, BANANA BOAT; Showed up in Greenwich to race with his 24 Banana Boat, “Fast Lady” (Cigarette)and never looked back
18. Peter Myer, LADY L, INSTIGATOR; From a 28 Signature to his 38 Fountain, Peter has become a World Champion
19. Rolf Papke, STILETTO, PROROC RACING; Another success story in the industry of Hi-Performance Boating headquartered in Brick, NJ.
20. John Coen, SUPERBOAT , Builder of the Superboats of Long Island and my first nemesis in Class “A” Club Racing. He has sustained the test of time and become a legend in the industry.
21. Tony Caligure, OCEAN OUTBOARD; Tony’s 24 Checkmate made his mark on the NPBA Circuit and founded Ocean Outboard, Inc of Freeport, NY.
22. Roger Munn, JOLLY ROGER; Famous for winnimg races in his 27 Magnum where ever he entered. He dominated the fleet!
23. George Linder, designed our Shadows, Conquests, plus the Chris Cats including all of the Jesse James Cats.

Racers still in contention:

Stu Hayim(Recovery), John D’Elia(Special Edition), Reggie Fountain & Sky Gillespie(Executioner Tunnel), Rick Felson(Hawk Racing Team), Billy Martin(Bounty Hunter), Tom Caruso, Kurt Burger(Smokey and the Bandit), Fred Talarico(Big Shot), Jim Laznovsky(Extractor), Mark Tangas(Profit Taker), John Demeno(Armed and Dangerous; B-52 Bomber(not the red boat), Tim Sharkey(Apollo), Fillipone Bros(Double Vision)., Werner Kuenzle(Borderline), J.D. D’Elia(Breadaway), Matt Leuci, Aldo Aleszczuck, Gino Montrone(Instant Air), Joe Calabro, Bob Idoni, Steve Schoderer and Lindsy Pirie( Indigo Racing), Mike Alesse(Phantom), Jeff Gerardi(Acapulco Gold, Panama Red, Freeze Frame), Rudy DiPietro(Scarab), Frank Buckley(HMS Dea Won), Richie Zul(Zul Racing), Rich Danscicin (Town and Country) are all still in the running.

Cast your vote for any of the above or “write-in” your favorite racer to frenzyyy@optonline.net.
Go to www.nationalpowerboat.com for further info.

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April 16, 2008

Stainless Steel Electric Actuators

From the company that gives you the most options; Livorsi now offers an electric hatch actuator in a stainless steel housing.

Less expensive than hydraulic or pneumatic models, electric actuators provide consistent performance throughout their lifetime, with twice the power and speed of those other actuators.

This model has a marine grade stainless steel housing for durability with the added appeal of a polished finish. Sizes range from 4 to 24 inches. Contains a safe working load limit of 400 lbs. This model operates using a heavy duty, sealed ball bearing motor ensuring many years of trouble free operation. Optional quick release pin and mounting hardware are available.

An optional hatch actuator remote is available for your convenience. The remote opens hatches from up to 300 feet away, even on boats using two separate hatches. The wireless hatch actuator remote can be used on most hatch motors, including hydraulic models. The receiver module can be mounted under the dash, wired to the hatch switch or wired directly to the motor, leaving the manual switch operational. Each kit comes with two remotes and one receiver.

For more information please contact Livorsi Marine at 847-752-2700 or visit livorsi.com

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April 16, 2008

CLEAN BOATING ACT OF 2008 GATHERING SENATE SUPPORT

     A geographically diverse group of U.S. Senators (17) have now co-sponsored The Clean Boating Act of 2008 (S. 2766).  The legislation, first introduced by Senator Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) and Senate Environmental and Public Works Chairwoman, Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.), if passed, will ensure recreational boaters that an expensive federal permit will not be necessary to operate their boats, and restores a longstanding, commonsense regulation that excludes recreational boaters from the federal and state permitting requirements under the Clean Water Act of 1973 designed for land-based industrial facilities and ocean-going commercial ships.
      The Clean Boating Act of 2008 restores a 35-year Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) exemption for water-based, non-polluting incidental discharges that occur in the normal operation of a recreational boat, such as weather deck run-off and engine coolant water.  The proposed legislation recognizes that discharges from recreational boats are completely distinct from commercial ship discharges.  Recreational boats are currently heavily regulated under the Clean Water Act, the Clean Vessel Act, the Oil Pollution Act and other federal and state laws.
     The issue of new federal permits applying to recreational boats stems from a September 2006 U.S. District Court ruling that ordered the EPA to regulate ballast water discharges on all vessels, and mandated a deadline of September 2008 to put it in place.  Although the intent of the litigation was aimed at ocean-going cargo and commercial vessels, the Court's broad ruling struck-down an exemption instituted in 1973 that applied to incidental discharges from recreational boats.
     Unless S. 2766 is passed by Congress before the September 2008 deadline, recreational boaters would be required by federal law to apply for the same expensive permits to operate on U.S. waters just like large commercial vessels.
     To find out more and how to support S. 2766, please log on to www.boatblue.org.

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April 10, 2008

Want To Be A Driver Of A P1 - RACE BOAT In Europe This Season?
Ocean Dragon Race Team Is Looking ForÊA Driver With The RIGHT STUFF!!

Toms River, NJ
Ocean Dragon Race Team has solicited the assistance of New Jersey Performance Powerboat Club in helping them procure their latest team member!

They are actively searching for a petrol head DRIVER who can handle their Formula Fastec 382 for the P1 Supersport 2008 season.

What they are looking for in a DRIVER:-

Cost: £35,000 for 2008 season 14 races (2 races at each GP).

2008 P1 Race Schedule
May 9-11 Italy
May 23-25 Marseille, France
June 6-8 Valetta, Malta
July 11-13 Hammamet, Tunisia
Sept 12-14 Vigo, Spain
Sept 26-28 Portimao, Portugal
Oct 23-25Ê Manama, Bahrain

DRIVER needs to guarantee attendance at each race.
DRIVER needs third party insurance at each event costing approx £ 100 from P1.
Driver has to pay for own flights, food and accommodations at each Grand Prix, the team will assist in securing good deals.

Extra Information:
The National flag will be placed on the boat next to DRIVER name.
If you have interest in inquiring, please contact:

Steve Ashcroft
Ocean Dragon Racing Team
m: +44 07770 618111
e: steve@oceandragonracing.com
w: www.oceandragonracing.com

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April 10, 2008

Powerboat P1 Championships and Cigarette Racing Teams Unite!
Toms River, NJ - April 2, 2008

Greenlight TV, Powerboat P1's professional television coverage team visited Cigarette Racing Team Tuesday, April 1st regarding its new boat entry into the fifth Powerboat P1 Championship. The segment covered the Cigarette Racing Team's factory as well as interviews with Skip Braver, CEO and President, and Neill Hernandez, Cigarette's Executive VP. As one of the fastest growing motor sport in Europe, talented racers from all over the world are demonstrating their skills and endurance by taking the helm of some of the fastest machines on the open seas. Greenlight TV's coverage of Powerboat P1's audience will be broadcasted in 700 countries, reaching over 100 million households.

Powerboat P1 is an extremely organized, intense, and advanced racing circuit where the world's top high performance boat manufacturers come together to compete in the most extreme racing conditions. Cigarette Racing Team will be supporting Seahorse International, www.ibsgroup.it Ê
its Italian dealer, who will head and manage the team. The throttle man and technical director of the team is Lino Dibiase, a living legend in the powerboat industry.

The driver, Luca Formilli Fendi is an accomplished car racer and very loyal Cigarette customer. "In order to win a race, you need a fantastic boat, powerful engines, and experienced crew. We certainly have that," says CEO Skip Braver. The Powerboat P1 Championship races are held in seven countries: Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, Malta, North Africa (Tunisia), and Bahrain (Middle East). The race circuit begins May 9th in San Benedetto del Tronto, Italy. "Cigarette Racing Team is excited to be a part of this segment. It represents invaluable recognition to the people that stand behind our brand!" says Braver. "Entering the Powerboat P1 Championship is a tremendous thrill and I look forward to seeing Cigarette Racing Team and Seahorse stand on the top step of the podium!"

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April 10, 2008

The Offshore Super Series to Adopt P1 Horsepower to Weight Ratio Rules

     Toms River, NJ – In an effort to join a world wide racing platform, the Offshore Super Series announced today that P1 series has granted OSS approval to use its "power to weight" ratio rules in the United States. 
“P1 racing has certainly demonstrated that they have a formula that works for a variety of hull, powerplant and drive designs. It is our sincere hope that racers with Vee hulls in the USA also embrace this concept of power to weight and find ways to make older racing hulls competitive with the newer equipment," reports Ron Polli, President of the Offshore Super Series. 
     “We are flattered that the Powerboat P1 Evolution class rules are being adopted by OSS for its Extreme Vee class, and we wish them well. While this action is in no way an official affiliation, or precursor to Powerboat P1 racing in the U.S., it certainly does open the possibilities for trans-Atlantic racing and could serve to grow and strengthen offshore racing around the globe. Powerboat P1 welcomes OSS racers to come visit one of our races and see our rules in action--we believe you will enjoy the experience,” said Jim O’Toole, Managing Director of the P1 series.
     “This really is a win/win scenario for OSS, and the racers that have existing canopied Vee hull race boats. This new rules scenario also allows for any engine manufacturer and any drive system so it opens up OSS Racing to a whole new category of racers,” commented Polli.
     OSS expects to hold its first horsepower to weight ratio class race later this year.  Interested teams should contact OSS to learn how to enter this exciting racing class.
For more information, see www.offshoresuperseries.com or call 732.552.0669.

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March 31, 2008

ELIMINATOR 27 DAYTONA FETCHES SIX-FIGURE DONATION FOR DARRELL GWYNN FOUNDATION

On Saturday, March 29, Eliminator Boats' one-of-a-kind 50th Anniversary boat of the Daytona International Speedway was auctioned at the world famous Barrett-Jackson in Palm Beach, Florida.  Top bidder for the totally custom 27' Daytona package with an Ilmor MV-10 625 engine and adorned with autographs of all the 2008 Daytona 500 drivers was Tom Gonzales.  The boat fetched a handsome $137,000 donation to the Darrell Gwynn Foundation, a wonderful and generous contribution on the part of Eliminator Boats.

April 1, 2008

TO ALL HIGH PERFORMANCE MARINE ENGINE BUILDERS....

CARB WILL BE CONDUCTING A FREE SEMINAR ON "HOW TO START THE ENGINE CERTIFICATION PROCESS" -- TUESDAY, APRIL 22

In order to comply with new exhaust emissions regulations in the state of California beginning January 1, 2009, all high performance (500 HP and above) inboard marine engines must be certified.  The Southern California Marine Association has arranged a special half-day seminar with the certification staff at the California Air Resources Board offices, 9530 Telstar Ave., El Monte, CA  91731 on Tuesday, April 22 starting at 9:30am to assist in that process.  This will be a very valuable seminar/workshop to help engine builders navigate the necessary certification process -- don't miss it.  If you plan on attending, please contact the SCMA office at
(714) 633-7581 or rose@scma.com.

March 30, 2008

FIRST-LOOK....
LAVEYCRAFT 39 EVO IN-WATER AT LONG BEACH, CA

After several years of development, the Camire brothers water tested their newest 2008 creation, the 39 EVO on March 30 at the LaveyCraft Catalina Fun Run in Long Beach, California.  Powered by a pair of Mercury Racing 700SCi packages with NXT drives, the 39 EVO is reported to be running well in excess of 100 miles an hour during initial testing.  "We're incredibly excited to get this new model in the water and finally have an opportunity to show what it can do," commented Chris Camire as the ultra sleek beauty eased off the trailer at Davies Launch Ramp.  "We really wanted to build a signature model for our product line, and I think this makes a pretty substantial statement about the capabilities, quality and technological expertise of our company."  In spite of morning overcast and occasional drizzle, fifteen adventuresome LaveyCraft owners plus friends made a successful open ocean crossing to Avalon Harbor and return in what has become a LaveyCraft early spring time tradition. 

March 27, 2008

REMEMBERING AL COPELAND

Offshore racing icon Al Copeland crossed the finish line for the last time. Copeland, a New Orleans native, passed away while undergoing treatment for cancer at a clinic in Munich, Germany on March 23rd.

Al Copeland’s illustrious racing career ignited the offshore arena in the 1980’s with stellar performances that garnered a mega collection of checkered flags, countless titles and super fast speed records aboard Popeyes. The celebrated, bright yellow 50’ Cougar catamaran, sported the cartoon character’s image along the side and became the showpiece of a new Superboat Class. Among his many awards were the internationally acclaimed British Harmsworth Trophy, repetitive inductions into the prestigious APBA Hall of Champions, national and world championship titles, as well as several records including the Chapman Challenge Miami to New York V-bottom Speed Record of 61.1 mph set in 20 hours, 31 minutes during 1984.

His spicy southern fried chicken recipe launched Popeyes Famous Fried Chicken into a 700 franchise chain in the United States, Puerto Rico, Panama and Kuwait. Along the way, he opened Copeland’s of New Orleans, which provided a Cajun casual-dining experience that eventually expanded with restaurants eastward to Maryland and west to Texas. And by 1989, Popeyes, the third largest chicken chain, purchased rival Church’s Chicken. However, the purchase was heavily financed and escalating debt resulted in bankruptcy filing by Copeland’s company in 1991. However, Copeland retained a few Popeyes stores, along with the rights to some of those top secret products.  

While the “livin’ large” Al Copeland was always in the spotlight, there was also a compassionate side to his mega persona. The rags-to-riches guy who never completed high school created several scholarship programs for aspiring culinary students: the Alvin C. Copeland Endowed Chair of Franchising at Louisiana State University, the National Food Service Institute and Delgado Community College Apprentice Program. And for years, Copeland was a “secret Santa” who underwrote gifts for 1,000 needy area children that were delivered on Christmas Eve.

When I first stepped onto the offshore scene, I had the pleasure of meeting Al Copeland on the docks in Key West during World Championship week. A few years ago, I ran into Al at The Pier House and as it turned out, the Key West championship races marked the last time I would see him. I had the opportunity to go to some of his races during the 1980’s in New Orleans…talk about an event! The racer’s party was held in the ballroom of his hotel, The Landmark, which was set-up as a miniature race course with different food stations staged as course checkpoints. The non-stop menu featured an array of terrific Cajun food -- Popeyes fried chicken, blackened red fish, red beans and rice, plenty of cool beverages, along with entertainment from such music greats as Fats Domino or Johnny Rivers. Outrageous…you bet!  And I remember those exclusive invites to “slip into sunset” to join Al and the Popeyes team on board his yacht, The Cajun Princess, when it was docked at the Galleon in Key West. Yes, Al was also the ultimate host.
Copeland is survived by five sons: Alvin C. Jr. and Christopher Copeland, of Metairie; Alex Cody Copeland of Folsom, Chandler and Chaz Copeland of Madisonville; four daughters, Bonnie Copeland, Alisha Catherine Copeland and Charlotte Copeland Womac of Metairie and Cassidy Copeland of Madisonville; a brother, Gilbert Copeland of Covington and thirteen grandchildren.

Services were held March 31st in New Orleans at Holy Name of Jesus Church, followed by a private burial at Lake Lawn Cemetery. Contributions maybe made to the Al Copeland Foundation, Merkel Cell Melanoma Fund – attention: Charli Copeland Womac or Alisha Catherine Copeland, Al Copeland Investments, 1001 Harimaw Ct. South, Metairie, LA. 70001.

Al Copeland will long be remembered for his flamboyant style and competitive spirit. The offshore fraternity has lost a true legend…God Speed, Al.

                                                                                                -- Bobbye Kenyon

1) Legendary offshore competitor, Al Copeland
2) The celebrated Superboat – Popeyes and its chicken chopper
Photos courtesy of Wohl & Company

March 27, 2008

WATCH SPEED CHANNEL SATURDAY, MARCH 29 -- ELIMINATOR 27 DAYTONA AUCTIONS AT BARRETT-JACKSON TO BENEFIT DARRELL GWYNN FOUNDATION

Tune in to SPEED Channel this Saturday, March 29 (12 noon to 6pm EDT) and watch Barrett-Jackson from Palm Beach, Florida when the 2008 Daytona 500 50th Anniversary Edition Eliminator 27 Daytona goes on the auction block with all proceeds going to benefit the Darrell Gwynn Foundation. This one-of-a-kind Eliminator, valued at $250,000 and powered by an Ilmor Marine MV-10 625 engine riding on an Extreme Engineering custom triple axle trailer, appeared at the February 2008 Daytona 500 and was autographed by all the participating race drivers. The Darrell Gwynn Foundation has been actively involved in finding a cure for debilitating spinal cord injuries for nearly two decades.

March 26, 2008

PERFORMANCE BOAT BAN IN ALABAMA UPHELD BY COURT DECISION

Montgomery, Alabama County Circuit Court Judge Johnny Hardwick ruled today that the high performance boat ban passed by the State Legislature in 2006 was constitutional.  The controversial decision now paves the way for performance boats longer than 26-feet in length and "capable" of speeds over 60 miles an hour to be banned from access on three of Alabama's most popular recreational boating lakes (Lakes Harris, Weiss and Martin).  When the new law was originally passed in 2006, several concerned boaters including Robert Nelems, owner of Nelems Marine in nearby Jasper, Alabama, decided to challenge the law as unconstitutional.  Their legal action was successful in making the Alabama Department of Conservation take a position that the ban (initially scheduled to be effective October 2006) would not be enforced until after the pending case was decided.  At the root of the problem are the Alabama Power Company and several large land developers who pressed for passage of the boat ban with the blessing of the State legislators.  They view high performance boats as a deterrent to future real estate developments around prime lake front properties.  Judge Hardwick heard the case in September 2007, and it was initially thought that there would be an expeditious decision.  Instead, Hardwick did not render his decision until today, approximately six months later.  Robert Nelems offered these comments following the verdict, "We were surprised by the ruling.  We felt that we offered a sound argument for the unconstitutionality of this discriminatory law.  This is a very sad day for performance boaters everywhere.  If the courts can do this here in Alabama, they can do it anywhere in the country.  So far, only three of our lakes are effected by this ban but what's to say that more lakes won't follow suit in the future."  At this time, no appeals action is anticipated.  

March 24, 2008

16TH ANNUAL ORANGE COUNTY BOAT SHOW TO OPEN THURSDAY, APRIL 3

     More than 500 new boats will be on display starting Thursday, April 3 when the 16th Annual Orange County Boat Show opens a four-day run at Anaheim Convention Center.  In addition to a wide variety of family runabouts. pontoons, cruisers, fishing boats, ski/wakeboard boats and personal watercraft, at least ten high performance custom sportboat manufacturers will be participating including Advantage, Domn8er, Eliminator, Essex, Hallett, Laser, LaveyCraft, Magic, Nordic and Shockwave.  Anyone purchasing a boat at the boat show will automatically have a chance to win a $1,000 boating accessories shopping spree.  The Orange County Boat Show is also conducting "Boater Appreciation Day" on opening day, Thursday, April 3 when all admissions are only $5.00 per adult, kids 12 & under free.  If you plan on attending the boat show on Friday, Saturday or Sunday, you can save up to $20.00 on boat show admission by logging on to www.ocboatshow.net.  Boat Show hours are:  weekdays 12 noon to 9pm, Saturday 10am to 9pm and Sunday 10am to 6pm.  Regular admission is $12.00 for adults.  More information is available at www.orangecountyboatshow.com.

MARCH 21, 2008

BOATERS -- WE NEED YOUR HELP!

PLEASE CONTACT YOUR STATE SENATORS AND REQUEST THEY SUPPORT BILL S. 2766

The Clock is Ticking.  We need you to contact your two U.S. Senators to ask them to co-sponsor S. 2766, the Clean Boating Act of 2008.

The Threat.  Congress has only six months to correct a terrible wrong imposed on recreational boating by a Federal District judge that would require every boat owner to obtain a yearly federal or state permit to operate every boat owned in every state the boat operates in.  The cost could go as high as $2,000.00 per boat per state.

The Issue.   These permits would apply to deck water run off, bilge water, engine cooling water and any other water-based operational discharge from a recreational boat.  The fines based on citizen suits range up to $32,000 per day.  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is already writing the required new federal rule, which is set to go operational on October 1, 2008!

What Can You Do?  We strongly encourage you and your boating friends to CONTACT YOUR SENATORS and ask them to co-sponsor S. 2766, the Clean Boating Act of 2008.  To assist you in this process, log on to a special website, www.boatblue.org, set up especially for this issue.  Once there, simply type in your zip code and click send.

Help Stop Federal Permitting of Incidental Non-point Pollution from Boats

Ask Your Senators to Co-sponsor S. 2766 Now!

March 20, 2008

BRUNSWICK ANNOUNCES SALE OF BAJA MARINE ASSETS TO FOUNTAIN POWERBOATS LAKE FOREST, Ill

Brunswick Corporation has announced the signing of a letter of intent to sell certain assets relating to its Baja boat business to Fountain Powerboat Industries, Inc., of Washington, N.C. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed, and completion of the sale is subject to certain conditions. In preparation for the transition, Brunswick plans to end production of Baja boats in Bucyrus, Ohio, by the end of May, consistent with the end of the 2008 model year. As a result of these actions, the company said it estimates that asset writedowns, along with severance and other costs associated with the plant closure, could total between $10 million to $15 million, pre-tax. "This was a strategic decision to further refine our product portfolio and best focus our resources on brands and marine segments that we believe are core to our success going forward," said Brunswick Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Dustan E. McCoy. "This action in no way reflects upon Baja or the abilities and performance of the Bucyrus work force. We believe, however, that Baja and its dealers will ultimately benefit from being a part of Fountain Powerboats, a company that, like Baja, is a leader in high-performance boats." When completed, the closing of the Baja plant will mean a loss of approximately 285 positions. Baja leadership will be working diligently to transfer as many employees as possible and practical to either Fountain or other Brunswick manufacturing facilities. For those employees who do not have the opportunity or do not wish to transfer, severance will be provided.

March 20, 2008

PERFORMANCE MARINE INDUSTRY EXPO SETS TENTATIVE DATES FOR 2009

The Performance Marine Industry Expo, postponed in 2008, has been tentatively re-scheduled for April 15-19, 2009 at South Point Hotel Casino in Las Vegas Nevada. The event will include daily show exhibits and a poker run on Lake Mead on Sunday, April 19. More information will be available in the coming months. Log on to www.pmiexpo.com or contact Chris Ayres at (702) 450-7662

March 17,2008

CARB PROPOSES PLAN TO ESTABLISH NEW EXHAUST EMISSIONS REGULATIONS FOR HIGH PERFORMANCE (OVER 500 HP) INBOARD/STERNDRIVE ENGINES

Following the CARB (California Air Resources Board) public workshop meeting of March 18, 2008, plans have been set in motion to establish new exhaust emissions regulations on high performance over 500 horsepower) marine gasoline inboard/sterndrive engines to become effective as of January 1, 2009 in California. Please be aware that the proposed standards (presented in summarized form) outlined below are not final until the CARB Board meets and votes upon the entire set of regulations on July 24, 2008.

1. CARB staff recommends that the current standard of 5.0 g/kW-hr NMHC+NOx for marine inboard engines under 500 HP be relaxed and amended for engines in excess of 500 HP. The new proposed standards are:\
-- engines 500 to 650 HP...........16.0 HC+NOx
-- engines 650 Hp and above...25.0 HC+NOx (2009 & 2010)
-- engines 650 Hp and above...22.0 HC+NOx (2011 and later)

2. In addition, there will also be a new standard for carbon monoxide emission. All engines over 500 HP will have a maximum carbon monoxide level of 350 grams per kilowatt hour.

3. Because of the recommended relaxed emissions standard on engines over 500 horsepower, new boats equipped with high performance engines beginning January 1, 2009 must be equipped with a passive-purge carbon canister type of evaporative fuel system. Delphi, who makes a similar product for use in the automotive industry, is currently in development of marine canisters.

4. Catalytic converters will not be required equipment on high performance engines over 500 HP.

5. Some type of engine emissions certification will be required of high performance marine engine builders in order to legally sell engines in California after January 1, 2009.

6. The CARB proposed new regulations have been drafted to harmonize with pending EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) federal standards which may become effective for all 50 states as early as January 1, 2010.

More information available at: www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/offroad/sore/sore.htm}

March 17, 2008

FIRST-LOOK! ELIMINATOR BOATS NEW INDUSTRIAL PARK AND MANUFACTURING COMPLEX IN PERRIS, CALIFORNIA

Eliminator Boats hosted the annual season kick-off meeting of SCOPE (Southern California Offshore Powerboat Elite) on Saturday, March 15 at their soon-to-be-open-to-the-public sprawling new industrial park development in Perris, California. Approximately 200 SCOPE members and friends attended the mid-day event, anxious to hear about the club's activity calendar for 2008 and curious to inspect the lavish new manufacturing home of Eliminator Boats which has been under construction for more than a year. The new Eliminator facility includes a near 100,000 square foot production and showroom building complete with an outdoor swimming pool and dock large enough to float several of Eliminators largest models with full freeway visibility. In additional to the state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, the Eliminator industrial park also has a 400+ unit indoor storage operation for boats, RVs, sand rails, toy hauler trailers, etc., plus multiple stand-alone commercial buildings available for lease. Eliminator anticipates a late March, early April official move-in date.

March 13, 2008

WATER SKI RACER PETER EAGLE DIES IN BOAT ACCIDENT

Australian water ski racing champion, Peter Eagle, 51, died March 9 in a single boat accident on Sydney Harbour during a testing session.  Eagle and his co-pilot, Geoff Burgess, were found floating near their overturned race boat by a passing Sydney Rivercat ferryboat.  Rescuers were successful in resuscitating Burgess who was taken to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and was listed in serious condition with head and leg injuries.  It is reported that Eagle and Burgess were preparing their boat to compete later that day in the inaugural Superboat Grand Prix on Sydney Harbour when the accident occurred.  Eagle was a prominent figure in the world of high speed water ski racing, having competed numerous times in the Catalina Water Ski Race and as a member of the Australian World's Water Ski Race Team.  Cause of the accident is still under investigation.

March 10 , 2008

17th ANNUAL LAKE HAVASU BOAT SHOW
BOATING SEASON KICK-OFF

If you're in or around the Colorado River area, especially near Lake Havasu the weekend of March 14-15-16, make a stop at the 17th Annual Lake Havasu Boat Show on London Bridge Road at Windsor Beach #4.  Several hundred boats are scheduled to be on display plus a large vendor/booth display area with lots of marine accessories and services.  Show hours are:  Friday, noon to dusk;  Saturday, 9am to 6pm;  and Sunday, 9am to 3pm.  Admission is free.  In addition to the boats, the show will also feature a live band and a beer garden.  Be sure and look for the Hot Boat Magazine display!

March 10 , 2008

IF IT'S FAST, ON LAND OR WATER, SEE IT AT THE HIGH OCTANE MOTORSPORTS EXPO -- CALIFORNIA SPEEDWAY, ONTARIO, CA

 If it's got a motor, it will probably be there this coming weekend, March 14-15-16 at the High Octane Motorsports Expo at the California Speedway in Ontario, California.  Admission is just $10 for adults, and parking is free.  The tentative list of exhibitors includes powerboats, personal watercraft, sand rails, motorcycles, toy haulers, offroad vehicles of all description, RVs, clothing and accessories.  Show hours are:  Friday, 11am to 6pm;  Saturday, 9am to 6pm; and Sunday, 9am to 5pm.  Be sure and stop by the Hot Boat booth and pick-up the latest issue!

February 26, 2008

CARB CALLS FINAL MEETING ON
MARINE ENGINE EMISSIONS  REGULATIONS

March 18, 2008 Will Be The Last Opportunity for Public Comment on Future Marine Inboard/Sterndrive Engine Emissions Standards for California -- High Performance Engine Regs to Be Established

Tuesday, March 18, 2008 may very well be the most important day of the next several decades for marine inboard/sterndrive engines, especially for high performance motors (over 500 horsepower). The California Air Resources Boards is conducting its final "Public Workshop" at Annex 4 Auditorium, 9530 Telstar Avenue, El Monte, California from 9:30am to 12 noon. This meeting is to discuss proposed amendments to California's existing regulations and test procedures for new spark-ignition marine engines, including outboard, personal watercraft, inboard and sterndrive. The primary focus of the meeting is to discuss alternative exhaust emission standards for high performance inboard/sterndrive engines rated in excess of 500 horsepower, the adoption of not-to-exceed limits, carbon monoxide standards, evaporative control requirements, the incorporation of general relief provisions, requirements for new replacement engines and other related minor changes.

Make no mistake, this will be the final and last opportunity for the marine industry and boating public to comment directly to the CARB staff on proposed exhaust emissions standards for the State of California. At the conclusion of the meeting, CARB staff will prepare its recommendations and submit those findings to the Air Resources Board on July 24, 2008 for approval and future implementation. Once the new regulations regarding high performance engines are approved, they may become effective for California as soon as January 1, 2009.

If you want more information regarding the proposed standards, please log on to the ARB's SORE website at http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/offroad/sore/sore.htm. If you would like to receive notification by email of updates to the SORE website, please sign up at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/listserv/sore.htm.

DESERT STORM TRIPLE HEADER!

The biggest poker run in the west has just become even bigger! The Desert Storm Poker Run, scheduled for April 24-25-26, 2008 in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, is now a triple-header event with a Poker Run, a High Speed Shoot-Out, and an Offshore Race plus a Street Party! The boating extravaganza kicks-off on Thursday night, April 24 with a giant Street Party starting at 5:00pm on McCulloch Boulevard featuring as many as one-hundred of the most exotic high performance boats in the country. Then on Friday, the traditional Desert Storm Poker Run with up to 200 boats begins at 10:30am followed by an outdoor party at the Nautical Inn Cove that evening. On Saturday, motors start to rev at 8:30am as Lake Havasu hosts its first High Speed Shootout where boats will be radar-timed along a one-mile straightaway for top speed and bragging rights. At 12 noon the Shootout takes a break while POPRA conducts a full-on offshore race. Then at 2;00pm, the High Speed Shootout resumes for another three-hours. Finally, the three-day speed-fest concludes that night at 7:00pm with an Awards Dinner at the Lake Havasu Aquatic Center. Better make your plans immediately -- we bet there won't be a hotel vacancy in town! For more information log on to www.lakeracer.com.

PERFORMANCE MARINE EXPO POSTPONED UNTIL 2009

Las Vegas, NV…… ConvExx announced the postponement of the Performance Marine Industry Expo which was scheduled for Las Vegas in April, 2008. The show will now take place in Las Vegas in 2009 (exact dates to be announced later). Chuck Schwartz, Chairman of ConvExx, remarked, “We feel strongly that there is a need for a performance-only event in the marine industry. PMIE will be THE place for performance marine boat builders, manufacturers, and enthusiasts to come together and see new products, share interests and build a voice for the industry.” Schwartz continued, “We are continuing to discuss the activities and show design with many of the major performance boat builders and manufacturers in the performance marine industry. As the event develops, there will be information on our website at www.PMIExpo.com. We hope to announce dates and a Las Vegas venue shortly.” More information can be received by contacting Chris Ayres, Director, Marine Division at cayres@convexx.com or 702.450.7662, ext. 107.

LEGISLATIVE ALERT!

PENDING EPA WATER BALLAST DISCHARGE PERMIT THREATENS RECREATIONAL BOATERS WITH NEW FEES!

Recreational boating nationwide is threatened with heavy economic penalties due to a ruling by the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. The Court has ordered EPA to prepare water discharge permit regulations covering all vessels using U.S. waters, including 18-million pleasure boats registered in all 50 states. The permit system would involve a fee, with estimates ranging from $150 to $1,500 per boat per year! And if you boat in more than one state, you may need a permit for each state! This fee would be in addition to the existing state registration fee you now pay. There is, however, a solution to this problem now working its way through Congress, H.R. 2550, which would permanently exempt recreational boating from the EPA discharge regulations. But we need your help to get this legislation passed. We need letters, postcards, phone calls, FAXes and E-mail communications with all Congressional Delegations across the country urging the members to support swift passage of H.R. 2550. Arguments for passing H.R. 2550 are that: (1) contrary to the Court ruling, Congress did not intend this level of federal scrutiny of recreational boating when it passed the Clean Water Act, and (2) this level of federal regulation is unwarranted because recreational boating pollution control is handled adequately by state, county and local ordinances. Also, this permit system will require a new large agency to handle the registration paperwork for 18+ million boats, unnecessarily duplicating the state registration system. Boating urgently needs your help. Contact your Congressman representing the District where you live and the District where your business is located. Contact your boating friends and alert them to this threat! Do it today!