Weekly 5: Texas boat dealer convicted in theft case
The BI Weekly 5 is a collection of tips, news and data affecting the boating industry this week. Be sure to look for the BI Weekly 5 every week on BoatingIndustry.com.
1. Texas boat dealer convicted in theft case
Jesse Ray Keene, the former operator of McGoys Marine in Lewisville, Texas, has been convicted and sentenced to 14 years in prison in a massive theft case, the Lewisville Texan reported.
Police said that Keene had been selling boats that people had consigned with him, but then not giving the money back to the boat owners, the paper reported.
2. NMMA: Sailboat sales up 16 percent in 2016
U.S retail sales of new sailboats rebounded in 2016, up 16.1 percent from 2015, with imports up 35.3 percent, NMMA reported.
The information was released as part of NMMA’s 2016 U.S. Recreational Boating Statistical Abstract. Information on production, exports and imports, total dollar sales and average prices by size category, with historical data, can be found in the complete report. Members receive unlimited complimentary access to the digital version; the report is also available for purchase by non-NMMA members via https://www.nmma.org/statistics/publications/statistical-abstract.
3. Early returns point to improved turnout for Palm Beach show
With clearing weather to kick off the weekend, the Palm Beach International Boat Show was looking forward to improved attendance, the Palm Beach Daily News reported.
Visitors to the 32nd edition of the show could see and tour more than $1 billion worth of boats, yachts and water toys along Flagler Drive on a breezy, warm day in West Palm Beach, the paper reported.
4. BoatBeat debuts as online boating safety hub
A new online hub for the media, boating educators, boating accident reporters, public information officers, law enforcement officials, and the general public has been launched with the goal of making the waters safer by providing comprehensive information about the potential hazards associated with boating, safe boating practices, and accident prevention.
BoatBeat debuted Monday as a collaboration among the National Safe Boating Council, the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, and the U.S. Coast Guard. It is unique in the depth of information provided all in one place and in its ease of use, said NSBC Executive Director Rachel Johnson, CAE.
5. Hilton Head Island Boat Show returns in May
Windmill Harbour opens its gates to the public for the Hilton Head Island Boat Show May 6-7 at the 15-acre Windmill Harbour Marina, Hilton Head Monthly reported. In addition to boat displays, vendors, food and entertainment, this year’s boat show will feature open houses and trolley rides through the community.
