MRA Membership
"The knowledge and friendships I have gained over the years from discussions with other marina operators is invaluable. There would have been no other possible source for a lot of what I have learned from this experience. I have been acutely aware for years that marinas are far more affected by Government than most businesses. The representation we have in Sacramento through MRA has saved my business untold thousands of dollars over the years by blocking legislation that could have cost us a fortune, and we have benefited from the Marina Loan Program established through DBAW at the instigation of MRA. I think membership and participation in MRA is an absolute necessity for anyone in the marina business. It is worth far more than the dues."
Dave Smith of Water Resorts, Inc.
"For a Marina Operator/Manager, MRA offers invaluable information, from the latest proposed legislation updates to employment management practices and ecological concerns. The annual meeting showcases what is new in the industry with participation from affiliated trade organizations. I would highly recommend MRA as a must for networking with other marina operators, managers and affiliates."
Lynn Allen, Superintendent, Dana Point Marina Company
MRA Educational Conference
"As the former President of MRA (mid-1990's), I can tell you that the MRA Educational Conference and Trade Show is one of the best focus gatherings in our industry. You will be able to tap into a variety of key people and subjects that will translate to your bottom line in your marina business. So I would encourage all marina owners, managers, dock masters, key marina staff and related trade businesses to attend and learn how to maybe do you job just a little bit better. Hope to see you there!"
H. P. "Sandy" Purdon, General Partner, Shelter Cove Marina
"The MRA Educational and Trade Show is a great way to get ready for the coming year. In today's litigious and regulatory environment it is difficult to keep current with what is required and what us prudent and this conference makes it easier. The meetings and workshops are fast paced, not too long and the materials and handouts are invaluable aids I refer to all year long. Any business that involves water and boats should attend.
Mike Foster, Lost Isle
"Our group has been attending the MRA conferences for the last four years and has enjoyed the benefits of the seminars and interaction with fellow marina operators. I don't know of a better way to keep up with all of the new regulations and issues that arise in our business on a regular basis. It's great how everyone wants to share information as this helps us to look at areas that we may not have explored. We have also been able to work with the vendors that attend the conference on improving some of the products they make. Thanks for everything and we will see you in Santa Barbara."
Jim Hayes, Vice President, Operations, Almar Marinas
"I recently attended my first MRA Conference & Trade Show and just wanted you to know that I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was money well spent and very informative. There were a wide variety of topics and the speakers seemed well informed in their prospective fields. Though I wasn't interested in all the seminars, I recognized the importance of having a wide range because of the audience, ie, owners, managers, harbor masters, etc. The Tahoe location was great, the food and accommodations were excellent and the staff was very attentive."
Kirby Long, General Manager, Napa Valley Marina
"The marina business is in a constant state of change; environmental, legal, insurance, personnel, equipment technology, and on and on. The annual MRA conference is a great opportunity to expand your management vision beyond the confines of your individual marina. The guest speakers, trade displays and the friendly dialog with other industry people all combine to make this a very worthwhile expense of time and money. If you attend only one event a year....make it this one!"
Bill Chase, Marina Manager, Ballena Isle Marina
"An excellent way to meet operators from many locations and a wide variety of facilities. I have always found the conference well organized and the locations great. Speakers provide a wealth of information. Well worth the investment of time and money."
Chris Senti, Vice President, California Parks Company
"MRA membership not only helps members lock into real-time solutions for today's problems, it also helps develop the resources, contacts and tools-of-the-trade to manage potential challenges in the future of the industry." The Conference & Trade Show are not only informative and educational, but also a great way to network with others within the trade. Attendance by employees should be considered a training essential for those who may become the supervisors and managers of the future."
Jim Moulton, Operations Manager, California Yacht Marinas
"Although most of the membership of the Marina Recreation Association is private marina operators, I have found the MRA to be informative and a tremendous benefit for me in managing the Long Beach Marinas. Historically, public-sector marinas have been viewed as bureaucratic, operating with little sense of the business nature and market dynamics of the marina industry. In the ten years I have managed the marinas in Long Beach, I have attempted to bring a private-sector approach to the Long Beach Marinas, and my association with MRA, and the relationships I have formed by my association with the MRA, have proven to be invaluable in this endeavor."
Mark Sandoval, Manager, Long Beach Marine Bureau
"For a Marina Operator/Manager MRA offers invaluable information, from the latest proposed legislation updates to employment management practices and ecological concerns. The annual meeting showcases what is new in the industry with participation from affiliated trade organizations. I would highly recommend MRA as a must for networking with other marina operators, managers and affiliates."
Lynn Allen, Superintendent, Dana Point Marina Company
"I found the MRA's conference to be of incredible value. There was much to learn on the legal front as well as the many pitfalls and opportunities for increased profits in the marina business. I would definitely recommend the conference for anyone looking to tweak their business model or simply bring their marina into the 21st century."
Matt Davies, Owner, Tiki Lagun
"I think one of the greatest benefits is in attending the Trade Show seminars. We went to the Clean Marina seminar and were very interested in what they were saying. Thanks to this program, we are an officially certified Clean Marina and are very happy with all the measures we take to help our fragile environment. The MRA membership allows us to keep up with what is going on in the "marina" world."
Suzanne Carreau, Tahoe Keys Marina
"The MRA Conference and Trade show was an invaluable resource for me to see the many options that are available for new construction or redevelopment. The vendors are specific to the needs of the marina owner. The workshops provide great and valuable information on varied topics that are both useful and informative."
Mary Lou LoPreste, Owner-Manager, Sun Harbor Marina
We found the MRA seminars extremely informative. Not only did we lean a lot but we met some very nice people. Being new at operating a marina, there were many things to watch out for that we had never thought of. We thank you for the education.
Melinda and Ron Lerg, Pleasure Point Marina
"As a past attendee of several MRA conferences, I have always enjoyed the opportunity to share in the experiences of colleagues and other professionals in the marina industry. The forums are engaging. The speakers are informative and often thought provoking. What better way to stay abreast of new information and regulations. With the MRA annual conferences we have been given a unique opportunity to associate with other members of our industry in a fun, friendly resort atmosphere."
Jamie Bolt, Bethel Harbor
The exchange of information that I have received from attending the MRA's Educational Conference and Trade Show has been an invaluable asset to our Marina. Every year I come away with at least one gem to incorporate it into our business. Consequently, we now have an improved employee handbook, slip holder's agreement, and boat rental contract. Being an MRA member has helped us meet the challenges of our unique industry, it's constant changing nature, and provide a better environment for our staff and customers.
Alan Sharp, General Manager, Big Bear Marina
"MRA's annual conference is a well-organized, well-attended event that provides an opportunity for professionals within the marina industry to network and expand their knowledge base in a workshop format. Comprehensive subject matter is available to attendees from which to choose. For those of you in the marina business who elect to stay on the cutting edge, I encourage you to participate in this user friendly assemblage of experts. Your attendance at this year's conference will unquestionably be a worthwhile investment for both yourself and your company."
Steve Burton, No. Calif. Regional Manager, Westrec Marinas Mgmt., Inc.
"I attended my first MRA Educational Conference & Trade Show last year and found the organization and location to be outstanding. Mariann Timms and her team were exceptional in putting together informative seminars and keeping the conference running smoothly. I look forward to this year's Educational Conference & Trade Show in Santa Barbara. Great Organization, Great Location! The resources that are available through this organization are invaluable. Just the effort that is put forth towards establishing government policy on behalf of our industry is truly amazing not to mention the wealth of information that can be provided within the membership.
Alan Maciel, Director of Marketing, Berg Holdings
I've been an attendee of the MRA's Educational Conference and Trade Show for the past 4 years. I found every class I've attended to be action packed and informative. The classes are up to speed with the latest and newest info. Everything you need to know to run a harbor effectively and smoothly is taught at the MRA Educational Conference. I found the classes to be especially helpful when dealing with the various agencies marinas go through to get permits for improvements and maintenance. I highly recommend every marina owner and harbor master attend the MRA Educational Conference and Trade Show.
Jordan Rodgers, Harbor Master, Clipper Yacht Harbor
"The knowledge and friendships I have gained over the years from discussions with other marina operators is invaluable. There would have been no other possible source for a lot of what I have learned from this experience. I have been acutely aware for years that marinas are far more affected by Government than most businesses. The representation we have in Sacramento through MRA has saved my business untold thousands of dollars over the years by blocking legislation that could have cost us a fortune, and we have benefited from the Marina Loan Program established through DBAW at the instigation of MRA. I think membership and participation in MRA is an absolute necessity for anyone in the marina business. It is worth far more than the dues."
Dave Smith of Water Resorts, Inc.
"For a Marina Operator/Manager, MRA offers invaluable information, from the latest proposed legislation updates to employment management practices and ecological concerns. The annual meeting showcases what is new in the industry with participation from affiliated trade organizations. I would highly recommend MRA as a must for networking with other marina operators, managers and affiliates."
Lynn Allen, Superintendent, Dana Point Marina Company
MRA Educational Conference
"As the former President of MRA (mid-1990's), I can tell you that the MRA Educational Conference and Trade Show is one of the best focus gatherings in our industry. You will be able to tap into a variety of key people and subjects that will translate to your bottom line in your marina business. So I would encourage all marina owners, managers, dock masters, key marina staff and related trade businesses to attend and learn how to maybe do you job just a little bit better. Hope to see you there!"
H. P. "Sandy" Purdon, General Partner, Shelter Cove Marina
"The MRA Educational and Trade Show is a great way to get ready for the coming year. In today's litigious and regulatory environment it is difficult to keep current with what is required and what us prudent and this conference makes it easier. The meetings and workshops are fast paced, not too long and the materials and handouts are invaluable aids I refer to all year long. Any business that involves water and boats should attend.
Mike Foster, Lost Isle
"Our group has been attending the MRA conferences for the last four years and has enjoyed the benefits of the seminars and interaction with fellow marina operators. I don't know of a better way to keep up with all of the new regulations and issues that arise in our business on a regular basis. It's great how everyone wants to share information as this helps us to look at areas that we may not have explored. We have also been able to work with the vendors that attend the conference on improving some of the products they make. Thanks for everything and we will see you in Santa Barbara."
Jim Hayes, Vice President, Operations, Almar Marinas
"I recently attended my first MRA Conference & Trade Show and just wanted you to know that I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was money well spent and very informative. There were a wide variety of topics and the speakers seemed well informed in their prospective fields. Though I wasn't interested in all the seminars, I recognized the importance of having a wide range because of the audience, ie, owners, managers, harbor masters, etc. The Tahoe location was great, the food and accommodations were excellent and the staff was very attentive."
Kirby Long, General Manager, Napa Valley Marina
"The marina business is in a constant state of change; environmental, legal, insurance, personnel, equipment technology, and on and on. The annual MRA conference is a great opportunity to expand your management vision beyond the confines of your individual marina. The guest speakers, trade displays and the friendly dialog with other industry people all combine to make this a very worthwhile expense of time and money. If you attend only one event a year....make it this one!"
Bill Chase, Marina Manager, Ballena Isle Marina
"An excellent way to meet operators from many locations and a wide variety of facilities. I have always found the conference well organized and the locations great. Speakers provide a wealth of information. Well worth the investment of time and money."
Chris Senti, Vice President, California Parks Company
"MRA membership not only helps members lock into real-time solutions for today's problems, it also helps develop the resources, contacts and tools-of-the-trade to manage potential challenges in the future of the industry." The Conference & Trade Show are not only informative and educational, but also a great way to network with others within the trade. Attendance by employees should be considered a training essential for those who may become the supervisors and managers of the future."
Jim Moulton, Operations Manager, California Yacht Marinas
"Although most of the membership of the Marina Recreation Association is private marina operators, I have found the MRA to be informative and a tremendous benefit for me in managing the Long Beach Marinas. Historically, public-sector marinas have been viewed as bureaucratic, operating with little sense of the business nature and market dynamics of the marina industry. In the ten years I have managed the marinas in Long Beach, I have attempted to bring a private-sector approach to the Long Beach Marinas, and my association with MRA, and the relationships I have formed by my association with the MRA, have proven to be invaluable in this endeavor."
Mark Sandoval, Manager, Long Beach Marine Bureau
"For a Marina Operator/Manager MRA offers invaluable information, from the latest proposed legislation updates to employment management practices and ecological concerns. The annual meeting showcases what is new in the industry with participation from affiliated trade organizations. I would highly recommend MRA as a must for networking with other marina operators, managers and affiliates."
Lynn Allen, Superintendent, Dana Point Marina Company
"I found the MRA's conference to be of incredible value. There was much to learn on the legal front as well as the many pitfalls and opportunities for increased profits in the marina business. I would definitely recommend the conference for anyone looking to tweak their business model or simply bring their marina into the 21st century."
Matt Davies, Owner, Tiki Lagun
"I think one of the greatest benefits is in attending the Trade Show seminars. We went to the Clean Marina seminar and were very interested in what they were saying. Thanks to this program, we are an officially certified Clean Marina and are very happy with all the measures we take to help our fragile environment. The MRA membership allows us to keep up with what is going on in the "marina" world."
Suzanne Carreau, Tahoe Keys Marina
"The MRA Conference and Trade show was an invaluable resource for me to see the many options that are available for new construction or redevelopment. The vendors are specific to the needs of the marina owner. The workshops provide great and valuable information on varied topics that are both useful and informative."
Mary Lou LoPreste, Owner-Manager, Sun Harbor Marina
We found the MRA seminars extremely informative. Not only did we lean a lot but we met some very nice people. Being new at operating a marina, there were many things to watch out for that we had never thought of. We thank you for the education.
Melinda and Ron Lerg, Pleasure Point Marina
"As a past attendee of several MRA conferences, I have always enjoyed the opportunity to share in the experiences of colleagues and other professionals in the marina industry. The forums are engaging. The speakers are informative and often thought provoking. What better way to stay abreast of new information and regulations. With the MRA annual conferences we have been given a unique opportunity to associate with other members of our industry in a fun, friendly resort atmosphere."
Jamie Bolt, Bethel Harbor
The exchange of information that I have received from attending the MRA's Educational Conference and Trade Show has been an invaluable asset to our Marina. Every year I come away with at least one gem to incorporate it into our business. Consequently, we now have an improved employee handbook, slip holder's agreement, and boat rental contract. Being an MRA member has helped us meet the challenges of our unique industry, it's constant changing nature, and provide a better environment for our staff and customers.
Alan Sharp, General Manager, Big Bear Marina
"MRA's annual conference is a well-organized, well-attended event that provides an opportunity for professionals within the marina industry to network and expand their knowledge base in a workshop format. Comprehensive subject matter is available to attendees from which to choose. For those of you in the marina business who elect to stay on the cutting edge, I encourage you to participate in this user friendly assemblage of experts. Your attendance at this year's conference will unquestionably be a worthwhile investment for both yourself and your company."
Steve Burton, No. Calif. Regional Manager, Westrec Marinas Mgmt., Inc.
"I attended my first MRA Educational Conference & Trade Show last year and found the organization and location to be outstanding. Mariann Timms and her team were exceptional in putting together informative seminars and keeping the conference running smoothly. I look forward to this year's Educational Conference & Trade Show in Santa Barbara. Great Organization, Great Location! The resources that are available through this organization are invaluable. Just the effort that is put forth towards establishing government policy on behalf of our industry is truly amazing not to mention the wealth of information that can be provided within the membership.
Alan Maciel, Director of Marketing, Berg Holdings
I've been an attendee of the MRA's Educational Conference and Trade Show for the past 4 years. I found every class I've attended to be action packed and informative. The classes are up to speed with the latest and newest info. Everything you need to know to run a harbor effectively and smoothly is taught at the MRA Educational Conference. I found the classes to be especially helpful when dealing with the various agencies marinas go through to get permits for improvements and maintenance. I highly recommend every marina owner and harbor master attend the MRA Educational Conference and Trade Show.
Jordan Rodgers, Harbor Master, Clipper Yacht Harbor