News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 24, 2005

PWIA Supports RIMTA Fundraiser

Contact:
Elinore Boeke, 202-737-9768

Washington, DC—Proceeds from the raffle of a personal watercraft (PWC) for the Rhode Island Marine Trades Association (RIMTA) at the Providence Boat Show will go to support RIMTA’s Charity and Education Fund. The Personal Watercraft Industry Association (PWIA) facilitated the donation of a Sea-Doo PWC from BRP Inc for the raffle.

“PWIA’s donation to the RIMTA’s Charity and Education Fund demonstrates the commitment of PWC manufacturers to supporting Rhode Island’s boating community,” said Ken Kubic, RIMTA president. “The funds raised from this month’s PWC raffle will be used to fund ongoing efforts to promote awareness of the state’s Marine industry.”

“We are pleased that the PWC raffle was such a success,” said Maureen Healey, PWIA executive director. “PWIA has enjoyed a strong relationship with RIMTA, and we look forward to continuing to work with them on issues of importance to Rhode Island’s boating community.”

PWIA has been a member of RIMTA since 2002, and has supported legislation to enhance safe boating throughout Rhode Island. Much of state law governing PWC operation mirrors regulations called for in PWIA’s model legislation, such as a minimum operator age of 16, mandatory education for all operators, and guidelines requiring prudent and reasonable operation.

As a result of an industry-wide commitment to update engine technology since 1998, PWC have evolved into an environmentally friendly boating choice for families who wish to enjoy the water together, and have found personal watercraft to be affordable, approachable, and easy to store, transport, and maintain.

PWIA is the trade association representing the four major personal watercraft manufacturers in the U.S.; its mission is to ensure that personal watercraft and personal watercraft users are treated fairly when local, state, and federal government officials consider boating regulations. PWIA is an affiliate of the National Marine Manufacturers Association. More information is available at www.pwia.org.