The agenda for BWI’s Annual Meeting starts with Continental breakfast, courtesy of the National Marine Electronics Association, moves on to brief Association business, then presentation of the Annual Writing Awards, a short coffee break, and the panel on The Future of Marine Journalism. It runs from 8 to 10 a.m. on Friday February 18 at the Miami Beach Convention Center Room A 204-205.
How journalists can best respond to the changing needs of the boating industry in an era of social networking will be the focus of the panel discussion. Other issues sure to be discussed include the viability of online publications and whether these outlets require skill sets different from those of the traditional writer. “It’s time for a frank discussion of the future of marine journalism and I suspect our program will produce an exciting dialogue that will actively engage our audience,” said BWI Director Michael Sciulla, chairman of the committee producing the forum.
Another highlight of BWI’s Miami meeting will be an introduction by the National Marine Electronics Association of a major new initiative, the NMEA Master Dealer Program. This will allow boaters to identify marine electronics dealers who are committed to education, technical proficiency, and customer service consistent with the organization’s high standards.
All of BWI’s events are open to the marine community and require no ticket for admission.