JULY 2017 • FOGHORN 5 LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR John Groundwater pate and share your expertise and knowledge. The strength of this is rooted in involving PVA vessel members, PVAAssociate members and government representatives to offer a broad program that focuses on current industry issues and emerging trends. Watch your email for the MariTrends 2018 Call for Presentations. I heartily encourage you to submit a recom- mendation for your convention presentation. 2017 PVA Safety Awards Each year, PVA members operate safely on U.S. waterways across the nation. Training, drills, and years of experience have allowed our industry to develop a stellar reputation for safety and professionalism. Scores of operators and their crew readily implement safety- enhancing practices and humbly participate in lifesav- ing and other activities that assist others on the nation’s waterways. Did you know that PVA has in place two very special safety awards that recognize such actions? The PVA Safety and Security Committee and the Passenger Vessel Foundation recognize annually PVA member recipients who have demonstrated extraordinary actions that result in a safer marine environment. The two PVAsafety awards are: Roger Murphy Marine Safety Award This award is named after PVA Past President Roger Murphy, the founder of the PVA Safety and Security Committee, and is given to a deserving employee of a PVA member in recognition for demonstrating, enhancing or contributing to the overall safety of their organization and/ or the passenger vessel industry. Captain Elizabeth Gedney Passenger Vessel Safety Award The award is named after Captain Elizabeth “Beth” Gedney who was PVA’s Director of Safety, Security and Risk Management. The annual award recognizes actions by PVAmembers and their employees that have resulted in a positive outcome due to safety training, seamanship and high professional standards. I encourage you to review the qualifications for these awards and submit a nomination at www.pvfoundation. com by the deadline of November 30. In the meantime, please let me know whenever we can be of assistance to you. Sincerely, John R. Groundwater Executive Director n An Eye Toward Savannah…. Planning is underway for the PVA Annual Convention at MariTrends 2018, scheduled January 28-31 which will feature an impres- sive offering of social events, education sessions and seminars, special industry con- ferences, and an exciting MariTrends 2018 exhibit floor. As an added bonus, this year’s convention will be set against the spectacular backdrop of Savannah, GA. “Top 10 Most Beautiful Places in America” Savannah is a charming and welcoming Southern city that offers Old World sophistication with a modern flair. Majestic architecture, attractive cobblestone streets, trendy boutiques are all showcased under a veil of Spanish moss, live oaks and palm trees. Recognized as one of the “World’s 30 Friendliest Cities” and a “Top 10 U.S. City to Visit” by Condé Nast Traveler readers, this im- pressive coastal town has an unmatched reputation for hospitality and enjoyment. USA Weekend Magazine has named Savannah as one of the “Top 10 Most Beautiful Places in America.” The New York Times has recognized it as one of the “World’s Top Ten Trendy Travel Hot Spots” and Southern Living magazine has placed it on its “Best Southern City” list. Locally Sourced Coastal Cuisine A wide array of dining venues feature locally sourced, coastal dishes with a Southern spin that keep visitors ordering more. One attractive feature of Savannah’s culinary scene is the ability to dine outdoors throughout the city for most of the year. The State-of the-Art Savannah International Trade and Convention Center Scheduled to be held January 28-31, at the state-of-the- art Savannah International Trade and Convention Center, the PVA Annual Convention at MariTrends 2018 is posi- tioned perfectly to offer you a convention that is second- to-none, in a first-class destination and one that is designed specifically for the passenger vessel industry. Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort and Spa The headquarters hotel for the PVAAnnual Convention at MariTrends 2018 is the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort and Spa. This exciting hotel is located next to the convention center on the Savannah waterfront. The property offers stunning views of Savannah along with a PGA golf course. MariTrends 2018 Call For Presentations Have you ever prepared and made a presentation during a PVA convention? If you have, thank you very much. If you have not, there are opportunities to partici-