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ABBRA Names New Executive Director and Administrative Manager, Head Office to Move to Newport, RI

Newport, RI – July 15, 2015 – ABBRA, the American Boat Builders & Repairers Association announced today it has appointed Pamela Lendzion as the Interim Executive Director and Meg Toppa the Administrative Manager and has moved its office to the Newport Shipyard.

Ron Helbig, President of ABBRA said, “We are pleased to have Pam at the helm as an experienced business executive, boatyard operator, and industry advocate along with Meg Toppa who brings administrative and marketing expertise to ABBRA”. Pam is a past president and long time director of ABBRA. “Her vision and enthusiasm for our continued growth and ideas for expanded and enhanced programs and service for members is refreshing”.

Pamela Lendzion has worked in the recreational marine industry for 17 years. She served as the Director of the Marine Industries Association of Northeast Florida, and volunteered her time to serve as the Chair of the Marine Industry Training and Education Council and President of ABBRA. She is currently the CEO of MarineTec Management & Consulting Company. Pam said, “The opportunity to work with ABBRA as its Interim Executive Director and provide leadership that focuses the organization on the needs of today’s boatyard operators is exciting. ABBRA is a 72 year old organization with a Code of Ethics that is still relevant today however, like other sectors of the recreational marine industry, boatyards and boat builders are trying to keep up with constant changes in boat design, materials, and equipment, as well as growing regulatory and safety requirements. With proper strategic planning and execution, ABBRA’s programs will have a positive impact on its members and the industry by helping our member businesses move into the future with a plan for sustainable growth. I am happy to be working with Meg who is an essential member of the ABBRA staff. She is a competent administrative manager and crucial to the accomplishment of ABBRA’s goals and the success of it’s programs.”

Meg Toppa will manage the ABBRA office including member communication and coordination of events, programs, and publications. She is a native of Newport RI and recently returned after living and working in the recreational marine industry in Fort Lauderdale for 20 years.

ABBRA has relocated its offices to Newport Rhode Island. Its address is Newport Shipyard, 1 Washington St, Newport RI 02840, new phone number is (401) 236-2466, e-mail: [email protected]

ABBRA is proud to have it’s office located in Newport Shipyard, known for its high quality of service and professionalism. Newport Shipyard is a recipient of ABBRA’s 2010 Boatyard of the Year Awar

About American Boat Builders & Repairers Association (ABBRA)

Founded in 1943, ABBRA is a national marine trade organization that represents, is dedicated to, and seeks to strengthen and encourage professionalism in the boat building, marine service and boat repair industry.

About American Boat Builders & Repairers Association (ABBRA)

Founded in 1943, ABBRA is a national marine trade organization that represents, is dedicated to, and seeks to strengthen and encourage professionalism in the boat building, marine service, and boat repair industry.