b'Formed in 1984, the New York State Tour Boat Associationofcourse,theircustomers.Unlikecompaniesinmany FOGHORN FOCUS (NYSTBA) serves passenger vessel operators throughoutindustries, such as a restaurant, bar, tourist attraction, or the state of New York. Their mission is to help membersevent venue, NYSTBA members fall into multiple typical succeed in their businesses by sharing ideas and knowledgebusiness categories. on government regulations, public demands, and trends. They also provide marketing opportunities, helping mem- Havinganetworkofsimilaroperationstoturntofor bers grow revenue. The goal of the NYSTBA is to advanceadvice, brainstorming, networking, and support in over-the industry by providing safe, enjoyable experiences tocoming challenges, is a major benefit for members in the guests visiting the waterways of New York.association. Members regularly receive emails sharing in-formation such as details of upcoming events or proposed NYSTBAhasmembersofeverytype,fromlargeferrychanges in regulation which may affect individual opera-services along the coast to small family-owned companiestions. PVA member Grand Lady Cruises has maintained operating a single boat on a lake to river cruises that touramembershipwithNYSTBAsince1998.GrandLady the lock system running through the state. Regardless ofCruisesPresidentRickDeegansaid,Theexchangeof the structure or size of the operations or vessels, membersinformation and ideas has been invaluable for us. One of have much in common. All of them need to follow Newthe best ideas I ever received was from the late Dean Pohl (a York State laws, regulations from the Coast Guard or thelongtime NYSTBA member) that I should become a mar-NewYorkStateParksMarineDivision,healthdepart- riage officer in the town and would be able to officiate at ments,marineinsurance,environmentalpolicies,Newweddings as captain of the ship (it has worked very well for York State Liquor Authority (for many operators), and,me, thank you Dean).PHOTO: ERIE CANAL CRUISES INC.FOGHORN 22'