Who We Are

Englewood Beach Waterfest Inc. is a 501c3 Florida Corporation whose mission is to stage spectator events, participant competitions and educational forums that showcase Englewood’s unique water resources and recreational opportunities. All proceeds benefit local charities, with a focus on water conservation and recreation.

Waterfest is a group of local business people, citizens, civic groups, and charities who work together in this all-volunteer organization. While the most of the events and activities are executed in the fall, year round planning, fundraising, permitting, marketing, coordination and publicity require tens of thousands of volunteer hours per year. As evidenced by the following list of Board Members, it is clear that the Waterfest initiatives are competently represented by the accomplished talents of its leaders and their respective local businesses which they own, manage or represent.

Board of Directors

PresidentJay Henderson
1st Vice PresidentRay Labadie
2nd Vice PresidentRalph Young
CEOSteve Gardiner
SecretaryJim Litton
TreasurerNakia Garcia

Board Members

Barb CyrDoug Izzo
Ryan KrizenDana Lutz
Dave LutzSeth Strahan

While the Board is the pillar of the organization, its committed volunteers are its foundation. Following are a sampling of local professionals who donate their expertise, we are indebted to them and many others.

Lori EmeryAttorneyWellbaum and Emery, PA
Mark KnaufAccountantMark H. Knauf Accountant
Palma FrableMarketingPalm Trends Marketing