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[Pages S1323-S1324]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
RECOGNIZING JL MARINE SYSTEMS, INC.
Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, it is my privilege to honor a
Florida small business that exemplifies innovation and how thinking
outside of the box to solve problems can create technological
breakthroughs. As chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business
and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize a small business that
embodies the unique American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is
my distinct privilege to honor JL Marine Systems, Inc., as the Senate
Small Business of the Week.
Located in Tampa, FL, JL Marine Systems is known in fishing
communities throughout the country as the manufacturer of the Power-
Pole shallow water anchor. John Oliverio, the creator of the Power-
Pole, has been an angler for all his life and used this experience to
create a more practical approach to shallow water fishing. As a flats
fisherman, he was frustrated that bringing his boat to a stop with a
push pole or an anchor required him to lose sight of fish. In 1998,
John devised the concept for an anchor that he could lower from
anywhere, allowing him to keep his eyes on fish. Today, the Power-Pole
is a premier shallow water anchor, featuring sophisticated technology
for more effective shallow water fishing.
JL Marine Systems' Power-Pole technology is available in five
different models, at more than 3,500 dealers, manufacturers, and
retailers. These quality products have helped JL Marine Systems to
build strong partnerships in the boating and fishing industries and has
earned accolades at professional fishing tournaments, in magazines, and
on television shows. The Power-Pole won Best New Boating Accessory at
the International Convention of Allied Sportsfishing Trades in 2011,
2012, and 2013 and won awards for its electronics at the International
Boatbuilders Exhibition and Conference in 2017.
JL Marine Systems' commitment to a higher standard is not only seen
in their innovative products and customer service, but also in how the
company gives back to its community. JL Marine Systems is a proud
supporter of the Florida Aquarium, the Coastal Conservation
Association, the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation, and numerous
other organizations. The company also supports its community by hosting
hurricane relief fundraisers and by sponsoring Tampa-area youth sports
teams and high school and college fishing teams.
John Oliverio's work to develop and produce the Power-Pole shallow
water anchor represents the innovation that Floridian entrepreneurs are
known so well for. Through hard work and perseverance, John and his
team at JL Marine Systems have revolutionized the shallow water anchor
and have set an excellent example of ingenuity. I would like to
congratulate John and the entire team at JL Marine Systems for being
named the Senate Small Business of the Week. I wish them good luck and
look forward to watching their continued growth and success.
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