News
ELKHART, INDIANA
Steve Vogel, founder, President and CEO of Bennington Marine Group (BMG), one of the nation's leading pontoon and fiberglass boat builders, announced August 17th-19th would be the companies official celebration of it's 10-year anniversary to take place in South Bend, Indiana. The 2007-2008 year commemorates "A Decade of Success, A Lifetime of Friendships".
The now global dealer network, suppliers, employees and special guests gathered in South Bend, Indiana to attend the annual dealer meeting and in celebration of 10 successful years. Guests were welcomed with gifts including 10-year Anniversary water goblets and limited edition t-shirts. Award winning dealers were then photographed in front of an impressively long banner listing all of the winners. BMG's latest arsenal of boats filled 36,500 sq. ft. of show room for guests to enjoy. A bounty of fine cuisine and drinks prelude the opening nights celebration. A commemorative video was played to open the remarks from President and CEO, Steve Vogel. Vogel honored key founding individuals including dealers and suppliers in the making of BMG. When all was said and done, some 190 individuals and organizations were awarded. In his speech, Vogel made comment of the companies unwavering commitment to build quality boats, referencing boat no. 1 and today's Q series (see photo gallery). When Vogel concluded the ceremony, guests were surprised with indoor fireworks and 15 minutes of outdoor fireworks. Guests partied the night away while trying their luck in the exclusive casino.
The weekend was highlighted with a special guest appearance by the University of Notre Dame Head Football Coach, Charlie Weis. Coach Weis graciously accepted the invitation to speak to the group and what an address he made! Guests were inspired as Coach Weis emphasized team work and individual leadership. The Hannah & Friends Foundation, founded by Charlie Weis, was given two 2008 Bennington R series pontoons featuring the new Irish package with proceeds benefiting the foundation. These boats were built by donated time and materials of BMG employees and suppliers. The night was topped with performances by The Caribbean Chillers who wrote a special BMG 10th anniversary song.
Guided tours of BMG facilities and boat rides were offered throughout the event. With unprecedented growth in the past, current growth in manufacturing, staffing and dealers, and a future as bright as ever, BMG had a lot to celebrate. The event was a big hit and surely deserved by the dedicated members of BMG. In lasting honor of it's 10-year anniversay, Bennington pontoons is offering an Anniversary package to it's R series models.