The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas opened the nomination period for the second annual Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes marine retail professionals who have made sustained contributions to the industry.

Last year, Don Galey of Galey’s Marine in Bakersfield, Calif., was the first recipient of the award. Galey contributed to several industry milestones, including the creation of the MRAA, the launch of Spader Business Management/MRAA 20 Groups and the introduction of floorplan financing for dealers.

MRAA said the selection of the award recipient will be made on the basis of the nominees’ contributions to the industry, the lasting impact of those contributions, and the demonstration of a lifetime commitment to the business of selling and/or servicing boats and the delivery of an outstanding boating lifestyle to consumers.

“It was an honor to present Don Galey with the first-ever MRAA Lifetime Achievement award in a room full of industry professionals who have been impacted by his life’s work,” MRAA president Matt Gruhn said in a statement. “As a result of individual leaders like Don, our industry continues to evolve and strengthen for future generations. We look forward to recognizing another individual this year for his lasting impact on marine retailing.”

This year’s award will be presented Dec. 9 on the opening night of the Marine Dealer Conference & Expo. Nominations can be submitted by anyone and can be made anonymously.