[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 28 (Wednesday, February 13, 2019)]
[Senate]
[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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