Committee Chair & Members 2025

Advocacy & Legislation Chairman
Ethics Chairman


Annual Dinner Chairperson
CYBA GEO (Growth Outreach Expansion) Chairperson


Arbitration Chairman

Dennis Moran
dmoran1102@gmail.com


Boat Show Chairman


CYBA Newsletter Editor


Forms Committee

Forms Chairman

Nick Friedman
Office: 310-547-4415
Cell: 310-748-5409
yachtbroker@pacbell.net

As a CYBA Member for 26, Nick has served the CYBA BoD both as a Director and a Past President. Nick is well versed in the workings of the CYBA Forms and has proudly put together a committee that is knowledgeable and dedicated to making the necessary adjustments in keeping the forms current and user friendly for the CYBA Members’ use.

Forms Committee

Russ Carrington
Cell: 310-991-2628
Email: russ@seattleyachts.com

Russ’s lifelong passion for the sea is evident in his extensive involvement in the boating community. From his early days of sailing, surfing, and diving along the picturesque coast of Southern California, to his current endeavors, he has always been driven by a desire to share the aquatic lifestyle with others. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Action Watersports, a name synonymous with quality and expertise in the local surf scene. As a co-founder of Marinafest, a boat show in Marina del Rey, Russ has been instrumental in bringing together boating enthusiasts to celebrate the joy of maritime activities. His commitment to the industry is further demonstrated through his association with Seattle Yachts, where he dedicates himself to guiding clients in the selection and enjoyment of premium yachts. His contact information indicates his readiness to connect with fellow water sports aficionados and prospective clients, offering a wealth of knowledge and a personal touch to the boating experience.

Forms Committee

Alexander T. Gruft
Office: 619-347-3308
Email: agruft@gruftlaw.com

Alex Gruft is the principal at Law Office of Alexander T Gruft located in Pacific Palisades. He graduated with a history degree from Sonoma State University (1999) and received his J.D. from the University of San Diego School of Law (2002). After an initial stint in maritime litigation, Mr. Gruft opted to focus his work on handling transactional matters for his clients. Working closely with private yacht clients Mr. Gruft advises on all aspects of maritime transactions including new construction, ownership, flagging, and management. On the commercial side he has worked closely to partner with his business clients on all aspects of their various marine businesses including commercial vessel ownership, operation, management, regulatory compliance, risk management and charters. Mr. Gruft also works with lenders to assist them with evaluating and documenting their marine portfolios. Mr. Gruft is licensed to practice in California and Washington.

Forms Committee

Shelley Shea
Office: 562-684-6122
Email: sshea@galatiyachts.com

With several years of experience in the marine industry, Shelley Shea serves as a dedicated Closing Coordinator at Galati Yacht Sales in California. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to excellence, Shelley plays a pivotal role in ensuring smooth, successful transactions for both buyers and sellers across a wide range of transactions.
Shelley is known for her exceptional customer service, consistently delivering seamless experiences and fostering strong relationships with clients. Her expertise in navigating complex closing processes and her deep understanding of the intricacies of yacht sales make her an invaluable asset to both the Galati Yacht Sales team and its clients.


Legal Seminar Chairman


Membership Chairman


Sponsorship Chairman

Jeff Merrill
Office/Cell: 949-355-4950
Jeff@JMYS.com