TVIB News Industry Press

In 2015, I was brand new to TVIB and the towing vessel industry attending my first Annual Membership Meeting.  I felt very out of place and nervous. Mike Rushing noticed my unease right away and let me know that the meeting was running well and thanked me for my part in setting things up.  I felt I hadn’t done much but he assured me that every member of a team was valuable, and that I would eventually feel more knowledgeable about the industry and confident in my role.  It was exactly what I needed to hear. He was right, of course, and ten years later I still think about that moment whenever I tackle new challenges. Because this small interaction meant so much, I make sure that I also notice and compliment others on their contributions. This is just one small example of how Mike always found time to guide others, no matter their rung on the ladder.

Recognizing those who inspire others and give so much of themselves to the industry and their community is an important way we can honor the legacy of Mike Rushing.

There are just a few days left to submit your nomination for the 2^nd annual Mike Rushing Legacy Service Award. The 2025 Mike Rushing Legacy Service Award is open to individuals across the towboat, tugboat, and barge industry, including members of the U.S. Coast Guard. Nominations are being accepted now through March 1, 2025, for candidates who demonstrate the award’s three core principles:

• Community Service: A demonstrated commitment to uplifting their community through impactful service.
• Professional Excellence: Outstanding contributions to the maritime industry.
• Active and Engaged Mentorship: A passion for guiding and inspiring others in their professional and personal growth.

If you know someone who possesses these qualities and would like to submit them for consideration, please complete the online nomination form. Click here for instructions and a list of needed items when completing the online nomination form. Visit www.thetvib.org/mikerushing for additional details.

Fuel Shutoffs on Towing Vessels
We’ve published a new FAQ on our website to clarify how fuel shutoff valves should be tested. This resource covers testing expectations, frequency options, and Towing Safety Management System (TSMS) requirements.

Why Are Fuel Oil Valves Important?
Fuel shutoff valves are critical safety components designed to stop fuel flow to the engine during a malfunction or hazard. Regular testing ensures they work as intended, reducing the risk of fuel-related incidents.

Find Detailed Guidance in Our FAQ
For comprehensive answers and guidance on testing procedures and TSMS requirements, visit the FAQ section on our website: TVIB FAQ. Use the search function with the term “fuel shutoff” or navigate to 46 CFR Part 143 for relevant details.

In 2023, the maritime community came together to honor the legacy of a true industry icon, Mike Rushing, with the establishment of the Mike Rushing Legacy Service Award. This distinguished accolade is a tribute to Mike’s lifelong commitment to serving others, his dedication to the maritime industry, and his passion for mentorship and leadership. This year we have expanded on our partnership with the Waterways Journal and The Seamen’s Church Institute to broaden our reach and continue to elevate this award within the maritime community. As we prepare for the 2nd Annual Mike Rushing Legacy Service Award, we are excited to announce that nominations are now open for the 2025 recipient.

Honoring a Legacy of Service

Mike Rushing was a cornerstone of the maritime industry and a founding member of TVIB in 2009. He served on the TVIB Board of Directors for 10 years, leading as its first Chairman in 2012 and continuing as the Audit Committee chairman until his passing in 2023. Beyond his professional achievements, Mike was known for his selfless service to his community, dedicating time to his church, the Boy Scouts, Soap Box Derby, and the Breaking Bonds Addiction Recovery Ministry. As his son Todd Rushing aptly said, “Everything he did, he did for someone else.”

The Mike Rushing Legacy Service Award was created to honor individuals who embody the core values that defined Mike—dedication, perseverance, and a selfless commitment to serving others. The award celebrates those who, like Mike, have made an enduring impact on the maritime industry and their communities through mentorship, professional excellence, and service.

Nomination Details

The 2025 Mike Rushing Legacy Service Award is open to individuals across the towboat, tugboat, and barge industry, including members of the U.S. Coast Guard. Nominations are being accepted now through March 1, 2025, for candidates who demonstrate the award’s three core principles:

• Community Service: A demonstrated commitment to uplifting their community through impactful service.
• Professional Excellence: Outstanding contributions to the maritime industry.
• Active and Engaged Mentorship: A passion for guiding and inspiring others in their professional and personal growth.

To nominate a deserving individual, please complete the online nomination form.  Click here for instructions and a list of items need when completing the online nomination form.

For complete details visit the award program webpage.

Recognizing Excellence

The recipient of the 2025 award will be announced and celebrated at the Inland Marine Expo (IMX) hosted by the Waterways Journal. As part of the recognition, a financial contribution will be made in the honoree’s name to The Seaman’s Church Institute’s Ministry on the River program, an organization that supports mariners and their families. We encourage you to make a contribution in honor of Mike Rushing and this year’s recipient using SCIs online portal.

Reflecting on the Inaugural Award

Last year, George Foster was honored as the inaugural recipient of the Mike Rushing Legacy Service Award. Like Mike, George exemplifies the values of selfless leadership, mentorship, and community service, working quietly behind the scenes to create a lasting impact. The recognition of George Foster at the 2024 IMX was a moment of pride and inspiration for all who were present.

Submit Your Nominations Today

The Mike Rushing Legacy Service Award is more than an honor; it is a celebration of the countless moments of leadership, mentorship, and service that shape the maritime industry and our communities. We invite you to help us continue this tradition by nominating individuals who embody these values. (online nomination form and instructions)

Let’s come together to celebrate those who inspire, serve, and lead with dedication and compassion. Submit your nomination by March 1, 2025, and join us in honoring the enduring legacy of Mike Rushing.