Ship Philly First, an independent marketing group that seeks to promote the  Port of Philadelphia as a world class gateway, has new leadership. Lawrence R. Antonucci, Jr., president, 721 Logistics, which is based in Lester, Pa., was elected president by the membership for a two-year term, effective April 15. He replaces Fred Sorbello, CEO, Mullica Hill Group Companies, a force in creating the group three years ago. “The Port of Philadelphia is fortunate to have a number of vital organizations, but none quite like ours,” said Antonucci. “We represent the private sector - those businesses that manage freight from the country of origin to the retailer -  like terminal operators, truckers, warehouse providers, logistics experts, freight forwarders, customs brokers and maritime lawyers. We are those folks in back-office businesses that maintain the port as a major economic engine for the region. “We are not a social organization, nor do we want to duplicate what is already in place. We aggressively seek new business through advertising paid exclusively with membership dues, attendance at key trade events and strategic meetings with importers, growers and manufacturers around the world to persuade them to Ship Philly First.” Eric T. Holt, of Holt Logistics in Gloucester City, NJ, replaces Todd Brown, also of Holt Logistics, as vice president. “I would like to congratulate the previous board for a framework that will have positive impacts on the port community for years to come. As a group, we have already accomplished so much and I look forward to continuing where they left off,” said Holt. Edward Fitzgerald, vice president, OHL International in the Philadelphia Navy Yard, is returning as treasurer; and Anthony Leo, president, RLS Logistics of Newfield, NJ, as secretary. All serve without compensation for one-year terms. For more information: Contact Eileen Stilwell, [email protected], 856-428-8417