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    • HOME
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  • HOME
  • ANNUAL GALA
  • DONATE
  • SPONSORSHIPS
  • BANDIT BOOK!
  • PRESS
  • BOARD & ADVOCATES
  • ABOUT
  • CONTACT

VDRF Executive Director

Mike Provost, Executive Director

In the fall of 2021, “Captain Mike” watched a 35-foot, 20,000 lb cruiser rot ashore at First Landing State Park. After more than 100 calls for help, he was told no one had the funding or authority to remove it. So, alongside Hayden Italiano of Dynamic Marine Construction and Services and with support from local donors, they removed it themselves. That effort led to Mike founding VDRF in December 2021. Today, as a proud husband and father of three, he leads VDRF’s mission to remove abandoned, derelict, and at-risk vessels from Virginia's waterways, shorelines, and adjacent properties.

VDRF Board of Directors

Ross Leeberg, President, Board of Directors

Catherine Byrd Jeydel Vice President, Board of Directors

Catherine Byrd Jeydel Vice President, Board of Directors

-HSQE Professional


-Former Navy SWCC Non-commissioned Officer (NCO), Crowley Maritime Desig. Person Ashore, ISO 9001 & 14001, ISM , ASA 106 Sailor


Catherine Byrd Jeydel Vice President, Board of Directors

Catherine Byrd Jeydel Vice President, Board of Directors

Catherine Byrd Jeydel Vice President, Board of Directors

-Experienced Attorney focused on Environmental Law


-Specialized in Government Contracts and Construction, and litigation, Lifelong Hampton Roads boater


Carl "Bret" Polvinale, Board of Directors

Catherine Byrd Jeydel Vice President, Board of Directors

Carl "Bret" Polvinale, Board of Directors

-Global Security and Threat Assessment Team Leader


-Liaison - Realty Board of Directors, Marine Enthusiast and Boater

Nate Chundrlek, Board of Directors

Catherine Byrd Jeydel Vice President, Board of Directors

Carl "Bret" Polvinale, Board of Directors

-Retired SWCC Chief Petty Officer


-US Navy Tactical Boat Instructor, General Contractor and Electrician

Captains of Advocacy

Neal Sadler, Virginia Beach

Neal Sadler, Virginia Beach

Neal Sadler, Virginia Beach

Michelle Conti, Bay Island

Neal Sadler, Virginia Beach

Neal Sadler, Virginia Beach



Charles Mehle, Bay Island

Neal Sadler, Virginia Beach

Charles Mehle, Bay Island

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