CaribPR Wire

LANDOVER, Md.,  Oct. 1, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation launches its final mission of coral reef research in the Bahamas, concluding the first year of its ambitious Global Reef Expedition. Having completed research in Cay Sal Bank, Hogsty Reef, and the Inaguas earlier this year, the Foundation now turns to Andros and Abaco islands to study sites that were last surveyed more than a decade ago.

The Global Reef Expedition is the first world-wide mapping and research assessment of coral reefs. The chairman of the Living Oceans Foundation, Prince Khaled bin Sultan, said an expedition of this scale “will greatly assist the world in understanding coral reefs, their health and critical role in the environment. Our research will produce maps of previously uncharted areas and provide management recommendations urgently needed to preserve these valuable ocean resources. We are involving local scientists in all of our research and exploration. ”

Andros contains the longest barrier reef in the Bahamas and the third largest in the world. The Foundation’s science team, joined by Bahamian researchers, will identify the abundance, size, and health of reef building coral species as well as discovering how the reef has recovered from coral bleaching events in 1998.

The Foundation’s Chief Scientist, Dr. Andrew Bruckner, said “Our research will lead to improvements in existing habitat maps and will help recent efforts to develop a land and sea use plan for the entire island including zoning of sensitive areas.”

The Foundation will survey unstudied sites around the central Abaco islands as well as some that were last surveyed in 1999 which will yield important time-change information.  The reefs of central Abaco are near areas of high population density and high user pressure which contrasts sharply with other reefs the Foundation has surveyed in the Bahamas, helping to further understand human impacts on reef health.

Commenting on the six months of coral reef research in The Bahamas the Foundation’s Executive Director Captain Philip Renaud, USN (ret), said, “The successful and productive coral reef survey and mapping missions we have accomplished during our first year of the Global Reef Expedition could not have been possible without the committed support for our work from the Minister of the Environment, the Department of Marine Resources, Bahamas National Trust, and The Nature Conservancy.”

Eric Carey, BNT Executive Director added “The Bahamas, as a nation, is extremely fortunate to have been chosen as the first country in the world-wide study of the health of coral reef environments by the Living Oceans Foundation.  Young Bahamian scientists from the Department of Marine Resources , Bahamas National Trust and College of The Bahamas have had the opportunity to join the Living Oceans Foundation research team – a once in a lifetime experience.  The final leg of the Bahamas Voyage will assess the Andros Barrier Reef and the reefs of the Abaco’s.  Both of these areas are critical for the health of Bahamian Fisheries and our larger marine environment.  The information generated from the Global Reef Expedition will feed directly into the management of our national parks and marine protected areas.”

Bahamian researchers include: Indira Brown, Jared Dillet, Agnessa Lundy, Lindy Knowles, Olivia Patterson, Krista Sherman, and Tavares Thompson.

About the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation

Founded by HRH Prince General Khaled bin Sultan of Saudi Arabia, the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation was incorporated in California as a 501(c)(3), public benefit, Private Operating Foundation in September 2000. With its headquarters in Washington DC, the Living Oceans Foundation is dedicated to the conservation and restoration of oceans of the world, and champions their preservation through research, education, and a commitment to Science Without Borders®. For more information, visit http://www.livingoceansfoundation.org

Science Without Borders® is registered to the Foundation for financial sponsorship of marine conservation programs and scientific research and to promote public awareness of the need to preserve, protect and restore the world’s oceans and aquatic resources.

Hard Beat CEO and Invest Caribbean Founder, Felicia Persaud

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Sept. 30. 21, 2011: The countdown has begun to Invest Caribbean Montego Bay. On the heels of the very successful inaugural Invest Caribbean Forum held in New York City in June 2011, the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry will host the Jamaica event next month at the Rose Hall convention center as part of their 14^th annual expo: ”Unleashing Innovations.”

The Invest Caribbean MoBay forum will kick off at 10 a.m. on Friday, October 14^th and feature three U.S. investors – Adam Borden, founder and managing director of the Baltimore-based Bradmer Foods, LLC; David  Freschman, managing principal of the Delaware-based Innovation Capital Advisors, LLC and founder of FashInvest; and Stanley Tobin, vice president of Young America Capital of New York.

 Each will present a five minute overview of their company and an educational insight on what they look for in investment opportunities before engaging in a face-to-face match making session with registered entrepreneurs.

 “What our efforts are proving is that there is a wealth of investor interest and a treasure trove of business opportunities in the Caribbean just waiting to be unlocked,” noted Hard Beat Communications CEO, Felicia Persaud, the architect of this series.

The October event is being presented by Hard Beat Communications, Inc., and the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry in association with RIU, Air Jamaica, News Americas, CaribPR Wire and WSEE TV.

Invest Caribbean recently concluded a successful forum with the Caribbean Tourism Organization during Caribbean Week in New York, June 9, 2011 featuring Goldman Sachs’ VP, W. Dave Dowrich; Spackman Capital CEO, Martin Mohabeer and CEO of the Brilla Group, David Brillembourg.

See Felicia Persaud’s opening at the June investment forum http://vimeo.com/25323506.

 To register for this forum and more, log on to http://investcaribbeannow.com/.

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Sept. 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Plans are well underway for the Caribbean Shipping Association’s (CSA) 41st Annual General Meeting (AGM) next month, October 10 -12 at the Hilton Barbados.  The CSA is the voice of the region’s shipping industry and a major regional forum in which matters relevant to the growth and development of Caribbean shipping are discussed.

 Officials of the Association, which is headquartered in Jamaica, were in Barbados recently finalizing the plans for the event with local partners, Barbados Port Inc. and the Shipping Association of Barbados (SAB). Immediate Past President of CSA, Fernando Rivera said that he was pleased with the headway that Barbados had made in planning for the AGM; and with the social events planned that will enhance the experience of attendees for this very special 40th Anniversary meeting. 

 President of the SAB Marc Sampson commented that Barbados was very pleased to be given the honour of hosting the CSA for its 40th anniversary. “This year is also a key milestone in the shipping industry for Barbados because we at CSA are celebrating our 30th anniversary while Barbados Port Inc. is celebrating 50 years of service to Barbados.  We are therefore determined to make this an extra special AGM for members and their families.”

 Among the issues to be discussed will be the Business and Economic Outlook for Global Trade and Cruise Tourism, Integrated Regional Approach to Logistics, Distribution and Warehousing, Lessons Learned from the Gulf Oil Spill, Forces Shaping Cruise Lines Deployment Decisions, Global Supply Chain, Maritime Transportation and the Caribbean Transshipment Market, Terminals/Ports of the Future and NVOCC Perspective and The Changing Role of the Traditional Ship Agent.

 The AGM is expected to attract participation not only from Caribbean members but from its wider membership which includes companies as far as the UK, France, Holland, China and Germany.

Books That Will Enhance Your Life Due to Release Author John A. Andrews’ Bestseller Rude Buay … The Unstoppable in French Edition

 HOLLYWOOD, Calif., Sept. 20, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Prolific, national bestselling author John A. Andrews, known for his twisted and gritty writing style in his hit title Rude Buay … The Unstoppable, will not only release its sequel Rude Buay … The Untouchable in March 2012, but will follow it up with Rude Buay…L’irresistible, the French edition. Thus making his hard hitting novel available in four languages: English, Spanish, Chinese and French, on time for the London Book fair in April 2012.

To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/drug-prevention-action-thriller-novel-to-be-released-in-french-edition-130244448.html

Andrews, a visionary, saw the need to translate Rude Buay … The Unstoppable in different languages after signing the thriller around the country and Puerto Rico. According to the author, now on a Multiple Titles Book Tour signing his memoir When The Dust Settles – I am Still Standing: A True Hollywood Story: “Fiction readers not only love engaging page turners, but written in a print easy to read and a language easiest for them to understand.” Andrews will also release two additional Law Enforcement type novels next year: Cross Atlantic Fiasco and Who Shot The Sherriff?

 Rude Buay … The Unstoppable, the first in his Rude Buay Series, not only comes embedded with scenes in the martial arts genre but is sprinkled with patois, a dialect used by Jamaicans, and people from most English/French colonized countries. This French translation will not only provide French readers the thriller in their own language, but continue to expand the international flavor of the Series.

The film project Rude Buay … The Unstoppable is currently being developed and could possibly merge for a two picture production with its upcoming sequel Rude Buay … The Untouchable, according to A L I – Andrews Leadership International.

Rude Buay … The Unstoppable is set in Jamaica, Miami and Colombia and is a blend of Traffic meets Casino Royale with Charlie’s Angels – gone corrupt. Its sequel Rude Buay … The Untouchable is set in China, Jamaica, Miami and Colombia, with a flavor of Blow meets Live and Let Die with Training Day – unplugged.

If both titles merge for a shared location shoot, the Rude Buay Series could wind up joining the league of successful films like Lord of The Rings and Pirates of the Caribbean – both shot on shared locations.

Related links:
A L I
Rude Buay
BTWEYL
Rude Buay Watch

Adam Borden

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Sept. 2, 2011: Adam Borden knows a great food and beverage investment when he sees one. After all, his investment in the company that is now the global pioneer in açai products, is proof positive of that. Borden will be among the panelists of Invest Caribbean Montego Bay this Fall.

The October event is being presented by Hard Beat Communications’ CEO, Felicia Persaud  in collaboration with the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce, and is set for the Rose Hall convention center as part of the Chamber’s 14^th annual expo that will be opened by Assistant Secretary General of the OAS, Ambassador Albert Ramdin.

Borden, the managing director of Bradmer Foods, LLC, says his company is constantly looking for the next food trend and food entrepreneur, wherever that may be and whatever they may be making. 

“We’re excited to participate in Invest Caribbean because of the new foods and faces we’re likely to encounter.   We look for entrepreneurs with a vision for greatness, a distinguished product and a compelling story,” said Borden, who has also invested in Adina Beverages, an organic & Fair Trade drink company; Blue Horizon Wild, one of the leading marketers of sustainably harvested seafood products; Charles Chocolates, a San Francisco boutique chocolatier; Organic To Go, a West Coast organic catering and retail operation.

 Under the leadership of Persaud, the Caribbean region is being recast as an active entrepreneurial zone that is beyond sun, sand and sea.

 On the heels of the very successful inaugural Invest Caribbean Forum held in New York City in June 2011, which drew an impressive array of speakers and a large audience, Persaud has announced the Montego Bay, Jamaica event, the first foray into the Caribbean region.

 ”What our efforts are proving is that there is a wealth of investor interest and a treasure trove of business opportunities in the Caribbean just waiting to be unlocked,” noted Persaud, the architect of the series.

Invest Caribbean recently concluded a successful forum with the Caribbean Tourism Organization during Caribbean Week in New York, June 9, 2011 featuring Goldman Sachs’ W. Dave Dowrich, Spackman Capital CEO, Martin Mohabeer and CEO of the Brilla Group, David Brillembourg.

 See Felicia Persaud’s opening at the June investment forum http://vimeo.com/25323506.

 Entrepreneurs interested in registering for the October 14th forum and sponsors wishing to be a part of this exciting event should log on to http://investcaribbeannow.com/ for more details.

Carib PR Newswire, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. August 19, 2011: Invest Caribbean will make its regional debut this Fall, descending on the city of Montego Bay, Jamaica on October 14^th for another innovative investment forum.

The October event is being presented by Hard Beat Communications, in collaboration with the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce, and is set for the Rose Hall convention center as part of the Chamber’s 14^th annual expo that will be presented under the theme, ”Unleashing Innovations.”

The expo will be opened by Assistant Secretary General of the OAS, Ambassador Albert Ramdin and will include the Invest Caribbean forum as part of the opening day.

The high-powered trade exposition will unleash innovative marketing and promotion opportunities for exhibitors in ways that the MBCCI Expo has never been staged. The event has become a calendar event for the Chamber and western Jamaica and boasts a wide diversity of exhibitors in industry and commerce, displaying their goods and services. These include manufactured goods, services, technology, tourism, craft, agriculture, trade and investment. The MBCCI Expo is in its 14^th year and will be targeting some 115 exhibitors.

The three-hour Invest Caribbean forum will feature three U.S. investors, including Adam Borden, founder and managing director of Bradmer Foods, LLC. Each will present a five minute overview of their company and what they look for in investments, before engaging in a face-to-face match making session with registered entrepreneurs.
The Invest Caribbean series is the brainchild of Hard Beat Communications’ CEO Felicia Persaud who sees the opportunity as the perfect way to partner high end investors seeking new opportunities in the Caribbean, with entrepreneurs and ministers/chambers in the region.

Invest Caribbean recently concluded a successful forum with the Caribbean Tourism Organization during Caribbean Week in New York, June 9, 2011.

“The June 2011 Invest Caribbean event delivered on the objective of the Caribbean Tourism Organization. It gave our members the assurance that investors perceive the Caribbean as an attractive region in which to do business and presented a great opportunity to begin the dialogue,” said Sylma Brown Bramble, Director, CTO North America.

“The ‘Investing in Paradise’ breakfast forum was a highly worthwhile gathering for those seeking opportunities in the exciting Caribbean frontier markets. The organizers attracted an excellent mix of existing and potential investors in the region complimented by government ministers and tourism sector executives. The presenters at ‘Investing in Paradise’ made an excellent case for what distinguishes the Caribbean from other destinations in the fierce race for international capital,” added Harold E. Doley, III, Principal of The Lugano Group Incorporated.

For more information and sponsorship opportunities to the Jamaica October event, log on to http://investcaribbeannow.com/.

NEW YORK, Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Less than seven months after the release of his hard hitting novel Rude Buay … The Unstoppable in English, prolific, national bestselling author John A. Andrews released  a follow up edition in two other languages.

 To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/drug-prevention-action-thriller-available-in-three-languages-127250683.html

 Andrews, also a visionary, saw the need to etch Chico Rudo … El Imparable after a book signing tour of Puerto Rico in January. It was during that visit to PR that he met with film commissioners to discuss the possibility of filming some scenes for the movie on that Island.

Andrews decided to publish a Chinese edition, and plans on taking this translation to the Beijing International Book Fair in September. He loves the timing of this new release and its appeal to the Eastern market.

 This original story embedded with scenes in the martial arts genre, has been tugging at the hearts of Asians since its release, indicated by a successful debut signing event held in a predominantly Asian community in Los Angeles, California.

It is believed that this Chinese edition will not only hit home with Asian readers as the Spanish edition will with Latinos, but extend its roots as an International account as well. Like the James Bond series created by Ian Fleming, Rude Buay, pronounced “Rude Boy,” maintains international pizzazz. Even so, it sets itself apart: cemented in a deep rooted Caribbean culture, thus branded as a gritty, ethnic, relentless, modern day action adventure. 

 With events surrounding the recent extradition of Christopher “Dudus” Coke from Jamaica, the use of narcotics among teens and adults warrants a massive wakeup call.

 Rude Buay … The Unstoppable is a blend of Traffic meets Casino Royale with Charlie’s Angels gone corrupt. The film is currently in development and is expected to plunge into pre-production this fall.

 Synopsis: Author John A. Andrews, son of the Caribbean soil, penetrates inside the belly of the drug world. In an environment saturated with corruption, deception, duplicity, deceit, and inequities of all kinds, Andrews conceives a cross Atlantic, greed driven fiasco, embedded within the drug epidemic. Can Jamaican born, DEA “Rude Buay,” save his country from the tyranny of the Dragon Drug Cartel?

 The sequel Rude Buay … The Untouchable is set in China, Jamaica, Miami and Colombia, and could hit the literary scene in hardcover as early as March 2012.

 An A L I project. Visit: www.AndrewsLeadershipInternational.com

 Related Links:

Publisher

Production

Rude Buay

CaribPR Wire, Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo, Aug 5, 2011: Following three years of intensive preparation and planning, the first newly rebranded show – DESIGN CARIBBEAN – is a mere 25 days away from officially opening in the Hotel El Embajador, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.  Design Caribbean is a trade show for artisans in the region who are export ready and able to produce uniquely designed, hand crafted, superior quality merchandise.

We have had great response from buyers in the region as well as international interest in attending this show. The timing of this show is perfect for retail buyers and hotel gift shop buyers looking to ensure they can offer a fabulous Caribbean gift selection for holiday shoppers.

 “We are very excited about Design Caribbean – there is an outstanding line-up of very talented artisans displaying at this year’s show. Buyers are going to be very pleased with the quality and uniqueness of the selection,” said Pamela Coke-Hamilton, Executive Director of Caribbean Export.

 Buyers can expect to see diverse products including ceramics, jewellery, fashion accessories, home furnishings, specialty foods and leather goods. A number of cash awards and incentives will be given in each category.  For more information, please visit www.designcaribbean.com  or  www.facebook.com/DesignCaribbean.

The city of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, was selected as the location to host the first newly-branded Design Caribbean show because it boasts a large population of 10 million people, with four million residing in the city centre of Santo Domingo, where the trade fair will be held.

 About Design Caribbean
Inspired by the passion and talent of both distinguished and aspiring artists, Design Caribbean brings the region’s finest handmade designs and innovative products onto the world stage.

Encapsulating the spirit of design to “celebrate the ‘beautiful” our event takes place in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic from Sept. 1-4, 2011. Showcasing a broad product range of handmade quality products, it will connect artisans to buyers, and design enthusiasts from the Caribbean region, North America and Europe.  Design Caribbean visitors will come away with a true sense of the diversity and splendor that breathes vibrancy into the Caribbean region.

Design Caribbean is organized by Caribbean Export, a trade and promotion organization with 15 state regions, whose mandate is to “take Caribbean excellence to the world.”

ORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad and Tobago, July 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — His Excellency Dr. Neil Parsan of the Republics of Trinidad and Tobago and His Excellency John Beale from Barbados served as Ambassadors during their recent visit to the unique and remerging city of Detroit. Local businessman Robert Shumake hosted the West Indian royalty.

 (Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110727/CL43119 )

 According to both Beale and Parsan, their impression of the Motor City not only exceeded their expectation, but ignited a new and fervent interest in building stronger ties.

 ”I must admit, that since my first visit to Michigan over 40 years ago, all I have heard or read about Detroit is bad news, naturally I had a certain mindset… I was looking for devastation,” shared Ambassador Beale.

 ”When I arrived at Detroit Metro airport, I not only found it to be among the finest that I had ever seen, but I learned it was the first official stop for the Chinese in the U.S., and the roads into the city were very nice. I am proud to say that my initial impression was vastly superior than what I was anticipating.”

 Both Ambassadors found their V.I.P. accommodations at MGM Grand Hotel and Casino first class and exceptional. Their visit included a feast at the Eastern Market and tour of many of Detroit’s neighborhoods.

 Dr. Parsan boasted to have found Detroit “a most diverse city; among the world’s finest with great foods, experiences, culture, industry and professionalism.”

 ”Although we found that some areas of the city has suffered deterioration, as with most major metropolitans, this translated to us as an opportunity to come back and look at projects that will both develop these areas and impregnate a stronger cultural tie among Detroit and our countries,” explained Dr. Parsan.

During the memorable visit was a celebration at the cultural heritage of the African diaspora, Bal Africain®. With “Caribbean Splendor” as its theme, the event featured both His Excellency Dr. Neil Parsan and His Excellency John Beale as special guests at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA), which had been metamorphosed into a tropical paradise.

 Among other illustrious attendees were former NBA/NFL player Paris McCurdy, Bank of America Michigan president Keith Cockrell, master of ceremonies Huel Perkins of WJBK-TV Fox 2, and Detroit Public Schools honcho Roy and Maureen Roberts, for whom the DIA recently named a gallery.

 Bal Africain® is one of the most important fundraising events at the DIA. Proceeds support acquisitions for the museum’s collections of African and African-American art, as well as lectures and programs sponsored by the Friends of African and African American Art (FAAAA).

 As a gesture of support and goodwill, Ambassador Beale arranged the donation of an original work by celebrated Barbadian artist Wayne Branch to the Detroit Institute of Arts. The colorful painting featured a vibrant depiction of a traditional Barbados Market vendor and received many praises from the audience.

 Ambassador Beale found great pleasure in meeting Detroit royalty and prominent business leaders such as Mayor Bing, Roy Roberts, Bal Africain® Chairperson Roxanne Thomas and Inheritance Capital Group CEO Robert Shumake.

 ”I learned that there are many connections among the people of Detroit and the Caribbean and I would be honored to host folks like Roy and Robert to speak to our people as role models for entrepreneurship and education,” said Ambassador Beale.

 Equally impressed by his overall experience and host, His Excellency Parsan added, “Our visit was highly organized and evident of meticulous planning at the highest level… Robert [Shumake] is very well connected; a young, bright, successful individual, he truly gives others something to aspire to what he has achieved and has offered us a richer frame of reference and perspective of the city for which he serves as a proud ambassador, Detroit!”

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, July 27, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — His Excellency John Beale and His Excellency Dr. Neil Parsan of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago served as Ambassadors during their recent visit to the unique and reemerging city of Detroit. Local businessman Robert Shumake hosted the West Indian royalty.

 (Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110727/CL43116 )

 According to both Beale and Parsan, their impression of the Motor City not only exceeded their expectation, but ignited a new and fervent interest in building stronger ties.

 ”I must admit, that since my first visit to Michigan over 40 years ago, all I have heard or read about Detroit is bad news, naturally I had a certain impression… I was looking for devastation,” shared Ambassador Beale.

 ”When I arrived at Detroit Metro airport, I not only found it to be among the finest that I had ever seen, but I learned it was the first official stop for the Chinese in the U.S., and the roads into the city were very nice. I am proud to say that my initial impression was vastly superior than what I was anticipating.”

 Both Ambassadors found their V.I.P. accommodations at MGM Grand Hotel and Casino first class and exceptional. Their visit included a feast at the Eastern Market and tour of many of Detroit’s neighborhoods.

 Dr. Parsan boasted to have found Detroit “a most diverse city; among the world’s finest with great foods, experiences, culture, industry and professionalism.”

 ”Although we found that some areas of the city has suffered deterioration, as with most major metropolitan cities, this translated to us as an opportunity to come back and look at projects that will both develop these areas and impregnate a stronger cultural tie among Detroit and our countries,” explained Dr. Parsan.

 During the memorable visit was a celebration at the cultural heritage of the African diaspora, Bal Africain®. With “Caribbean Splendor” as its theme, the event featured both His Excellency Dr. Neil Parsan and His Excellency John Beale as special guests at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA), which had been metamorphosed into a tropical paradise.

 Among other illustrious attendees were former NBA/NFL player Paris McCurdy, Bank of America Michigan president Keith Cockrell, master of ceremonies Huel Perkins of WJBK-TV Fox 2, and Detroit Public Schools honcho Roy and Maureen Roberts, for whom the DIA recently named a gallery.

 Bal Africain® is one of the most important fundraising events at the DIA. Proceeds support acquisitions for the museum’s collections of African and African-American art, as well as lectures and programs sponsored by the Friends of African and African American Art (FAAAA).

 As a gesture of support and goodwill, Ambassador Beale arranged the donation of an original work by celebrated Barbadian artist Wayne Branch to the Detroit Institute of Arts. The colorful painting featured a vibrant depiction of a traditional Barbados Market vendor and received many praises from the audience.

 Ambassador Beale found great pleasure in meeting Detroit royalty and prominent business leaders such as Mayor Bing, Roy Roberts, Bal Africain® Chairperson Roxanne Thomas and Inheritance Capital Group CEO Robert Shumake.

 ”I learned that there are many connections among the people of Detroit and the Caribbean and I would be honored to host folks like Roy and Robert to speak to our people as role models for entrepreneurship and education,” said Ambassador Beale.

 Equally impressed by his overall experience and host, His Excellency Parsan added, “Our visit was highly organized and evident of meticulous planning at the highest level… Robert [Shumake] is very well connected; a young, bright, successful individual, he truly gives others something to aspire to what he has achieved and has offered us a richer frame of reference and perspective of the city for which he serves as a proud ambassador, Detroit!”

Bahamas National Trust, Pew applaud creation of permanent sanctuary

 NASSAU, Bahamas, July 5, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Sharks in The Bahamas can breathe more easily after the nation’s government announced today that all commercial shark fishing in the approximately 630,000 square kilometers (243,244 square miles) of the country’s waters is now prohibited.

 (Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110705/DC30111)

 ”2011 is fast becoming the year of the shark,” said Jill Hepp, manager of global shark conservation for the Pew Environment Group. “Today’s announcement permanently protects more than 40 shark species in Bahamian waters. We applaud the people and government of The Bahamas for being bold leaders in marine conservation.”

 The island nation joins Palau, the Maldives and Honduras in prohibiting the commercial fishing of sharks. Together, this adds up to almost 2.4 million square kilometers (926,645 square miles) of ocean, where these animals can now swim safely. The Bahamian sanctuary was created by adding an amendment to the Fisheries Resources (Jurisdiction and Conservation) Act (Chapter 244) to prohibit commercial shark fishing along with the sale, importation and export of shark products.

 ”The Bahamas’ prohibition on longline fishing gear 20 years ago protected the marine resources of The Bahamas and ensured that our shark populations would remain healthy,” said Eric Carey, executive director of The Bahamas National Trust (BNT). “But there were no specific laws in The Bahamas for sharks, the crown jewels of ocean health. The new regulations signed this morning by Minister Cartwright ensure that that sharks can continue to thrive for generations in our waters, one of the world’s best places to see sharks.”

 The new sanctuary is the result of a partnership between the Pew Environment Group and BNT, which began just as a major Bahamian seafood company announced its intention to catch sharks and export their fins. Globally, commercial fisheries kill up to 73 million sharks annually (threatening the future existence of many species)—mainly for their fins. The collaboration between the Pew Environment Group and BNT produced popular public service announcements and a supportive petition signed by more than 5,000 Bahamians. Staff also coordinated outreach trips to support shark protections by Pierre-Yves Cousteau (son of Jacques Cousteau), scientist and artist Guy Harvey, and Sherman’s Lagoon cartoonist Jim Toomey.

 ”We congratulate the Right Honorable Hubert Ingraham, the Bahamian Prime Minister, and Lawrence S. Cartwright, Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources, for acting to save sharks, the ocean’s apex predator,” said Hepp.

 The Pew Environment Group is the conservation arm of The Pew Charitable Trusts, a nongovernmental organization that works globally to establish pragmatic, science-based policies that protect our oceans, preserve our wildlands and promote clean energy. www.PewEnvironment.org

 The Bahamas National Trust was established by an Act of Parliament in 1959 and is mandated with the conservation of natural and historic resources of The Bahamas. It is the only known non-governmental organization in the world with the mandate to manage a country’s entire national park system. www.bnt.bs

 NOTE TO EDITORS: B-ROLL AND STILLS ARE AVAILABLE:

Contact Dan Klotz, +1 202-887-8855 or [email protected] for details.

NASSAU, THE BAHAMAS — On Tuesday, 5 July, the government of The Bahamas will announce new protections for sharks in the country’s waters, approximately 630,000 square kilometers (243,244 square miles). This declaration is the result of a partnership between the Pew Environment Group and The Bahamas National Trust, which began just as a major Bahamian seafood company announced its intention in September 2010 to catch sharks and export their fins.

 WHO:

Lawrence S. Cartwright, Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources, The Bahamas

Earl Deveaux, Minister of Environment, The Bahamas

Eric Carey, executive director of The Bahamas National Trust (BNT)

Matt Rand, director of global shark conservation, Pew Environment Group

 WHAT:

Press conference announcing new protections for sharks in The Bahamas.

 WHY:

The Bahamas is one of the premier shark-watching destinations for divers. According to the Bahamas Diving Association, shark related tourism has contributed more than US$800 million dollars to the Bahamian economy over the past 20 years. The country’s 20-year-old ban on longline fishing gear has left Bahamian waters as one of the few places in the world where sharks are still thriving, but there have been no specific protections for sharks until now.

 WHEN:

8:00 a.m., Tuesday, 5 July, 2011

 WHERE:

British Colonial Hilton Nassau, 1 Bay Street, Nassau, N-7148

 CALL-IN:

Passcode is “Sharks”

1-800-311-9403 for U.S.-based reporters

1-800-867-1164 for Bahamas-based reporters

+1 334-323-7224 for all others

 PLEASE RSVP IN ADVANCE

 B-ROLL AND STILLS WILL BE AVAILABLE:
Contact: Dan Klotz, +1 202-887-8855 or [email protected] for details

NEW YORK, June 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — The British Virgin Islands Court of Appeal has unanimously reversed a lower court ruling and dismissed a petition by McKinsey & Co. to liquidate Westford Special Situations Fund Ltd.  McKinsey had filed the petition in an attempt to redeem its investment.

 McKinsey, which had invested in a feeder fund to Westford Special Situations Master Fund, L.P., attempted to liquidate Westford after the fund suspended redemptions — even though Westford had made partial payments to McKinsey. 

 In denying McKinsey’s motion, the Court upheld Westford’s argument that, as a redemption creditor, McKinsey did not have the legal standing to force the appointment of a liquidator.

 The Westford Special Situations Fund Ltd. and Westford Special Situations Master Fund L.P. are part of the Westford-Epsilon family of funds managed by Steve G. Stevanovich.

Country’s Largest Chain to Offer Kobo Wireless eReader to Trinidad and Tobago eReading Community

 TORONTO, June 21, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Kobo, a global leader in eReading with more than 3.6 million users in over 100 countries worldwide, today announced that the company’s Wireless eReader has landed in the Caribbean through a new partnership with Nigel R Khan Bookseller.  The innovative bookseller – with nine locations in Trinidad and Tobago – is committed to bringing the latest technology to readers.  The introduction of the Kobo Wireless eReader provides the large chain with an open and enjoyable device to support local readers and the islands’ tourism trade.

 As the southernmost island in the Caribbean, Trinidad and Tobago’s population of 1.3 million boasts a literacy rate of 92.8%, making it the perfect place for Kobo to reach avid readers and encourage them to start eReading with the device of their choice. Nigel R Khan Bookseller has proven their overarching commitment to reading and technology, adopting new approaches that enhance the joy of reading for their customers.

 ”Along with the excitement of bringing our passion for eReading to new shores, we expect to see great success with the launch of the Kobo Wireless eReader in Nigel R Khan Bookseller stores throughout Trinidad and Tobago,” said Todd Humphrey, Executive Vice President of Business Development, Kobo. “Nigel R Khan Bookseller is really leading the way by bringing the latest technology to the Caribbean and introducing eReading to their customers.  We look forward to serving Trinidad and Tobago’s growing eReading community and the country’s technology-focused demographic.”

 The partnership will enable the book chain’s customers to engage in reading on a whole new level with Kobo, as well as attract a new reading crowd with the technological advancements Kobo brings to eReading.

 The Kobo Wireless eReader is perfect for reading on the go! Light, compact and featuring Wi Fi access you can shop today’s hottest new releases, newspapers and magazines plus over 1 million free classics — anywhere. Pre-loaded with 100 ready to go classics, this e-Reader is an obvious buy.

• Browse and shop today’s best sellers plus over 1 million free classics
• 6″ E Ink screen for no glare, paper-like reading
• 100 free classics pre-loaded
• Light and compact – just .4 inches thick and weighs only 8 ounces
• Carry up to 1,000 eBooks or 10,000 with an expandable SD memory card
• Read on and on. The long lasting battery lasts up to 2 weeks
• Modern and minimal – intuitive navigation pad
• Personalize your reading with customizable font sizes and styles
• Choose your library view: list, text or by virtual book
• Supports open standards (ePUB, PDF, Adobe DRM)
• Wi Fi connectivity let’s you shop and update your library wirelessly
• Read on your mobile, tablet or computer with Kobo’s free downloadable apps
• Unique quilted back makes it comfortable to hold
• Available in three stylish colors: Onyx, Silver and Lilac

About Kobo, Inc.

Kobo is a global eReading service with more than 2.3 million eBooks, magazines and newspapers – one of the largest eReading catalogues in the world. Kobo believes consumers should have the freedom to read any book on any device and has attracted millions of readers from over 100 countries across the globe. Kobo has top ranked eReading applications for iPad, iPhone, BlackBerry, Android, Windows and MacOS, and is the eReading application of choice for leading tablets. Kobo eReaders are also available at leading retailers including Indigo, Walmart, Best Buy, Borders, WHSmith, Angus & Robertson’s, Whitcoull’s and Nigel R Khan Booksellers. Kobo’s innovative Reading Life is an industry-first comprehensive social eReading experience – Kobo users can earn awards simply for time spent reading and encouraging others to read.  Kobo is backed by majority shareholder Indigo Books & Music Inc, Cheung Kong Holdings, and institutional investors. For more information, please visit www.Kobo.com.

Florida Lt. Gov. Jennifer Carroll Hosts Business Roundtable

 WASHINGTON, June 9, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The National Black Chamber of Commerce® is holding its 19th annual conference July 21-23 in Miami at the Four Seasons Hotel.  The theme is “Making the World Business Friendly,” a nod to less regulation for a healthier business climate.  Panels will include energy and telecom regulations, international trade, procurement, social media, managing your business and maintaining your wealth.

 Two of this year’s award winners hail from the great state of Florida; Congressman Alcee Hastings (D-Fl) will be this year’s recipient of the Parren J. Mitchell Award and Lt. Governor Jennifer Carroll will receive the Trailblazer of the Year Award.  The Lt. Governor will also host a panel on the merits of opening or expanding a business in the Sunshine State.

 The stellar accomplishments of John Biagas, CEO of Bay Electric will be highlighted when he is presented with the Entrepreneur of the Year award and John Boyd of The Black Farmers Association will be honored with the Arthur A. Fletcher Lifetime Achievement Award.

Comcast/NBC Universal will instruct us and give recommendations on how to do business with their corporation.  Ms. Tebelelo Mazile Seretse, Ambassador of the Republic of Botswana to the United States and Elkanah Odembo, Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya to the United States, will be on hand to discuss opportunities within their countries.   Patrick Lozes, founder of the French African Diaspora Chamber of Commerce, will discuss francophone companies and Michael Harris, Chairman of NBCC International Trade Committee, will give updates on Gabon and Republic of Congo.

 The National Black Chamber of Commerce is known for its advocacy on issues that affect a business’ bottom line and to that end updates will be presented on electronic payment exchange, digital download tax, fuel sufficiency and the always necessary educated workforce.

This networking event provides an opportunity to meet with entrepreneurs, business leaders and chamber executives and is open to the public.  Registration is available at www.nationalbcc.org.

CaribPR Newswire, NEW YORK, NY, June 8, 2011: Minister of Business Development & Tourism of Bermuda, Patrice Kimberly Minors, is among a stellar panel set to address the inaugural Invest Caribbean Power Forum in New York City tomorrow, Thursday, June 9^th.

Minister Minors will join panelists Martin Mohabeer, the Guyana-born Managing Director of Spackman Group and CEO of Spackman Capital; W. Dave Dowrich, Vice President at Goldman Sachs, and David Brillembourg, CEO of the Brilla Group at the investment event being co-presented by digital media company Hard Beat Communications and The Caribbean Tourism Organization.

 The Invest Caribbean event, titled “Investing In Paradise,” will be held from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the New York Marriott Marquis hotel in Time Square, New York City.

Minister Minors brings her considerable expertise in goal setting to the government and performed in an outstanding fashion in her role as a government senator.

“We feel this is an outstanding forum for us to share the message with an influential audience that Bermuda is ready, willing and able to provide meaningful and mutually beneficial investment opportunities,” said Minister Minors. “We are already seeing positive signs for development and know that events such as this one can help showcase Bermuda as an extremely attractive partner.”

Also set to address delegates are New York City Comptroller John Liu, who helps manage $646 million in pension funds for New York City; Brian Lilly, CEO of Lilly Broadcasting and Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization and St. Kitts/Nevis minister of tourism, Ricky Skerritt.

The Hard Beat/CTO forum will be moderated by Professor Temisan Agbeyegbe, professor of Economics at Hunter College and Graduate Center, City University of New York and a research associate with The Caribbean Center for Monetary Studies, The University of The West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago.

Attendees include Hon. Hayden Hughes – Minister of Tourism; Anguilla, Hon. Vincent Vanderpool-Wallace, Minister of Tourism, The Bahamas; Hon. Richard Sealey, Minister of Tourism, Barbados; Hon. Ian Douglas, Minister of Tourism, Dominica; Hon. Peter David, Minister of Tourism, Grenada; Hon. Ed Bartlett, Minister of Tourism, Jamaica; Hon. Clyde Van Putten, Commissioner of Tourism of St. Eustatius; Hon. Dr. Rupert Griffith, Minister of Tourism, Trinidad & Tobago; Hon. Theodore Heyliger, Commissioner St. Maarten Tourist Bureau; and several directors of tourism, officials of the Caribbean Tourism Organization, and money managers others from the real estate, business, travel and investment community.

“The power will be packed into one room on Thursday in New York City. No other place will there be so many ministers and commissioners of government from the Caribbean and money managers and investors at one time,” said Felicia Persaud, CEO of Hard Beat Communications.

 “The Caribbean is a perfect destination for investment, given its stable governments, its tax incentives, its close proximity to the U.S. and it’s very high literary workforce and its superb beauty and climate,” added Sylma Brown Bramble, director of CTO North America.

The Bermuda Department of Tourism and the Pennsylvania-based WSEE TV and OneCaribbeanWeather.com, both part of Lilly Broadcasting Corporation, are the official sponsors of the ‘Invest Caribbean Power Breakfast.’

Additional sponsors include the PR Newswire, CaribPR Wire, The Bahamas Weekly, News Americas Now and the Caribbean American Chamber of Industry and Commerce.

Registration is now closed for this event but for more information on Invest Caribbean, log on investcaribbeannow.com/.

After Bermuda, New Brunswick and Quebec City, it’s now Barbados’ turn to entrust Irosoft with the automation of its legislative drafting, consolidation and publication processes.

 MONTREAL, June 2, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Montreal’s Irosoft, world leader in Acts and regulations management solutions, in collaboration with Montreal’s ESI Technologies, signs an agreement with the Government of Barbados for the implementation of its LIMS suite, a complete legislative management system. 

 Irosoft is proud to announce the signing of this contract with the Government of Barbados, a contract that consolidates LIMS’s positioning on the world stage.

 ”The Government of Barbados, through its ‘Justice Improvement Program’ initiative, chose to implement our LIMS solution. This will enable its citizens’ and the international community to easily access its Acts and regulations. We are truly happy to have been selected for this project. It is the result of several months of work by our sales and development teams,” declared with great enthusiasm Alain Lavoie, president and cofounder of Irosoft. “It’s a wonderful demonstration of what two Quebec SMEs can accomplish when they join forces to export their know-how to the international market.”

 ”What makes our platform unique is the fact that is covers every step of legal documentation production in an integrated way,” adds Mr. Lavoie.

 Indeed, Irosoft’s LIMS platform is one of the few complete solutions currently on the market that enable national, provincial and municipal governments to manage their Acts or their regulations, whether unilingual or bilingual, from drafting all the way to publication.

 Furthermore, LIMS enables users to search for and reconstruct Acts and regulations for a specific point in time and to visualize provisions that have been assented to, but that are not yet in force.

 LIMS is currently being used by the Departments of Justice Bermuda, Quebec and New Brunswick as well as by Quebec City. Part of the suite is also being used by the Government of the Bahamas.

 About Irosoft Inc.

Founded in 1995, Irosoft is a world leader in Document/Record Management and Legal Information Management. As a specialist in integrated content management for the past 15 years, Irosoft offers innovative and easy to use solutions so that clients can simply and efficiently develop, organize, exploit and preserve their information capital. To date, more than 100 national and international organizations — government departments and agencies, municipalities, as well as private companies — have come to Irosoft to carry out large-scale content management projects.

Carib PR Newswire, NEW YORK, NY, May 27, 2011: Entrepreneurs looking to meet investors or do business in the Caribbean have just days left to book their spot for the Investing in Paradise power forum.

Invest Caribbean 2011 is set for June 9^th from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City and tickets are going fast for business owners seeking to network with Martin Mohabeer, the Guyana-born Managing Director of Spackman Group and CEO of Spackman Capital; W. Dave Dowrich, Vice President at Goldman Sachs, and David Brillembourg, CEO of the Brilla Group.

Additionally, the event is also slated to feature New York City comptroller John Liu, who helps manage $646 million in pension funds for New York City; Brian Lilly, CEO of Lilly Broadcasting; Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization and St. Kitts/Nevis minister of tourism, Ricky Skerritt and several Caribbean tourism ministers of government, commissioners and directors of tourism as well as officials of the Caribbean Tourism Organization, including Secretary General Hugh Riley and others from the business, travel and investment community.

The Investing In Paradise event is presented by digital media company, Hard Beat Communications and the Caribbean Tourism Organization in Caribbean Week.

The Hard Beat/CTO forum will be moderated by Professor Temisan Agbeyegbe, professor of Economics at Hunter College and Graduate Center, City University of New York and a research associate with The Caribbean Center for Monetary Studies, The University of The West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago.

The Pennsylvania-based WSEE TV and OneCaribbeanWeather.com, both part of Lilly Broadcasting Corporation, and the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, are the official sponsors of the ‘Invest Caribbean Power Breakfast.’

Additional sponsors include the PR Newswire, CaribPR Wire, The Bahamas Weekly, News Americas Now and the Caribbean American Chamber of Industry and Commerce.

Register at http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=7phqhyn6&oeidk=a07e3p448ple41d4ad3. or for more information log on http://investcaribbeannow.com/.

Martin Mohabeer, Managing Director of Spackman Group and CEO of Spackman Capital is among the panelists.

Carib PR Newswire, NEW YORK, NY, May 20, 2011: They are collectively responsible for managing billions in assets daily and on June 9, 2011, a trio of U.S.-based investors and money managers will share their expertise and discuss opportunities they’ll consider for investment, at the inaugural Invest Caribbean 2011 Power Breakfast.

The Investing In Paradise event, presented by digital media company, Hard Beat Communications and the Caribbean Tourism Organization in Caribbean Week, is set for set for June 9^th from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City.

The forum will feature Martin Mohabeer, the Guyana-born Managing Director of Spackman Group and CEO of Spackman Capital, who currently helps manage $1.3 billion in assets under management by the Hong Kong-based, privately-held investment conglomerate; W. Dave Dowrich, Vice President at Goldman Sachs, which has over 900 billion under its management; and David Brillembourg, CEO of the Brilla Group, who has founded two successful companies, executed over 30 M&A transactions and has raised nearly $150 million over the past decade from private and institutional investors.

Additionally, the event is also slated to feature New York City comptroller John Liu, who helps manage $646 million in pension funds for New York City.

Mario Gonzalez, executive director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company; Brian Lilly, CEO of Lilly Broadcasting and Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization and St. Kitts/Nevis minister of tourism, Ricky Skerritt will also address participants while several Caribbean tourism ministers of government, commissioners and directors of tourism as well as officials of the Caribbean Tourism Organization, including Secretary General Hugh Riley and others from the business, travel and investment community will be in attendance.

The Hard Beat/CTO forum will be moderated by Professor Temisan Agbeyegbe, professor of Economics at Hunter College and Graduate Center, City University of New York and a research associate with The Caribbean Center for Monetary Studies, The University of The West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago.

“This is no talk shop but its where real capital meets investment opportunities,” said Felicia Persaud, CEO of Hard Beat Communications.  “Entrepreneurs, lenders, developers, hotel chain/management company executives, investment bankers, vacation ownership executives, financial advisors, real estate and financial intermediaries, builders, consultants, lawyers, architects and designers or anyone seeking to do business in the Caribbean, learn about investment opportunities there, raise capital to grow or expand your business or network with top investors and ministers of government should all make it a date to attend this event.”

“The Caribbean is a perfect destination for investment, given its stable governments, its tax incentives, its close proximity to the U.S. and it’s very high literary workforce and its superb beauty and climate,” added Sylma Brown Bramble, director of CTO North America.

The Pennsylvania-based WSEE TV and OneCaribbeanWeather.com, both part of Lilly Broadcasting Corporation, and the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, are the official sponsors of the ‘Invest Caribbean Power Breakfast.’

Additional sponsors include the PR Newswire, CaribPR Wire, The Bahamas Weekly, News Americas Now and the Caribbean American Chamber of Industry and Commerce.

Tickets are going fast so register today at http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=7phqhyn6&oeidk=a07e3p448ple41d4ad3. Or for more information log on http://investcaribbeannow.com/.