Community encouraged to celebrate CCMI
(CNS Local Life): The Central Caribbean Marine Institute’s (CCMI) annual Festival of Seas, a celebration of the extensive research and education work the organisation undertakes, is set for 3 December, boosted by the support of a local law firm. Conyers Dill & Pearman has selected CCMI as the local non-profit to support this year, with the firm’s staff strongly advocating for the funding of environmental-protection initiatives.
Ben Hobden, associate at Conyers, said, “It is clear that as a coastal community, Cayman relies heavily upon a healthy sea. The reefs are beautiful to look at, but they also protect our coastline from storm surge, supply our local fisherman, and are the key to attracting millions of dollars in tourism each year – a major pillar of Cayman’s economy.”
CCMI president Dr Carrie Manfrino, described the concept behind the festival, which is the institute’s major fundraiser. “This festival is meant to be a celebration of the work that we have accomplished over the year – the research that we have done on coral reef resilience and the number of students that we have educated about the importance of a healthy ocean to Cayman, its people and its economy,” she said.
“It is also a thank you to our many donors and sponsors, whose contributions enable us to be the premier marine institute in the Caribbean.”
“Mermaids & Sailors” is the theme of this year’s fancy dress event. “We wanted to lighten up a little and let people be creative,” Manfrino explained. “We were also thinking about the gentlemen and decided to let them give their heavy dinner jackets a rest this year.”
The festival will include a comedy show, silent auction and raffle prizes as well as a live auction featuring exotic getaways such as the Four Seasons Nevis.
All funds raised will support CCMI’s ongoing research into coral reef resilience, enabling scientists around the world to more proactively protect coral reefs. Proceeds will also fund CCMI’s “Ocean Literacy Programme” – a mission to ensure that every child in Cayman is ocean literate by the time he or she is 12 years old.
The Festival of Seas will take place at the Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa.
To learn more about sponsorship opportunities or to purchase tickets, email CCMI
Category: Donations, Marine Environment
