CCMI makes plans for Christmas fundraiser

(CNS): The Central Caribbean Marine Institute (CCMI) is hoping to attract plenty of guests to its annual fundraiser this year in the hope of raising much needed cash to support the operational needs of the Little Cayman Research Centre. The Festival of Trees (FOT) is institute’s most important fundraiser when decorated Christmas trees are sponsored by individuals and business’ and auctioned during a glamorous dinner. CCMI focuses on marine sustainability and also provides up to date education information and environmental/conservation-based courses for primary, secondary and further education students.

This year the Festival of Trees launches on 19 November with a primary school Christmas Carol competition with Christmas Tree viewings throughout the week until Friday 23 November culminating in the Gala Dinner and Auction on 24 November. The dinner will be provided by the restaurants in Camana Bay including   Abacus, KARoo, The Black Trumpet, Ortanique and Michael’s Genuine.

“This year, we are focusing on providing sustainable solutions where possible, giving everyone the opportunity to get involved,” officials said. “The CCMI Lionfish Culling Tournament is being introduced to help provide fresh fish for the Gala Dinner and reduce the numbers of the pesky invasive alien species. Teams (minimum of two, maximum of 10) will be able to enter the tournament, win fantastic prizes and contribute to CCMI’s fundraising goals.”

Timetable
15th November – Sponsors tree decorating workshop
17th November – Lionfish Culling Tournament – please register your teams asap at info@reefresearch.org
19th-23rd November – Christmas Tree viewings from 5:30pm until 7:30pm
19th November – Primary School Carol Competition – please register your school, open invitation to attend
23rd November – Camana Bay Christmas Tree Lighting, Festival of Trees open to public
24th November – Gala Dinner at the ARC. Tickets are $150 CI per person and the tables seat ten and can be reserved by emailing rsvp@reefresearch.org.