New Marine Species Discovered off Little Cayman

Dr. Rick Hochberg and his team of biologists from the University of Massachusetts have recently discovered 15 new species of tiny gastrotrich worms in the well-oxygenated sands off the shores of Little Cayman. The scientists elected to complete a portion of their research at the Little Cayman Research Center (LCRC) because of its pristine environment, while utilizing the facilities at the Central Caribbean Marine Institute (CCMI). Dr. Hochberg has found enough of these complex species to warrant further studies and will host a workshop at the LCRC, placing Little Cayman firmly on the map of serious scientific research.

Global warming threatens habitat degradation which may wipe out species before they are even discovered. The CCMI has said this type of research is vital for understanding the biodiversity of our earth. The methods Dr. Hochberg is using to determine which species are new and how they are related will assist in how speciation and evolution happens.

The Central Caribbean Marine Institute was incorporated in 1998 as a non-profit 501c3 organization.  CCMI was established as an international charitable organization. Since its first years, CCMI has proven a valuable asset to the effort of understanding changing coral reef and tropical marine environments. Its research and education programs have established a solid foundation for future reef education and awareness in the Caribbean and for students and researchers from around the world.

A key component of the organization's strategy was realized in May 2006 with the opening of the Little Cayman Research Center.  Equipped with wet and dry laboratories, a classroom, library, dormitory-style and private rooms and a sustainable off-the-grid bathhouse as well as easy access to the reefs, the Center is an important new research and education center for all of the Cayman Islands.

Duty Concessions Extended on Building Materials

In an effort to further stimulate economic activity the government has extended import duty concessions on building materials. The Cabinet extended concessions on imports of building materials for a further six months until 31 December 2011.

In announcing the extension, the Premier and Minister of Finance, Tourism and Development the Hon. McKeeva Bush said, “The extension of these concessions is consistent with the Government’s ongoing efforts to stimulate growth in the economy, and I encourage all developers and other stakeholders to accelerate their construction activity during this further concessionary period.”

Imports of building materials to Cayman Brac and Little Cayman will be on a 100% duty free basis for the period 1 July to 31 December 2011. Under the extended concessions, imports of building materials to Grand Cayman will be charged a flat rate of 15% for the period 1 July to 31 December 2011. The normal rate of duty is 22%.

For the purpose of these concessions, building materials have been defined as: “All physical components and substances, whether solid or liquid, used in the construction, renovation or restoration and forming a permanent part of any building or related structure.”    Items such as furniture, accessories, electronics and appliances are specifically excluded.

Hurricane Season Preparedness

Hurricane season is officially upon us and preparedness starts with organization and planning. Below are some tips to help get yourselves and your home ready in case a hurricane should strike this season.

Do not wait till the last minute to prepare for an emergency, you will be so glad you took the time now.

- Review your insurance policy; secure important documents

- Learn locations of official shelters; prepare for your pets, shelters will not accept pets

- Check emergency equipment such as flashlights, generators, cell phones, portable radios to ensure all are in good working order

- Purchase plywood or other materials to protect your home; inspect hurricane shutters and repair any necessary damages, supplies for installation

- Trim trees and shrubbery; clear your yard of possible flying debris which could damage your house or your neighbors

- Clear clogged rain gutters and downspouts

- Decide where to move your boat

- Service vehicles

- Ensure extra cash is on hand for emergencies

- Purchase canned foods and drinking water, enough for 5-7 days (1 gallon per person/day, don't forget water for your pets)

- Check First Aid Kits and restock as necessary 

- Secure extra prescription medication, have 2 weeks supply on hand

Here is a list of supplies to have on hand should a hurricane strike and power/water cannot be restored for several days:

       ● Oil and gas for generator 
 

● Portable camp stove and necessary refills

● Charcoal, lighter fluid

● Flashlights, 2 per person; battery-operated lanterns and extra batteries; candles

● Matches/lighter in watertight bag

● Battery operated radio & extra batteries

● Battery operated fan & extra batteries

● Cell phone and charger, extra battery

● First aid kit, personal medication,  sun screen & feminine supplies; extra prescription glasses

● Large plastic bins to ensure household items stay dry

● Mosquito coils and/or spray, citronella candles/lamps

● Life vests, galoshes & whistle

● Rope, strong twine; duct and packing tape

● Shut off wrench, pliers, hammer, nails

● Plastic sheeting and large tarps for furniture and roof

● Extra keys for home, car and boat; jumper cables

● Surgical & work gloves; sturdy protective shoes, rain gear, hat sunglasses

● Paper towels, toilet paper, napkins; saucepans for heating food and boiling water

● Disposable plates, plastic glasses, plastic forks and spoons

● Aluminum foil, plastic freezer bags, heavy duty garbage bags

● Can opener/knife

● Clorox wipes

● Chlorine bleach, water purification tablets

● Hand sanitizer, and baby-wipes

● Ice chest and ice

● Broom, mop and bucket

● Blankets, sleeping bags and mats

● Pet food and pet crates

● Baby supplies: food and liquid formula, diapers & wipes

● Books, magazines, games

 

Future Looking Bright for Cayman Islands Development

An aggressive plan to stimulate the economy has been recently committed to by the Cayman Islands Government. This plan fast tracks some new development and improvements to the country's infrastructure. In the short term, it will provide an immediate boost to the economy, long term results will impact businesses and create more jobs. 


Within the last two years of strategic planning, a list of projects should move ahead within the next two years:

- Establishment of a Special Economic Zone to develop a Cayman Enterprise City for science and technology, comprised of six campuses over 300 acres, creating approximately 5000-10,000 jobs over 10 years. Construction could start by end of this year or early next year.

- The Narayana Cayman University Medical Center which will start with a 140 bed hospital and medical university could eventually create thousands of jobs through medical tourism, is planned to be under construction by year end.

- 68,000 sq. ft. commercial building at Camana Bay is currently under construction.

- 200+ residential homes and condominiums are planned for Camana Bay, construction starting at the end of this year.

- 60 ultra-luxury condominiums for WaterColours on Seven Mile beach is currently under construction.

- Expansion of the Ritz-Carlton's Dragon Bay development of homes and condos with over 100 condominiums in Secret Harbour commencing construction this year.

- The new National Gallery building off the Harquail Bypass is currently under construction.

- 2 new multi-storey commercial buildings in George town; one 6 storey office tower for Appleby's attorneys is currently under construction.

- Caribbean Office Place on West Bay Rd. across from the Caribbean Club will start construction this summer.

- A new 5 star hotel resort in Colliers on the eastern side of Grand Cayman, plans construction this year.

- 15 residences at Oceania on the waterfront in George Town is currently under construction.

- Reinstatement of the Courtyard Marriott damaged in Hurricane Ivan has recently been sold this year, although it has not been determined whether the brand will be retained or upgraded to a 5 star brand.


The future looks bright for the Cayman Islands as plans for building the infrastructure and economy have begun. Now is an excellent time for investment as prices for residential property remain at an all time low. Contact your Cayman Islands Real Estate specialists for more information on investing in the Cayman Islands.


Source: The Lund Report Summer 2011

4G Mobile Technology Coming to the Cayman Islands

LIME has recently announced its plan to bring 4G or 4th Generation technology to its customers throughout the Caribbean, commencing in Grand Cayman later this summer.

This network upgrade will enable LIME’s customers to access blazing fast Internet and numerous sophisticated data services on their wireless devices.

Mobile 4G will deliver a superior online experience, delivering faster download speeds while surfing and sharing large files such as a film or video clip downloads, or to play online games through the Internet.

What does this mean for LIME customers? With LIME’s 4G network, when in a 4G coverage area and with a suitable device, LIME’s customers will:

• See faster internet speeds in more locations
• Video chat with no dependency on WiFi
• Watch video at blazing fast speeds
• Send photos to social networks, friends, and family faster than ever
• Browse the web with greater speed, even when on a call
• Send email with huge attachments
• Download photos, apps, music, movies and more faster than before

As technological advances become more available to the Cayman Islands, owning your piece of paradise is becoming even more appealing.


Contact your Cayman Islands Real Estate expert now for more information.

New Listing! Little Cayman Oceanfront Land

This .68 acre parcel is located on Little Cayman with 100 gorgeous feet of ocean frontage.  This is the perfect spot for your vacation dream home with all the beauty of Little Cayman's peace and quiet! It lies just west of Casa Cassiopea Guest Cottage, block 88A parcel 58.  This piece of paradise is listed for US $350,000.


Contact your Little Cayman real estate specialists for all the details.

Paradise For Less on The Sister Islands

Real estate prices are lower on the Sister Islands than Grand Cayman. 

Investors and developers will find a surprising amount of prime ocean-front property available on both Little Cayman and Cayman Brac, ideally suited for retirement property or for those looking for a more relaxed lifestyle.

Contact your local Sister Islands Real Estate expert today and fulfill your dreams of real estate ownership today.