15 January 2010: The Multihull industry is saddened by the major earthquake that struck southern Haiti on Tuesday afternoon, January 12th.

The 7.0 earthquake left the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere paralyzed as buildings and power lines were knocked down trapping thousands of civilians.

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“I myself have several family members in Haiti which are all unaccounted for at this time, however, we are hoping and praying that all are well. However, in the mean time I am taking the initiative to aid my people in any way possible,” said Lourna Rosembert, Boat Listing Secretary, of The Catamaran Company.

Millions of people have been displaced and thousands are still missing or dead. Those who still have homes intact refuse to enter as they fear their home might not be stable. Survivors roam the streets searching for loved ones and offering help to echoing sounds of trapped men, women and children.

Many sailors have had the opportunity to visit Haiti and witness the country’s level of poverty. We recommend all sailors on their way to offer their assistance.

It is times like these that show the influence the world has when we act as one. It is not a chore but rather a responsibility to take care of our nation and extend our efforts globally. Time is critical and we urge everyone to act fast. We have provided a list of the most needed items below to donate at your local organization:

FOOD:

• Bottled water
• Canned food with TAB OPENINGS not requiring can openers - soup, tuna, etc
• Energy bars

SHELTER:

• Sheets
• Blankets
• Towels
• Tents
• Tarps

POWER:

• Candles
• Flashlights
• Flashlight Batteries - D cells
• Matches / lighters
• Lanterns + lantern oil

MEDICINE:

• Rubbing alcohol
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Iodine
• Bandages
• Gauze
• Aspirin
• Soap
• Baby diapers

To Pledge Money:

1. American Red Cross - American Red Cross Pledges Initial $1 Million to Haiti Relief. Call 1-800 red cross OR send a $10 donation by texting 'Haiti' to 90999.

2. Salvation Army - The Salvation Army is accepting monetary donations to assist in the effort via, Online Credit Card Donations, 1-800-SAL-ARMY and postal mail at: The Salvation Army World Service Office, International Disaster Relief Fund, PO Box 630728, Baltimore, MD 21263-0728. Designate donations, “Haiti Earthquake.”

3. Wyclef Jean - text to 501501 the word "Yele" and a $5.00 donation will appear on your next cell phone bill. After you text "Yele" you will receive a confirmation text back authorizing your donation of $5.00. You can do this up to 6 times on one cell phone. $4.50 of your donation goes to Haiti.

4. Visit http://www.hashaiti.org/ for earthquake disaster updates and relief options.

ABOUT THE CATAMARAN COMPANY:
For over 20 years, The Catamaran Company continues to reinforce its dominant position as the global leader in both new and pre-owned catamaran sales. With its growing network of regional catamaran centers around the globe, The Catamaran Company offers unmatched sales and brokerage expertise while also providing turnkey yachts for sale and unforgettable catamaran sailing vacations. The premier U.S. dealer for the full line of Lagoon and Gemini Catamarans, The Catamaran Company also offers a full range of owner services including vessel maintenance and repairs, insurance, financing, yacht management, delivery, dockage and documentation.

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