Oct 24, 2006 The Virgin Islands Marine Action Group Inc. and American Yacht Harbor are co-hosting a gubernatorial forum from 6-8 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 26, at the Marlin Deck, American Yacht Harbor, St. Thomas.
The purpose of the forum, which is open to the general public, is to hear how the candidates intend to lead the United States Virgin Islands and how they plan to work in a partnership with the business/marine community to help revitalize the marine industry.
In 1988 the marine industry put over $100 million into the economy of the V. I. Because of neglect and an extremely unfriendly business attitude by officials, the contribution has dropped to less than one-quarter of that. The goals of the forum are to begin to change this and to start the marine industry on the road to substantial recovery.
The candidates will be asked ten questions and given ample time to give their answers. The topics will be: attitude, business/marine friendly, education, public/private partnerships, U.S.V.I./British V.I. relationships, relationships with the federal government, E-NOAD, swimming, mega yachts and the environment.