*Highlights for the quarter vs Q1 FY18:*· Revenues of $1,136.7 million, an increase of $159.8 million or 16.4%;
· Gross profit of $281.6 million representing 24.8% of revenues, an increase of $54.5 million or 160 basis points;
· Normalized EBITDA ^[1] of $126.6 million representing 11.1% of revenues, an increase of $26.0 million;
· Net income of $13.4 million, an increase of $18.3 million, which resulted in a diluted earnings per share of $0.13, an increase of $0.18 per share;
· Normalized net income ^[1] of $53.5 million, an increase of $10.7 million, which resulted in a normalized diluted earnings per share ^[1] of $0.52, an increase of $0.14 per share.
· Announcement of a direct distribution model in Russia, during summer 2018, to support its growth strategy and increase its presence in the country. 
· Expansion of the SSV lineup with the addition of two Can-Am Maverick Sport packages with a 60-inch wide wheel base.
· FY2019 guidance increased to reflect higher demand for BRP products.

^[1] See “Non-IFRS Measures” section.

VALCOURT, Québec, May 31, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BRP Inc. (TSX:DOO) today reported its financial results for the three-month period ended April 30, 2018. All financial information is in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted. The complete financial results are available at www.sedar.com, as well as in the Quarterly Reports section of BRP’s website.

“Business is off to a very strong start. Record results for the first quarter are setting the stage for a solid year,” said José Boisjoli, President and CEO. “Our momentum continues with strong gains and we are outperforming in all product lines.”

“Our steady growth is largely attributable to the dedication and excellent execution of our teams globally. We are also encouraged by the global economic landscape. Even with the possible impact of commodities and transport costs, we are confident to be able to deliver our increased guidance,” Boisjoli concluded.

*Highlights for the Three-Month Period Ended April 30, 2018*

*Revenues* increased by $159.8 million, or 16.4%, to $1,136.7 million for the *three-month period* ended April 30, 2018, compared with $976.9 million for the corresponding period ended April 30, 2017. The revenue increase was primarily attributable to higher wholesale of Year-Round Products, partially offset by an unfavourable foreign exchange rate variation of $13 million.
     
BRP’s North American retail sales for powersports vehicles and outboard engines increased by 9% for the three-month period ended April 30, 2018 compared with the three-month period ended April 30, 2017, mainly due to an increase in SSV.

As at April 30, 2018, North American dealer inventories for powersports vehicles and outboard engines increased by 9% compared to April 30, 2017, driven mainly by PWC.

*Net Income data*

  *Three-month periods ended**
*
(in millions of Canadian dollars) *April 30,
 **2018* *April 30,
 **2017**
*
  * * Restated ^[1]
  * *  
*Revenues by category* * *  
Year-Round Products *$**526.6* $396.1
Seasonal Products *350.4* 324.3
Propulsion Systems *91.1* 101.9
PAC *168.6* 154.6
*Total Revenues* *1,136.7* 976.9
Cost of sales *855.1* 749.8
*Gross profit* *281.6* 227.1
As a percentage of revenues *24.8**%* 23.2%
*Operating expenses* * *  
Selling and marketing *83.0* 70.5
Research and development *55.6* 50.1
General and administrative *48.7* 43.5
Other operating expenses *8.1* 2.6
*Total operating expenses* *195.4* 166.7
*Operating income* *86.2* 60.4
Net financing costs *11.5* 11.8
Foreign exchange loss on long-term debt *41.5* 44.2
*Income before income taxes* *33.2* 4.4
Income tax expense *19.8* 9.3
*Net income (loss)* *$**13.4* $(4.9)
Attributable to shareholders *$**13.3* $(5.1)
Attributable to non-controlling interest *$**0.1* $0.2
* * * *  
*Normalized EBITDA ^[2]* *$**126.6* $100.6
*Normalized net income ^[2]* *$**53.5* $42.8

^[1] Restated to reflect the adoption of IFRS 15 “Revenue from contracts with customers” and IFRS 9 “Financial instruments” standards as explained in Note 15 of the unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the three-month period ended April 30, 2018.
^[2] See “Non-IFRS Measures” section.

*QUARTERLY REVIEW BY CATEGORIES**Year-Round Products*

Revenues from Year-Round Products increased by $130.5 million, or 32.9%, to $526.6 million for the three-month period ended April 30, 2018, compared with $396.1 million for the corresponding period ended April 30, 2017. The increase was primarily attributable to a higher volume of SSV and 3WV sold, partially offset by an unfavourable foreign exchange rate variation of $8 million.

*Seasonal Products*

Revenues from Seasonal Products increased by $26.1 million, or 8.0%, to $350.4 million for the three-month period ended April 30, 2018, compared with $324.3 million for the corresponding period ended April 30, 2017. The increase resulted primarily from a higher volume of PWC sold, partially offset by an unfavourable foreign exchange rate variation of $5 million.

*Propulsion Systems*

Revenues from Propulsion Systems decreased by $10.8 million, or 10.6%, to $91.1 million for the three-month period ended April 30, 2018, compared with $101.9 million for the corresponding period ended April 30, 2017. The decrease was mainly attributable to a lower volume of motorcycle engines sold.

*PAC (Parts, Accessories, Clothing and other services)*
     
Revenues from PAC increased by $14.0 million, or 9.1%, to $168.6 million for the three-month period ended April 30, 2018, compared with $154.6 million for the corresponding period ended April 30, 2017. The increase was mainly attributable to a higher volume of SSV and PWC accessories.

*Operating expenses* increased by $28.7 million, or 17.2%, to $195.4 million for the three-month period ended April 30, 2018, compared with $166.7 million for the three-month period ended April 30, 2017. The increase was mainly attributable to higher selling and marketing expenses for continued product investments and to an unfavourable foreign exchange rate variation of $10 million.

*Declaration of dividend*

The Board of Directors approved a quarterly dividend of $0.09 per share for holders of its multiple voting shares and subordinate voting shares. The dividend will be paid on July 13, 2018 to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 29, 2018. The payment of each quarterly dividend remains subject to the declaration of that dividend by the Board of Directors. The actual amount, the declaration date, the record date and the payment date of each quarterly dividend are subject to the discretion of the Board of Directors.

*Fiscal Year 2019 Guidance*

The table below sets forth BRP’s financial guidance for Fiscal Year 2019 when compared to actual results for Fiscal Year 2018, as revised to reflect the adoption of new IFRS 9 Financial instruments (IFRS 9) and IFRS 15 Revenue from contracts with customers (IFRS 15) standards effective as of February 1, 2018.

*Financial Metric* *FY18*
*Results **(based on new IFRS standards)*^[1] *FY19 Guidance vs FY18 Restated
**(based on new IFRS standards)*^[1]  
Revenues   * *  
*Year-Round Products* *$**1,810.0* *Up 12% to 15%*
(previously up 11% to 14%)  
*Seasonal Products* *$**1,553.9* *Up 5% to 10%*
(previously up 2% to 5%) * *
Propulsion Systems $385.9 Down 8% to 4%   
*PAC* *$**702.7* *Up 3% to 7%*
(previously up 1% to 5%)  
*Total Company Revenues* *$**4,452.5* *Up 6% to 10%*
(previously up 5% to 8%)  
*Normalized* *EBITDA^[2]* *$**536.2* *Up 17% to 19% *
(previously up 16% to 18%)  
Effective Tax Rate^[3]  26.9% 26.5% - 27.5%    
*Normalized Earnings per Share – Diluted^[2]* *$**2.27* *Up 24% to 30%**  *($2.82 to $2.94)
(previously up 20% to 25%)  

Other guidance:

· Expecting *~$175M of Depreciation Expense* (decreased from ~$180M) compared to $149M in FY18, *~$62M of Normalized Net Financing Costs* (decreased from ~$65M) and *~100.5M shares* (decreased from ~101.5M)
· *Expecting Capital Expenditures of ~$315M to $330M in FY19* compared to $230M in FY18

[1] “Restated to reflect the adoption of IFRS 15 “Revenue from contracts with customers” and IFRS 9 “Financial instruments” standards as explained in Note 15 of the unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the three-month period ended April 30, 2018. FY18 figures have not been audited.
[2] See “Non-IFRS Measures” section
[3] Effective tax rate based on Normalized Earnings before Normalized Income Tax

The above targets are based on a number of economic and market assumptions the Company has made in preparing its Fiscal Year 2019 financial guidance, including assumptions regarding the performance of the economies in which it operates, foreign exchange currency fluctuations, market competition and tax laws applicable to its operations. The Company cautions that the assumptions used to prepare the forecasts for Fiscal Year 2019, although reasonable at the time they were made, may prove to be incorrect or inaccurate. In addition, the above forecasts do not reflect the potential impact of any non-recurring or other special items or of any new material commercial agreements, dispositions, mergers, acquisitions, other business combinations or other transactions that may be announced or that may occur after May 30, 2018. The financial impact of such transactions and non-recurring and other special items can be complex and depends on the facts particular to each of them. We therefore cannot describe the expected impact in a meaningful way or in the same way we present known risks affecting our business. Accordingly, our actual results could differ materially from our expectations as set forth in this news release. The outlook provided constitutes forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws and should be read in conjunction with the "Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements" section.

*Conference Call and Webcast Presentation*

Today at 9 a.m. ET, BRP will host a conference call and webcast to discuss its FY2019 first-quarter results. The call will be hosted by José Boisjoli, President and CEO, and Sébastien Martel, CFO. To listen to the conference call by phone (event number 4287502), please dial 514-861-1681 or 800-766-6630 (toll-free in North America). Click for international dial-in numbers.

The Company’s first-quarter FY2019 MD&A, financial statements and webcast presentation are posted in the Quarterly Reports section of BRP’s website, while its Annual Information Form can be found in the Annual Reports section.

*About BRP
*We are a global leader in the world of powersports vehicles and propulsion systems built on over 75 years of ingenuity and intensive consumer focus. Our portfolio of industry-leading and distinctive products includes Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft, Can-Am on- and off-road vehicles, Evinrude and Rotax marine propulsion systems as well as Rotax engines for karts, motorcycles and recreational aircraft. We support our lines of product with a dedicated parts, accessories and clothing business to fully enhance your riding experience. With annual sales of CA$4.5 billion from over 100 countries, our global workforce is made up of over 10,000 driven, resourceful people. 
www.brp.com
@BRPNews

Ski-Doo, Lynx, Sea-Doo, Evinrude, Rotax, Can-Am, Spyder, Maverick, REV and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

*CAUTION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
*Certain information included in this release, including, but not limited to, statements relating to our Fiscal Year 2019 financial outlook (including revenues, gross profit margin, operating expenses, Normalized EBITDA, Effective Tax Rate, Normalized net income and Normalized earnings per share), statements relating to the declaration and payment of dividends, statements relating to the proposed increase in production capacity of the Company and other statements that are not historical facts, are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by the use of terminology such as “may”, “will”, “would”, “should”, “could”, “expects”, "forecasts", “plans”, “intends”, “trends”, “indications”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “estimates”, “outlook”, “predicts”, “projects”, “likely” or “potential” or the negative or other variations of these words or other comparable words or phrases. Forward looking statements, by their very nature, involve inherent risks and uncertainties and are based on several assumptions, both general and specific. BRP cautions that its assumptions may not materialize and that current economic conditions render such assumptions, although reasonable at the time they were made, subject to greater uncertainty. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results or performance of the Company or the powersports industry to be materially different from the outlook or any future results or performance implied by such statements. Key assumptions used in determining forward-looking information are set forth below.

*KEY ASSUMPTIONS
*The Company made a number of economic and market assumptions in preparing its Fiscal Year 2019 financial guidance, including assumptions regarding the performance of the economies in which it operates, market competition, tax laws applicable to its operations and foreign exchange currency fluctuation. In addition, many factors could cause the Company’s actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements or future events or developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, the following factors, which are discussed in greater detail under the heading “Risk Factors” of its Annual Information Form: impact of adverse economic conditions on consumer spending; decline in social acceptability of the Company’s products; fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates; high levels of indebtedness; unavailability of additional capital; unfavourable weather conditions; seasonal sales fluctuations; inability to comply with product safety, health, environmental and noise pollution laws; large fixed cost base; inability of dealers and distributors to secure adequate access to capital; supply problems, termination or interruption of supply arrangements or increases in the cost of materials; competition in product lines; inability to successfully execute growth strategy; international sales and operations; failure of information technology systems or security breach; loss of members of management team or employees who possess specialized market knowledge and technical skills; inability to maintain and enhance reputation and brands; significant product liability claim; significant product repair and/or replacement due to product warranty claims or product recalls; reliance on a network of independent dealers and distributors; inability to successfully manage inventory levels; intellectual property infringement and litigation; inability to successfully execute manufacturing strategy; covenants in financing and other material agreements; changes in tax laws and unanticipated tax liabilities; deterioration in relationships with employees; pension plan liabilities; natural disasters; failure to carry proper insurance coverage; volatile market price for BRP’s subordinate voting shares; conduct of business through subsidiaries; significant influence by Beaudier Inc. and 4338618 Canada Inc. (together the “Beaudier Group”) and Bain Capital Luxembourg Investments S. à r. l. (“Bain Capital”); and future sales of BRP’s shares by Beaudier Group, Bain Capital, directors, officers or senior management of the Company. These factors are not intended to represent a complete list of the factors that could affect the Company; however, these factors should be considered carefully.

BRP undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect future events, changes in circumstances, or changes in beliefs, unless required by applicable Canadian securities laws. In the event that BRP does update any forward-looking statement, no inference should be made that BRP will make additional updates with respect to that statement, related matters, or any other forward-looking statement.

*NON-IFRS MEASURES
*This MD&A makes reference to certain non-IFRS measures. These measures are not recognized measures under IFRS, do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Rather, these measures are provided as additional information to complement those IFRS measures by providing further understanding of the Company’s results of operations from management’s perspective. Accordingly, they should not be considered in isolation nor as a substitute for analysis of the Company’s financial information reported under IFRS. The Company uses non-IFRS measures including Normalized EBITDA, Normalized Net Income, Normalized income tax expense, Normalized effective tax rate, Normalized basic earnings per share and Normalized diluted earnings per share.

Normalized EBITDA is provided to assist investors in determining the financial performance of the Company’s operating activities on a consistent basis by excluding certain non-cash elements such as depreciation expense, impairment charge and foreign exchange gain or loss on the Company’s long-term debt denominated in U.S. dollars. Other elements, such as restructuring costs, may also be excluded from net income in the determination of Normalized EBITDA as they are considered not being reflective of the operational performance of the Company. Normalized Net Income, Normalized income tax expense, Normalized effective tax rate, Normalized basic earnings per share and Normalized diluted earnings per share, in addition to the financial performance of operating activities, take into account the impact of investing activities, financing activities and income taxes on the Company’s financial results.             

The Company believes non-IFRS measures are important supplemental measures of financial performance because they eliminate items that have less bearing on the Company’s financial performance and thus highlight trends in its core business that may not otherwise be apparent when relying solely on IFRS measures. The Company also believes that securities analysts, investors and other interested parties frequently use non-IFRS measures in the evaluation of companies, many of which present similar metrics when reporting their results. Management also uses non-IFRS measures in order to facilitate financial performance comparisons from period to period, prepare annual operating budgets, assess the Company’s ability to meet its future debt service, capital expenditure and working capital requirements and, also, as a component in the determination of the short-term incentive compensation for the Company’s employees. Because other companies may calculate these non-IFRS measures differently than the Company does, these metrics are not comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

Normalized EBITDA is defined as net income before financing costs, financing income, income tax expense (recovery), depreciation expense and normalized elements. Normalized Net Income is defined as net income before normalized elements adjusted to reflect the tax effect on these elements. Normalized income tax expense is defined as income tax expense adjusted to reflect the tax effect on normalized elements and to normalize specific tax elements. Normalized effective tax rate is based on normalized net income before normalized income tax expense. Normalized earnings per share - basic and normalized earnings per share – diluted are calculated respectively by dividing the normalized net income by the weighted average number of shares – basic and the weighted average number of shares – diluted. The Company refers the reader to the “Selected Consolidated Financial Information” section of BRP’s MD&A for the reconciliations of Normalized EBITDA and Normalized Net Income presented by the Company to the most directly comparable IFRS measure.

*Reconciliation Tables*

The following table presents the reconciliation of Net income to Normalized net income [1] and Normalized EBITDA [1].

  *Three-month periods ended**
*
(in millions of Canadian dollars) *April 30,
*2018** *April 30,
*2017**
    Restated ^[2]
*Net income (loss)* *$*13.4** $(4.9)
Normalized elements    
Foreign exchange loss on long-term debt *41.5* 44.2
Restructuring and related costs ^[3] *0.2* —
Loss on litigation ^[4] *0.6* 4.8
Other elements *(2.0**)* —
Income tax adjustment *(0.2**)* (1.3)
*Normalized net income ^[1]* *53.5* 42.8
Normalized income tax expense ^[1] *20.0* 10.6
Financing costs *14.1* 12.5
Financing income adjusted *(0.6**)* (0.7)
Depreciation expense *39.6* 35.4
*Normalized EBITDA ^[1]* *$**126.6* $100.6

[1]  See “Non-IFRS Measures” section.
   
[2]  Restated to reflect the adoption of IFRS 15 “Revenue from contracts with customers” and IFRS 9 “Financial instruments” standards as explained in Note 15 of the unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the three-month period ended April 30, 2018.
   
[3] The Company is involved, from time to time, in restructuring and reorganization activities in order to gain flexibility and improve efficiency. The costs related to these activities are mainly composed of severance costs and retention salaries.
   
[4]  The Company is involved in patent infringement litigation cases with one of its competitors.

*For media enquiries: * *For investor relations:*
Magali Valence  Philippe Deschênes
Manager, External Communications Financial Analyst
Tel.: 450.532.6155    Tel.: 450.532.6462
magali.valence@brp.com      philippe.deschenes@brp.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/188c44c3-8c9c-495f-96aa-a7af66d4e820 Reported by GlobeNewswire 46 minutes ago.

Q1 Negatively Impacted By Transition to IFRS; Reiterating 2018 Guidance

ST. JOHN’S, Newfoundland, May 31, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kraken Robotics Inc. (TSX-V:PNG) (OTCQB:KRKNF) announced it has filed its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2018. Additional information concerning the Company, including its unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements and related management’s discussion and analysis (“MD&A”) for the quarter ended March 31, 2018, can be found at www.sedar.com. Unless otherwise stated, all dollar amounts are Canadian dollar denominated.  *CEO Comments *
“While Q1 revenue was impacted by the transition to the new IFRS 15 revenue rules, for 2018, we continue to target revenue of more than $7 million,” said Karl Kenny, Kraken’s President and CEO. “This growth target excludes upside from several, large, multi-unit defense industry bids that we have submitted and are currently being reviewed. Our new KATFISH™ and SeaVision® products have received significant inbound interest, and we anticipate they will gain penetration across both military and commercial markets through the balance of 2018. Adoption of our AquaPix® sensor products is growing with broadening customer orders, and we expect to have a new next generation SAS available in 2019, called the Multispectral SAS. With the nearing launch of our Tentacle™ Intelligent Winch products and continued development of the ThunderFish® Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUV), we are rounding out our sensor and robotics technology portfolio. We believe we are nicely positioned as the defense market undergoes an upgrade cycle and commercial markets increasingly adopt underwater robotic technology.”

*Q1 2018 Highlights*

· Revenue was $0.1 million for the quarter as compared to $0.3 million in the year ago quarter.  The implementation of the new IFRS 15 accounting rules regarding revenue recognition, while not affecting cash flows, negatively affected the timing of reported revenue as we did not use “percentage of completion” accounting on orders being built and projects in progress. Our typical product lead times often span from one to three quarters and vary depending on our inventory levels and whether the customer order is for a new or custom product versus a standard product. As a result, our revenue can be lumpy on a quarterly basis.  *That being said, the Company is **still targeting annual revenue of more than $7 million in 2018;*
· Net loss was $1.5 million as compared to $0.7 million in the year ago quarter. The increase was due to the lower revenues, year over year, as well as increased costs to support multiple R&D projects and increased headcount in all areas of the business to support current and anticipated customer orders;
· We completed a non-brokered private placement of common shares, which when combined with the exercise of outstanding warrants resulted in gross proceeds of $1.9 million;
· At quarter-end, Kraken had $1.5 million of funding awards (i.e. grants) to draw upon from the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP) and Innovate Newfoundland. These grants will be drawn down over the next four quarters. The Company exited the quarter with a cash balance of nil, flat from that reported at December 31, 2017. Excluding deferred revenue working capital for the quarter was $0.1 million, compared to a ($0.8) million working capital deficit at December 31, 2017. A $750,000 short-term loan established in the quarter will be repaid at the end of Q2 from more than $2 million of customer milestone payments expected to be received in Q2.
· We formed a strategic partnership with US-based defense integrator Thayer Mahan;
· Notable Work in Process during the Quarter included:

· Sonar sensors – Engineering and production work on first purchase order of a multi-unit AquaPix® contract announced in Q3 2017;
· KATFISH™ – Build and testing of military version of KATFISH™ towed underwater vehicle for European customer;
· Laser sensors - Sea trials of our new SeaVision® laser imaging system;
· Sensors and software – Continued work on a contract for sensors and robotics for ship hull inspections that was announced in Q4 2017;

*Subsequent Highlights after March 31*

· Pre-qualified for a Build in Canada Innovation Program (BCIP) contract for our ThunderFish® AUV platform;
· Announced development of next generation of sonar sensor. The AquaPix® Multispectral Synthetic Aperture Sonar (SAS) will be the world’s first commercial SAS to operate over such a wide spectrum, ranging from low audible frequencies to high ultrasonic frequencies. This new technology will significantly extended search range at constant high-resolution seabed pixels; will allow for sub-bottom 3D volumetric imaging (i.e. finding objects buried beneath the seafloor); and will increased the speed and accuracy for seabed classification and characterization.
· Successfully completed military standard certification testing of the KATFISH-M, a ruggedized version of Kraken’s KATFISH™ Towed Synthetic Aperture Sonar Platform. While the commercial version of KATFISH™ is priced at US$1.5 million, the military certified version, KATFISH-M, is priced at US$2.5 million.

*ABOUT KRAKEN ROBOTICS INC.*

Kraken Robotics Inc. (TSX.V:PNG) (OTCQB:KRKNF) is a marine technology company that is dedicated to the production and sale of software-centric sensors and underwater robotic systems. The company is headquartered in St. John’s, Newfoundland with offices in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia; Bremen, Germany; and Fairfax, Virginia. Kraken is ranked as a Top 100 marine technology company by Marine Technology Reporter. For more information, please visit www.krakenrobotics.com, www.krakenrobotik.de, www.krakenpower.de. Find us on social media on Twitter (@krakenrobotics), Facebook (@krakenroboticsinc) and LinkedIn.

Certain information in this news release constitutes forward-looking statements. When used in this news release, the words "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "seek", "propose", "estimate", "expect", and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking statements with respect to, among other things, business objectives, expected growth, results of operations, performance, business projects and opportunities and financial results. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect the Company's current views with respect to future events based on certain material factors and assumptions and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including without limitation, changes in market, competition, governmental or regulatory developments, general economic conditions and other factors set out in the Company's public disclosure documents. Many factors could cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to vary from those described in this news release, including without limitation those listed above. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in this news release and such forward-looking statements included in, or incorporated by reference in this news release, should not be unduly relied upon. Such statements speak only as of the date of this news release. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange Inc. nor its Regulation Services Provide (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release, and the OTCQB has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

For further information, please contact:

Greg Reid, Chief Financial Officer
(416) 818-9822
greid@krakenrobotics.com

Sean Peasgood, Investor Relations
(647) 955-1274
sean@sophiccapital.com

Glenda Leyte, Marketing Manager
(709) 757-5757 extension 288
gleyte@krakenrobotics.com Reported by GlobeNewswire 46 minutes ago.

TD Bank, through the Charitable Foundation, the charitable giving arm of TD Bank America’s Most Convenient Bank®, has donated $25,000 to create a dedicated Veterans Center on the Mercy College Dobbs Ferry Campus. Mercy College serves more than 300 veteran students, 200 of which call the Dobbs Ferry Campus their home.

DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. (PRWEB) May 31, 2018

TD Bank, through the Charitable Foundation, the charitable giving arm of TD Bank America’s Most Convenient Bank®, has donated $25,000 to create a dedicated Veterans Center on the Mercy College Dobbs Ferry Campus. Mercy College serves more than 300 veteran students, 200 of which call the Dobbs Ferry Campus their home.

The TD Bank Veterans Center will provide veterans with a personalized space that will be used for peer-to-peer mentoring, study groups, programming and a place of solitude to study. The Center will include a state-of-the-art study center complete with 2 HP desktop computers, a laser jet color printer, study tables and bookshelves. The space will also include a space to relax with recliners and a mini kitchen that will include a refrigerator and coffee maker.

“We are so thankful for TD Bank, through the TD Charitable Foundation for this impactful donation to Mercy College. We are proud to serve so many veteran students on our Dobbs Ferry Campus and believe that the TD Veterans Center will help further facilitate the transition from soldier to student to successful career,” said Mercy College President Tim Hall.

Designated as a “Yellow Ribbon” institution by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Mercy College offers courses specifically designed for armed forces members and military veterans who wish to advance their education or career during and after their service. The Personalized Achievement Contract Program (PACT) assigns a professionally trained mentor to each student for one-on-one engagement, to assist with academic life, financial aid, and successful career development. Veterans and those serving on active duty have their own assigned PACT counselor, Viviana DeCohen, who is a veteran of the Marine Corps.

“We are very elated to receive this most generous award from TD Bank that will allow our Military Reservists, and Veterans of Mercy College, access to needed resources,” said Viviana DeCohen, Military & Veterans PACT Counselor. “This is an opportunity for further success academically and socially.”

This contribution supports TD's longstanding commitment to community enrichment through its newly launched Ready Commitment, a multi-year platform that actively promotes inclusivity, economic vitality, environmental wellbeing and health, enabling people of all backgrounds to succeed in a rapidly changing world. As part of The Ready Commitment, TD targets CDN $1 billion (US $775 million) in total by 2030 towards community giving in four critical areas: Financial Security, a more Vibrant Planet, Connected Communities and Better Health. Through this platform, TD aspires to create a more inclusive tomorrow -- helping people of all backgrounds feel more confident, not just about their finances, but about their ability to achieve their goals. For information, visit td.com/thereadycommitment.

About the TD Charitable Foundation
The TD Charitable Foundation is the charitable giving arm of TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank®, one of the 10 largest commercial banking organizations in the United States. The Foundation's mission is to support, respect and improve the quality of life in the diverse communities where we live and do business. Since its inception in 2002, the Foundation has distributed more than $197.7 million and 19,397 grants in charitable donations from Maine to Florida. The TD Charitable Foundation focuses on supporting the following community needs: affordable housing, economic development, neighborhood revitalization, financial literacy, and human services. Recently, more than 90 percent of the grants awarded by the Foundation benefited low-and moderate- income communities and individuals. More information on the TD Charitable Foundation, including an online grant application, is available at http://www.TDBank.com.

About TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank®
TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank, is one of the 10 largest banks in the U.S., providing more than 9 million customers with a full range of retail, small business and commercial banking products and services at more than 1,200 convenient locations throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Metro D.C., the Carolinas and Florida. In addition, TD Bank and its subsidiaries offer customized private banking and wealth management services through TD Wealth®, and vehicle financing and dealer commercial services through TD Auto Finance. TD Bank is headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J. To learn more, visit http://www.tdbank.com. Find TD Bank on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/TDBank and on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/TDBank_US.
TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank, is a member of TD Bank Group and a subsidiary of The Toronto-Dominion Bank of Toronto, Canada, a top 10 financial services company in North America. The Toronto-Dominion Bank trades on the New York and Toronto stock exchanges under the ticker symbol "TD". To learn more, visit http://www.td.com.

About Mercy College
Mercy College is the dynamic, diverse New York City area college whose students are on a personal mission: to get the most out of life by getting the most out of their education. Founded in 1950, Mercy is a coeducational and nonsectarian college that offers more than 90 undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs within five schools: Business, Education, Health and Natural Sciences, Liberal Arts and Social and Behavioral Sciences. With campuses in Dobbs Ferry, Bronx, Manhattan and Yorktown Heights, the vibrancy of the College culture is sustained by a diverse student body from around the region.
### Reported by PRWeb 20 minutes ago.

A group of marine biologists caught the 20 meter mammal on video underwater. Reported by Jerusalem Post 19 hours ago.

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — The Coast Guard says a whale-watching boat ran aground north of Juneau. Anchorage television station KTUU reports the Allen Marine vessel carried 113 passengers and five crew members when it ran aground in Favorite Channel north of Auke (awk) Bay. Petty Officer 2nd Class Kyle Gee says the Coast Guard received […] Reported by Seattle Times 18 hours ago.

John Beck facilitates group drumming in hospitals and studies therapeutic benefits for cancer patients

Winston-Salem, N.C., May 31, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- John Beck, a music professor at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA), is a recipient of a Ford Musician Award for Excellence in Community Service from the League of American Orchestras.
Chair of the Brass and Percussion Department in the top-ranked UNCSA School of Music and principal percussionist of the Winston-Salem Symphony, Beck was honored for his outreach activities and research into the therapeutic benefits of interactive group drumming. 

Recognizing the transformative power of music, the awards honor orchestra musicians who employ music for the benefit of the greater community. The awards will be presented June 14 in Chicago during the national conference of the League of American Orchestras. They are funded by the philanthropic arm of the Ford Motor Company.

Beck seeks to document how community drumming can be used as an adjunct therapy for patients undergoing chemotherapy. Previous studies suggest that improvised music-making and movement not only improve mood, cognition and overall quality of life, but also boost immune system response and relieve neuropathy.

He began group drumming in hospitals as community outreach in Indianapolis in 2013, when he was president of the Percussive Arts Society, and now facilitates weekly community drumming circles with patients at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, where he also conducts qualitative exploratory research to support grant applications for a multi-year quantitative study with neuroscientists and state-of-the-art brain mapping instruments.

At UNCSA, an arts conservatory focused on performance, Beck created an electives course about interactive group drumming for his undergraduate students, part of a curriculum that emphasizes entrepreneurship by artists.

At UNCSA, that is called ‘artpreneurship,’ and it is emphasized in each of the conservatory’s disciplines -- Dance, Drama, Filmmaking, and Design & Production in addition to Music.

Chancellor Lindsay Bierman defines an artpreneur “an artist who is not defined by what is, but inspired by all that could be; who is business savvy and technologically aware; who is devoted to creating value and impact through their creative practice; who reaches beyond existing disciplines to create new ways to connect with others; who is willing to take creative risks in order to positively transform our world.”

School of Music Dean Brian Cole says Beck embodies artpreneurship and mentors his students to look for innovative ways to use their conservatory training.

“John has created four courses that help students explore broader opportunities for careers in music-making,” Cole says. “His vision and passion are an inspiration for his students and for the faculty. We’re happy to see him earn national recognition for something that means so much to him and has such a profound impact on his students.”

One of Beck’s students, Douglas Rowe, received his Master of Music degree this year and was awarded a $2,500 artpreneurship grant – part of the Chancellor’s Artpreneurship Initiative – to purchase equipment for his own community drumming enterprise.

Trained by Beck as a drum circle facilitator, Rowe will continue his work in communities such as retirement homes, parks, schools and after-school programs, and would also like to explore the realm of health drumming.

“I have always been interested with the concept of bringing drumming into the community,” Rowe says. “I feel that it is important to facilitate community gatherings in order to break barriers, whether it be race, gender, disabilities, etc.”

Beck said his students of every level from high school through graduate school attend interactive group drumming sessions with him at the hospital, the YMCA, and in local schools. One of his former high school percussionists is currently enrolled in a music therapy program at East Carolina University.

“A music therapy degree and a music performance degree are very different,” he says. “At UNCSA, we are not currently in a position to start a degree program in music therapy, but we can certainly help direct students better.”

Beck says the creative community must continually adapt to stay relevant in today’s marketplace. “Going to the concert hall to listen to the orchestra is no longer an important social thing to do. We have to reinvent ourselves, to explore different ways that the arts can intersect with society.”

Last year, Beck received a Faculty Leadership Grant from UNCSA’s Thomas S. Kenan Institute for the Arts for his project titled “Community Drumming in Cancer.” The grants are designed to give UNCSA faculty opportunities to lead, engage diverse stakeholders, and explore creative strategies and initiatives for further study or implementation.

The Kenan Institute grant allowed Beck to visit seven universities that offer degree programs in music therapy to learn more about how to train students for careers in the field.

“It’s been educational for me to talk with these music therapists and learn about their struggle in convincing the medical community that music can be a viable, non-pharmacological treatment,” he says. “I’ve learned a lot about how I can do it better, but also about the landscape of music in medicine.” 

For Beck, the work is quite personal. His first wife, a fellow musician, died after a struggle with cervical cancer in the mid-1990s.

“It is why I have a passion for it — because I have lived the cancer experience from the primary caregiver’s perspective and I know how helpless it feels,” he says.

Local arts leaders praise Beck’s community outreach. 

“An exceptional and highly respected musician, educator and leader in his field, John is dedicated to the power of music therapy for patients and families battling debilitating treatments and fighting terminal illnesses,” says Merritt Vale, president and CEO of the Winston-Salem Symphony. “His work helps transform circumstances that often rob people of all sense of control, dignity, and joy into a source of relief from anxiety and pain, and provides a ‘safe’ outlet for often intense internalized emotions.”

Corey Madden, executive director of the Kenan Institute for the Arts, says Beck is a role model for highlighting the contributions that artists can make to a community. “Artists like John who contribute their creative ideas, visionary leadership and novel strategies help to strengthen our culture. The partnerships he has formed with medical and educational organizations demonstrate the power of the arts  to transform lives and communities. We’re very proud to have supported his efforts, and we offer our heartfelt congratulations to him and to the Winston-Salem Symphony.”

The Ford Musician Award includes a $2,500 stipend for Beck and a matching grant to the Winston-Salem Symphony to support professional development focused on community service and engagement for musicians.

Beck has taught percussion at UNCSA since 1998. He performs with both the Winston-Salem and Greensboro symphonies and with Brass Band of Battle Creek and the Philidor Percussion Group. A former member of the United States Marine Band, for 10 years he also performed regularly with the National and Baltimore symphonies, Washington and Baltimore operas, and the Theater Chamber Players of the Kennedy Center. Beck has toured the United States as a xylophone soloist with the Jack Daniel's Silver Cornet Band, Brass Band of Battle Creek, and the New Sousa Band. He is a Past President of the Percussive Arts Society and presents clinics endorsing Yamaha percussion instruments, Zildjian cymbals, and Innovative mallets and is a Remo Endorsed Drum Circle Facilitator in the health and wellness community.

The UNCSA School of Music was ranked No. 5 by The Hollywood Reporter on its list of 25 “best music schools.” The list included 24 schools in the United States and the Royal College of Music in London.

 

*Attachments*

· John Beck drumming circle
· John-Beck (1)

CONTACT: Lauren Whitaker
University of North Carolina School of the Arts
3367342891
whitakerl@uncsa.edu Reported by GlobeNewswire 18 hours ago.

The search for a young missing military wife takes NCIS agents into the dark world of master and slave role playing where they uncover the dual life of a Marine sergeant. Narrated by CBS' "NCIS" actor Rocky Carroll. Watch Tuesday, June 5 at 10/9c on CBS. Reported by CBS News 18 hours ago.

Marseilles, May 31, 2018

*Main decisions of the Combined General Meeting of May 30, 2018*

The Combined General Shareholders' Meeting of BOURBON Corporation SA was held on May 30, 2018 at 3 pm in Palais Brongniart - Place de la Bourse - Paris, and chaired by Mr. Jacques de Chateauvieux.

All resolutions presented to the General Meeting were approved and, in particular:

· the appropriation of 2017 net income in available reserve account;
· the ratification of the transfer of the head office of BOURBON Corporation SA to Marseilles;
· the ratification of the provisional appointment of Mr. Adrien de Chomereau;
· the reappointment of Ms. Agnès Pannier-Runacher and of Mr. Mahmud B. Tukur as Directors;
· the appointment of Mr. Antoine Grenier as Director;
· the approval of the principles and criteria for determination, distribution, and allocation of the fixed, variable and exceptional components of total compensation and benefits of any kind payable to the Executive Directors for the 2018 fiscal year;
· the approval of the compensation components paid or granted for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017 to Mr. Jacques de Chateauvieux, Mr. Christian Lefèvre, Mr. Gaël Bodénès and Ms. Astrid de Bréon;
· the authorization for the Board of Directors to arrange for the Company to buy back and cancel its own shares;
· the renewal of the delegation of authority enabling the Board of Directors to increase the capital through the incorporation of reserves, profits and/or premiums; 
· the introduction of an article 13 bis "Directors representing employees" into the bylaws.

To mark the 70 years of BOURBON, Jacques de Chateauvieux shared with the shareholders a personal view on the company's perspectives in the difficult context that she is going through.  

The Board of Directors, as a result, comprises ten members including four women, three members of foreign nationality and five independent members and continues to serve the company through its gender-equal and diverse composition and a complementary range of experiences and cultures of its members.

As a consequence of the General Meeting, there will not be any dividend paid for 2017.

In the coming few days, full results of the votes on resolutions, full transcript and presentation will be available on http://www.bourbonoffshore.com/en/2018-combined-annual-shareholders-meeting

**FINANCIAL CALENDAR**

2018 1*^st* Half Results press release September 6, 2018
2018 3^rd Quarter Financial information press release November 8, 2018

*ABOUT BOURBON*
Among the market leaders in marine services for offshore oil & gas, BOURBON offers the most demanding oil & gas companies a wide range of marine services, both surface and sub - surface, for offshore oil & gas fields and wind farms. These extensive services rely on a broad range of the latest - generation vessel s and the expertise of almost 8,400 skilled employees. Through its 29 operating subsidiaries the group provides local services as close as possible to customers and their operations throughout the world, of the highest standards of service and safety. 

BOURBON provides three operating activities (Marine & Logistics, Mobility and Subsea Services) and also protects the French coastline for the French Navy. 

In 2017, BOURBON'S revenue came to €860.6 million and the company operated a fleet of 508 vessels.

Placed by ICB (Industry Classification Benchmark) in the "Oil Services" sector, BOURBON is listed on the Euronext Paris, Compartment B.

*Contacts*

*BOURBON* *Media relations agency *
*Publicis Consultants*
*Investor Relations, analysts, shareholders* Vilizara Lazarova
+33 140 138 607  +33 144 824 634 
investor-relations@bourbon-online.com vilizara.lazarova@consultants.publicis.fr
   
*Corporate Communication*  
Christelle Loisel  
+33 491 136 732  
christelle.loisel@bourbon-online.com  

** **

*Attachment*

· PDF version.pdf Reported by GlobeNewswire 17 hours ago.

KEMP, Texas, May 31, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Larson Electronics, a company spearheading the development and manufacturing of lighting systems and power distribution stations for the industrial sector, released a 30 KVA portable power distribution station for aerospace applications. The unit converts three-phase 480V to three-phase 208Y/120V, with all components mounted 18” from the ground for compliance and safety in combustible work sites. This NEMA 3R power distribution station is suitable for automotive or fleet service bays, aircraft hangars, aerospace sites and more.The MPD-60C-480D-30KVA-208Y.120-12X120.20A-E18 comes with a 60-foot 8/4 SOOW cord (blunt-cut end) for bringing 480V three phase power into a NEMA 3R 60-amp 480V three phase disconnect, which contains three, 40-amp time delay fuses, on the primary side of the station. A NEMA 3R 30 KVA transformer converts 480V to 208Y/120V three phase power. The secondary side of the power distribution station consists of a NEMA 3R 125-amp 208Y/120V three phase main circuit breaker panel. The secondary panel is equipped with twelve, 20-amp breakers protecting twelve, 20-amp 5-20R 125V GFCI duplex receptacles for 120V equipment.

The 30 KVA temporary power distribution station is mounted on a sturdy, steel cart for maximum portability around the facility. For protection against rugged elements, the cart and frame are powder coated. Operators can transport the station with minimal effort, as the cart is equipped with four, rubber tires. The mounting system features top-located eyelets for hoisting via cables or chain hooks. Skid pockets are available at the bottom of the station for transportation using forklift and heavy-duty lifting machines.

All electrical components found on the UL 1640 portable power distribution station are mounted 18 inches from the ground.

The MPD-60C-480D-30KVA-208Y.120-12X120.20A-E18 can be customized to suit the needs and specifications of industrial projects. Customization includes cords (length, type and cord cap), voltage, phase (single or three), wiring configurations, panel types, breakers, receptacles, mounting systems, materials and more. Customers interested in custom-built portable power distribution systems may contact Larson Electronics directly for more information.

*About Larson Electronics LLC:* Larson Electronics LLC is a manufacturer of industrial lighting equipment and accessories. The company offers an extensive catalog of industry-grade lighting and power distribution products for the following sectors: manufacturing, construction, food processing, oil and gas, military, marine and automobile. Customers can benefit from the company’s hands-on, customized approach to lighting solutions. Larson Electronics provides expedited service for quotes, customer support and shipments.

*For further information, please contact:*
Rob Bresnahan, *President and CEO
*Toll-free: 1-800-369-6671
Phone: 214-616-6180
Fax: 903-498-3364
E-mail: sales@larsonelectronics.com

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b794e75f-dd65-4282-bc98-e585e65c3512

http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a77e0732-ca59-4bf6-88e7-880f3e31cf29

http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2cca9408-6f48-40b9-9062-19d20b186af0

http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bd7b5778-31e5-45f2-8996-15eee1f9ddb9

http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/34106aab-4c3d-4b26-80d6-1d548cbdc73c Reported by GlobeNewswire 17 hours ago.

Papendrecht, 31 May 2018

On 9 May 2018 the dividend of Royal Boskalis Westminster N.V. (Boskalis) for the financial year 2017 has been determined at EUR 1.00 per ordinary share. This dividend shall be distributed in the form of ordinary shares, unless a shareholder opts to receive the dividend payment in the form of cash.

With the dividend distribution as stock, shareholders will receive one ordinary share per 23.5 dividend rights of ordinary shares. The conversion rate has been based on the volume weighted average stock price of Boskalis shares traded on Euronext Amsterdam over the period 29, 30 and 31 May of EUR 23.5360.

From 5 June 2018 the dividend will be payable in cash and ordinary shares arising from the conversion of dividend rights will be delivered. Cash distribution will be subject to deduction of dividend tax as required by law.

*Royal Boskalis Westminster N.V. is a leading global services provider operating in the dredging, maritime infrastructure and maritime services sectors. The company provides creative and innovative all-round solutions to infrastructural challenges in the maritime, coastal and delta regions of the world with services including the construction and maintenance of ports and waterways, land reclamation, coastal defense and riverbank protection. In addition, Boskalis offers a wide variety of marine services and contracting for the oil and gas sector and offshore wind industry as well as salvage solutions. Furthermore, Boskalis has a number of strategic partnerships in harbor towage and terminal services (Kotug Smit Towage, Keppel Smit Towage, Saam Smit Towage and Smit Lamnalco). With a versatile fleet of more than 900 vessels and floating equipment and 10,700 employees, including associated companies, Boskalis operates in 90 countries across six continents.*

This press release can also be found on our website www.boskalis.com.

*Attachment*

· pdf version press release.pdf Reported by GlobeNewswire 16 hours ago.

The noose tightens on the Damanzaihao –a notorious black listed vessel – barred from leaving Peru with fines unpaid and resuming its slaughter of over half a million tons of marine wildlife per year.

Peru, South America, May 31, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- *FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE*

 

*Media Inquiries: Carolina Castro - *carolina@seashepherd.org *or call 1-407-335-8656*

*LARGEST FISH FACTORY VESSEL IN THE WORLD ARRESTED AND SEIZED IN PERU PENDING CRIMINAL CHARGES*

 

 The noose tightens on the Damanzaihao –a notorious black listed vessel – barred from leaving Peru with fines unpaid and resuming its slaughter of over half a million tons of marine wildlife per year.

 

Photos

* *

Video

 

*Chimbote, Peru - May 31st, 2018 -* Agents from the Peruvian Environmental Prosecutor’s Office boarded the Damanzaihao last night, as part of an federal criminal investigation based on presumed acts of illegal fishing.  Acting on a formal request filed by the Ministry of Environment, the Environmental Prosecutor’s Office has ordered the vessel detained pending further investigation.   

 

The new criminal case is predicated on the same acts of illegal fishing – proven beyond all dispute – that led to the imposition of a multi-million dollar administrative fine in 2016.  In addition, Peruvian authorities have also accused the Damanzaihao of polluting the marine environment through the illegal discharge of fluids and effluents while anchored in Chimbote.  

 

Over the past week, the Damanzaihao has twice requested permission to leave port in an obvious attempt to escape the tightening noose. On April 20, 2018, Sea Shepherd delivered a formal letter to the Peruvian Ministry of Production (the agency that issued the multi-million dollar fine) imploring the government to take additional steps to ensure the ship pay for its crimes.  

 

The Damanzaihao is the largest fish factory vessel in the world, capable of processing 547,000 tons of fish per year.

 

Sea Shepherd Vessel M/V John Paul DeJoria was recently in Peruvian waters, investigating and gathering intelligence to assist the Peruvian Government in its fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (“IUU”) Fishing.

 

Despite the Damanzaihao switching flag states from Peru to Belize while anchored in Peruvian waters, Peru is taking a strong stance in its efforts to bring the Damanzaihao to justice. Under the Peruvian Penal Code, successful conviction carries a penalty of three to five years of incarceration. Sea Shepherd applauds Peru’s commitment to combating IUU fishing and continues to provide support to Peru to help bring an end to the rampant over-exploitation of the oceans.

 

Belize was previously “red carded” by the European Commission for its lack of commitment to tackle IUU fishing. While its red-card has since been lifted, Belize must immediately take measures to refrain from inappropriately continuing to flag the Damanzaihao and allowing it to destroy marine ecosystems across the planet. 

 

Sea Shepherd, together with its government allies in Peru, are working to ensure that the Damanzaihao’s efforts to exploit the oceans are thwarted in the long-term.

 

Photos

* *

Video
Video on YOUTUBE

Images and video Credit: Sea Shepherd

*# # #*

*ABOUT SEA SHEPHERD CONSERVATION SOCIETY: *Sea Shepherd Conservation Society is a non-profit marine conservation organization established in 1977 by Captain Paul Watson, a world renowned, respected leader in environmental issues and co-founder of Greenpeace. Its mission is to end the destruction of habitat and slaughter of wildlife in the world’s oceans to conserve and protect ecosystems and species. Sea Shepherd uses innovative direct-action tactics to investigate, document, and act when necessary to expose and confront illegal activities on the high seas. Visit www.seashepherd.org for more information.

* For media inquiries please reach *Carolina Castro* at *carolina@seashepherd.org *or call *1-407 335 86 56

*Attachment*

· DJI_0072

CONTACT: Carolina Castro
Sea Shepherd Conservation Society
4073358656
carolina@seashepherd.org Reported by GlobeNewswire 15 hours ago.

ATHENS, Greece, May 31, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Globus Maritime Limited ("Globus," the “Company,"“we,” or “our”), (NASDAQ:GLBS), a dry bulk shipping company, announced today that it will release financial results for the three-month period ended March 31, 2018, after the market closes in New York on Wednesday, June 6^th, 2018.*About Globus Maritime Limited*

Globus is an integrated dry bulk shipping company that provides marine transportation services worldwide and presently owns, operates and manages a fleet of dry bulk vessels that transport iron ore, coal, grain, steel products, cement, alumina and other dry bulk cargoes internationally. Globus’s subsidiaries own and operate 5 vessels with a total carrying capacity of 300,571 DWT and a weighted average age of 10.1 years as of March 31, 2018.

*For further information please contact:*

     
Globus Maritime Limited   +30 210 960 8300
Athanasios Feidakis   a.g.feidakis@globusmaritime.gr
     
Capital Link – New York   +1 212 661 7566
Nicolas Bornozis   globus@capitallink.com
Paul Lampoutis     Reported by GlobeNewswire 15 hours ago.

SWINDON, United Kingdom, May 31, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sensata Technologies (NYSE:ST) announced today that its Board of Directors has authorized a $400 million ordinary share repurchase program. At the Company’s 2018 annual general meeting held earlier today, Sensata’s shareholders approved the forms of share repurchase agreements and the potential broker counterparties needed to execute the buyback program.Martha Sullivan, President and CEO, stated, “We are pleased that our shareholders have endorsed our efforts to improve the flexibility and optionality of our capital deployment initiatives. Our share repurchase plan demonstrates our belief in our financial outlook and our ability to generate strong free cash flow, which we can deploy into value-creating initiatives for our shareholders. We will continue to pursue a returns-driven approach to capital deployment.  The new repurchase program will augment our existing capital deployment strategies and enable us to drive attractive returns on invested capital over the long-term.”

The Company’s ordinary shares may be repurchased from time to time depending on market conditions or other factors through open market or privately negotiated transactions. In addition, repurchases of ordinary shares may be made under a Rule 10b5-1 plan, which would permit shares to be repurchased when the Company might otherwise be precluded from doing so under insider trading laws. The repurchase program may be suspended or discontinued at any time.

Sensata expects to seek shareholder approval of its share repurchase agreements and its broker counterparties on an annual basis.

*About Sensata Technologies*

Sensata Technologies is one of the world’s leading suppliers of sensing, electrical protection, control and power management solutions with operations and business centers in 12 countries.  Sensata’s products improve safety, efficiency and comfort for millions of people every day in automotive, appliance, aircraft, industrial, military, heavy vehicle, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, data, telecommunications, recreational vehicle, and marine applications. For more information, please visit Sensata’s website at www.sensata.com.

*Safe Harbor Statement*

Certain statements in this press release are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including the Company's plans with respect to share repurchases, involving, among other things, uncertainties inherent in business and financial planning. These forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and reflect the Company’s current expectations. As a result, these forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations. Risks and uncertainties related to the repurchase program include, but are not limited to, market conditions; the possibility that the repurchase program may be suspended or discontinued; and economic factors, such as interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations. Except as may be required by applicable law, the Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak to results only as of the date the statements were made; and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether to reflect any future events or circumstances or otherwise. A further list and description of these risks, uncertainties and other factors can be found in the Company's 2017 Annual Report on Form 10-K and the Company’s subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Copies of these filings are available online at www.sec.gov or www.investors.sensata.com or on request from the Company’s Investor Relations department.

Investor Contact:

Joshua Young 
Vice President, Investor Relations 
+1 (508) 236-2196 
Joshua.Young@sensata.com

Media Contact:

Alexia Taxiarchos 
+1 (508) 236-1761 
ataxiarchos@sensata.com Reported by GlobeNewswire 15 hours ago.

VALCOURT, Québec, May 31, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BRP Inc. (TSX:DOO) held earlier today its annual meeting of shareholders in Valcourt, Québec. All of the nominees for directors listed in the Company's management proxy circular dated April 20, 2018 were elected by a majority of the votes cast by shareholders present or represented by proxy at the meeting. The voting result for each nominee is as follows:*Nominee* *Votes
For* *%* *Votes
Withheld* *%*
Laurent Beaudoin 394,811,209 97.07% 11,927,837 2.93%
Joshua Bekenstein 390,422,362 95.99% 16,316,684 4.01%
José Boisjoli 395,766,998 97.30% 10,972,048 2.70%
J.R. André Bombardier 394,904,977 97.09% 11,834,069 2.91%
William H. Cary 406,494,011 99.94% 245,035 0.06%
Michael Hanley 404,910,021 99.55% 1,829,025 0.45%
Louis Laporte 393,963,763 96.86% 12,775,283 3.14%
Estelle Métayer 406,495,469 99.94% 243,577 0.06%
Nicholas Nomicos 394,949,394 97.10% 11,789,652 2.90%
Daniel J. O'Neill 405,323,713 99.65% 1,415,333 0.35%
Edward Philip 405,321,903 99.65% 1,417,143 0.35%
Joseph Robbins 394,960,610 97.10% 11,778,436 2.90%
Barbara Samardzich 406,469,912 99.93% 269,134 0.07%

*About BRP
*We are a global leader in the world of powersports vehicles and propulsion systems built on over 75 years of ingenuity and intensive consumer focus. Our portfolio of industry-leading and distinctive products includes Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft, Can-Am on- and off-road vehicles, Evinrude and Rotax marine propulsion systems as well as Rotax engines for karts, motorcycles and recreational aircraft. We support our lines of product with a dedicated parts, accessories and clothing business to fully enhance your riding experience. With annual sales of CA$4.5 billion from over 100 countries, our global workforce is made up of over 10,000 driven, resourceful people.

www.brp.com
@BRPnews

Ski-Doo, Lynx, Sea-Doo, Evinrude, Rotax, Can-Am and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

*For media enquiries:* *For investor relations:*
   
Magali Valence Philippe Deschênes
Manager, External Communications Financial Analyst
Tel.: 450.532.6155 Tel.: 450.532.6462
magali.valence@brp.com philippe.deschenes@brp.com Reported by GlobeNewswire 15 hours ago.

KEMP, Texas, May 31, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Larson Electronics, longtime leading supplier of commercial and industrial grade lighting solutions, has announced the release of a new 100-watt high mast stadium LED flood light that delivers 12,150 lumens of high intensity light while drawing just 0.84 amps at 120V AC. This outdoor industrial light is IP67 rated and is ideal for stadium lighting, high mast lighting and replacing metal halide lamps and features an anti-shock design to withstand rugged and high vibration environments.The Larson Electronics GAU-LTL-90W-LED-ASM provides operators with a powerful and energy efficient alternative to traditional, bulky, and high maintenance 250-watt metal halide units. Nine CREE LEDs and PMMA high purity optics allow this high bay fixture to provide an impressive 12,150 lumens of high quality light while only consuming only 90 watts with a 0.84-amp draw. Each LED emits a 24° wide spot beam creating phenomenal far-reaching concentrated illumination over a large area, making this high mast light a perfect option for outdoor work areas. The GAU-LTL-90W-LED-ASM operates on standard 120-277V AC and boasts a lifespan of over 80,000 hours with 70% lumen retention.

The GAU-LTL-90W-LED-ASM high bay light fixture is IP67 waterproof, suitable for outdoor and humid industrial environments where high quality elevated lighting is required. The heavy-duty design has unparalleled heat control and can withstand extreme environmental conditions including rapid temperature changes. The housing is formed of die cast aluminum and resistant to the ingress of dust, dirt and humidity.

A trunnion style anti-shock mounting bracket allows this high mast light to be attached to flat surfaces and tilted up to 160°. Rubber isolators reduce shock/vibration transferred between the mounting surface and the fixture. These anti-shock absorbers allow this light to be installed in high vibration environments, such as on mining equipment.

“This anti-shock high mast LED light is a great replacement for metal halides in rugged settings that need a high light output over a large area,” said Rob Bresnahan, CEO of Larson Electronics LLC. “The unit uses very little power to produce an exceptional lumen output and can withstand the harsh conditions found in outdoor work environments with the help of a special anti-shock mount design. Great for construction sites and even sport complexes.

*About Larson Electronics LLC: *Larson Electronics LLC is a manufacturer of industrial lighting equipment and accessories. The company offers an extensive catalog of industry-grade lighting and power distribution products for the following sectors: manufacturing, construction, food processing, oil and gas, military, marine and automobile. Customers can benefit from the company’s hands-on, customized approach to lighting solutions. Larson Electronics provides expedited service for quotes, customer support and shipments.

*For further information, please contact:*
Rob Bresnahan, *President and CEO
*Toll-free: 1-800-369-6671
Phone: 214-616-6180
Fax: 903-498-3364
E-mail: sales@larsonelectronics.com

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/23e7e9f5-55bd-4656-a99a-10fea2fb07cbhttp://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b101140a-aa40-41c5-82af-ae3145021420http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/75ed1c2d-fe56-46cf-bf27-e17c9118fd33http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3141abd7-706d-4ed7-a609-ab5114c030b2 Reported by GlobeNewswire 15 hours ago.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., May 31, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SEACOR Holdings Inc. (NYSE:CKH) (“SEACOR” or the “Company”) announced today that CLEANCOR Holdings LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, acquired the remaining 50% ownership interest in CLEANCOR Energy Solutions LLC (“CLEANCOR”), an alternative energy and power services and solutions company.Since its inception in late 2013, CLEANCOR has built operating businesses in liquefied natural gas distribution and technical field support services, leasing its fleet of specialized cryogenic and high pressure gas storage, transport and mobile gas processing equipment, and designing, building, operating and maintaining private power and cogeneration plants.

Eric Fabrikant, COO of SEACOR, said, “CLEANCOR has recently commissioned several power supply solutions for end customers in the Caribbean leveraging SEACOR’s relationships in the islands. We also are seeing more opportunity for SEACOR and CLEANCOR to provide turnkey LNG fuel and bunker solutions to the marine industry. The time to leverage the synergies between these two platforms is now, and we are excited to provide Jeff Woods, CLEANCOR’s CEO, and his team, our full support.”

CLEANCOR’s operations consist of:

*CLEANCOR LNG* is a liquefied natural gas (“LNG”) distribution and technical support business based in Southern California, annually displacing millions of gallons of diesel fuel and propane with LNG, a fuel that has lower emissions and is lower cost than diesel, to a diverse set of off-pipeline agricultural and industrial customers for their process heat and burner operations, and truck fleets for use as a motor fuel. CLEANCOR also supplies LNG for special pipeline maintenance projects where CLEANCOR supports pipeline owners, operators, and end customers to provide temporary natural gas supply during maintenance interruptions to normal operations.

*CLEANCOR Equipment Solutions* owns, operates and leases a fleet of cryogenic and high pressure gas equipment deployed to support CLEANCOR and third-party special projects at rural, remote and international locations, including Mexico. CLEANCOR’s fleet of high pressure gas ISO containers are leased to customers for the transport of compressed natural gas from compression stations to remote sites, and for the intermodal movement of other compressed gasses, such as helium, hydrogen, nitrogen and argon, to project locations around the world by truck, rail and sea.

*CLEANCOR Power Solutions* provides cost effective and reliable power generation and energy solutions that deliver financial savings, environmental benefits and grid independence for commercial, industrial and agricultural enterprises, and other public and private critical facilities and infrastructure. CLEANCOR is designing innovative hybrid private power plants, cogeneration facilities and microgrids comprised of a combination of solar, energy storage, and natural gas or propane-fueled generators. CLEANCOR plans to build, operate and maintain these facilities for a range of commercial and industrial customers and local communities to improve their energy quality and resiliency while lowering their cost of energy.

CLEANCOR was and continues to be responsive to critical post-Hurricane Irma and Maria needs for emergency supplies, installation and maintenance of backup generators in the Caribbean Islands, including in Puerto Rico, where it operates as CLEANCOR Soluciones Energéticas.

Jeff Woods, CEO of CLEANCOR, said, “We are excited to become a wholly-owned subsidiary of SEACOR, and to continue to build on the strategic synergies of its extensive customer base and vibrant operations in the US, Caribbean and Latin America by providing customers reliable, low cost energy and power solutions.”*About SEACOR*
SEACOR is a diversified holding company with interests in domestic and international transportation and logistics and risk management consultancy. SEACOR is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol CKH.

*Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements*
Certain statements discussed in this release as well as in other reports, materials and oral statements that the Company releases from time to time to the public constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Generally, words such as “will,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “intend,” “believe,” “plan,” “target,” “forecast” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements may concern management’s expectations, strategic objectives, business prospects, anticipated economic performance and financial condition and other similar matters, and include statements regarding future opportunities and synergies, future LNG deliveries and hybrid private power plants and other future activities. Forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and subject to a variety of assumptions, risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated or expected by management of the Company. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual events or results may differ significantly from these statements. Actual events or results are subject to significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors, including the following risks relating to weakening demand for the Company’s services as a result of unplanned customer suspensions, cancellations, rate reductions or non-renewals of vessel charters or failures to finalize commitments to charter vessels, increased government legislation and regulation of the Company’s businesses that could increase the cost of operations, increased competition if the Jones Act is repealed, liability, legal fees and costs in connection with the provision of emergency response services, decreased demand for the Company’s services as a result of declines in the global economy, declines in valuations in the global financial markets and a lack of liquidity in the credit sectors, including, interest rate fluctuations, availability of credit, inflation rates, change in laws, trade barriers, commodity prices and currency exchange fluctuations, activity in foreign countries and changes in foreign political, military and economic conditions, changes in foreign and domestic oil and gas exploration and production activity, safety record requirements related to Ocean Transportation & Logistics Services, decreased demand for Ocean Transportation & Logistics Services due to construction of additional refined petroleum product, natural gas or crude oil pipelines or due to decreased demand for refined petroleum products, crude oil or chemical products or a change in existing methods of delivery, compliance with U.S. and foreign government laws and regulations, including environmental laws and regulations and economic sanctions, the dependence of Ocean Transportation & Logistics Services and Inland Transportation & Logistics Services on several key customers, consolidation of the Company’s customer base, the ongoing need to replace aging vessels, industry fleet capacity, restrictions imposed by the Shipping Acts on the amount of foreign ownership of the Company’s Common Stock, operational risks of Ocean Transportation & Logistics Services and Inland Transportation & Logistics Services, effects of adverse weather conditions and seasonality, the level of grain export volume, the effect of fuel prices on barge towing costs, variability in freight rates for inland river barges, the effect of international economic and political factors on Inland Transportation & Logistics Services’ operations, the ability to realize anticipated benefits from acquisitions and other strategic transactions, adequacy of insurance coverage, the attraction and retention of qualified personnel by the Company, and various other matters and factors, many of which are beyond the Company’s control as well as those discussed in Item 1A. (Risk Factors) of the Company’s Annual report on Form 10-K and other reports filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). It should be understood that it is not possible to predict or identify all such factors. Consequently, the preceding should not be considered to be a complete discussion of all potential risks or uncertainties. Given these risk factors, investors and analysts should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of the document in which they are made. The Company disclaims any obligation or undertaking to provide any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which the forward-looking statement is based, except as required by law. It is advisable, however, to consult any further disclosures the Company makes on related subjects in its filings with the SEC, including Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K (if any). These statements constitute the Company’s cautionary statements under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

For additional information, contact Investor Relations at (954) 627-5278 or visit SEACOR’s website at www.seacorholdings.com Reported by GlobeNewswire 15 hours ago.

Sandwich Chain Plans to Donate 25,000 Bags of Non-Perishable Goods to Veterans and Active Military During 2018 Campaign

DALLAS (PRWEB) May 31, 2018

For the 10th year in a row, Which Wich Superior Sandwiches, the award-winning fast casual sandwich concept, is using the time between Memorial Day and Independence Day to encourage guests to help the company show appreciation for active and retired men and women of the armed forces with its annual Flag Your Bag campaign. This year, Which Wich is aiming to collect 25,000 bags to surpass 100,000 bags donated since the beginning of the campaign a decade ago.

“This is a time of year when we reflect on the liberties and freedoms that we all enjoy and want to say thank you for the dedication and sacrifice of our armed services,” said Jeff Sinelli, Which Wich’s founder, CEO and Chief Vibe Officer. “They give so much to us and we are proud to give back to them with our Flag Your Bag campaign for a tenth year.”

Between Monday, May 28 and Wednesday, July 4, 2018, Which Wich guests are encouraged to write their own heartfelt messages to members of the military with red and blue Sharpies on the brand’s signature brown bags and hang them on each Which Wich location’s Community Wall. Representatives from the brand will collect bags decorated with messages of support, patriotic art and notes of encouragement from Which Wich locations around the country and send them to the company’s headquarters in Dallas where they will be filled with non-perishable donations and sent to active and veteran U.S. servicemen and women.

David Thompson has served as the Director of Construction for Which Wich for more than five years. However, prior to his construction career, Thompson served as a Marine all around the world, from Singapore to Hawaii to Australia to Okinawa. He even played a vital role in the liberation of Kuwait during the Gulf War. For Thompson, Flag Your Bag is an important way that Which Wich supports the troops throughout the entire franchise community.

“For active duty military who are overseas, it can often feel like you are out of sight and out of mind. When I was overseas, getting a letter from a student in elementary school or a mother who lost her son and wanted to show her support meant the world. Active duty military members sometimes go weeks without getting any mail, so a care package with a few goodies goes a long way,” said Thompson. “The Flag Your Bag program makes a huge impact on people serving overseas because getting something from back home reassures you that others are behind you and supporting you.”

According to the Department of Defense, there are 1.3 million men and women on active duty, 742,000 civilian personnel, with another 826 thousand serving in the National Guard and Reserve forces. Which Wich is committed to providing those men and women tokens of appreciation and support through Flag Your Bag and franchisees support the campaign all over the U.S. with individual Which Wich locations contributing as many as 2,000 bags to local military bases in previous years. Which Wich also supports members of the U.S. military through the International Franchise Association’s VetFran initiative, making all honorable discharged veterans eligible for $10,000 off their initial franchise fee to open up their first Which Wich location. Veterans own Which Wich franchises across the country including veterans operating locations in Louisiana, Indiana, and Texas.

“Veterans and those who are active and stationed in the U.S. love nice gestures. Usually a simple handshake or thank you is all they need to feel loved and supported, so the Flag Your Bag program has the power to not only make their day, but their month or even their year. I've seen guys frame the bags we give them and hang them in their homes,” added Thompson. “Giving the troops a bag with goodies might seem small, but in reality, it means so much to them. I'm truly honored to be a part of Which Wich and the Flag Your Bag program. As a veteran, it means the world to me to help our troops.”

ABOUT WHICH WICH
Which Wich® Superior Sandwiches was founded in Dallas in late 2003 by restaurant entrepreneur, Jeff Sinelli. The national sandwich franchise chain is best known for its customizable sandwiches, creative ordering system, and personalized sandwich bag. In 2017, Which Wich ranked as #9 on Fast Casual's Top 100 Movers and Shakers and landed at #20 on the Franchise Times Fast & Serious list. In 2016, Restaurant Business named Which Wich the first winner of its Future 50 Pacesetter award. Which Wich is the recipient of a Nation’s Restaurant News MenuMasters “Healthful Innovations” award and has been named by Forbes as one of their “30 Best Franchises To Buy.” Which Wich currently has 500 locations open or in development in 40 states and 12 countries. For more information, visit http://www.whichwich.com. Reported by PRWeb 13 hours ago.

In the 1970s, the former Marine repurposed TV sets to play the game that swallowed up the quarters of bar patrons. Reported by Wall Street Journal 12 hours ago.

Previous analysis of Mesolithic skeletal remains in this region has suggested a more varied Medittaranrrean diet consisting of terrestrial, freshwater and marine food resources, not too dissimilar to what modern humans eat today.

Although this recent find is the only example of a skeleton that provides evidence of both fish and plants in the diet of early people in this region, the researchers argue that the discovery provides a significant insight into the lifestyle of Adriatic and Mediterranean foragers.

The team found microfossils entombed in the dental calculus, commonly known as tooth plaque or tartar, of the young male skeleton, revealing fish scale fragments and fish muscle fibres.

Analysis also showed microfossils of plants in the dental calculus, which has not been identified in skeletal remains in this part of the Mediterranean before. The researchers point out that finding both ancient plant and fish deposits in the teeth further demonstrates the value of dental remains in the understanding of human evolution.

Dr Harry Robson, from the University of York’s Department of Archaeology, said: “Whilst fishing during the Mesolithic period has been demonstrated by fish remains as well as fishing related technologies in the past, here, for the first time we have direct evidence that humans consumed these resources, or used their teeth for de-scaling activities, which is very unique.

“The skeleton, which has been dated to the late eighth millennium BC, is also significant in terms of its bone chemistry. Using carbon and nitrogen stable isotope analysis we were able to demonstrate that marine resources were a major component of the diet of this individual over a sustained period of time.”

The team were unable to identify the fish scales, although they are thought to be very similar to tuna, mackeral, and gilthead sea bream.

Despite the lack of a grave, the male who was between 30 and 40 years-of-age, was probably purposefully buried there. Although long-term consumption of marine resources is a rare find for this period and region, dental analysis of more skeletal finds could help reveal if it was common to early human diets.

Lead researcher, Professor Emanuela Cristiani, from Sapienza University of Rome, said: “This is an exciting, but surprising finding. We only have three skeletal remains from this period that demonstrate the long-term consumption of marine-resources, so when you can identify microfossils of this kind, it can provide a great leap forward in our understanding.

“Our data provides a novel perspective on forager diet in the Mediterranean region by revealing the role of marine organisms during the Mesolithic.

“The recovery of starch granules from two wild grass groups in the dental calculus of the analysed individual, suggests that energy-rich plants were a part of the Holocene forager dietary habits in the region.” Reported by Eurasia Review 12 hours ago.

Whale sharks are one of the largest fishes in the ocean and are also called ‘Gentle Giants.’ The plankton-eating fish are extremely docile, but their population faces huge threat due to rampant hunting for their meat, fin and oil.

Ganesh Nakhawa, Vice Chairman of Purse Seine Fishing Welfare Association, informed that the video was shared by one of the fishermen from his association, who were on the boat. They narrated the whole experience to him. "The incident happened two weeks ago when this boat from Mumbai’s Sassoon dock was out fishing for horse mackerel. The crew on the boat soon realised that a whale shark was stuck and since it was a purse siene net they could lead the shark to the end of the net and ensured it was safely released," he said adding that this was a major advantage of purse seine nets.



Fishermen frm #Mumbai save an endangered #whaleshark after it got stuck in their fishing net 60 nautical miles in Mumbai coast. Known as ‘Gentle Giant’ the whale sharks are the largest fish in the ocean and are extremely docile @dna pic.twitter.com/eY0tgg1Gsm

— Virat A Singh (@singhvirat246) June 1, 2018



Even as the video has gone viral and several experts and conservationists demanded that the crew needed to be felicitated, Nakhwa informed that the crew which is from Uttar Pradesh and Ratnagiri have gone back to their villages as the ships have been docked with the end of fishing season. "We have all their names and they will be back after August 15 after which they can be felicitated," he informed.  

Local fishermen state that for the Koli community, the whale shark is revered and its sighting is considered very auspicious. "We call it Bairi Dev locally and spotting it in the ocean is regarded as a good season so there is no question nobody would want to harm the fish. In fact, we have been educating our community and the fishermen under our association to ensure they save any protected and endangered mammal or such fish caught in the nets," he said.

N Vasudevan, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (APCCF) Mangrove Cell, said that these are one of the most beautiful sharks and are endangered species as they were mass hunted but a lot of programmes for their protection are being run across India. "They are known to breed in Gujarat and Malvan is where the second biggest congregation if these whale sharks are found. The effort by the fishermen is commendable,” he said.

Marine enthusiast and one of the founders of Marine Life of Mumbai (MLOM) Pradip Patade, who even shared the video on social media, said that such videos also make sure that people know about the conservation work done by the fishing community. "I was very glad that BNHS Director Deepak Apte voiced that these fishermen who released the whale shark must be recognised and even said that BNHS will do it. Such support and gestures will help strengthen the resolve of the fishing community to protect such endangered species," he said.

Meanwhile, to promote marine conservation, in a first of its kind initiative for Maharashtra, fishermen who cut their fishing nets to free- protected marine mammals and fishes, which get entangled will now be able to claim compensation of up to Rs 25,000 under the Mangrove Foundation’s conservation project. A provision of Rs 25 Lakh has been made by the Foundation for this project for the year 2018-19 and the funds will be disbursed in co-ordination with the Fisheries department.

Article Type: 
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Authors: 
Virat A Singh
Agencies: 
DNA
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Mumbai
Tags: 
Whale Shark
Whale Shark Conservation Project
Purse Seine Fishing Welfare Association
Mangrove Foundation
Fri, 1 Jun 2018-09:21am
Date updated: 
Friday, 1 June 2018 - 9:41am
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Highlights:  Reported by DNA 7 hours ago.