Savannah Ocean Exchange Heralds Gulfstream as Worldwide Sponsor of the $100,000 Gulfstream Navigator Award 2011

SAVANNAH, Ga., Feb. 2, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Savannah Ocean Exchange proudly announces Gulfstream as the worldwide sponsor of the Gulfstream Navigator Award 2011, which recognizes the best technology, idea or solution to improve the world's coasts and prepare them for the future.

The award is given to the top solution submitted as part of an annual Call for Solutions sent out through the Savannah Ocean Exchange Board of Governors.  The governors, currently numbered at 27, have selected "Shaping the Future of Our Coasts" as the theme for this year's submissions, which are due by April 15.  An exclusive panel of experts from various disciplines will select the 10 best entries, which will be presented on Sept. 7 and Sept. 8 to the Board of Governors and invited guests in Savannah. That event will culminate with the announcement of the Gulfstream Navigator Award 2011 winner, who will be presented $100,000 on behalf of Gulfstream by Joe Lombardo, the company's president.

"Our company was named after the Gulf Stream, a driver of commercial sea traffic for centuries and a critical part of the Atlantic ecosystem," notes Mr. Lombardo. "Living and working in a coastal community, we are sensitive to the importance of sustainable growth and the protection of environmental assets. We believe the Navigator Award will further research and actionable projects focused on oceans and coastal areas. It will also cast a beacon on Savannah, which is a great home for new high-tech and environmental businesses and an important maritime hub."

Savannah Ocean Exchange brings together thought leaders around the world from cross disciplines that represent industry, education, research, technology, government and conservation. While most of the Governors hail from the USA, other countries represented include Ireland, Switzerland, Australia, England, Canada and American Samoa.

"We are thrilled Gulfstream is our inaugural Worldwide Sponsor of the Gulfstream Navigator Award 2011," says Cort Atkinson, Co-Founder and CEO of the Savannah Ocean Exchange. "Gulfstream continually identifies and incorporates the best solutions into their business. Their worldwide reputation for excellence has the power to bring together thought leaders and solution creators from every corner of our planet who are committed to our world's ocean."

To learn more about the call for submissions and the review process, please visit www.savannahoceanexchange.org.

About Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation

Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), designs, develops, manufactures, markets, services and supports the world's most technologically advanced business-jet aircraft. Gulfstream has produced more than 1,900 aircraft for customers around the world since 1958. The company employs more than 10,000 people at ten major locations. www.gulfstream.com.

About the Savannah Ocean Exchange

Founded in 2010, Savannah Ocean Exchange unites international organizations across multiple disciplines and boundaries to distribute and adopt solutions that positively impact oceans and ocean life. The Board of Governors includes 27 thought-leaders from around the world who represent diverse backgrounds and expertise and share a commitment to innovation and to the protection of our ocean.

The theme for the 2011 Savannah Ocean Exchange is "Shaping the Future of Our Coasts." The event will include the Solutions Exchange, which will take place September 7-8, along with several Public Exchanges open to all during the entire month of September. The Public Exchanges will focus on four areas: Culture & Cuisine, Events & Excursions, Presentations & Performances, and Vessels & Viewings. For more information about Savannah Ocean Exchange, the 2011 Solutions Exchange, Public Exchanges and details about the $100,000 Gulfstream Navigator Award 2011, please visit www.savannahoceanexchange.org.

SOURCE Savannah Ocean Exchange