Halifax, NS - September 22, 2008 On Friday, September 19th a group of Maritime business leaders led by Clearwater CEO Colin MacDonald and Emera CEO Chris Huskilson raised over $480,000 for Children’s Wish Foundation as part of this year’s Exile Island. This year’s event was the single largest fundraiser in the history of the Children’s Wish Foundation of Atlantic Canada, and represents wishes for almost 50 children diagnosed with high risk, life-threatening illnesses.

"We had the most incredible day on George’s Island," said Huskilson. "The day was perfect, and the support we received from the community was unbelievable. We thank everyone who picked up their phone or their blackberry or who contributed on-line"

Ten teams, each led by a tribe leader from various industries across the region, each raised a minimum of $10,000 while competing in a number of fun and unique challenges throughout the day. MacDonald’s team "Palooka Pugilists won the "immunity idol" for raising the most with a total of$165,000. At the end of the day, the castaways were treated to a private concert by Rawlins Cross. The popular Celtic group has reunited following a six year hiatus and this was their first reunion performance.

"It was a pretty amazing day, made even more special by having nine Wish Children with us - it was something all of us on the Island will remember for a very long time," said MacDonald. "To be able to grant their wishes and the wishes of 40 more children just like them makes all of the effort leading up to the day incredibly worthwhile."