STUART, Florida/June 21, 2006- The 12 th Annual American Red Cross & Expert Shutters Hurricane Fair June 3 - 4 at the Treasure Coast Square mall has been deemed a glowing success. While exact attendance figures are not available, a large percentage of those attending the Hurricane Fair were newcomers to the Treasure Coast. "We are extremely pleased with attendance. It showed that our local residents are very eager to be better prepared for what could be a very active hurricane season, said Mary R. Sawyer, Executive Director, American Red Cross Martin County Chapter.

This year's Hurricane Fair featured experts conducting seminars on a variety of topics. Mike Heissenberg of Expert Shutters, the co-sponsor of the Fair, said there has been a dramatic increase in the number of people who are asking questions about hurricane shutters and how to protect their homes and property. "Four years ago, people were asking 'why would I need shutters?' Now, after our last two hurricane seasons, residents were very eager to learn about the latest technologies and equipment to protect their homes," he added.

The 12 th Annual Red Cross & Expert Shutters Hurricane Fair also featured the Red Cross Disaster Education Simulator. The simulator recently won a national award for helping residents

prepare for hurricanes, fires and other disasters likely to affect residents in a home environment. "We were very pleased to have the Disaster Education Simulator at the mall for this event," said Rachelle Crain, Director of Marketing, Treasure Coast Square mall. "Each year, we look forward to a bigger and better event. The Hurricane Simulator played a major role in helping our residents be better prepared to face the realities of Hurricane Season," added Crain.

The Annual Red Cross & Expert Shutters Hurricane Fair is the largest hurricane preparation event of its kind in Florida. It is presented by the Red Cross to help residents prepare for, survive and recover from a hurricane should one hit our region. Each year, the Hurricane Fair is presented free of charge.

Your Martin County Chapter of the American Red Cross is funded by local dollars. The chapter receives no federal, state, or local tax dollars to support its local operations. To donate your dollars or time, contact the American Red Cross Martin County Chapter at (772) 287-2002 or visit the Chapter headquarters at 2750 South Kanner Highway, Stuart, Florida, 34994