Hector's always had a bit of a problem swallowing one particular myth about our Premier ? that he's a master of spin, a political and media-savvy manipulator who is quite simply brilliant at conveying his message to the masses.

But our modern-day Merlin of the media definitely has at least one fan completely spellbound ? himself. Hector hears the Island's hacks were taken aback when our beaming leader marched into the Cabinet Room and began offering profuse thanks for their attendance.

"From the results of the last conference, I believe the method where the public can receive timed updates works," P purred. "I appreciate your attendance once again. I am so pleased that, within a short period of time, we can again share information with you on the workings of Government and the issues of the day."

Buttery words from a man obviously intent on softening up Bermuda's hard-boiled scribes, but truthful? Hector suspects not. Your columnist recalls the results of last month's Premier Press Conference, in which P trumpeted his party's deft handling of the cruise ship casino saga before spouting off about Government's fiscal brilliance.

"Cheap and utter nonsense" screamed front page headline the following day, while the Mid-Ocean News weighed in with "Overtaxing people is nothing for Government to crow about". Obviously not the positive coverage P had anticipated.

Last week's results were not much better. P's enthusiastic spiel on Government's timely deliverance of the Sustainable Development Plan made a few back-page column inches in, but nothing at all in the other print media.

Never mind Alex, just keep on shouting the message louder and longer, and eventually someone will believe you ? surely?

Hector has always been an admirer of the Bank of Bermuda's philanthropic efforts through its Foundation ? a wing of the company that has helped hundreds over the years, from outstanding students to struggling charities.

However, in recent weeks bank bosses have chosen three particular projects that are bound to earn them points with one just one particular entity ? Government.

Last month the bank confirmed that it was teaming up with the Ministry of Finance to help out 'back of town' businesses in a bid to invigorate the area. Then, last week bank chief Phil Butterfield was pictured handing over 400 computers to Telecommunications Minister Michael Scott.

And the good work didn't stop there. On Friday Big Phil made the front page again ? this time pressing the flesh with Housing Minister David Burch as the bank handed over a staggering $2.5 million to help Government build apartments for seniors.

All three projects are, Hector's sure you'll agree, worthy causes that will benefit the whole community. But why the sudden eagerness to come to the financial aid of our Government?

Nothing to do with a certain submission to build a seven-storey carbuncle smack in the middle of Front Street perhaps? A submission made by the bank and which will not go ahead unless it gets approval from Government.

Since the national cricket team was bowled $11 million from the Government, Hector has been wondering what crumbs the other sports on the Island might be getting to help them improve prowess. So it is heartening that, instead of sitting at home eating chips while waiting for Government's largesse some of our sporting paupers have employed a bit of ingenuity.

Enterprising road runners and joggers have been making unofficial use of the prototype speed monitor sign outside the Whitney Institute on Middle Road to flash up their pace as they go past.

Hector is waiting to hear from the first athlete able to top 35 clicks an hour and make the monitor flash a "too fast" warning.