Imagine Bermuda in 2009.

That is exactly what a new cultural committee wants you to do as Bermuda gears up to mark the 400th anniversary of the settling of the Island and the anniversary of the Theatre Boycott 50 years ago.

The Imagine Bermuda 2009 Steering Committee is encouraging members of the public to mark these historical milestones by participating in activities which celebrate Bermuda leading up to the anniversary and build a greater sense of community throughout the Island.

At a Press conference yesterday, chairman Michael Ashton said the committee will invite special groups to share their ideas for the 2009 celebration.

?This diverse group of people is facilitating an exciting framework for the wider community to celebrate Bermuda leading up to the year 2009 with a view to strengthen the ties that bind us.?

The committee is seeking charity status and is open to Government funding, although it is privately funded at the moment.

It will hold its first community meeting with in St. George?s at Penno?s Wharf Reception Centre at 7 p.m. on September 23.

Mr. Ashton said the committee will hold community meetings throughout the Island. Members of the community will be encouraged to come up with events that brings people together and encourage community bonding and enjoyment.

?The purpose of IB2009 is to demonstrate and share the best of Bermuda?s past through an all inclusive, multicultural celebration of history while at the same time imagining and building unity as we work toward a greater future for everyone,? said Mr. Ashton.

?We are asking our fellow members to work with us in their Parish and community and to celebrate the best of our Island leading up to 2009.

Through a simple dialogue the IB2009 will reach out to residents in their schools, churches, clubs, businesses, and any other interested groups within each Parish.?

Members of the steering committee include Martha Dismont, Claudette Fleming, Fred Hassell, Martha Kirkland, Rosemary Phillips, Francine Mason and Susann Douglas.