receiving "very rewarding response''.

The Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute's public capital phase kicked off on November 19 when approximately 3,000 pledge forms were sent out, said campaign chairman Wendy Tucker.

About 92 responses had been received so far toward the goal of $1.5 million.

BUEI chairman David Lines said: "To date this phase has been a tremendous success.

"The size of the donations, the encouraging notes written on pledge forms and the many calls offering to do volunteer work have certainly been very rewarding.'' The Institute is set to open in Spring, 1997 and "is of critical importance at a time when tourism needs a boost and an added attraction for residents to visit is also needed,'' continued Mr. Lines.

BUEI is a locally registered charity and has received no Government funding.

Once open, it intends to be self-supporting from its own income.

Excess funds will be used to support research projects, public education programmes and scholarships related to the marine environment.

FUND RAISING FNR