planning of the New Year's Eve festivities remain in the hands of the St.

George's branch of the Chamber of Commerce rather than return to the Corporation itself as has been rumoured.

The Chamber took over this year from the Corporation who had been planning the event for the last few years, and Mr. Bascome, a businessman himself in the old town, would like to see it continue.

"They should leave it in the hands of the Chamber and the restaurants because the Corporation doesn't derive any financial rewards from that particular function. They can just be the overseer,'' suggested Mr. Bascome who is also the chairperson of the Corporation's Streets Committee. "I believe it was organised quite well this year with Spanish Town having the overall responsibility of promoting and coordinating. I congratulated Jonathan (Trott) and the young man helping him.

"All the comments passed on to me were favourable.'' Mr. Bascome has another idea for an event in St. George's weeks prior that could also serve to lift the town. He was speaking specifically about the popular boat show in Hamilton which could go to St. George's the following night for a similiar exhibition.

"I think it would be better in St. George's anyhow, as far as vantage points are concerned,'' he stated.

"I have spoken to a young man from St. George's who is part of the (boat show) planning team and he said he and I should get together and see if we can convince them.

"I believe it would be better if done before New Year's Eve because it would give the businesses two opportunities for business. If you could get sponsorship to encourage those persons to come to St. George's on the Sunday I think it would be perfect. You have older people who don't have transportation and the opportunity to witness it.'' Mr. Bascome feels much of St. George's Harbour could be used with the boats starting in Mullett Bay and going up to the town cut and around Smith Island.

"I would love to see that take place.''