For the Island's hotels enjoyed booming business over the long Fourth of July weekend -- the US's "birthday''.

Hoteliers large and small yesterday told The Royal Gazette that an influx of American tourist had them saying "Yanks for the memories''.

Stonington Beach Hotel general manager Edmund Tucker said his sold out hotel and the Elbow Beach Hotel joined forces to provide their guest with a "memorable weekend''.

"We were the only hotel, along with Elbow Beach, that had fireworks,'' Mr.

Tucker said. "We had about nine or ten minutes of fireworks and a birthday celebration for the guests. It was quite an event.

"I think all of the guests really enjoyed themselves; those leaving today were raving about how fantastic it was.'' Elbow Beach also enjoyed a sold-out weekend and will remain so for the next six weeks.

And the Belmont Hotel in Warwick enjoyed a 92 percent occupancy rate on July 4.

A spokesperson for Palmetto Bay Hotel in Flatts said they also had a full house over the weekend.

"We are usually busy in the summer, but this summer has been exceptionally busy. I don't know why, but it's great.'' And the Harmony Club in Paget was also jam-packed over the weekend. Manager David Kenny was not sure if it was totally the result of the American holiday.

Mr. Kenny, saying the hotel was almost full at the same time a year ago, added: "Thirty percent of our guests are from the UK, so I'm not sure how much of it has to do with the long American weekend.'' FIREWORKS -- Stonington general manager Edmund Tucker