December 13, 2002

Dear Sir,

Having just returned from Bermuda for my 28th vacation there, I have some comments. For the first time in 28 years, Bermuda only gets a B+.

It got an A+ until about 1998, when it dropped to an A. The reasons are:

1. For the first time I was really aware of security. Motion detectors, bright lights, "Lock your doors" awareness, etc. It's not like this where I live in New York. After reading about a vacationer being stabbed and a riot at a sporting event, I feel that I am safer in my own neighbourhood. Although I am in good shape and adept at karate, I found myself a little uneasy a few times on my vacation. This has never happened before.

2. The dog waste in Bermuda is awful! There are turds all over the island. I always clean up after my dog here in NY. It's the law. I saw a man let his dog tale a dump right on the beach at Horseshoe Bay about 20 feet from the water where I was swimming. I wanted to say something to him, but since I am only a visitor I kept my mouth shut.

3. The new buildings are beautiful, but seem too modern for Bermuda.

4. The drivers are getting worse, although not to the dismal standards of New York.

Other than these few things, I had a great time. The Island is still beautiful and the people are as friendly as ever. The gas station attendants seem to be the friendliest. My visit to the Sandys Rotary Club meeting was one of the high points. It's always great to see "my friend" Sir John. I would visit Bermuda more often, but the airfares cost more than the guest house that I stay at.

My wife and I have already made reservations at Mrs. Lowe's Salt Kettle House for the next two years. I hope I can give Bermuda an A+ next year.

A big Bermuda supporter in NY,

RON LACEY

Massapequa, New York