wake of Thanksgiving Day.

Sir John admitted his request bucked the trend of the House of Assembly's "congratulations and condolences'' session.

But he said the Country was in need of good wishes during a recession, which had global repercussions.

"I hope it is able to rise above the effects of the recession. I wish that country well in its continuing development.'' Sir John said Thanksgiving Day was not just a holiday -- it was a celebration.

Opposition leader Mr. Frederick Wade immediately supported Sir John's remarks.

"I also offer the US good wishes following Thanksgiving Day.'' Mr. Wade went on to congratulate former MP Mr. Roosevelt Brown on his 60th birthday. He pointed out Mr. Brown had been honoured by the Human Rights Commission.

Tourism Minister the Hon C.V. (Jim) Woolridge said Bermuda's Tourism Department had carried off two prestigious awards. These were won at the World Travel Mart in London, and signified a major achievement for a small Country.

"I think we have something to be proud of. Congratulations should be sent to our representatives in London.'' Mr. Woolridge asked for condolences to be sent to the widow of the late Mr.

George Lang, of Devonshire. "He was a hard-working man,'' he added.

Shadow Sport Minister Mr. Dennis Lister was cut short by Speaker the Hon.

David Wilkinson after he stood up to praise the Governor for sticking up for Bermuda's youth. Mr. Wilkinson ruled Mr. Lister as "out of order''.

The Hon. Harry Soares (UBP) praised the Lions movement during its anniversary celebrations. He underlined the local Lions' fund-raising efforts, picking out the Sightfirst campaign.

Mr. Soares also congratulated Mrs. Shirley Humphreys' "Just Between Us'' breast cancer support group. The importance of the group was highlighted during breast cancer awareness week.

Shadow Minister of Community Affairs Mr. Reginald Burrows expressed regret over the death of Dr. Charles Smith, describing him as a pioneer of modern medicine. "He was a very quiet gentleman, who kept a low profile and will be sorely missed.'' Mr. Burrows also asked for condolences to be sent to the family of the late Mr. Edgar Crockwell, a long-time resident of Warwick.

Mr. Phillip Smith (UBP) urged MPs to express condolences over the death of Mr.

Royden Hall, a long-term Works and Engineering department employee. He said Mr. Hall, of St. George's, was very active within the church.

Shadow Education Minister Miss Jennifer Smith backed Mr. Smith's request, and also asked for condolences to be sent to Mr. Arnott Jackson, a former senator, over the death of his wife.

Miss Smith continued by congratulating Police officer Alex MacDonald on becoming Bermuda's fifth World vice president of the Junior Chamber International.

Health and Social Services Minister the Hon. Quinton Edness paid tribute on behalf of himself and Minister of Delegated and Legislative Affairs the Hon.

Sir John Sharpe to the late Mr. Edgar Crockwell. "He contributed substantially to our community, which is going to miss him. He was a good influence.'' Government Whip Dr. David Dyer paid tribute to the late Ms Gloria Outerbridge (Kennedy) Stevens, of Pembroke West. She had been a dedicated sports and physical education teacher, who contributed greatly to the community, he said.

"She gave unstintingly of her time and energies to voluntary organisations.'' Mrs. Grace Bell (UBP) congratulated Capt. Edward Lamb, the aide-de-camp of Bermuda's new Governor Lord Waddington. She said Capt. Lamb was a hard working member of the Regiment and president of St. David's Cricket Club.