[FREEPORT, Grand Bahama - 12th December 2000] The Lucayan Harbour Cruise Facility played host to the cruise ship Disney Wonder and the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association as they came together with the Grand Bahama Island Tourism Board to make Christmas special for a number of children on Grand Bahama.

The FCCA's annual gift-giving ceremony, aimed at children in the Caribbean was held for the fourth time on Grand Bahama coordinated by the Grand Bahama Island Tourism Board. Gifts for some 200 children were brought in by the Disney Wonder. Capt. Mike O'Brien, Director Air/Marine Operations at Freeport Harbour Co., expressed the delight of the company in being able to host the event. "It's a pleasure to host the event, especially for the children. Our facilities have just undergone a $10m redevelopment programme and we're glad to be able to show-off the improvements." "Our facilities upgrade will be inclusive of a new terminal with centralised check-in facilities, a 25,000 sq. ft. landscaped retail village with a Bahamian Straw Market/Arts & Craft Centre, and a more efficient transportation layout for busses and taxis." "We thank the Grand Bahama Island Tourism Board for choosing the harbour for this annual Christmas gift-giving ceremony," said Capt. O'Brien.

Onhand for the event was Disney's most famous character, Mickey Mouse himself, who assisted with the gift-giving and entertained the children. Ms. Renamae Symonette of the Grand Bahama Island Tourism Board noted that the programme enhances the joy of Christmas for the children while affording the crew members of the Disney Wonder the opportunity to play a hands-on role in the destinations which they visit each week.

"The GBITB takes pleasure in assisting with the project which challenges us to do more and give more," said Ms. Symonette.

On December 11th the Lucayan Harbour Cruise Facility will have another special event when straw vendors will be recognized for their efforts in decorating the area for the holiday season. Christmas ornaments made by the vendors will be displayed on Christmas trees around the harbour. Following a judging the winning team will be rewarded with gifts.