Today's bustling commune capital, Marigot, illustrates how a leader can take suggestions of local business owners and the finances of the French defiscalization program to change the landscape. Vacationers can now enjoy big-name, duty-free shopping among the sidewalk cafes that replicate those on quiet back streets of Paris.

Fleming wanted to retain the courtesy that he learned as a child when his parents insisted he say hello and goodbye to those he met on the street or risk receiving a whipping at home for impoliteness.

The future of the island paradise lies in the hands of St. Martiners who must "set the standard for the tourism market." Tourism is the leading industry on both sides of the island. Fleming believes that the welcome to the island begins with the immigration officer and continues with the taxi driver, whom he calls an island ambassador.

But, he is quick to point out that the island's welcome doesn't stop there. Local merchants, restaurant owners and hoteliers continue offering hospitality. Without tourist guests, the island economy would come to a standstill and their importance is evident everywhere.

Stressing cleanliness and security, Fleming agreed with locals that Marigot needed an expanded, enhanced harbor where the old and young could enjoy the beautiful Caribbean sunsets and improved mooring facilities. This plan is not finished. Discussions are now taking place to add about 50 mega yacht slips, which will help beautify the marina's breakwater area while also providing services to a growing leisure industry.

Although Fleming remains a close friend of French President Jacques Chirac, the mayor is known for his strong opinions. "This country has potential, but we need to know what we want for ourselves . . . we can't be pushed around by others, " he said.

The French Colonial system at times caused difficulty between the homeland and some of their far-flung communes in the French West Indies.

"The Colonial system wanted us to go this direction; the local St. Martiner doesn't want to go down this system. We want respect as who we are, not what they want us to be," he said.

The mayor is referring to the haphazard planning and politics of the past that stalled French St. Martin growth for many years. Local matters must be brought to the attention of Parliament in Guadeloupe and then approved by France. A prefet located in Guadeloupe and his sous-prefet in St. Martin also reviews local action for legality as well. All told, this complex political system can be frustrating when dealing with such local issues as health care or education.

As a native-born St. Martiner, Fleming firmly believes in the people of the island. Adopting the no-nonsense approach he learned from strict parents as a child, he insists that those who choose to come to St. Martin should integrate and not cause problems-no small task for an island of 80 or more nationalities.

None of the problems St. Martin encounters can daunt Fleming's love of the island.

"I'd rather live here than anywhere else in the world," he said. "I invite everyone to come see St. Martin for themselves."