The year 2008 will be history in a few hours and no one knows what 2009 and the rest of the future holds for these Spice Isles. What is certain though, is that many persons of interest will be in the public eye as we face the challenges ahead. As the New Year inches closer, Grenadianconnection.com takes a look at some of the people to watch in 2009. • Prime Minister Tillman Thomas It’s been almost six moths since the change of government and the prime minister might still be considered by some to be in the honeymoon phase. But with the global economic conditions getting worse every day how much longer will it be before the Grenadian people start looking for a quicker fix from their leaders? • Opposition Leader Dr. Keith Mitchell After three terms as the head of the government, Mitchell has been fairly quiet since the people spoke and put him out of power. Will he spend 2009 being a responsible opposition leader or just opposing everything the government does? • Minister of Finance, Hon. Nazim Burke With the world's economic ships being battered by unfriendly tides, it will be interesting to see how well the minister can steer Grenada through the rough seas. It all depends on how the wind blows and how nimble a captain and navigator we have. • Minister of Tourism, Hon. Peter David There is much concern in Caribbean tourism circles as to how the economic conditions will affect tourist arrivals and there are dire warnings of a major slowdown in the sector regionally. The minister will have to be innovative and work closely with all stakeholders to keep attracting visitors if we are to compete effectively with the big boys. • Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Michael Lett If the agricultural sector in Grenada is to return to its glory days, it’s going to take a lot of hard work, new ideas and a great infusion of financial resources. • Spice Boys Will our national football team capture a title in 2009? • The RGPF Can Commissioner Clarkson and his team meet the challenges if crime trends in Grenada follow the course of other islands in the region in 2009? • The Grenada 17 - After Hudson Austin, Colville 'Kamau' Mc Barnett and John 'Chalkie' Ventour’s rumored “tour” of the ministerial complex a few days after their release what will their next act be? And how soon before the others are released? Who do you think are key people to watch in 2009 who were not included in this list? Post your comments below or in our talkshop.