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Telegraph Journal

March 3, 1998

Province has two new historic sites

New Brunswick has two new National Historic Sites. Secretary of States (Parks) Any Mitchell included Minister's Island at St. Andrews and the Canadian Nation train station in Edmunston among 19 new sites he designated under the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada.

Minister's Island Historic Site

St. Andrews, New Brunswick

Undated—prob Courier

Only a short drive across the ocean floor at low tide and you will arrive at the summer residence of that visionary railway builder Sir William Van Horne. There are a lot of stories about how the title to Minister's Island was attained, but around the year 1890 Van Horne became its owner and there he constructed a summer home. As he was the driving force behind the construction of the railway from sea to sea, his pockets were bulging. What better place to splurge than on his favourite Island?

The home was named Covenhoven after his father. The house was grand and constructed of sandstone cut from the shore. It contains fifty rooms, seventeen of which were bedrooms, the grand drawing room is about the size of most homes today. There were also servants quarters and a massive diningroom as well as a billiard room where a magnificent six by twelve table still remains today.

The quarried beach stone also was sued to build a circular bathhouse, where Sir William spent many hours drawing and painting, his favourite hobby. He actually became quite an accomplished painter and several of his works are on display at the National Art Gallery in Ottawa and in the New Brunswick Heritage collection in Fredericton.

From that era, and still standing on the island, is the huge livestock barn that housed many thoroughbred horses and a prize herd of Dutch belted cattle. Also included in this massive structure was a huge hay loft and two large silos, a creamery where white-coated workers prepared the milk and butter for consumption. Heated greenhouses grew mushrooms, exotic plants, peach trees and grape vines. When Sir William was living in Montreal, fresh milk, butter fruits and vegetables were sent to him by rail from his own siding at the end of the bar.

Water was supplied by the windmill (along with help from kerosene fired engine) near the big house, water to the home was taken from a large underground storage tank. At the turn of the century, on a remote island, the Van Horne family certainly enjoyed many conveniences that were uncommon during that time. They were basically self-sufficient.

Today, there are still eleven buildings standing on this beautiful island, including the home of the first Anglican Minister to St. Andrews, loyalist Parson Andrews, whose own stone house (c. 1790) still stands.

A hundred years later, the magic and the mystery remain.

Come and enjoy this picture perfect island between June and mid-October where you can enjoy guided tours of the property. If you have your own vehicle, you can visit Covenhoven, Sir William's former summer cottage; the bathhouse with its tidal swimming pool, the livestock barn and the spectacular view of Shea's hill.

This mystical island is located in Chamcook. Just follow the Bar road, near the historic seaside town of St. Andrews, one of the many attractions along the Fundy Coast Drive.

St. Croix Courier

March 18/1997

Blend of art and science used by massage therapist. Debra Bowser. "did some work for the Algonquin Hotel last year." Came to St. Andrews because of large segment of population elderly.

LG: The Hon. Marilyn Trenholme Counsell (1933-)

Born in Baie Verte, New Brunswick.

Appointed 18 April 1997 at age 63.

St. Croix Courier

April 22/1997

Tourism group promotes marketing schemes. (Quoddy Coastal Tourism Assoc.)

The Quoddy Coastal Tourism Association has developed a full page advertisement to promote Charlotte County in the New Brunswick Welcome guide. Making use of the adage "A picture is worth a thousand words," the ad incorporates seven diverse images from around the county, superimposed on a background image of Passamaquoddy Bay. the question "have you toured the Quoddy Loop" is printed below the images to encourage the visitor to enjoy the m any activities available in Charlotte County. Scheduled for distribution at key entry ports in the province as well as tourist bureaus, Irving stores and other businesses, 550,000 copies of the bilingual guide will be printed. The front cover of the association's brochure is being updated for this year to reflect the Welcome Guide ad. The brochure is also being revised to reflect new businesses in the area, and activity descriptions and advertising are being formatted in user-friendly manner. Twenty thousand copies of the brochure are expected to be ready for distribution by June 1. The association is a non-profit organization that markets and promotes tourism in Charlotte County. the group was born of the Charlotte County Economic Forum last year and its mission is to promote the county as a whole. Soon, Charlotte County businesses will be contacted by association members seeking support in the way of membership, advertising and donati8ons. For more information on the association, contact chairperson Lynn Merrithew-Boone in St. Andrews.

St. Croix Courier

May 6/1997

Quoddy Tourism news. (Assoc. headquarters located in Algonquin.)

St. Croix Courier

May 13/1997

3rd bridge session set for mid-June. (re new international bridge to hoop up with completed 4-lane highway from St. Stephen-Saint John.) See A-10.

St. Croix Courier

May 27/1997

Photos: Algonquin staffers celebrate the start of the tourist season with their annual parade through St. Andrews.

St. Croix Courier

June 3/1997

Photo: 200 natives walk the streets of St. Andrews declaring we are home now. Photo in front of Algonquin.

St. Croix Courier

June 10/1997

For sale: historic Rossmount Inn. (George Matthews agent)

Much in news about new PEI bridge.

St. Croix Courier

June 24/1997

Kingsbrae Arms celebrates first anniversary.

The secret of the Kingsbrae Arms is its graciousness and its affable and congenial hosts. Partners David Oxford and Harry Chancey Jr. greet you at the door of the sprawling turn-of-the-century manor house, point out historic wall photographs of St. Andrews and Minister's Island, pour you a cup of steaming coffee, make you feel right at home with congenial conversation.

They are charming and delightful hosts. it's easy to be seduced by the pleasant atmosphere and surroundings. Little wonder the Kingsbrae Arms is the first inn ever to achieve Canada Select's distinguished five star rating, the highest possible.

First, the setting is wonderful. /the inn is an historic estate celebrating its 100th year. Situated on an acre of manicured lawns and well-tended gardens, it promises privacy and seclusion. the upper floors offer spectacular views of the Bay and Minister's Island. "When Florence Ayscough, daughter of the first owners, lived where she called Passamaquoddy Bay 'the Bay of Plentiful fishes' in the Chinese manner of naming places," Chancey remarked.

Second, the atmosphere is that of a gracious and elegant home, not a hotel. But home was never like this. Downstairs, guests are treated to rooms with oriental carpets, antiques, and art objects including an early American weathervane and a stately English tall case clock. the light and spacious parlor ahs two crystal chandeliers, two marble fireplaces, and a by window looking out on the garden. A grand piano sits on a raised nook in the corner. Photographs of the people and the oriental furniture that once sat in the same room line the walls. Plush brocade sofas, books and periodicals invite relaxation.

Next door to the parlor is the paneled library with its silk-covered club chairs and a leather chesterfield sitting in front of a roaring fire of birch logs. At one end of the room is John Jacob Astor's bar. Infant Astor, together with his mother but not his father, survived the sinking of the Titanic and later had the art deco bar built for his own home. Now it sits in St. Andrews, attesting to a way of life that was and still is.

Then there's the dining room, its walls upholstered in a fine New Brunswick documentary fabric of gossamer floral garlands. A magnificent English gate leg table dominated the centre of the room. It sits under a Russian double-tiered, brass chandelier and before an open flame in the Delft tiled fireplace. Each room or suite in the inn features similar elegant peri8od furniture that harkens back to another century. Four poster draped canopy beds and 18th century armoires are set off by walls containing framed oils, prints, lithographs and photographs. Third, and most import, are the hosts. "We were travelling in the Maritime, had taken the ferry from Digby to Saint John and were heading for the border when we discovered St. Andrews," Oxford explained. "We were ravenously hungry. Actually, we were looking for something as simple as eggs and bacon. And then we saw a sign saying 'resort area' and thought we might as well take a look. "We came over the hill, the one just before you reach the golf course, and there is was—a magic view—the water in the distance sparkling like a trillion diamonds. We knew almost immediately we'd buy a property, if we could fine one, and open another inn. I think I even said something like 'What shall we do while we're here—get an ice-cream, a T-shirt, or a house?"

Chancey and Oxford are partners in another inn, Centennial House in East Hampton, NY. It ,too, offers luxurious and sumptuous accommodations. "We had 10 year experience ru7nning a similar venture and wondered if we really wanted to take on another," said Chancey. "This house was empty, dilapidated. It needed new plumbing, heating, and totally new electrical wiring. There was a lot of repair work that needed to be done before we could get into it to start decorating and furnishing. However, we looked at this wonderful home and wanted to restore it because of our deep respect for its history. We believe this grand old place deserved to be spared demolition or ruin from neglect. And now we've gotten to know some of the ghosts who still inhabit it," Oxford said. "When David and I do something, decide to take on a project, we go at it completely," continued Chancey. "And we had help. Lucinda and John Flemer were incredible—such great supporters. Everett Lord was the principal contractor and he helped us in so many ways. there were Walter Ross and Mary Dowling Ian MacKay and Deidre August who were so supportive."

It would be impossible not to mention the assistance fro Willa Walker and Phoebe Magee," said Oxford. "They are great ladies, such class acts. It took six months from the time we purchased the property until we welcomed our first guest, a fellow from Venezuela who came here a year ago to attend the aquaculture fair."

The two partners did not get into business of restoring homes into hospitable inns consciously. They ended up with the house on Long Island over 10 years ago and decided to convert it to an inn "before we knew the tend toward this sort of thing was taking place in North America," said oxford. Prior to that, Chancey was in charge of production for Channel 13 (PBS) in NY and Oxford was a lawyer in Washington, DC. "I went to Washington to work for a congressman, and among the first people I met were chuck and Linda Robb (President Lyndon Johnson's daughter)," he said with a laugh. "It was an impressive way for a hillbilly from Alabama to start out and I convinced myself that life in DC would always be golden."

Chancey enjoyed his work with educational television. "The possibility the medium could be better had me hooked and I have very fond memories of that other life," he said. Today, however, life goes back and forth from New Brunswick and the Kingsbrae Arms to Long island and Centennial House. "We spend time there and here—we're constantly juggling time," said Oxford. "But we have wonderful staff in East Hampton and they are happier when both of us are gone and they can handle thins on their own."

"This gives us time to contrite on things here—to learn more about Canada as we go along. I love listening to Canadian radio, for example, to Vicky Gabereau or to Peter Gzowski when he was on. The election was very interesting and I now have a feeling for different parties as well as the personalities of the leaders."

Both are looking forward to the forthcoming Premier's Conference, scheduled to take place in St. Andrews in August. "Some will be staying here at the Kingsbrae Arms," said Chancey. As well we're hosting a number of events and we're looking forward to making people feel at home, giving them a chance to relax as well as to discuss issues. It's an exciting time in Canada," agreed Oxford whole political astuteness and love of politics is apparent. "The election didn't go the way conventional wisdom thought it would go and the whole area of national unity is up in the air. The federal government really hasn't gotten its point across in term of the unity issue. I like Peter Newman's article in McLean's which suggests the province will take the initiative away from Ottawa. This is the first time the Canadian premiers are meeting since the June election and it looks as though this will be a very important meeting, most significant than most. This whole area of national identity, economic issues and culture is fascinating. I really enjoy it. But there's also reality. While the premiers meet, we're just going to be here at Kingsbrae Arms, flipping pancakes an making beds. We want to help make Frank McKenna look good as a host to his colleagues. We want New Brunswick to look good."

St. Croix Courier

July 29/1997

St. Andrews warms up for its premier conference. A-2. Photo.

All eyes will e on St. Andrews next week during the 38th annual First Minister's conference and what better way to showcase the town, and the surrounding area, says the Algonquin Hotel's general manager Andrew Turnbull. The premier and their families, aides and assistants, as well as media from across the country, will be taking over all 250 rooms at the hotel on Aug.6 and 7 as well as using rooms elsewhere, he said. As the hotel staff prepare for the onslaught, Turnbull is excited about the high profile such an event will bring to the town. "The thing that is so wonderful about having something like this is the profile it brings."

While the province's flagship hotel is familiar to many, he said the Algonquin is not as well known as it could be. "Events of this nature help that. We are excited to have the first ministers. It is always fun in this business to be involved in visits of state and high profile events such as the First Minister's conference."

the last time the conference was held at the hotel was in the early 1980s and Turnbull said there have been many changes since the First Ministers were last here. "since then we have added the new expansion and most of them will be staying in the new section of the hotel. there is also so much more activity in the town now. They will be able to take advantage of the day adventures which are offered such as kayaking and boat trips. While the town itself has not changed dramatically since the early 80's there are so many new things out there."

The bulk of the business of the conference will take place on August 6 and 7 with the finals news conference taking place at 2 pm on Friday afternoon but Turnbull said some of those attending will be staying on for the weekend to enjoy a break with their families. the media centre will be set up in the hotel's Casino and a lot of communications equipment is being set up to enable journalists to transit their stories. "There is a lot of work in terms of setting up meeting area, organizing meal functions—obviously all the thing associated with a large conference. We have our work cut out for us."

"Without question it will be extremely busy. The staff will be working long, hard hours and there will also be spin-off benefits into the local communities."

While they have brought in a couple of extra staff members from other areas to give added support with the conference, Turnbull said they will be handling the event by and large with their regular staff.

Among the events planned are a thank you reception on the lawn across from the new wing for the town of St. Andrews on Wednesday, a media reception, tours of the Huntsman marine Science Centre and other local places of interest and sea kayaking. Those who choose to stay over the weekend will probably also make a tri to Campobello, said Turnbull.

While workers touch up the paint on the verandah and ground staff make sure the lowers surrounding the lawns are looking their best, Turnbull said this sort of work is always ongoing at the hotel.

"We are trying to spruce u the entrance way and are trying to get everything prepared but by and large we work diligently throughout the season to continue to upgrade the property. Certainly with the First Ministers coming we are paying a little bit more attention to certain aspects."
 One New Brunswick company which is taking advantage of the conference to display some of their latest technology is New BrunswickTel. Their "future home" set up in a trailer in front of Fort Tipperary will be open to visitors for the next two weeks and they are hoping to show some of the delegates New BrunswickTel's leading edge in telecommunications equipment.

This is the first time a First Minister's conference has had its own web site. It has been set up by New BrunswickTel in conjunction with the provide of New Brunswick and offers a wealth of information from profiles of the First Ministers to information on what is available in the town.

St. Croix Courier

July 29/1997

Free spirits in St. Andrews. (on Niger tea house and Florence Ayscough's drawings)

Florence Ayscough and Lucille Douglass, combined, were exceptional women and made a formidable duo. They collaborated on books and art, but their major contribution to Charlotte County is Niger House, the I.O.D.E. chapter cottage which Ayscough built and donated to the I.O.D.E. and which Douglass decorated in 1926 and 1927. St. Andrews Civic Trust is restoring the building as an operating tea house and recently discovered the original wall murals painted by Douglass. Lee Sackett, president of the St. Andrews Civic Trust, said the murals are very rare. "There are only three painted rooms in the whole of the Maritimes," he explained. "one was shipped to Ottawa and then there is the little house of Maud Lewis. "What we have here is very rare. The fact it survived means it's worth saving. The fact Lucille Douglass was a famous artist helps even more."

Sackett noted Douglass alone constitutes an interesting story. She was an archaeologist, artist, journalist, author. An obituary in a New York newspaper stated, "She always wrote a brilliantly colored turban and carried a slim cane colored to match."

Here fame as an artist came as a result of her thorough knowledge of China and Chinese customs, learned during long visits to the country. Her most famous paintings are a series depicting the temple of Angkor in French Indo-china which she published in a book written by Helen Churchill Candee. Although born in Tuskegee, Alabama, descended from a distinguished Scottish family, she always boasted that she and Booker T. Washington were the only persons ever to leave Tuskegee. "All the rest are still there," she frequently told her audiences.

Douglass left Alabama for NY when she was 16, having raised the money for train fare by painting rose borders on the tea sets of her family's friends. While in New York she came under the influence of Alexander Robinson, an artist who as planning to take a class to study art in Paris. Through him, Douglass was able to make enough money to join the class and went to Paris where she studied under a number of excellent artists.

She decided to visit China, became fascinated with the people and culture and reMained to watch and record the political and social struggles taking place there in the early 1920s. For five years she travelled and sketched. In later years, she was invited to Indo China by the French Colonial government, to do a series of etchings of the ruins at Angkor, the abandoned city of the ancient Khmer People. Early in the Christian era, the Khmers, an Indian race, invaded Cambodia and rapidly developed into a powerful nation. Religious fervour burned in the capital, Angkor Thom, with the building of temples and massive edifices. Eventually the Khmers fell to the Siamese and their civilization disappeared, leaving only their great buildings. In 1858, a French scientist-explorer came upon the ruins by accident. Douglass spent years lecturing before many scientific societies, including the National Geographic Society and the Art Institute of Chicago on the art and archaeology of the oriental places she visited. She was one of the few women ever to address the faculty of Oxford University. She is represented in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Corcoran Gallery in Washington, DC, and the Museum of Fine Arts in Montreal.

She illustrated several books on China written by her friend, Florence Ayscough of St. Andrews. It was Ayscough who persuaded her to do the murals at Niger House, named for the reef near the blockhouse.

St. Croix Courier

Aug 5/1997

Bill Cockburn remembered.

Judge G. W. N. (Bill) Cockburn, who was an MLA for Charlotte county for 15 years, died unexpectedly at the Charlotte County Hospital Saturday at the age of 66. A graduate of St. Stephen High School and the University of New Brunswick he practiced law in the border town for 30 years. He was first elected to the Legislature in 1967 and was a member until 1982. During this time, he served in cabinet as minister of Fisheries and Environment, Minister of Health, chairman of the Nb Electric Power Commission as well as a number of other ministries.

Judge Cockburn was appointed to the Bench in 1984 and served as chairman of the New Brunswick Liquor Licensing Board for four years. At the time of his death, he was serving on the Bench in Fredericton. He was a member of the National Association of Provincial Court Judges, an honorary life member of Kiwanis International and was a member of the Shriners Luxor Temple in St. Stephen. He was also active in basketball, curling and golf in his younger years.

Long-time colleague Leland McGaw, who was an MLA alongside Cockburn for those 15 years, said they had a lot of good times together in the legislature even though politics has its ups and downs. "Bill was a very capable individual and when he wanted to apply himself he was pretty devastating for the opposition. bill always managed in his own way to get the things done he wanted done and he didn't seem to make a lot of fuss doing it."

McGaw said he remembers the time his former colleague argued with an opposition member for about two hours on whether the wording in a certain bill should be "may" or "shall." After Cockburn was appointed to the Bench, McGaw said he heard nothing but good reports about decisions he made as a judge. "I had confidence in Bill that he knew what he was doing."

In fact, said McGaw, his former colleague had the ability to have been the party leader or to have been premier but he said he wanted to enjoy his freedom. Although McGaw said the two were as different as night and day, they got along together really well. "Like all politicians, we had our arguments but we got along extremely well for that number of years. That is a long time to be associated with someone."

Judge Cockburn is survived by his wife, Mardi (Ryan) of Fredericton, one daughter Beth and her husband Emile Savoie of Sackville; two song, Bill Jr. of St. Stephen and Blair and his wife Mona of Fton; and three granddaughters. A memorial service will be held Tuesday afternoon at 3 pm at St. Stephen Presbyterian Church with Rev. Dr. Steven Cho officiating. Interment will follow in St. Stephen Rural Cemetery.

St. Croix Courier

Aug 5/1997

Touchdown in Shiretown. Daring duo lands [at Algonquin] in St. Andrews in round-the-world helicopter tour.

It only took a moment for the little dot on the horizon to hover in and touch down on the Algonquin Hotel's heli-pad—much to the delight of the crowd of men, women and children on hand to be part of several aviation firsts. Jennifer Murray, 56, and Quentin Smith, 32, landed their helicopter in St. Andrews Saturday as part of their round-the-world record, setting voyage. The pair set off May 10 from Denham, England, in their small, piston-powered helicopter. Their mission: to conquer the world. Literally. The two are circumnavigating the globe and setting a number of records. They're also raising money for Save the Children, an international children's charity.

When the 97 day voyage ends, Smith and Murray will become the first British team to circumnavigate the globe in a helicopter. Murray will be the first woman—and the first grandmother—to fly around the world. This will also be the first time a piston-powered helicopter has been flown around the world. The journey will cover 28 countries, including Italy, Greece, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Indian, Philippines, Japan, Russia and Iceland. They were also in Hong Kong for the historic transfer from British to Chinese rule.

St. Andrews was the only stop in the Maritimes. In St. Andrews the who were greeted by RCMP Cpl. Ray Brennan, dressed red serge, and Mayor Nancy Aiken offered a brief speech as rain began to fall. Murray said from here they'll be heading to Greenland, Iceland, then home to England. "This is a great world and it's filled with great people," she told the St. Andrews crowed. The two panted a tree at the Kingsbrae Garden and attended an ice-cream social at the Algonqu9n Hotel. They also let youngsters sit in the cockpit and signed autographs on miniature Canadian flags handed out to the crowd for the celebration.

St. Croix Courier

Aug 5/1997

Rossmount Inn re-opens with new owners: Peter and Jean Mackenzie. A-3.

The Rossmount Inn is open for business again and the new owners Peter and jean Mackenzie are also panning to build 36 luxury cottages on adjacent land. After being closed since last October, the inn was back in business again Wednesday, said Jean Mackenzie. They are still busy painting and getting everything back in order. "We still have a lot of work to do. We have redone the deck and put up new umbrellas. The new awnings are on the way. We opened at 2 pm and had our first four guests. I had great guests the first night—from Wisconsin, Indiana, New York and Quebec. We also have al to of reservations for next week during the Premiers' Conference," she said in an interview Friday.

Mackenzie said they have reactivate the inn's old telephone number and even though it is not listed in this year's phone book it is included in the 1997 visitors' guide for the province. The Mackenzie's live in Gondola Point and operate Mackenzie Architecture—they are doing the design work for the Charlotte Aquaplex in St. George. Peter is an architect while his wife is in civil engineering and data analysis. Mackenzie said they were actually looking for some land in a nice area to do a cottage colony development when they found out the Rossmount was for sale with 87 acres of adjoining land. "over the next few years we want to start building luxury cottages for rent—36 altogether—for people who want to come to St. Andrews for a week or a few days and don't want to stay in a hotel room."

Running the inn is a new and exciting experience for the Mackenzie family. Son Jamie Hynes and daughter Jill Hynes, who are both engineering students, are helping out with the operation while the two younger children, Andrew and Vanessa Mackenzie, are looking forward to using the pool. "I work with Peter in the architecture business and have never worked at anything else except tha for 20 years. I had never been to the Rossmount before although we used to come to St. Andrews every summer by schooner when I was growing up because my father had lived here when he was young.," Mackenzie said.

Mackenzie will beat the inn this summer doing hand-on management; then they plan to hire a manager. She said she is enjoying her new role. It is really interesting. I love talking to people."

Their new cook started on the weekend and they began serving lunches this week and will be serving dinners later in the week. The dining room is open to both inn guests and walk-in customers. The bar will also be open to walk-in customers, said Mackenzie

The inn will be open throughout the summer and Mackenzie said they would like to hold murder mystery and romantic getaway weekends during the fall and winter. they are looking at an October fest weekend and would like to have a special event each month. They will also be approaching smaller companies looking for executive getaways and seminars.

they plan to have someone on staff at the inn during the winter months. "I think this would be the perfect spot in the winter with the fireplaces and the nice cosy bar," she said. Although there has been an inn on the present site for over 100 years, the original building burned, said Mackenzie. the present inn, which ahs 18 bedrooms all with private bathrooms, was built on the original foundation in 1962. The front steps are original. Most of the woodwork in the inn its, however, much older as it was taken from older houses and buildings by former owner, John Sime, who owned the Belmont Hotel in Saint John. The stained glass windows in the dining room came from an 18th century church in England while a lot of the antiques had been in the Belmont. At the rear of the inn, there is an old post and beam carriage house and Mackenzie said they are planning to renovate it over the next two years into luxury units with balconies overlooking the water.

St. Croix Courier

Aug 12/1997

Thumbs up from Premier Frank: a blow-by-blow review of the Premier's conference. A-2.

As the 38th annual Premiers Conference drew to a close Friday, host Premier Frank McKenna described it as "one superb conference." The premiers looks at jobs and growth on the Thursday—the first full day of meeting at the Algonquin Hotel. they expressed their continued support for the constitutional principle of equalization and directed finance ministers to review and improve the formula. Noting the large and growing surplus in the Employment Insurance, account, the premiers called on the federal government to reduce EI premiums paid by both employers and employees. At a press conference Thursday, McKenna said it is the seasonal workers who have borne the brunt of the cuts so far. "With the reduction in premiums should be consideration of the plights of the seasonal workers," he said. The premiers expressed serious concern about youth unemployment which continues to double the general unemployment rate across the country. They said increased efforts are needed to improve employment prospects for young people. A national youth employment strategy is to be developed by January 1998 which would address the vital role of education and training in preparing youth for the economy of the 21st century and ensure the availability of up-to-date and locally relevant information about the labour market and career opportunities.

They also looked at the issue of student debt and increased loan levels. The premiers emphasized the importance of access to post-secondary education for all students and expressed concern with the financial support available to them since coast have risen dramatically in recent years.

The premiers called on the federal government to work with provinces of the Canada Student Loans program, loans limits and implement improvements recommended by the preview in time for the academic semester beginning January 1998. They also called on the federal government to implement grants for students with dependants as quickly as possible. the premiers were also concerned about the level of debt—particularly university graduates. Dealing with trade, the premiers reviews a wide range of international trade priorities including building on the successes of the first three Tem Canada missions to Asia. They reaffirmed their strong support for the team Canada approach to international trade and investment promotion agreeing that the next mission should focus on South and Central America. Emerging markets such as Eastern Europe and South Africa should be priorities for future missions.

The premiers also noted the importance of international treaties and jointly called on the federal government o protect BC and Yukon salmon, from US over fishing by taking action to obtain US adherence to, and implementation of, the Pacific Salmon Treaty.

They also reaffirmed their governments' commitments to ensure further reductions in barriers to trade among the provinces and territories noting that further efforts to encourage internal trade will enhance job creation and growth significantly across the country. One of the most important concerns discussed by the premiers was health care during talks on social policy renewal. While Quebec Premier Lucien Bouchard presented his views, he did not participate in the consensus reached on social policy. At a press conference Thursday, McKenna said, "We have to reinvest in the health care sector. That is a priority for the whole country."

Provincial/Territorial ministers of health recently released their consensus document, A Renewed Vision for Canada's Health Care System, which they say will provide a solid basis for continuing dialogue among themselves and with the federal government on a joint vision of a sustainable, high-quality health care system.

The premiers agreed that finance ministers should negotiate ways in which provinces, territories and the federal government can work more co-operatively on how Ottawa spends on social policy. They emphasized their continuing commitment to eliminating child poverty in Canada. The premiers acknowledge the substantial progress in developing the National Child Benefit program and called on the federal government to make a commitment that, by the year, 2000, it will provide the annual investment necessary for the National Child Benefit to fully meet its objectives.

The premiers also discussed the work being undertaken to develop a National Children's Agenda which will complete the National Child Benefit by providing a national approach to healthy child development.

The challenges faced by Canadian ship builders in their effort to become internationally competitive was also discussed by the premiers who noted that foreign shipbuilders have a pricing advantage over Canadian shipyards because of support programs provided by their governments. Recognizing the importance of shipbuilding to the Canadian economy, they called on the federal government to review its shipbuilding polity to find ways of assisting the industry in meeting these international challenges.

They asked that consideration be given to measure which as export financing an called on the federal government to continue its efforts to negotiate an effective international agreement that would eliminate the provision of government subsidies to shipbuilders.

Dealing with justice reform, the premiers—with the exception of Bouchard-0-agreed that the federal government should act quickly to introduce meaningful amendments to the Young Offenders Act. The premiers also reaffirmed their readiness to negotiate a new, long-term national infrastructure program with the federal government. they agree that the federal government must not transfer further transportation-n-related infrastructure to provinces and territories without consultation and the compensation to ensure their viability.

The premiers of the Atlantic provinces as well as BC informed their colleagues they intend to proceed with initiatives in the recovery of health care costs for tobacco-related illnesses.

St. Croix Courier

Aug 12/1997

"King" Frank blasted by police friends.

About 100 police officers and supporters staged a demonstration here Friday morning during the 38th annual Premiers Conference to show their support for the Moncton city police force. The group, including representatives of Blacks Harbour who are concerned about the possibility of losing their own police force, gathered at the W. C. O'Neill Arena then marched up to the Algonquin Hotel where the premiers were meeting in a private session. As they marched, there were shouts of "Welcome to New Brunswick where Frank knows how to stick it to the workers," and "What are we marching for? Democracy."

Their banners depicted a coffin with the words "Democracy" underneath. they gather ed on the hotel's front lawn where several speakers addressed the crowd. President of the New Brunswick Police Association, Ted Doncaster, said the fight for democracy began in Moncton April 17 because the provincial government is trying to strip the municipal elected officials of their right to decide how they want their city policed.

Solicitor General Jane Barry has said a regional RCMP force will replace the three separate forces in Moncton. Riverview and Dieppe even though the city is opposed to the move. Doncaster praised the city for their unanimous stand, for democracy. "We are here today, basically, for one thing and that is what you see on the sign and that is to fight for democracy. It is very difficult to understand that our premier, this past week, stood up nationally to fight for democracy when in New Brunswick he is continuing to stamp it out," Doncaster said.

President of the Moncton Police Association, Dave Morrissey, said that since the Solicitor General announced she was going to try to force the RCMP on the city of Moncton, the police officers and their families have been under tremendous pressure. He said they were marching in St. Andrews because they wanted the premiers from all across the country to know what New Brunswick's provincial government is doing. "McKenna seems to be a supporter of democracy but here in New Brunswick her is doing exactly the opposite," Morrissey said. "It is a municipality's right to decide who polices their city. Our city ahs made that decision and that is a municipal force and they are to be commended for that. Democracy is worth it. Hopefully true democracy is New Brunswick is not dead."

Deputy Mayor of Moncton, Joan McAlpine, said she was there because she believed in the right to democracy. "I believe government has to be in tune with what is going on in the community. Democracy is not a spectator sport." She said this was not just Moncton's fight but a fight for all the country. "if the law changed to suit the whim of the government I don't believe any of you are safe. I believe in a municipal police force and in keeping local autonomy. If it happens in Moncton this will be a precedent and there won't be any local police forces in New Brunswick.""

Terry Carter, of the New Brunswick Federation of Labour, said, "A while back someone named Frank, 'King Frank,' and a while back he discovered he could walk on water. Now, not happy with being King Frank, he wants to be God. Frank McKenna does not care whether it is large rowed or a small group here but he will be concerned when we go to the ballot box." John Craig, of the Friends of the Blacks Harbour Police Department, said the village has been assured by Barry that she should not interfere. But then 2 ½ months later they saw what happened in Moncton. "Now we are not sure if we are going to have our police department," he said.

Steve Patterson then read an open letter he has written to McKenna and Barry questioning how they can, later this month, attend a gathering of police officers and law enforcement groups for the unveiling of a memorial honouring officers who have been killed in the line of duty. He said there is an atmosphere within municipal police forces of threats, uncertainty, fear of job loss and a lack of fair treatment by the provincial government. His letter concluded: "I therefore question how either one of you can, with any degree of good conscience, stand before such a large gathering of, among others, municipal police officers from throughout New Brunswick, look straight into their eyes and speak with any degree of compassion and sincerity that will be credible to both the municipal police officers, their families, and the families of those municipal police officers who have lost their lives in the performance of their duties."

St. Croix Courier

Aug 12/1998

Unity mutiny—Bouchard bolts breakfast after unity added to menu. A-3.

National unity, was never officially on the agenda, for the 38th Annual Premiers' Conference but Premier Frank McKenna is planning a further meeting between all the provincial leaders, except Quebec, to discuss the issue.

At Friday's closing press conference, the New Brunswick premier said that during an informal breakfast meeting that morning they had discussed national unity. Quebec Premier Lucien Bouchard said when he realized what they were talking about he left. "I came down and I sat down to have coffee and then I realized my colleagues were discussing this question so I decided to leave the dining room. I though it was more appropriate for me not to attend the meeting," he said.

McKenna said they talked about a lot of thing and there was an agreement among the premiers to have an informal meeting to talk about this issue within the next couple of months. "This is not a full-blown constitutional conference. The object here is to discuss informally the processes that have begin in other provinces. I think there is a strong political will to resolve the problem," McKenna said

Bouchard said he knows he would be welcome at that meeting but felt the kind of discussion they want to have would probably be easier without him. "I don't want to discourage the. It is up to them to do what they want to do," he said. Saskatchewan Premier Roy Romanow, who is keen to see more discussion on this question, said he was delighted with the plan tot hold a further meeting. "We have made a decision to talk at least process. At least we have a chance of putting together a 100 per cent solution. I feel very positive about this meeting," he said.

McKenna said Bouchard had been invited to attend the meeting but federal and native representatives would not be. "it is for provincial premiers only. The object of this meeting is only to discu St. Stephen, in an informal way, the processes which have begun in the various provinces. The object is not to come forward with a proposal or a package," McKenna said. Manitoba Premier Gary Filmon said, "I will be there and will be doing what I can to play a positive role in seeking better solutions and a better process to bring all Canadians into the discussions and ultimately in the decision. "We didn't come up with any simple and magical solution. I will be there. I will be part of the process but I have not seen anything that will solve the problem," said Filmon.

Alberta Premier Ralph Kline said the process will have to be open, transparent and from the bottom to the top. "Something that comes from the people and not the politicians—at least in my province. these will be some of the conditions certainly Alberta will be bringing forward," Kline said.

Ontario Premier Mike Harris said they want to take practical, non-constitutional steps to improve the economy and prove that the federation can work better together. He said it had taken the premiers two years to get this kind of consensus, which was an important step in the unity of this country. "We are now in a position to start to hear from the bottom up, from the people in every province. I think this conference has gone along way towards solving Canada's unity situation," Harris said.

Newfoundland Premier Brian Tobin said he did not think it was reasonable of fair to expect the 11 other premiers to stop dialogue and stop making progress on the unity question just because Quebec is not playing a part in the discussions. "I am delighted there is going to be a meeting. I think it is what Canadians expect of us and I think it si long overdue," he said.

Nova Scotia Premier Russell MacLennan said he was sorry Quebec would not be part of the discussions. "I feel Quebec has one of the best social programs in the country. To have them participate at the table would be a wonderful thing," he said. "This is something that is vitally important. All the provinces feel there is a need to come up with a new vision or new thoughts on social policies but I think progress will be made with the nine provinces and territories."

PEI Premier Pat Binns said his province has already recognized Quebec's uniqueness and will continue to recognize their cultural and linguistic differences. "Canada will remain if we can understand the differences. A lot of regional differences have been recognized and it's that kind of sharing that has been very productive here."


St. Croix Courier

Aug 19/1997

Champlain recounts adventures at St. Croix Island site opening.

Cartoon re number of whale watching boats: "I feel like I'm living in a goldfish bowl."

St. Croix Courier

Aug 26/1997

Tourism industry headed toward banner year, minister says.

The 1997 tourism season is currently positioning New Brunswick as one of the top North American tourism destinations. "After years of tourism product development and strategic marketing, New Brunswick is coming ahead of its most aggressive competitors," said Economic Development and Tourism Minister Camille Theriault. "With the 1997 season, the province is definitely turning the page on its drive-through image." The strong spring advertising campaigns allowed New Brunswick to top advertising awareness levels for a tourism destinations in Maine, Quebec and Nova Scotia. New Brunswick has edged out Florida for the top spot among residents of Maine. In Quebec, New Brunswick's warm saltwater beaches moved from fifth place to first place. In Nova Scotia, residents continue to rank New Brunswick's advertising ahead of their own province.

Theriault says this is an important breakthrough "because we have passed traditional vacation hot spots such as Florida, Cuba and Mexico as the leading destination Quebec residents think of first, when they think of travel advertising. Our other campaigns in Maine and the Maritime provinces are showing similar results. It is standing at the top against all competitors in terms of being noticed and remembered."
 The increased awareness level among our main markets of Quebec, Maine and NS were reflected in the record number of phone inquiries received by the province's toll-free number early in march and April. As of the end of July, the tourism customer service centre recorded a 25 percent increase in calls received and surpassed last year's total. Concrete evidence is coming in, confirming high awareness levels and record numbers of inquiries. The Visitor Information Centres along the US borders are recording an increase in visitation over last summer. Over all, provincial VIC's recorded an increase in inquiries of 14 percent for the month of July.

If July is an indication, New Brunswick is en route to a very successful tourism season. Figures for Jul are now in, and they show that nightly occupancy in hotels and motels is at about 76 percent, which represents one of the best results for July in a decade. Theriault cautions that it is too early to know for sure how the season as a whole will turn out, "but there are indications that August and September are going to be strong too, so we are optimistic and obviously quite pleased."

About half the hotel, motel, and bed and breakfast operators in the province report an increase in occupancy rates compared to last July, while a quarter of them report about the same number of bookings as last year. Most major tourism attractions are reporting a very strong season. Campgrounds are reporting increases of about 15 percent over last year. Theriault notes that this large increase may be due to last year's unusually rainy July, while kept campground booking below normal levels. July's strong tourism number are consistent throughout most of the province, and especially strong in the eastern sections, including Moncton. Demand for accommodations in the Bouctouche, Shediac and Cape Tormentine areas during July often exceeded capacity. Fredericton, Bathurst and Campbellton also reported a particularly strong July, as did the northeast part of the province. "In short, it appears our tourism strategy and the value, quality and diversity of what we have to offer will result in a successful tourist year," Theriault said. "July was great, and I am looking forward to seeing the results for the balance of the year."

St. Croix Courier

Sept 2/1997

Don't call her "bellboy." Algonquin's first fulltime bell girl sees bright future.

Locals remember Princess Diana. Photos.

When you check into the Algonquin Hotel these days, you may find a trim young lady wearing a tartan walking behind carrying your luggage. She's Christine Saunders of St. Andrews. Although not the first female to carry baggage for CP Hotels or the Algonquin, she may be the first full-time, genuine bellhop at the summer resort.

Tuesday was her first day on the job and she loved her first week's experience. "I've never been on a job where I got tipped before," she said. "I like it. It's great to be in a position where people talk to me and where I get paid to schmooze, lift bags, empty ashtrays."

Saunders arrived at bell hopping from housekeeping duties. "Housekeeping is tough," she said. "The people in the department work very hard and they are the unsung heroes and heroines of the hotel industry. In fact, how they do their job can make or break a hotel."

Why did she make the switch? "This bellhop position came up and I thought I'd give it a try as a change of pace. It's fun and you get to see a different side of the hotel business. Guests expect a chat, a personality, a bit of information. I'm enjoying it and am working hard but not as hard as in housekeeping."

Saunders, 26, has a BA from Kings College, Halifax and two MA's in philosophy and political theory, one from the University of Edinburgh and the other from the University of Glasgow, Scotland. She completed her studies in May and arrived home for the summer. "I took this as a summer job because I was sort of at odds and didn't really know what my next step would be," she said. "Thus far it's bee a great summer. There's so much going on here in St. Andrews. It's never boring, even in the winter. The people who live here all year around are incredibly interesting. I'd originally thought of going to Korea to teach English but a friend announced that she was getting married and I stayed here for that. As the summer progressed, I became less enchanted with the Korean trip. I'm not yet certain what job market I fit into or what I want to do but I can tell you my parents would like me to find what they call a 'real job.' They're waiting for something to happen. I think you could say they are very encouraging and are very politely concerned," she noted with a grin. But the female bellhop has a head on her shoulders and readily admits she's got it made. "I'm well educated and feel I could do anything. If only I knew what it was I wanted to do. I love academics, being in school. But the job market for teaching at university is declining. Then I took this job for the summer and must admit it's very interesting. Being in the hotel business is something I never considered before but I'm enjoying this, enjoying learning how things work and how it all goes together.

"I think I'd like a career in the hotel businss, working to make all the departments gel together. That' what Andrew Turnbull (the Algonquin manager) does. His job is fascinating and he's very good at it. I like making a comfortable environment for people. I'm organized. The baby boomers have just reached travelling age and there are hotels all over the world so one could move around in the a job market and being able to move around is important to me. I'm only 26 and not too worried about it. The ties here to my family and to the Maritimes are strong and I do feel a sense of obligation to pursue a career. So, maybe a job in the hotel business. Perhaps a tour guide for an adventure company. But then who knows. Perhaps a trek through some far off exotic land. That would make my parents happy. What I do know is there's a future out there and I'm looking forward to it."

St. Croix Courier

Sept 9/1997

Friends of St. Croix Island launch campaign to save Turner House.

St. Croix Courier

Sept 9/1997

Maine office of tourism reports strong summer season.

St. Croix Courier

Sept 30/1997

Hotel will be open this winter. A-2. The Algonquin Hotel will remain open this winter and, for the first time, dining will be available in the library through the week.

The Algonquin Hotel will remain open this winter and, for the first time, dining will be available in the library throughout the week. Administrative assistant, Cindy Bartlett, explained that although this is not the first year the hotel has been open during the winter months this will be the first time the front desk has been manned on a 24-hour basis during the off-season. The hotel has actually kept its new wing open for the past two winters. In the first year it was open for groups of 10 or more and similarly last year but they also accepted travellers passing through the town. There was an outside telephone for people arriving after 6 pm so they could call and someone would be available to meet them. A new innovation this winter will be dining in the library which will be converted from a bar into a small dining room offering continental breakfasts as well as dinner. The spa will continue to be open throughout the winter and meeting rooms will also be available.

Executive chef Willie White, who jointed the Algonquin staff 11 weeks ago, was chef at Edmonton's Hotel MacDonald for five years and he is hoping that keeping the dining room open during the winter will prove popular with hotel guests and the general public. Some of the main dining room furniture is being moved into the library and there will be seating for about 35 people. He said this will create a nice dining area. The lobby and lounge with their fireplaces will offer a comfortable area to sit while guests wait for a table or enjoy a drink.

White said he is planning a fairly small menu because there will be some days, particularly during the week, when they will probably won't be very busy although they expect to have a lot of business on the weekends. Among the items on the menu will be a selection of new regional dished which are being launched next week by Atlantic Canada's CP chefs at their five maritime locations as part of their plan to capitalize on the growing tourist market as well as contributing to the local agri-food industries. These include Bay of Fundy apple-braised salmon with sea parsley and citrus spiced couscous, Tyne Valley potato soup with North Shore lobster marble, Hopewell Cape fiddlehead and scallop salad, Cape Bonavista Newfoundland pan fried cot with pork scrunchions and Oxford wild blueberry kuchen with maple streusel.

One of White's own specialities which he said has proved popular with diners is steamed mussels cooked with maple syrup, Moosehead beer, garlic and spring vegetable. He said they will probably have a trial menu for a month to six weeks then make some changes. Dinner will be available from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm while the bar will be open from 5 pm until 11;30 pm.

The hotels' summer season will wind down in the middle of next month and White said they are already getting bookings for small conferences in the winter. He said people seem to be really happy they will be open.

Ray Frenette (interim) 1997-98

Premier of New Brunswick

Liberal Oct. 14, 1997

St. Croix Courier

Oct 28/1997

Maine museums awarded $50,000 for cultural tourism efforts.

St. Croix Courier

Nov 25/1997

Tourism industry launches new certification program.

St. Croix Courier

March 17/1998

Border area should be easy sell to tourists. International group has big dreams for Quoddy Region. (Quoddy Coastal Tourism Assoc.)

St. Croix Courier

April 7/1998

Algonquin chef prepares for Canadian Cuisine extravaganza. (in Halifax)

The Algonquin's chef Willie White will be one of five chefs spotlighting Canada's cuisine for an international audience in Halifax. Journalists from around the globe will gather at Canadian Pacific's Hotel Halifax on Saturday, April 18 to celebrate Canadian cuisine. Chefs from each of CP's five Atlantic properties will prepare regional delicacies and there will be performances by regional entertainers—The glamour Puss Blues Band will represent New Brunswick. After enjoying their Atlantic Canadian feast, the international press group will then travel from Halifax to Vancouver aboard a VIA Rail train on a 14-day culinary journey stopping at CPH properties across the nation.

CPH's chefs will also travel with the group offering workshops and seminars to highlight all that Canada has to offer the discerning palate. The Canadian Pacific Hotels' Canadian Culinary Team will consist of a CPH executive chef from every region of Canada. They were selected by their peers and will travel as a group to promote Canadian cuisine to this international audience.

The group, which first appeared together in may at the reopening of Canada House in London, England, includes executive chef Steve Watson from Hotel Newfoundland as Atlantic Canada's representative. White will be preparing his roasted, spiced and peppered Atlantic tuna with sesame sails for the April 18 extravaganza. The Algonquin's executive chef arrived in St. Andrews last July. He trained in Edinburgh, Scotland and spent three years as an apprentice at Peebles Hydro Hotel, also in Scotland. He eventually found his way to Canada and to Canadian Pacific Hotels as sous-chef for L'Hotel in Toronto.

A move west as executive chef of Chateau Lacombe in Edmonton led White to open Hotel MacDonald also as executive chef. Hotel MacDonald was one of only a dozen Canadian hotels awarded the prestigious Mobil four-star award during each of the four years White was there. This year he has operated the kitchen at the Algonquin throughout the winter season for the first time in history. The unique and readily available materials in New Brunswick, like sea parsley, are a joy for White who has helped to spearhead a regional cuisine menu for Atlantic Canada.

St. Croix Courier

April 21/1998

New success for Nb Tourism. (creation of Great Atlantic Cost Company). C-2.

St. Croix Courier

May 5/1998

Repaired wharf (St. Andrews) reopened. Burned Aug.31/1994

Tourists can be big business in St. George.

Quoddy Tourism group to release visitor's guide.

Camille Theriault 1998-99

Premier of New Brunswick

Liberal May 14, 1998

St. Croix Courier

June 23/1998

Who's Watching the Whale Watchers? Tour operators asked to fight for licensing to control industry.

St. Croix Courier

July 7/1998

St. Andrews pays tribute to Albert McQuoid. A-2.

They raised the rafters at Greenock Church Sunday during an evening of music dedicated to one of the town's best loved citizens. The church was filled with people who had travelled from as far away as Fredericton to pay tribute to Albert McQuoid who among his many attributes was organist at Greenock for more than 20 years. As he welcomed visitors to the informal service, James Stewart said they were there to express their appreciation, their thanks and, above all, their love to McQuoid.

Among those in the congregation was Presbyterian minister Dr. Bill Randall who in the 1950s shared a radio program on CFBC with McQuoid called Shower of Blessings. On Sunday evening he joined his former partner once again and led the congregation in a rousing rendition of the program's theme song. Music, which has been such a large part of McQuoid's life, dominate the service. Both Rev. Dr. Steven Cho and Archdeacon HJ. F. N. Jones led the singing of several hymns urging everyone to sing their hearts out. Archdeacon Jones even threatened to make anyone who failed to join in sing a solo up front.

There were tributes to McQuoid from the clergy of other parishes thanking him for the many times he had tuned their pianos or helped them out with their music. Willa Walker gave a special tribute to the man she described as one of the town's best known citizens.

McQuoid was born in St. Andrews in 1923, the son of Henry and Annie McQuoid, and Walker said she first met him when he was only two weeks old. His eyesight was very poor when he was born and he soon became totally blind, she said. Henry McQuoid had the foresight to send his son to the Halifax School for the Blind where he reMained from 1932 until 1940. Here he learned Braille, took music lessons and learned how to tune pianos—a skill which has made him well known throughout the county.

McQuoid was and still is extremely musical, said Walker, playing the piano, organ and accordion and giving a great deal of pleasure to many people. During the Second World War he was part of the orchestra at the RCAF Station at Pennfield.

However music and piano tuning were not his only accomplishments. He became one of the earliest and best known ham radio operators talking to operators far and wide. He also taught himself about radio, building most of his own gear and there are two radio transmission towers beside his house. For many years McQuoid broadcast carols during the Christmas season and they could be heard all around the town, said Walker. When there were special events he would tour the town in a friend's car broadcasting the news.

At one time McQuoid and his friend bobby Anning had a small business on Queen Street mending lawn mowers and outboard motors. Anning had multiple sclerosis and was crippled but with his eyesight and McQuoid's knowledge of mechanics learned at his father's garage they managed very well. Everyone was thrilled, said (rest missing—see A2)

St. Croix Courier

July 14/1998

Kingsbrae Gardens officially opens Sunday. For review see July 21, A-3.

St. Croix Courier

Aug 11/1998

A Historic Day for St. Andrews: Shiretown gets its due with recognition as historic district. A-2.

A grand plaque was unveiled in Market Square Friday afternoon denoting St. Andrews as a national historic site, Barbara Smith-Graham, a board member of Charlotte County Archives, spoke of the historic significance of St. Andrews. She was assisted by Elise Stuart and Erin Doon, dressed in period costume, who held up sketches done in the 1920s by local artist Frances Wren.

In 1793 a group of United Empire Loyalists determined to remain loyal to British values settled permanently in St. Andrews. The town was laid out in a regular gridiron pattern according to the town plan model developed by British colonial authorities in the 18th century. This, said Smith-Graham, provided extraordinary protection against fire and this legacy has meant that today over 50 percent of the homes are over 100 years old with many almost 200. The gridiron pattern, with reserves for public buildings and defence, and clear definition between urban and non-urban spaces is still clearly evident today. It was in 1995 that the Historic Sits and Monuments Board of Canada recommended that the town be declar3ed of national historic and architectural significance because it is a rare and fine example of a Canadian town retaining the key elements of an 18th century colonial town plan.

It is also distinguished by its fine collection of commercial and residential buildings which span the history of the community and are consistent in the use of elements of British classicism in their design.

The town was laid out by British army engineers under the supervision of Charles Morris, son of the first Surveyor General of Nova Scotia. His plan provided for six streets running parallel to the shoreline with 29 shorter avenues intersecting these at right angles to form 60 blocks, each divided into eight lots.

the street names reflect the Loyalist roots of the settlers—King, Queen, Prince of Wales, Princess Royal and the Christian names of the children of King George III. three areas of land were reserved within the plan for public buildings.

Named the county seat, or Shiretown, of the newly created Charlotte County in 1786, the town soon established itself as a centre for trade, sending such goods as furs, lumber and dried fish to England and the West Indies. The nickname Shiretown ahs reMained with St. Andrews to this day.

St. Andrews was also a garrison town and during the War of 1812 with the US, the inhabitants erected three batteries with blockhouses along the waterfront and a small fort on the hill overlooking the town, Fort Tipperary, to guard against American privateers.

In the mid-19th century the railway offered business opportu8nites to St. Andrews and plans were developed to build a line between the town and Quebec promoting St. Andrews as the winter port of Canada. Financial difficulties prevented completion of this railway until after construction of the Intercolonial Railway rendering the St. Andrews lien of little commercial value. However the railway was to have a significant impact on the development of the town later in the 19th century when St. Andrews was able to profit from the growth of the tourism industry.

By the turn of the 20th century the town relied almost exclusively on the summer tourist trade for its livelihood and became a significant resort community.

Sa today still incorporates the four basic principles of the British model plan—the grid plan layout, the provision of sites for defensive works, the clear distinction between urban and non-urban property and the reservation of public spaces. Market Square is all that is clearly left of the original public reserves. The Blockhouse at the west end of the town and the earthworks at Fort Tipperary to the north still reflect the town's defence system.

While many of the building sin the commercial area have been altered, in most cases the relation between the buildings and their surrounding in terms of size and architectural style remain largely intact.

From the town's beginning variations on the traditional forms of British Classicism were used for residential buildings. As the town became more prosperous, these classically inspired structures became more elaborately embellished and incorporated such details as transoms, fanlights, sidelights and detailed woodwork. The most gracious were built of brick.

The residential streets offer a high degree of architectural cohesion and many residential streetscapes have changed little over the years. The four elements of a British colonial town are still evident in St. Andrews two hundred years after the establishment of the plan.

Mayor Chris Flemming said that he had been asked several times what it meant to St. Andrews to have this designation. "It means a great deal. St. Andrews is made up, and has been made up over the years, of many different people beginning with the natives who were first here before the colonials arrived." He spoke of the many different nationalist of people who came to St. Andrews. This designation as an historic district, he said, reminds them of their history and heritage.

Minister of Health and Community Services Ann Breault said St. Andrews has become a world-class attraction and the region has become a world-class destination area. Prior to the arrival of the Loyalists she said, the are was important to the Passamaquoddy people who continue to be a major cultural component in the region. Miramichi MP Charles Hubbard, who was representing Andy Mitchell, Secretary of State (Parks), said that when they think of the Greenock church and town of St. Andrews they thin of men, and women of great vision who prepare a tremendous town and beautiful church that they have been able to enjoy through history. New Brunswick South West MP Greg Thompson said this was a very significant event for the town of St. Andrews. "A town like no other in this province and I would say in this country. It is deserving of this designation. It will bring rewards in many way as years go by.' He said the town was joining an illustrious group and added, "It is the most important thing that has happened in this little community in the last 25 years."

St. Croix Courier

Aug 25/1998

Having a whale of a time. Algonquin Hotel hosts ball to aid endangered Beluga whales. A-2.

St. Croix Courier

Sept 1/1998

Record 36.6 million travel this holiday. (Stats on mode of transport—vast majority car)

Summer's last major hurrah should generate cheers from the travel and tourism industry as a record 36.6 million Americans expect to take a trip over the Labor Day holiday, according to AAA. The total number of travelers who will take a trip of 100 miles or more from home represents a five percent increase over last year's 34.9 million vacationers. That's the biggest Labor Day jump in six years. Of those travelling, 33.1 million will go by automobile, light truck or recreational vehicle, a five percent increase from last year's 31.5 million motorist during same period. Holiday travel by air, bus, aril or ship will top 3.5 million—a three percent increase compared to last Labor Day holiday.

Most auto travelers will originate in the West, with 7.6 million, followed by the Southeast with 7.1 million, Northeast 6.5 million, Midwest 6.1 million, and Great lakes 5.8 million. A majority of travelers—24 percent—will head for towns-rural areas with another 23 percent visiting oceans or beaches. Other popular destinations include cities 21 percent; mountain areas, 12 percent; lakes, nine percent; theme-amusement parks, three percent; state or national parks, two percent. Four percent are undecided and two percent listed other.

Of those spending at least one night at their destination, 40 percent will stay at a hotel or motel and 29 percent will stay with friends or family. Other overnight plans include: campers-trailer/RV/tent, 23 percent; cabin or condo, 10 percent; boat/ship two percent; and other one percent. Those who are undecided or aren't staying overnight total vie percent.

St. Croix Courier

Nov 3/1998

Tourism booming in St. Andrews. Minister says 1998 was the best summer in the last 25 years. (At Algonquin)

1998 has been a record year for business in St. Andrews and for the chamber of Commerce, said outgoing president Andrew Turnbull. In his report to the annual meeting Thursday evening Turnbull said visitation at the town's Welcome Center hit an all-time high exceeding 15,000 groups of people. This is a 70 percent increase since 1995.

Chamber membership also broke records with over 100 members and many new members as well, he said. While membership revenue has grown 30 percent since 1995, said Turnbull, unfortunately revenues from the various levels of government while are primarily use to staff and operate the Welcome centre have declined by 25 percent or about $10,000.

St. Croix Courier

Dec 1/1998

New Windsor House unveiled. Photo.

Bernard Lord 1999-

Premier of New Brunswick

Prog. Conservative Jun 21, 1999

The Saint John Telegraph-Journal

December 15, 1999

N.B should cover Algonquin Hotel's debt

A legislative committee has recommended that the province absorb the debt created by the historic Algonquin Hotel in St. Andrews.

In its annual public report, the Crown corporations committee commends the resort's management for finally turning a profit at the hotel, but says it is carrying a debt from previous years that will never be paid back and should be recognized on the books of the province. The provincially owned resort has been financed by taxpayers for years, with the hopes that tourists would continue to flock to the pretty seaside town if they had a beautiful hotel to sleep and eat in.

The investment helped attract visitors to St. Andrews, and eventually, the hotel began to operate in the black. Now, the committee believes the province should forgive the money it loaned to the hotel, and says all future loans should be approved only if it makes business sense to the resort itself - not to boost the town as a whole.

The committee also suggested the province's Auditor-General investigate the workings of the lending company, New Brunswick Agriexport, which has a $4-million budget to finance small and medium-sized farms that are thinking about exporting their products.

The company is described in the report as "a bit of a virtual company" in that the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development is its sole shareholder and chairman of the board, its president and vice-president are the deputy minister and assistant deputy ministers of agriculture, and its three directors are also senior bureaucrats from other government departments. The report, which was tabled in the legislature yesterday, says committee members are "concerned that the figures presented in the financial statements of the company may represent an inaccurate accounting of activities." n as it appears that expenditures of the Corporation are actually being borne by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development."

In general, the committee reported it found a "lack of consistency and uniformity in reporting" among Crown corporations, and that they should adopt the annual report policy complied with by other government departments. The committee was also concerned about the number of ministers and bureaucrats who serve on the boards and in management positions of Crown corporations, recommending that government investigate those dual roles to ensure no conflict of interest exists.

Finally, the committee re-emphasized the need for regional hospital corporations to account for their decisions in front of the legislature - which is slated to happen next month. n