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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Atlanticade chairman Dale Hicks of Moncton says the move was based on a number of factors and credits town officials with being very determined in their efforts to bring the festival to this tourism focused town. “We were approached by town representatives back in the summer once the Bon Jovi concert was announced in Moncton and the resulting challenges that presented our event in terms of hotel accommodations” says Hicks. “We didn't take their initial overtures very seriously but they were persistent and once we sat down to see what they could offer it very quickly became evident to our committee that the whole community was behind the effort to host the event for 2010 and beyond. In the end they basically presented us with an offer we couldn't overlook”. In fact Hicks says that several communities had expressed their desire to host the event which has drawn 5,000 participants the past two years and generates an economic spin-off in the $3 million dollar range. “We had representatives from other municipalities contact us to see if we were willing to move the event but St. Andrews was the first group we actually sat down with. It became clear they were very engaged and willing to work directly with us to make the festival a success” stated the founder of Atlanticade. Leaving Moncton was not an easy decision but St. Andrews offers some very unique benefits to the festival which the committee believes will be key to the overall success and growth of the event. “The fact everything will be located within a five minute walk, the charm of the downtown, being situated on the water, and having the famous Algonquin Hotel as the headquarters for the festival should make for a welcoming atmosphere for the participants” says committee member Krista Mollins-Jamieson. “The folks at the Algonquin have been very involved in working with town officials to make this happen”. The entire Charlotte County will see the benefit of the event with motorcycle tours and events planned for St. Stephen, St. George and Black's Harbour. “There are some very scenic and historic areas to visit in this region” added Hicks. “Many participants have never visited this region of the province so they are in for a real treat”. Hicks was also excited about the prospects of attracting more bikers from the New England States. “Given the proximity to the US border we will are planning more marketing and promotion to our American friends for sure” he added. Town of St. Andrews Mayor John D. Craig stated that this announcement is great news not only for the Town but for the entire Charlotte County. “At a time when tourism needs help, this event will inject a much needed boost to the local area economy. We are pleased and excited to welcome and host Atlanticade 2010 to both St. Andrews and the Charlotte County”. Details for the 2010 festival are still be worked out but interested participants can go to www.atlanticade.ca for regular updates.
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