State honors Quassy Amusement Park

6/11/2004

WINDSOR, Conn. – Quassy Amusement Park, located in Middlebury, Conn., was honored Thursday evening during the Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism’s 17th Annual Tourism Unity Dinner at the Hartford/Windsor Marriott here. The family-owned park was presented with the 2004 “Spirit of Connecticut” award during the gathering of 400 tourism representatives from throughout the state. Quassy was honored for hosting numerous special events and fund-raisers to support organizations throughout Connecticut. In particular, the park was recognized for recent community service achievements, including “Magic In The Sky,” a three-night laser light spectacular held in June of 2003 to benefit the Connecticut Food Bank. The 20-acre lakeside property also hosts numerous athletic and other special events throughout the year to assist not-for-profit organizations. “The special events held at Quassy not only have a positive impact on the beneficiaries, but also tourism in the state of Connecticut,” said Edward Dombroskas, executive director of the Connecticut Office of Tourism, in presenting the award. Accepting the award for Quassy were John Frantzis, one of the park owners, and Ron Gustafson, director of public relations and educational programs. The “Spirit of Connecticut” award also recognized Quassy’s comprehensive educational programs, which include journalism, laser technology and photography classes as well as on-site physics and history tours. Eight 2004 Connecticut Tourism Awards were presented to businesses and individuals from throughout the state. The awards committee named Arthur Hill Diedrick, chairman of development for the state of Connecticut, “Tourism Leader of the Year.” Gov. John G. Rowland and First Lady Patricia L. Rowland attended the dinner. Quassy is located on Route 64 in Middlebury, Conn., and will host a new production of the laser spectacular June 22, 23 and 24 for the Connecticut Food Bank. In addition, the park will present “3-D” Fireworks on July 4 to benefit Prevent Blindness Tri-State. For a complete special events schedule or more park information, visit www.quassy.com or call 1-800-FOR-PARK -- 30 – with photo Quassy honored Quassy Amusement Park received the 2004 “Spirit of Connecticut” award Thursday night at the Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism’s 17th Annual Tourism Unity Dinner. Shown with the award are: (seated) John Frantzis, (standing, left), Eric Anderson and George Frantzis II, co-owners of the amusement park.