Malloy Kicks Off Conn. Tourism Campaign

HARTFORD (AP) – Gov. Dannel P. Malloy toured the state promoting Connecticut’s new “Still Revolutionary” tourism campaign.

The Democratic governor began with a road trip on Monday. He stopped at Lake Compounce in Bristol, Blackie’s Hot Dog Stand in Cheshire, Putnam Memorial State Park in West Redding, Weir Farm in Wilton and Sunset Meadow Vineyards in Goshen.

At his stop at Putnam Park, the governor spoke at length with Newtown Historian Dan Cruson. Mr Cruson has done extensive archaeological research over several years on the Revolutionary War encampment at the site with the help of students and volunteers.

Malloy is touring the areas more than a month after state officials announced a two-year, $27 million marketing initiative that draws attention to Connecticut’s role in the Revolutionary War. The campaign also highlights the state’s role in the Industrial Revolution.

Citing 2011 statistics, Malloy’s office said the hospitality and tourism industry employs more than 110,000 people, generating $1.15 billion in state and local tax revenue. It’s responsible for $11.5 billion in spending.