Gov. Malloy Showcases Tourism at Tulmeadow Farm in Simsbury

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy stopped at Tulmeadow Farm as part of an afternoon supporting tourism Wednesday. 

“Connecticut tourism is important so this was a way to support it — and get ice cream,” Malloy said.

The day included a few lighthearted moments but Randy Fiveash, director of the Connecticut Office of Tourism, said the governor has truly supported it during his time in office. 

"He’s been a true supporter of tourism,” Fiveash said, adding that such visits also help educate the governor and show the industry just how seriously he takes it. 

And farms are an important draw, the governor said. 

“Farms are a great attraction to Connecticut,” Malloy said.

Don Tuller of Tulmeadow Farm is also president of the Connecticut Farm Bureau. He said Malloy has been “engaged” in agriculture issues and that he appreciated the governor’s visit.

“I’m happy that the governor has taking to promoting tourism, especially in Simsbury,” Tuller said.

State Rep. John Hampton thanked the governor for the support.

“Governor we want to thank you here in Simsbury and across the state for really putting Connecticut back on the map and helping restore our economy," he said. Hampton also thanked "footsoldiers" like the Simsbury Tourism Committee and selectman but told Malloy, "we couldn't do it without you." 

First Selectman Mary Glassman also thanked the governor and said much of what the town offers and preservation efforts are the result of local, state and federal support.

"We’re thrilled to have the governor here at one of our premier farms,” said Liz Banco, who chairs the Simsbury Tourism Committee. “This is what makes this part of West Simsbury so special and give it that old time, rural feel.”

The governor also stopped at Hill-Stead Museum in Farmington Wednesday.