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New York tourists alter travel plans to be in Gander during Tony Awards

The power of “Come From Away” as a marketing tool for the province was highlighted stronger than ever during Gander’s Tony Awards party Sunday night.

New York tourists Joe and Peggy Paparone pose with Gander Mayor Claude Elliott (centre) during the Gander Tony Awards Sunday night.
New York tourists Joe and Peggy Paparone pose with Gander Mayor Claude Elliott (centre) during the Gander Tony Awards Sunday night.

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While Gander’s story went to Broadway, a couple from New York was in the central region to take part in the award presentations.

Originally Joe and Peggy Paparone had planned a trip to Iceland, but after taking in

“Come From Away” they were so moved by the musical they decided to alter their plans and visit Gander instead.

“It really is one of the greatest acts of kindness on Earth since the loaves and the fishes,” said Joe Paparone. “Everyone is so gracious and kind.”

They, too, have experienced acts of kindness since coming to the area.

In anticipation of the show, “I emailed the chamber to see if we would even be able to get the awards show here, and I was connected to Oz Fudge’s brother, who connected us to Oz, who said there was a party being held at the (Legion) and we could have tickets, so we made our plans to be here,” said Peggy Paparone.

And since arriving Saturday, the two have become captivated by the area and its people. They plan to continue exploring the rest of cCentral Newfoundland during the remainder of their trip.

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