Ellington Top Business Nominee: Connecticut Parachutists Inc.

ELLINGTON, CT — Earlier this week, Ellington-Somers Patch asked readers to nominate their favorite local business for Business of the Year. Many area businesses have managed to navigate the turbulence of 2020 with steadfast determination and an unwavering commitment to the clients they serve.

One business which has kept thrilled customers navigating the skies for nearly 60 years is Connecticut Parachutists Inc., based at Ellington Airport. The skydiving club was established in 1962 and moved to the airport in 1970, making it one of the oldest existing skydiving clubs in the country.

According to its website, the mission of the club is to "promote the sport of skydiving. Our goal is to give everyone a glimpse into the amazing sport of skydiving and to show you how fun and safe it can be."

As a not-for-profit club, the focus of the organization is on promoting the sport of skydiving, not making big profits. All money goes back into the facility in the way of the most modern gear, training and aircraft.

Here are excerpts from some of the nominations received in favor of Connecticut Parachutists Inc.

• "Connecticut Parachutists, Inc. (CPI) safely gave customers the most thrilling break from lockdowns, cancelled vacations and being stuck at home. Being an outdoor activity at a facility with plenty of space to spread out, first time skydivers had little to worry about... aside from jumping out of a plane. Like every business, CPI had to make some significant adjustments to make things work during a pandemic. But they did a great job with distancing, temperature checks, mask wearing, and sanitizing to keep everyone safe from COVID-19. And a great staff of experienced, well-trained instructors kept everyone safe while skydiving too." - David Gerstein
• "The atmosphere at the DZ is very welcoming, fun, friendly and thrilling. The customer service is very respectful, yet totally witty and fun. Whether you are a tandem student who visits once or an experienced skydiver who is there every weekend, everyone is infected the same with the amazing atmosphere and contributes to one of the most friendly and diverse groups of people that create this amazing business." - Katelyn Ekmalian
• "I cannot think of a more wholesome and exciting venue to bring people to this part of Connecticut. Moreover, it serves as the focal point for the UConn skydiving club." - Philip Thomas
• "Skydiving is a wonderful sport, and the staff there, their kindness, helpfulness and their safe environment make you want to skydive at this place." - Marian Canas
• "Really great human beings sharing what they love with the world!." - Rich Ng

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