Busch Gardens Williamsburg Names New V.P. Of Marketing

Williamsburg, VA -- March 30, 2000 -- With more than 20 years of experience working at Anheuser-Busch Adventure Parks, John Gillespie has been named vice president of marketing for Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA.

Graduating Cum Laude from Christopher Newport College, Gillespie began his career at Busch Gardens Williamsburg in park operations. In 1992, he was named director of merchandise and in 1998, Gillespie's dedication and abundant knowledge of the theme park industry afforded him the director of sales role for Water Country USA and Busch Gardens Williamsburg. "His vast theme park experience and commitment to park excellence will be an asset to the marketing team," said Dan Brown, executive vice president and general manager of Busch Gardens Williamsburg.

Gillespie who has already assumed his new role as the marketing vice president looks forward to the new challenges that await him. " I am honored to lead the talented and gifted people of the marketing department into the 21st century."

A Virginia native, Gillespie resides in Newport News with his wife Patsy and their three children.

The Anheuser-Busch Adventure Parks include Busch Gardens and Water Country USA in Williamsburg, Va.; Busch Gardens and Adventure Island in Tampa Bay; SeaWorld Adventure Parks in Orlando, San Diego, San Antonio and Cleveland; Sesame Place, a children's play park near Philadelphia; and Discovery Cove, a family vacation experience featuring interaction with Dolphins and other marine animals due to open in July 2000.