15101 Shell Point Boulevard - Fort Myers, FL 33908
(239) 466-1131 - 1-800-780-1131 - www.shellpoint.org

Contact: Jessica Clark, Communications Specialist (239) 454-2071

FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 3, 2008) — Fort Myers, Fl (December 3, 2008) --- Shell Point Retirement Community launched the Suzy Q IV, a 26 foot Fiesta Triton pontoon boat that was donated through a generous resident contribution for the use and enjoyment of residents and their visitors. A dedication ceremony was held at the boat docks located on the Island of Shell Point and hosted close to 100 guests that included residents, their family members and staff of Shell Point.

Tim Stephenson, the Executive Director of the Legacy Foundation; Dawn Boren, the Director of Resident Life; and Peter Dys, the President of Shell Point, discussed the history of the Suzy Q and the continuing value of philanthropy. Pastor Ken Nesselroade brought the dedication ceremony to a close with a blessing of the boat and crew, followed by a ceremonial ribbon cutting.

According to resident Jim Kessler, Suzy Q Captain, “The Suzy Q got her start twenty-five years ago as a small boat, holding just 4 to 6 people, offering Shell Point residents the opportunity to take short tours of the local area mangroves.”

As the popularity of the river tours grew, the original Suzy Q became worn down and outgrown. She was offered a relaxing retirement and was replaced by the Suzy Q II. However, following years of loyal service, the Suzy Q II faced a similar fate. She passed the torch onto the Suzy Q III, which brought more space, more charm, and allowed for even more passengers to enjoy scenic tours of the waters surrounding Shell Point.

The Suzy Q III, and her crew of volunteers, devoted 8 years of service to Shell Point residents and their guests. Resident Ed Budd made a generous donation to purchase a new boat, the Suzy Q IV, in memory of his wife Ellen. The new Suzy Q also came equipped with new life jackets which were donated by resident Jackie Jackson.

Shell Point Retirement Community is a not-for-profit continuing care retirement community located in Fort Myers just off Summerlin Road, two miles before the Sanibel causeway. Shell Point is a nationally recognized leader in the retirement industry. To learn more about Shell Point, visit www.shellpoint.org or call (239) 466-1131.

Return to 2008 News and Stories.