Marco lives up to ‘Most Beautiful’ expectations

The odyssey of Dan and JoAnne Shaub began in New York City where they packed their Saab and headed south. Since they accepted the Mission Possible assignment they were off to the six cities nominated to be designated “America’s Most Beautiful” in a contest jointly sponsored by USA Today and Rand McNally.  Marco Island was one of the six nominees, and a group of greeters was on hand to meet them at the Marriott Resort on Monday, June 27.

The Shaubs spent two days in Coral Gables, first stop on the “Best of The Road” contest. From there they took Route 41 west to Marco Island by way of the Goodland Bridge. At the Marriott, after a brief rest, they

enjoyed riding jet boats and spotting local wildlife.  Dolphins surfaced on cue and manatees joined the superior display. Assorted bird life added to the fun.

They also savored a panoramic view of the island from the 20th floor of the Vera Cruz condominium courtesy of realtor Chris Sullivan.

In the evening they dined in a tent on the Marriott grounds with a small group including County Commissioner Donna Fiala, City Council Chairman Jerry Gibson, Chamber of Commerce President Alan Brown, Chamber Executive Director Sandi Riedemann, Board of Realtors Executive Director Shirley English, Collier County Tourism Development Council Director Jack Wert and Publicity Director JoNell Moodys and Tracy Tirrell and Jada Shigley from the Marriott. Fire dancers performed brilliantly as a highlight

of the evening. Commissioner Fiala proclaimed June 28th be known as ‘Beautiful Marco Island Day’ from this day forward. Chairman Gibson gave a moving recital declaring the eternal beauty of Marco Island and formally presenting the Shaubs with a Key to the City.

On Tuesday the Shaubs enjoyed a full and varied day. They experienced shelling and a helicopter tour over Marco Island as well as a few of the Ten Thousand Islands. Their interest in the environment was a natural fit with the tours of Marco and surrounding habitats. Later they were treated to a guided tour of the Marco Island Historical Museum including a narrative by Craig Woodward. The fruitful day ended with an excellent dinner at sea aboard the Marco Princess.