Rest, Relaxation and Romance

It’s easy to spot Cindy Geesey in a crowd — she’s the one dressed from head to toe in red, white and blue and it’s not even the Fourth of July. The Sebastian resident flies the flag 365 days a year, marches in parades and volunteers for local and national candidates seeking office. Patriotism could well be her middle name. That’s why Cindy, with the support of her husband, Adam, has made it her mission to thank those who serve to protect and defend our country. 

Wanting to find a way to do something special for military personnel returning from overseas assignments, Cindy created a program called “Rest, Relaxation and Romance,” a three-day weekend getaway that includes lodging, meals, flowers, wine, chocolate, fruit baskets and a variety of gift certificates, all thanks to the generosity of local businesses and individuals. 

Why does she do it? Her answer is simple. “I remember when the vets came back from Vietnam and they were treated so badly. I didn’t want to see that happen to the men and women who were risking their lives in Afghanistan and Iraq. I wanted to do something special for military personnel returning from overseas assignments, something that would enrich their homecoming,” says Cindy, who launched RR&R eight years ago while a member of the Lauderdale by the Sea Chamber of Commerce board of directors. 

“When I proposed the program to my fellow directors, they were enthusiastic and eager to donate, as long as I did all the legwork,” Cindy says, laughing. “I was a business owner and knew a lot of people in the community, so it wasn’t all that hard for me to get donations.”