The Passenger Vessel Foundation today announced receipt of its largest donor gift to date. The Padelford Packet Boat Company has provided a gift in excess of $155,000 to the Foundation.
The Padelford Packet Boat Company was founded in 1969 by Captain William D. Bowell, Sr. and continues to operate today on the Mississippi River from Harriet Island, Saint Paul, Minn. The gift to the Passenger Vessel Foundation in part will form an endowment allowing for semi-annual grants awarded in the name of company founder Captain William D. Bowell, Sr. Bowell served as the first President of the National Association of Passenger Vessel Owners (NAPVO) from 1971 to 1979, known today as the Passenger Vessel Association (PVA). Captain Bowell was part of the inaugural class inducted into the PVA Hall of Fame in 2011.
“The Passenger Vessel Foundation is overwhelmed with this generous gift. It is a wonderful way for the current owners of Padelford to continue the memory of Captain Bowell for many years to come while ensuring years of support to the Foundation's mission,” said Rob McMahon, Passenger Vessel Foundation President.
Steve Bowell, President of Padelford Packet Boat Co, “Our Industry depends on an educated workforce and a safe operating environment for future growth and sustainability. The Foundation provides resources that help our industry grow.”
Company Vice President and co-owner Captain Gus Gaspardo serves on the Board of Directors of the PVA. “We are excited for the opportunity to further the good work of the Passenger Vessel Foundation,” said Captain Gus Garspardo, Vice President/Co-Owner of Padelford Packet Boat Company. “It was especially meaningful for our founder, Captain Bowell, to be remembered while furthering the education and safety causes in passenger vessel industry.”
Founded in 1994, the Passenger Vessel Foundation, a 501 (c) (3) organization was established to ensure that the passenger vessel industry continues with its dedication to continue furthering the education and development of safety resources.