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www.amisun.com
THE SUN
NOVEMBER 5, 2014
Moose expands renovation plans The expanded renovation plans now include the construction of a new bar. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – The renovations to the Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge took an unexpected turn recently, when it was determined that structural decay necessitated the demolition of the bar area at the south end of the lodge. When the dust settles, members will be rewarded with a brand new 38-seat horseshoe-shaped bar that will further enhance the lodge’s spectacular waterfront view. “From one side, you’ll be able to look out and see the Gulf,” Lodge Administrator Ernie Casali said. The change in plans pushes the estimated completion date to May 1, but the main dining room and Gulf side patio remain operational. “We’re open and we’re not going to skip a beat. The menu’s still the same and nothing’s changed; we’re just short a little space,” said Casali. Because the work in progress reduces an already limited number of Moose parking spaces, Casali encourages patrons to leave
joe hendricks | sun
Last week, a portion of the Moose lodge was demolished due to structural deficiencies. their cars at home when possible. “There’s no parking at all. Take the trolley,” he advised. Casali said the unexpected turn of events means the original $350,000 projected renovation costs will increase to between $500,000 and $600,000. He estimated the fallen wooden structure
to be approximately 50 years old, and he attributed its decay to piecemeal construction and constant exposure to salt air. “We could’ve repaired it, but everything was rotting out, so we ripped it down and are going to replace it all at once,” Casali said. The new ground level structure will be
built of cinder blocks and precast planks, making it much more durable. When asked how the renovations are funded, Casali explained that each Moose lodge is an individual not-for profit 501(c) 8 corporation, supervised by the national organization, but fully responsible for its own costs and expenses. Located at 110 Gulf Dr. S. in Bradenton Beach, Moose Lodge #2188 is among the most popular in the country. The Bradenton Beach/Anna Maria Island Women of the Moose Chapter 1601 is the organization’s largest women’s chapter. The lodge’s total membership ranks second only to Lodge #1533 in Indian Lake, Ohio, and those bragging rights might be up for grabs soon. “We will be the largest lodge within less than a year,” Casali predicted. “How many new members do you think we’re going to get when they can sit out there in the new bar and eat a lobster roll for $11.95,” he boasted. As for the trademark moose that proudly stood above the lodge entrance, Casali said, “The moose is in storage, but he’ll be back.” He also said the exterior mural would likely be restored. Video of the recent demolition can be viewed at www.moose2188.org.