Island Breeze Fall 2013
A Coastal Island Between Sarasota & Ft. Myers 7092 Placida Road Cape Haze, Florida 33946 U.S.A. 941.697.4800 Resort ● 941.697.0696 Facsimile www.PalmIsland.com
Issue XIV
Special Edition Capturing the Dream for 30 Years
INSIDE THIS ISSUE Capturing the Dream Welcome/ Celebration
1 2
Activities
4
Food & Beverage
6
Guest Services
8
Retail
9
Real Estate
10
Events & Happenings
12
Memories
14
Owners/Employees
16
1983 to 2013
A Weekend of Celebration; Friday, November 22nd—Sunday, November 24th, 2013 At Palm Island Resort, we have been busy in making preparations for an eventful weekend in celebration of our 30 year history. The first guests arrived on Palm Island the weekend before Thanksgiving in 1983. There could not be a more appropriate time to gather people together in recognizing 30 years of memories. Present and past property owners have been invited along with some faces from the past and newly acquired friends to enjoy casual conversation and to reacquaint each other with those stories worth sharing.
Winter 1984
Summer 1987
Friday, November 22: A Sunset Celebration Enjoy a reception on the beach with sips of our signature Rum Bay Smash and tunes by Trinidude Tom. Guest performer Redbeard the Pirate (naturally!)
Saturday, November 23: Day Break at Wimbledon A morning starting off with a continental breakfast and an exhibition by invited tennis pros followed by open play.
Saturday, November 23: Moonlight in Paradise An evening reception followed by a very special dinner parallel to the worth in celebrating the past 30 years. Dancing follows with music provided by The Venturas (RSVP Required, with Limited Seating. Tickets $100/person)
Sunday, November 24: After-Sunrise Brunch Each event at Palm Island Resort creates new memories and what better time to start reflecting back to the parties of the weekend than over a buffet brunch. Come as you are from 9:00 to 11:30 am
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YOU ARE INVITED! MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR A WEEKEND OF CELEBRATION Welcome by Rick Brunette, Vice President & General Manager
Welcome to Palm Island Resort
For a person to truly appreciate who they are today, one must reflect back to their past experiences and understand where they have been. It is in this light that I am pleased to provide a nostalgic “look back” into Palm Island Resort’s history. This Fall, Palm Island Resort will be celebrating its 30th anniversary I am pleased to say that memories are still being created today. Even the newsletter evolved from:
has
An Important Update for Our Valued Friends and Owners, to Sea Palm Quarterly, to Palm Island Quarterly, to Palm Island, to Palm Island Reporter to its present day as simply: Island Breeze.
The story had to start somewhere and nothing in this special edition of Island Breeze is intended to embarrass anyone. Since this issue is all about you, permit me to get one thing out of the way first: A note in regard to the Chief Executive Office and President of Palm Island Resort
Everyone is a guest at Palm Island Resort, whether a homeowner, a long time repeat rental guest or a relative visiting for the first time. The history begins and will contin- Best Regards, ue to be created by all of you. Everything else is just the Rick Brunette stage…….and a very pretty and Vice President & tranquil stage it is. Manager
General
In the Beginning Dean Beckstead….The Man That Makes It Happen When it works, all is fine….when it doesn’t, you can bet that Dean Beckstead is close behind. The life of the President of a resort is a constant reflection of motion. Particularly when the resort is going through massive expansion and substantial increases in occupancy. “The transition is one that makes him run…..he is clearly best when there is change in the air” expressed one of his managers. “He truly thrives on perfecting the wheel.” Reprinted Sea Palm (Summer Issue 1987)
Welcome to this issue of The Island Breeze Reprinted Spring 2001
Our intentions: Resort guests as well as resort homeowners are an integral part of our island resort community. It is our intent to explore this uniqueness and make-up of our neighborhood. When you live in or re-visit paradise, you love coming back to the same services and same environment. But that changes. We know paradise doesn’t change but we know you do and we continue to develop new services designed to make paradise even better (if that’s possible!). A stay at Palm Island Resort should not involve massive commitments of time. You can pick and choose what you would like to participate in at any time.
Island Breeze
Friday, November 22, 2013
Page 3
Sunset Celebration
5:00 pm
Moonlight in Paradise Palm Island Resort Reception
Time: 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm Place: Palm Island Beach
A Rum Bay Smash welcomes you as you cross over the bridge to the beach, out in front of Rum Bay Restaurant. Enjoy an array of Island appetizers while enjoying the tropical entertainment of Trinidude Tom. Everyone sing along with Redbeard the Pirate as we commemorate his signature song of Palm Island. Bar hosted by Palm Island Resort
Passed Selection Hors d'oeurves
Bonfire and S’mores following the reception at 6:30 pm
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Day Break at Wimbledon
Dinner
9:30 am First Course
Time: 9:30 am Place: North Tennis Courts
Start your day with a light complimentary continental breakfast with an English influence in recognition of Wimbledon itself.
Maine Lobster Salad Yellow Pear Tomatoes Kentucky Limestone With Brioche Crisps
Palm Island tennis pro Bill Longua and previous professional Hank Irvine have teamed Dressed with a Fresh Dill up to present an invitational exhibition by the professionals. They are keeping their & Buttermilk Dressing plans a secret at time of publication, but we are sure it will be an hour of enjoyable entertainment. Attendees are invited to play following the exhibition. You may even acquire a few Second Course helpful hints to improve your game.
Saturday, November 23, 2013 Time: Place:
Moonlight in Paradise
6:00 pm
Cocktail Reception 6:00 pm Dinner & Dancing 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm Cocktail Reception Clubhouse Lawn Dinner & Dancing The Pavilion
Garlic-Herb Crusted Filet Mignon & Santa Barbara Spot Prawns On a Yukon Gold Potato Gratin’ Light Truffle Bordelaise Sauce & Citrus Drizzled Olive Oil
Everyone’s favorite, Buzz Mallett will be performing for the reception featuring exquisite hors d'oeurves, featured wines and open bar.
Accompanied by French Bean Bundle Roasted Fall Mini Vegetables
Stroll over to the Pavilion for an elegant evening meal created by both Rum Bay’s Chef Khoum and Leverock’s Chef Kenny. They have teamed up to present the finest of offer- Finale’ ings. Some very nice wines will compliment the meal with champagne flowing for a few Decadent Dessert Platters toasts over dessert. Dancing will be made possible throughout the evening with music Served at the Table by The Venturas who reign from Sarasota. This truly will be a night to remember. Domaine Chandon Blanc de Noirs
A Family “Movie Under the Stars” with Complimentary Popcorn
Sunday, November 24, 2013
Sunrise Brunch
9:00 am
Time: 9:00 am to 11:30 am Place: Rum Bay Restaurant
Elaborate buffet brunch being offered at Rum Bay Restaurant for a perfect conclusion of the weekend as a new beginning for the next 30 years is kicked off. A Sunday brunch buffet may even kick off a day of football.
ACTIVITIES
Island Breeze
Activities: Remember When?
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“Island Air” in Service Please call Wanda Wagner at (813) 697-4800 for more information on Island Air Service or call our fixed base operator, Air Trek, at (813) 639-7855 Reprinted Island Harbor Resort Winter 1984
In December, Island Harbor Resort and our sister resort, the Useppa Island Club, acquired their own aircraft to carry guests and friends to and from various points in Southwest Florida.
our many coastal islands and, at to Disney World for the day, the same time, providing service take you snorkeling or fishing to and from all airports. in the Dry Torgugas, or shopping in Palm Beach. Available to all of us at low charter rates, we encourage you to consider letting “Island Air” provide some of This brand new Cessna your family’s transportation “Stationair” is equipped as a needs during your stay at full amphibian, thus allowing Island Harbor Resort. it to land and take off from both water and runway sur- In addition to being an ideal faces. As such it’s perfectly shuttle to and from the airsuited for hopping between port, “Island Air” can fly you
Would You Believe a 22-Ton Sand Castle at Palm Island? Imaginations ran wild as the sand sculpting, Bob felt the enthusiastic support of guests. detail of a magical castle Palm Island version was a real emerged from the silky white winner…..especially for the The sand sculpting activities sand of Palm Island Resort. will certainly return to Palm Under the skillful direction of Island with planned events on expert sand sculptor, Bob Carspecial occasions including the penter, guests and experts Thanksgiving weekend. Who worked together to create a knows what may be next...a 50 22-ton medieval castle over -ton turkey? the Labor Day weekend. Reprinted The final product was a castle Palm Island Resort standing over seven feet high Fall 1987 with a diameter of twelve feet. A regional champion in
The Pirate Redbeard Moves In…. “As I looked o’er the horizon, I knew I had met the largest fish I ever saw,” came the claim as the tall man with the wild red curly locks stood and pointed out over the beaches at Palm Island Resort. Nicknamed Redbeard the Pirate, Randy Matthews is a resident of the nearby community of Englewood. For the last 30 years, Matthews has traveled the world performing his own brand of music and humor. At Palm Island Resort he continues that tradition by writing his own stories and music about pirates. Check out the tiki hut on the beach and you’ll get the feeling you’ve stepped onto the deck of a
pirate ship as Redbeard tells his stories of travelling the seas while singing about his life. Have fun, for he is a friendly pirate and just wishes to share a “Li’l story wi’h ya, now”.
Island Breeze
Activities: Remember When?
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ACTIVITIES
Revisiting our Palm Island Amenities: Our New Fitness Room club and special events are Just because you’re on an is- and circuit training. available to you if you land doesn’t mean you want to let your fitness plan go on All classes are co-ed and all choose. fitness levels are welcome. vacation too! After all, it’s your time to enjoy our beaches and our So, from the time you step off We have just opened a great beautiful weather. the ferry and enter our parafitness facility complete with great equipment and pro- dise, remember we are here grams to help you keep moti- for you. Reprinted vated. The Island Breeze These wonderful programs of Spring 2001 There are cardio interval clas- tennis, fitness, massage, fishing charters, the book ses, water aerobics at the pool
Reprinted Sea Palm Winter/Spring 1987
Resort Recreation Department Offers Fun For The Entire Family “Mommy, there’s nuthin’ to do!” NOT SO at Palm Island Resort which prides itself on providing a family-oriented holiday. A quick trip down to the tiki hut, home of the Resort Recreation Department quickly dispels the myth of “nothing to do”. Managed by 33-year-old Peter English, a big kid himself, the Recreation Department offers something for kids of all ages. Activities include pool games, scavenger hunts and volleyball, all at no charge.
In addition, there are horseshoe games, bike rallies and “frolf competitions where prizes are awarded for the minimal charge of $2. Peter also offers group sailing and windsurfing lessons for $5 per person. Naturally, once either sport has been mastered, small sailboards and windsurfers are available for rental. In fact, just about everything you can imagine for that perfect trip to the beach is available from the Recreation Department.
You can rent a cabana and chairs, a raft, a snorkel and mask, a canoe, fishing gear, a bike, an aqua cycle, a boogie board, a volleyball, football or frisbee at the tiki hut. Oh yes, they also rent tennis racquets and will loan or sell you tennis balls. Even just a chat with Peter is entertaining. Reprinted from Palm Island Reporter April, 1990
Recreation Rental Hut 1990
Eco Tours Offer A Close-Up To Our Environment Our new Eco Tours have been received with great enthusiasm by our guests. These tours are guided by an onsite naturalist familiar with our barrier islands unique ecosystem. We have a range of tours designed for all ages including an island picnic cruise that includes travelling through pristine areas of the intracoastal waterway and Lemon Bay. Observe birds, dolphins and
other wildlife in their natural habitat. A picnic at Don Pedro State Recreation Area includes a box lunch from Rum Bay Restaurant. Sunset Nautical Nature Tour seekers enjoy a romantic sunset with complimentary beverages. “The Green Flash” Reprinted The Palm Island Reporter Winter/Spring 1996
Beach walks, bicycle nature tours and canoe excursions are all part of our eco-tour program
Recreation Rental Hut 2013
FOOD & BEVERAGE
Island Breeze
Food & Beverage: Remember When?
Page 6
CATS (after hours) Opens The first sophisticated cocktail lounge in the resort opens under the sneaky name of “CATS...after hours”. Located at the noted Garfield’s restaurant at Harbortown, CATS will offer guests to Sea
Palm new opportunities for after hours enjoyment The dream of Garfield Beckstead, CATS will feature live entertainment specialty drinks and a late dining menu. The lounge will be open until
1 a.m. seven nights a week during the winter season. This will surely be the inplace to be for late night fun at the Resort. Reprinted Sea Palm 1986
Fritzi entertains at CATS
Cookin’ With Khoum We are re-introducing the “Cooking with Khoum” column, which was very popular in the newsletter of the past. He will be sharing cooking tips and recipes from the Rum Bay Gallery, so you can save the aroma and flavors of your “home away from home”.
Rum Bay Under Construction Winter 1987
the neighborhood, when you serve Ribs, Chicken, Seafood or your own “Swamp Burgers”. It will also make a wonderful gift for any occasion. A 12-ounce bottle is $3.99 and can be purchased at the Rum Bay General Store. Contact Kimmer at the Rum Bay General Store, 941-697-7309, for further information.
We are proud to announce that Palm Island’s very own Next issue: Recipe for making Rum Bay Swamp Sauce is our scrumptious Key Lime Pie. now available by the bottle. Now you will be the envy of
Reprinted Island Breeze Summer 2002
Resort Activities Are in Full Gear: Dinner Cruises Our beautiful 38’ Chris Craft is now available for regularly scheduled dinner cruises.
Leverocks Palm Island Marina 2013
Under the command of one of our licensed captains, the 38’ Chris Craft is available to cruise from Island Harbor Marina taking guests to dinner at our sister resort, the Useppa Island Club, and north to the Captain’s Club Restaurant on Manasota Key. At this time, Island Harbor Resort Management, Inc. is also preparing a schedule of spring charter fishing and shelling cruises on the boat. Imagine a relaxing dinner cruise aboard our 38’ Chris Craft. Private catered dinner charters may also be arranged. Please call Wanda Wagner at (813) 697-4800.
Reprinted Island Harbor Resort Winter 1984
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Food & Beverage: Remember When?
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FOOD & BEVERAGE
Guests Enjoying Island Cookouts! The enticing aromas of barbecued food are wafting from the deck of The Landing these days as Palm Island Resort offers its guests a new menu of outdoor cooking at lunch and dinner hours, throughout the week.
the expressed hope that eve- venient to pop over to The ryone will take advantage of Landings for a tasty outdoor the new food service. lunch.
An old fashion barbecue menu of such items as hamburgers, and hot dogs is offered at lunchtime and has been extremely popular espeThe cookouts are proving high- cially with beach-going family popular with islanders, lies who find it mighty conguests and homeowners alike,
The dinner barbecue menu provides chicken on Tuesday evenings, zesty ribs for Thursday dinner fare and charcoal broiled steaks for Sunday evening barbecue lovers.
Reprinted Palm Island Resort Winter 1987
Island Restaurant to Open By Spring Construction is underway on the town center restaurant at Palm Island Resort. Within convenient walking distance of all Palm Island Resort villas, the new restaurant will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner to guests. Designed to be compatible with both the laidback lifestyle of our guests and the Island architecture, the restaurant will offer casual meals to both indoor and outdoor (screened) seating areas. While the restaurant will be geared to the needs of our
many guest families, the facility will include a separate beverage area for up to 20 individuals.
The restaurant will be part of a total town center area and will include a greatly expanded General Store. The entire complex will be
renamed “The Landing”, although the name of the restaurant is still being held as a “closely-guarded secret”. With construction now underway, spring completion seems assured. “Our spring and summer guests will be able to choose between the special dinners at Garfield’s on the mainland, or the casual dining on the beach,” offered Marley Halvorsen, General Manager of the resort. “Whatever their choice, it will be superb dining with menus fitting of Florida’s Out Island Resort”.
Rum Bay Restaurant 2013
New Conference Center to Open Reservations are now being accepted from travel agents, corporate meeting planners and association executive for groups looking for a discrete full service meeting location The Island’s new facility will accommodate groups of up to 75 people in a conference room setting. Scheduled for opening in May 1988, the facility will combine with the adjacent
Palm Island Club Pavilion to meeting groups a unique enviserve the entertainment ronment conducive to producneeds of up to 200 people. tive meetings.” said Dick Dunham, Director of Marketing With the many varieties of and Sales. hospitality suites available on For more information, contact the Island and the available Dick or Beth Melvold, Sales terraces of the new Island Representative at (813) 697restaurant, the options for 4800 or 1-800-842-5412 entertainment and break out functions are extensive. Reprinted Palm Island Resort “Palm Island Resort offers Fall 1987
The Landings is Re-Opened as The Clubhouse for Private Events
GUEST SERVICES
Island Breeze
Guest Services: Remember When?
Page 8
New Reception Center Opens
Check-in is more efficient at the new Guest Reception Center Summer 1987
To accommodate the increasing number of guests arriving at Sea Palm Resort, a new Guest Reception Center was opened this spring. “With growth comes new demands, and among those at Sea Palm Resort is the need for fast, efficient check-in for arriving guests,” stated Marley Halvorsen, General Manager. “ The new facilities have made a big difference.” The spacious and comfortable reception area is located at the entrance to Sea Palm Resort off the main highway. With check-
in parking and a convenient the resort has become even baggage unloading location, more attractive to our guests. guest registration has never been faster or more efficient. The Reservation Center and Resort Operations are nearby providing additional services to our guests on arrival and departure. Along with friendly reception personnel, the “front door” to
Reprinted Sea Palm 1987
Our “Bright Orange” Trolley is more than colorful-Its Comfortable! You’ve probably noticed the “bright orange” trolley car that now runs throughout our resort community. This authentic trolley car has replaced our former tram car. Not only is it a smoother and more comfortable ride, during the hotter months the windows can be closed and air conditioned comfort is available for our passengers. So whether you’re traveling on-island or off-island, we want you to feel comfortable, in control and glad to be a part of our island resort community. Reprinted The Island Breeze Spring 1997
Palm Island One now in Service A glistening new launch, Palm Island One is plying the waters between the Harbortown embarkation point and Palm Island, these days, and passengers on their way to and from Palm Island Resort are enjoying smooth and picturesque trips.
Palm Island One 43 foot Catamaran
The First Palm Island Resort Tram 1983
The new launch has also increased Palm Island Resort’s ability to transport vacationers to and from the island, as it will carry up to 71 passengers with ease and comfort.
Soon, you’ll be at The Landing and will be stepping onto the docks of Palm Island Resort where your adventure in paradise awaits. Your luggage, by the way, will have been transported separately to your home or villa and you can devote all your sensory capabilities to enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of this tropical dreamland!
Reprinted Palm island Resort Winter 1987
Island Breeze
Retail: Remember When?
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RETAIL SERVICES
Resort Recreation Finds New Home Nestled in a corner under the res- Peter Mayers, the Recreation taurant on Palm Island, you will find Manager is very pleased about the location. “We’re easier to access the new location for recreation. here. I think it will be a very sucThis establishment is no stranger to cessful location.” the guests of Palm Island. For four years it has been the supplier of The relocation of Resort Recreaeverything from tennis balls to tion will now provide all rentals in beach umbrellas and bikes. Many one area. Golf carts are available forms of recreational equipment right next door! Palm Island Reporter are available for rent. 1992
Palm Island Packages Available
A new entrance to welcome our Guests and Owners to the Resort. It’s a great place to catch up with old friends or make new ones.
Gulf Cart Rental Tips Palm Island Resort is pleased to offer guests rental golf carts since no motor vehicles are allowed on the island except for those necessary to the operations of the resort. Either two or four-passenger carts can be rented from Island Rental Systems, Inc. which is located by the tram stop at Rum Bay.
Mariana Fuehrer, manager of IRS, Inc., noting that the adult who rented the cart is liable for any damages to the vehicle, resort property or personal injury.
She suggests that drivers use common courtesy and exercise caution as if driving on a public road. In particular, she said, watch for blind corners Please keep in mind though, around the buildings and for they are for your convenience pedestrians, especially small only and are not to be used as children. Pedestrians always bumper cars by your children. have the right-of-way. “They are not play things,” Operators must possess a val-
id driver’s license which means children may not drive the carts, even when accompanied by a licensed driver. There is a 10 mph speed limit on all resort property. Carts are not allowed on the beach or off the resort property. Any violation of these rules will result in loss of cart usage and forfeiture of deposit.
Reprinted Palm Island Reporter April 7, 1990
REAL ESTATE SERVICES
Island Breeze
Real Estate: Remember When?
Page 10
New Product Offerings on the Market The early 1983 success of Palm Island Village 1 has enabled the Charlotte Harbor Land Company to begin immediately on the development of two new phases of Island Harbor Resort. Beginning stages of PIV 1
Palm Island 11 Beginning in January, basic development construction and site work were well underway for the final forty villas. Palm Island 11 is arranged along the beach immediately north of the existing Village. Harbortown Village Initial reservations at preThis village, consisting of one development prices have been and two bedroom apartstrong and indicative of the ments, are designed to be our strong market for this deluxe early –on resort units on the product. Sales reached 20 mainland. Phase 1, consisting units within the first thirty of 28 one-bedroom and 30 days. two-bedroom apartments, was offered in November.
Beach Villas Our third gulf front project, is in the final planning stages. We hope to offer these new villas in April. Beach Villas will feature the same efficiently designed one and two bedroom villas in Harbortown Village. Arraanged in towstory, eight-unit buildings, Beach Villas is located on 800’ of gulf front property, Immediately north of the Palm Island Village II. Reprinted 1984 Island Harbor Resort
Property Sales Continue to Expand
Palm Island Properties 2013
We have had an exciting spring and summer on Palm Island-our rental activity has been strong, we have completed most major amenities including our island marina docks, and we have welcomed seventeen new property owners to our owner group. Most exciting has been the increase in real estate sales activity, especially in the single family and two family residences on the northern end of our property. (The Palm Island Club area) To prepare for increases, we have established two offices on the property and have representatives available seven days a week.
Island enjoying a Mini-Building Boom
“It’s a building boom-of sorts,” says Dean Beckstead, President of Palm Island Resort. “Eight new homes may not sound like much but, when you consider the overall size of this project, eight new homes constitutes a mini building boom.” All 15 of the gulf-front homesites in the Seaside 11 section of the property were sold within months of the initial offering last December, and 10 of the 15 gulf view sites have been sold as well. Beckstead attributes this success to the appeal of the property as a boating oriented single family vacation home community which can offer all the amenities of a first class resort. Reprinted Palm Island Reporter 1990
Reprinted Palm Island Resort Fall 1987
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Real Estate: Remember When?
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REAL ESTATE SERVICES
Sales Are Up Palm Island Resort’s best year for real estate sales was 1997! With sales exceeding $5.5 million, Palm Island Properties president, Tim Fitzsimmons, is optimistic for 1998. Reprinted Spring 1998
“Twenty-nine of 43 sales this past year were condominiums. There are presently only five 2-bedroom and two 3-bedroom units available for resale,” said Fitzsimmons. With the small inventory of condominiums, Palm Isalnd Properties is expecting a major improvement in the sales of homes, homesites and cottages. The first quarter of 1998 Is off to a fabulous start with a total of seven sales. Unlike the weather this year, our real estates sales forecast for 1998 is sunny and bright. In addition to the upswing in sales, we are very pleased to report that two of our new homesite owners are moving full speed ahead to design and build homes in 1998.
Bay Villas at Palm Island There’s new construction currently going on in the private home area of Palm Island Resort. These beautiful three buildings will house four villas each. Villa homeowners will enjoy the convenience and value of amenities accustomed to the Palm Island lifestyle. Each two-bedroom villa enjoys a breathtaking view
overlooking private boat docks, a peaceful bay, the natural shoreline and the exquisite wildlife habitat. With plans to have the final Bay Villas complete in early 2002 four units have already been sold. Pre-construction prices start at $330,000 Call (941) 697-1445
Reprinted The Island Breeze Spring 2001
Seaside, the final offering, is the most exciting Seaside, the final offering of Gulf-front and Beach–view homesites at Palm Island Resort, introduced at the start of December, is now rapidly gaining momentum. We have been most pleased with the response to the new homesite offering and, as of this writing, almost all of the Gulf-front lots, as well as several of the Gulf-view and Bay-front lots, have been spoken for—many of them by our Resort Property Owners. As we move into the new year, we anticipate the remainder of these attractive waterfront homesites will be selected and reserved as long term second home properties.
and five Bay-front homesites. Seaside will be the final enclave of quality single family homes and homesites on the more than two miles of Palm Island Resort beachfront and has been planned for those families who desire a true boating oriented second home on the Gulf with conviently located docking facilities and with the full amenities and services offered by the Palm Island Resort.
The property on which Seaside has been designed is located in the heart of the Resort with the Rum Bay Restaurant and General Store on its southern boundary and with the existing Tennis Center and Clubhouse located Seaside consists of fifteen Gulf-front single on its northern side. family homesites, fifteen Gulf-view homesites
Reprinted Palm Island Reporter December22, 1989
EVENTS & HAPPENINGS
Island Breeze
Events & Happenings: Remember When?
Palm Island Host Middleweight Champion
Governor Runs for Senate
Page 12
For the Past 12 years, Governor George Voinovich of Ohio has been visiting Palm Island Resort. Since he has become an owner, he has made many new friends and that is why it made sense for him to have a special political fund raiser at one of his favorite places. Running for John Glenn’s seat in the senate takes a great deal of work and preparation as well as finances. Out-of-state politicians and owners flew into Florida this past fall to wish George well and show their support.
Governor Voinovich with Mel Weaver and Larry Dean 1998
Texas Rangers Call “Sea Palm” Home Jake LaMotta, former World Middle Weight Champion, paid a visit to Palm Island Resort for a little rest and relaxation. LaMotta won the middleweight crown from Marcel Cerdan in 1949. He relinquished his crown eighteen months later in one of the greatest fights of all time to Sugar Ray Robinson. In over 100 fights, LaMotta was never knocked off his feet. Reprinted Palm Island Resort Fall 1987
“We believe this is the finest training facility in the major leagues, and we have the people of Charlotte County to thank for that.”
A longtime dream of Charlotte County residents comes to life in 1987. Major League Baseball has arrived. This February, the Texas Rangers begin spring training workouts at their beautiful new baseball complex, located on SR 776 in Port Charlotte. The Rangers will make their temporary home at he beautiful resort of Sea Palm and Harbortown Inn & Marina. “We are proud to say that Charlotte County is the spring training home of the Texas Rangers,” commented Rangers’ President Mike Stone.
Nolan Ryan autographs a baseball Rumor has it that more than one of the new guests to Sea Palm have indicated interest in a year-round presence on the island through ownership. Who Knows, the next Cy Young or MVP might soon be a member of our special “out island” lifestyle!
Talking Baseball with George W. Bush George W. Bush sat in a lawn chair in front of the Land’s End Cottage he rented for the week and watched as his twin eight-year old girls took off on a scavenger hunt followed closely by a couple of Secret Service men. “The girls were on spring break from school and Palm Island Resort is a good place for a vacation. Here, the girls could roam the island with little worry,” he said. The arbitration over the baseball lock-out had just ended and Bush, the son of U.S. President George W. Bush, is an owner of the Texas Rangers Baseball Club which holds spring training at Charlotte County Stadium. Bush takes his exercise very seriously and says, at times, he avoids business lunches to work out. His idea of a good vacation is waking up and running five or six miles on the beach. “Palm Island is good for that,” he said, “because of the clean air and unobstructed runs.” The resort has two miles of its own beach on a seven mile long island.
Island Breeze
Events & Happenings: Remember When?
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EVENTS & HAPPENINGS
Palm Island Resort: Celebrating our 20th Year Anniversary It’s hard to believe it has been twenty years (November 1983) since we completed the first Palm Island Village units and welcomed our first owners and guests to our “true island paradise”. In those days we arrived on the island in a small 23-foot boat and “schlepped” (carried) our bags from a small dock at the south end of the property to the units. If you saw more than two other people during your stay it was crowded. We had a total of eight units, one pool and one tennis court. No restaurant or grocery store. If you forgot to bring the milk, beer or diapers it was usually a day or two before you could get back to the mainland to shop. But, we had the most gorgeous beach in Florida to ourselves.
Overlooking the pond life at the Lake 2013 There is a new park area for quiet reflection and enjoying the pond life at the Lake north of to read or just relax. We will the Pavilion area. It was installed to commem- also be adding a time capsule to orate the Resort’s 20th Anniversary. The land- be opened in 2023. scaping and benches make an inviting spot Island Breeze
2007 Redbone a Huge Success The 4th Redbone@Large Palm Island Resort Celebrity Slam fishing tournament benefiting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation held on April 18th-20th, was a great success—netting over $72,000 for the CF Foundation.
sponsor, with the presenting sponsor being Raymond James Financial Inc. from Tampa. Our Celebrity Host actor Ed Marinaro greeted our guests as the event began with a welcome Reception and Captain’s meeting on the 18th.
There were 17 teams of 2 We have now raised over anglers and 1 guide partici$200,000 for all the kids that pating. John Havlicek, of basketball fame, joined in to live with this disease. help raise funds for this Palm Island Resort was the title great cause.
Close to 200 fish were caught during the two day event. Special thanks to Vanessa Williams, 19 years old and a full time student at Manatee Community College who was our CF Ambassador. L to R: Angie Radkins, Ed Marinaro, and CF Ambassador: Vanessa Williams
Palm Island Regatta! Every Thursday afternoon after a Commodores’ lunch at Rum Bay, golf carts carrying model sailboats are parked on the bank of the Lands End pond. Eager sailors take their ships down to the water and launch them into the wind.
The radio controllers are turned on, and soon the pond is covered with dancing boats, waiting for the start of the first race of the day. Earlier this winter, instigated by Jim Edwards, and joined by Don Hock Chuck Hebble, Phil Lape and Chuck Roum, the Palm Island Commodore Club was formed. Soon thereafter Susie Phillips broke the gender barrier with her boat. Dennis Neeser, Dick Fink and Steve Morris have acquired boats and plan to join the races next fall. Reprinted Island Breeze 2005
L to R: Chuck Hebble, Don Hock, Jim Edwards and Phil Lape
MEMORIES
Memories: Remember When?
Island Breeze
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Willard and Nell Fox “The first time we stayed on the Island was 1985. Ray was mainly interested in fishing and I was interested in the beach. We usually stayed at the Westin on Englewood Beach when we came down. In 1985 I was looking through a AAA magazine and saw the write up on Palm Island Resort and wanted to try something different. I tried to convince Ray but unfortunately the truck drove to the beach and we ended up back at the Westin. Thank God it was full! He was determined to stay at the beach so he checked into an efficiency right across the street. For $70 we could stay at a ‘flea bag’ motel! I told him ‘heck no’ we are going to check out Palm Island Resort! We drove up to what is now Leverock’s, Ray waited in the car while I went in to check things out. I ended up renting one of the beach villas for $155 for 3 days and 4 nights. They told us we had to leave our luggage and take the ferry boat across to the Island.” The very unsure Ray and excited Nell took one look at the wonderful new Villa and they knew they had made the right decision. In 1994 during one of their stays on the Island, Ray woke up and said to Nell, “Call Penny and tell her we want to buy a Condo.” Penny met them that morning and showed them all the 2 bedroom villas available for sale. (Nell wanted to be sure to have a laundry facility) By the end of the day they were making an offer on unit #2311. One of Nell’s favorite memories was when her daughter Kim got married on the beach in 2002. “It was so nice having all our friends and family here at the same time enjoying our special place.”
Dean and Beth Athanassiades
First Island
Nancy and Bruce Chudacoff rented a villa on Palm Island Resort 18 years ago. They rented 4 1/2 years before deciding to build a house and making Palm Island their home away from home. One of Nancy’s favorite memories of Palm Island is to sit down in the dentist chair in reality but her mind will wander to her screened in porch on Palm Island with a glass of wine watching the sunset which is outlined by trees.
Fire and Rescue Truck We have been coming to Palm Island for 25 years! It’s where we “recharge our batteries” and put our life into perspective. We bought a villa in 2003, 10 years ago in September! We have raised our daughter, Kate on Palm Island and right now she is working a high school internship to learn more about the nature of Palm Island Resort!
Nancy and Bruce Chudacoff
In Service, 1983
One of Bruce’s and his grandchildren’s favorite memories is Ollie the Trolley. With big smiles on their faces, they would take the trolley around the Island ringing the bell for all to hear!
Island Breeze
Memories: Remember When?
Julius and Joan Vetter
Page 15
MEMORIES
Susan Chalsty Neely John and Jennifer Chalsty started coming to Palm Island Resort in 1985. The family bought the first house which is now the Hassenbergs. Their daughter, Susan Chalsty Neely raised her three children, Timothy, Meghan and Harrison (who was 1 years old at the time) on Palm Island Resort and now Harrison is 26!
Julie and Joan came to Florida in 1983 with the sole purpose of finding a place that they would both love on the water. “Julie wanted to be able to dock a boat on one side and I wanted the beach on the other.” They rented a 46’ trawler and made their way south on the ICW in search of the perfect place. As they made their way towards Boca Grande they saw a sign that said, “This could be the location of your next home.” Julie called the number and spoke with Bob Raushenberger who introduced him to Dean Beckstead. They took a walk on the beach at the location of where their building would be (1800) and saw the beautiful view, “Within a week we had our dream location!”
When John sold his house, Susan and her family rented a villa every year until LE36 became available for sale in 2001. She quickly bought it and continued the tradition her dad had started!
Meghan & Harrison Neely
Marc and Vicki Byrnes Dr. Art and Marion Auer Marc and Vicki Byrnes
We visited the Palm Island three times in the summer of 1985. We fell in love with it! It was very low key, and a great place to get away and relax with Dr. Auer’s busy surgical schedule. The best thing is when getting off the ferry, it is an “instant” release! Palm Island is considered a perfect place to unwind quickly!
Your Island....Your Time...Your Memories A Coastal Island Between Sarasota & Ft. Myers 7092 Placida Road Cape Haze, Florida 33946 Phone Facsimile E-Mail Web
941.697.4800 941.697.0696 Info@PalmIsland.com www.PalmIsland.com
30 Years: Remember When?
30 YEAR PALM ISLAND OWNERS
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1983-2013
Villa 1111 Carl and Jo Walter Villa 1222 Douglas Williamson Villa 1224 Ed Richard Villa 1313 Perry Brucker
ISLAND BREEZE NEWLETTER Debbie Curtis, Editor Debbie Curtis, Photographer Contributors Rick Brunette, General Manager Debbie Curtis
Villa 1511 Dean Beckstead Villa 1811 Joan Vetter Villa 1824 Frank Downing Villa 2424 Frederick Gluck
Questions? Please Contact activities@palmisland.com
Villa 2513 Phyllis Hippenmeyer
Synergy in terms of Palm Island Guests is the condition that exists when the family members interact to produce a joint effect that is greater fun and enjoyment than the sum of the members acting alone. Thus….was the birth of Palm Island Resort’s credo.
20 YEARS OR MORE PALM ISLAND EMPLOYEES
Find us on the web www.PalmIsland.com
Find us on Facebook PalmIslandResort Cape Haze
Randy Davenport Wayne Griffin Debbie Davenport Walt Mintel Daniel Holloway Khoum Khampapha Karin Griffin Bradley Bossman
1982 1983 1984 1989 1989 1990 1991 1993