Since we are the end of the 2010’s, it is not fair that we do not mention an institution that has contributed to Independent Americana Music as well as great sports and educational programs. I am talking about AMI Radio and how it promoted a sense of unity in America and the world at a time when there was some modicum of peace.

I will remember the banter with Robert Herman and Mike Blanchette as we discussed the soccer [football] nation every Saturday at 10:00 AM with Island Sports Wrap. I have three memorable moments which deserve mention :

1. When I revealed the Iranian Soccer [Football] Sex Scandal in January 2016 which left everyone laughing but it was actual news.

2. The prediction that Chile would win in 2015 on penalities. People in Miami, Florida thought that I was crazy but they tuned in to AMI Radio after the prediction

3. Sarah Palin declared that she saw Russia from her home. I gave her credit because many times I would be seeing Cuba from the balcony of my apartment.

4. The Ice Bucket Challenge in which everyone was challenged. Many accepted and did others while many contributed and were angry at the challenge. Others were angry because they did not get challenged.

5. The Bob Dylan/Gordon Lightfoot Cover Challenge in which everyone in Miami and Cuba covered their ears.

I am also grateful to AMI Radio for allowing me to bring many artists from all over America and the world as part of The Americana Bistro Grill. The Americana Bistro Grill was regular program of Americana Country/Rock/Rockabilly Music with artists such as Jen Hajj, Midnight Kahuna, Instant Karma, Ricky Valido, Laura Marie, and more who were able to use the show as a trampoline to jumpstart their career.

The Americana Bistro Grill was an alternative that showed true music from America and its roots. While the ABG was temporary off the air after AMI Radio folded, it made a comeback this October [after a seven month hiatus] and is acquiring a life of its own with artist interviews.

During my visits to Bradenton and Anna Maria Island [Florida], I never forgot the great hospitality of the people who lived in the area. I still remember the great service received at the Days Inn and Cracker Barrel at the corner of I-75 and Florida SR 64 as well as the Quality Inn and Perkins Restaurant at Tamiami Train Sarasota North making Marilia and my stay an unforgettable one. 

I want to thank Casey Hoffman, Robert Herman, and Mike Blanchette for the great times and the opportunity to be a part of such a great family. AMI Radio may be gone but not forgotten.

I hope that we can put aside our differences and enjoy life which was the spirit of AMI Radio and remains the same with the Americana Bistro Grill.

PEACE IN, PEACE OUT, AND PEACE EVERYWHERE AND ASLAURA MARIE SINGS «BE LOVE»