THE WAY WE WERE

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2022, Florida was the fastest-growing state in the country, adding about 320,000 people between 2021 and 2022. That’s a lot. And no doubt we have some newbies reading this right now. Welcome!

As one of your fellow non-native Floridians, I’m always intrigued to talk to those who grew up here — especially a long time ago.

If you’ve ever seen old photos of the area, it looks like it was a hip-happening place, no matter the era. Gals clad in high-waisted one-piece swimsuits, guys pulling fish the size of their body out of the water, parties with everyone gathered around the pool sipping from martini glasses — it looked like a lot of fun.

Fortunately, we’re lucky enough to know Contributor Marty Fugate, who’s one of those area originals. He actually remembers frequenting the casino on Lido Key and pulling chocolate doubloons out of the treasure chest at Buccaneer Inn on Longboat Key. Even luckier still, we persuaded him to write about it.

Starting on Page 82, you can walk through his memories of beloved places gone by. None of them is still standing, which is a shame, but at the same time, it also makes the legend of them that much stronger.

Like, imagine seeing John Ringling’s abandoned RitzCarlton hulking from the south end of Longboat as you cross the bridge onto the Key. Nothing but the skeletal remains of a dream gone bust. Spooky. Or the Buccaneer Inn up on Longboat. I never had the pleasure of dining there, but I did report on its demolition in 2005. I heard tales of a boaters’ paradise where you could pull right up, dock your boat and enjoy a meal with the family. I also heard how the spot had been known to host illicit gambling back when the New Pass Bridge was the only way onto the Key. They used to station a car at the bridge to keep watch for the sheriff and had an alert system so everyone could make their getaway by boat before he arrived.

Then there’s The Colony Beach & Tennis Resort and its famed and beloved Monkey Bar on the beach. Although the new St. Regis being built in its place will no doubt be beautiful, there will never be anything quite like The Colony.

But even after they’ve been razed and replaced with the bright and shiny, these places’ spirits linger. Whether you’re aware of the history or not, it is part of what makes us special and different from other beach destinations. From Fugate’s piece to our home feature on Page 93, be on the lookout for the Old Florida that still permeates our area’s DNA. It’s hard to miss if you’re looking.

Kat Hughes Executive Editor

BETSY DE MANIO & JACKIE EBERLEY

Betsy, the number one agent in the Siesta Key office for 29 years, and her daughter Jackie are both Certified Waterfront Specialists and Global Luxury Specialists. By building client trust through integrity, dedication, communication, and determination, they are amongst the top 3% of Coldwell Banker agents worldwide. Their extensive market knowledge and strong negotiation skills ensure favorable outcomes.

201-233-1959 | JACKIE@JACKIEEBERLEY.COM

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TOM "WOODY" WOODWARD

Born in Columbus, Ohio and now a resident of Siesta Key, I have been serving my clients for more than 30 years. I am true people person, and I have a passion to help my clients and ensure the transaction is as seamless as possible. I am the Realtor you can trust to keep it Real.

614-348-8578 | TOM.WOODWARD@CBREALTY.COM

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Linda Ren

Originally from Michigan, I moved to Sarasota in 2005. I am a licensed real estate broker in Florida and a Certified Waterfront Specialist. Most of my career in Michigan was spent in the real estate and mortgage industry, managing our family-owned mortgage brokerage for over 20 years. Exceptional customer service is my goal!

941-928-1393 | LINDA.REN@FLORIDAMOVES.COM

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Julia Montei

I am best known for my winning attitude, connections throughout the country and proven track record. I am Certified Waterfront Property Specialist, Global Luxury Property Specialist and achieved Guild recognition through Institute for Luxury Home Marketing. I use my knowledge, keen business sense and negotiation skills to get the job done for my clients.

941-702-3098 | JULIA.MONTEI@CBREALTY.COM

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Julie Ponder

Sharing time between Park City UT and Siesta Key FL, I am uniquely positioned to help beach and mountain lovers find their perfect home or investment property. A decade in consulting and 30 years of real estate experience honed my distinct skill set to better serve my clients. I'm thrilled to be in the top 3% of CB agents worldwide, I would love to talk to you about your real estate journey!

714-675-0739 |

JULIE.PONDER@CBREALTY.COM

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Christa Spalding

Siesta Key’s Biggest Fan! After visiting many of Florida’s gulf coast towns, I decided to trade in the chilly Maryland winters for year-round sunshine and sparkling white sand beaches. I would love to share my experience and personal knowledge of the Sarasota area with you. Global Luxury Specialist • Resort, Second Home & Investment Property Specialist • Certified Waterfront Specialist

941-529-6978 | CHRISTA.SPALDING@CBREALTY.COM

SIESTAKEYDREAMHOMES.COM

John Mcsweeney

Raised in Michigan, my first visit to Siesta Key was at my Grandparents condo as a child in the 70's. I've now been a resident of Siesta Key for 25 year and there's no place I'd rather be! With a degree in business and major in marketing, I made the switch over to real estate 10 years ago. I love bringing my expertise and local knowledge to the home-buying/selling process. 248-917-7329 |

JOHN.MCSWEENEY@FLORIDAMOVES.COM

JOHNMCSWEENEY-CBFLORIDA.SITES.CBMOXI.COM

Jessica Arens

Having lived in Wisconsin, Mississippi, Missouri and Florida, I'm no stranger to relocating. My personal knowledge, coupled with attention to detail and a servant nature, drives my passion for creating the best possible home-buying/ selling experience for my clients. Let's start the journey of finding you the perfect home that fits your lifestyle!

941-952-8979 | JESSICA.ARENS@CBREALTY.COM

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