Here’s what changed: they can now build eight more residential villas next to the original set, bumping the total number of approved units from 12 up to 20. 

But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. The community spoke out, especially about the developer’s push to raise the building height limit to 45 feet throughout the business district. While some residents expressed support for this project, some worry that taller buildings will strip Old Englewood Village of its historic charm.

If you’re following this story, Phase I already brought a 10,000-square-foot waterfront restaurant and 12 paired villas to the area. For updates and the latest news on this development, you’ll find updates on the Sarasota County Planning Commission portal.

The post Sarasota Planners Approve Expansion of Controversial Buchan’s Bayside Project to 20 Villas appeared first on Englewood Review.

Brian and his wife, Rachel, are coming up on fifteen years of marriage and have been together for over two decades. Their triplet daughters are in seventh grade now, a busy house, no doubt. He co-owns Paradise Exclusive Real Estate and divides his days between running the brokerage, giving back to the community, and squeezing in time with family and friends. That balance isn’t easy, and work wins most of the hours.

Brian is also an author. He spent nearly five years drafting his book, Self-Inflicted Success, battling procrastination along the way. He finally wrapped it up and published it last year. The book focuses on building success in your life, anytime you need it, as long as you have the mindset and approach to make it happen.

What is your idea of perfect happiness? 

Spending time with people I care about, both personally and professionally and putting my efforts into meaningful impact in my community and the world.

What is your greatest fear? 

Losing loved ones. I wish we could all live forever.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself? 

My brain doesn’t stop, which takes away from laser focus on what’s needed most. I have to reel myself in and adjust my attention often.

What is the trait you most deplore in others? 

Lack of accountability. No excuses.

Which living person do you most admire? 

My dad. His work ethic, care for his family and ability to adapt and change in a second’s notice is something I truly admire.

What is your greatest extravagance? 

Coming up with a thought or idea that isn’t really in my wheelhouse and then going down the rabbit hole of researching, exploring and trying to do what I can to see that it happens.

What do you consider the most overrated virtue? 

“This is who I am”. The statement is often used when someone wants to seek acceptance of their faults. I feel we all have the ability to become better versions of ourselves and shouldn’t have a safety net of what’s comfortable for us, especially when it’s a trait that causes harm in one’s life and/or relationships.

What do you most dislike about your appearance? 

I don’t like to be a dislike person. I’m happy with who I am and what I look like. But my second toe on my right foot is longer than my big toe and that sure would be nice to get fixed. LOL

Which words or phrases do you most overuse? 

Always Assume Positive Intent. Perception.

Every edition, Englewood REVIEW spotlights someone who stands out in the community. We ask each person to tackle The Proust Questionnaire; a classic set of questions created by Marcel Proust, the French writer.

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Magnolia’s on the Bay is an upscale spot on Manasota Key, with sweeping views of Lemon Bay. Whether you’re seated inside or out, the view and the food are something special.

“This space, and this moment, means more than we can put into words,” they said on their social media announcement about the reopening. “We’re beyond grateful for our incredible team and the community who supported us through every step of this process. Being back together, doing what we love, feels amazing. We can’t wait to welcome you back to Magnolia’s on the Bay.”

The restaurant sits right on the edge of Englewood’s beautiful shoreline, and the setting alone makes you want to linger. Inside, the food takes center stage. This isn’t just another seafood place; it’s a spot where the kitchen team actually cares about what lands on your table.

The menu moves from playful, inventive lunches and dinners that feel a bit more refined, all without ever seeming fussy. Outside, you’re surrounded by greenery and that soft, salty breeze. It’s the kind of place where you want to slow down and really taste each bite. Add in friendly staff and cocktails that actually surprise you, and Magnolias on the Bay turns a simple meal into something you’ll remember.

If you want to book a table, just call 941.460.8219 or magnoliasonthebay.com.

The post Magnolia’s on the Bay Returns: Upscale Dining Reopens Feb. 9 with Lemon Bay Vistas appeared first on Englewood Review.

Officials made it clear at the Charlotte County Commissioners meeting: they don’t want two passes competing for the same stretch of Manasota Key. The county’s consultants, led by Michael Poff from Coastal Engineering Consultants, want to keep Stump Pass as the main navigation channel, keep the beaches healthy, and don’t let the new pass throw the system out of whack.

Milton Pass is deep, approximately 10 feet in the center, and will not close on its own. Historically, Stump Pass sat right about where Milton Pass is now, until hurricanes shifted it south in the late 1800s. That only adds to the feeling that these barrier islands are always changing, but officials aren’t eager to let nature run its course this time.

Here’s the technical problem: there’s only so much water moving between the Gulf and Lemon Bay. With two passes open, neither works as it should. That means less efficient navigation, and down the road, possible erosion on Englewood Beach. 

Meanwhile, beach recovery is another important issue. Hurricanes Helene and Milton chewed up the barrier islands and dumped piles of sand everywhere. The county had two choices: patch up the worst storm damage or go all-in and restore the beaches and dunes. Commissioners went with the second option, a $34.2 million project.

The debate over Milton Pass isn’t just about access or scenery, it’s about keeping the beaches alive, protecting navigation, and figuring out who pays to put things right. When it comes to beach restoration and storm damage, that’s never a simple answer.

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Tucked away on the scenic shores of Southwest Florida, this tropical hideout welcomes guests with upgraded suites, top-notch amenities, and a laid-back vibe that feels both luxurious and eco-friendly. 

Now under the management of Gulf Creek Hotels, big changes are on the horizon. In late 2024 and early 2025, the resort (previously Weston’s) submitted plans for a major revamp—think new suites, upgraded amenities, and a bigger focus on sustainability. The idea is to modernize the place without losing its character. 

Renovations will roll out in phases, so the resort stays open. But there’s more to it: the developers are working through zoning and rezoning hurdles. They need approval to update the property, which has sparked debate in the community over how much development is too much. Locals have voiced concerns about building heights and density, and the process has included public meetings and workshops with county officials.

The proposed renovations raises concerns with Manasota Key residents. Why all the fuss? The resort operated for years under old zoning rules that made updates tough. After hurricane damage, the push to rebuild and modernize picked up steam, but so did the conversation about preserving the island’s laid-back feel. At the end of the day, Manasota Key Resort is gearing up for big improvements, but the final result hinges on community support and official sign-off.

Manasota Key sits between Sarasota and Fort Myers, but it feels a world apart. The barrier island is famous for its quiet, white-sand beaches and crystal-clear Gulf waters, perfect for anyone craving peace and a front-row seat to Florida nature. The atmosphere is all about unwinding, unplugging, and soaking up the easygoing charm of the Gulf.

Learn more at manasotakeyresort.com.

The post Manasota Key Resort Transformed: Big Changes on the Horizon appeared first on Englewood Review.

The FWC is handling the investigation, trying to figure out exactly what went wrong. Stay tuned to Englewood Review for any new developments on this story.

The post Englewood Boat Crash Leaves Two Hospitalized After Vessel Hits Piling in Lemon Bay appeared first on Englewood Review.

The Manta Rays held off a late Bulldogs push, surviving a back-and-forth fourth quarter that kept the home crowd on its feet. Official stats showed Lemon Bay matching DeSoto County shot for shot, with the Bulldogs’ 66 points falling just short of forcing overtime.

The matchup also extended a streak that has tilted sharply in Lemon Bay’s favor. With Tuesday’s finish, the Manta Rays have now won seven straight over DeSoto County dating back to 2023.

Lemon Bay is scheduled to travel next to Gulf Coast HEAT on Tuesday, December 2 for a non-league matchup. Gulf Coast HEAT is coming off an 81–20 loss to Community School of Naples. The Lions hold a 1–3 record entering next week’s game.

Previous Matchups
November 25, 2025 – Away – 67–66 W
January 31, 2025 – Away – 59–48 W
December 17, 2024 – Home – 61–48 W
January 30, 2024 – Home – 70–41 W
November 21, 2023 – Away – 58–45 W

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Freshman Crew Collins led Lemon Bay with 9 kills, while senior Roxy Getter added 7 and senior Grace Wear chipped in 6. Setter Evelyn Swidrak paced the offense with 31 assists to go with 10 digs and 2 aces. Senior Natalie Googins anchored the defense with 17 digs, and Wear, Getter, and V. Kappelmann each recorded 3 blocks at the net.

Lemon Bay won’t have long to dwell on the loss. The Manta Rays head to Fort Myers on Thursday, September 4, to take on Bishop Verot in a 7 p.m. matchup.

The post Fightin’ Tarpons Hand Lemon Bay Volleyball First Loss appeared first on Englewood Review.

This year’s boat races spectators saw 23 boats hit the water, the largest field in recent memory. Much of the credit went to Bart and Austin Tracy of Lasbury Tracy Real Estate, who built 14 cardboard shells for young participants. That gave first-time sailors a jump-start, needing only to waterproof and decorate their boats before setting sail. Judging by a few sinking vessels, not everyone took the waterproofing advice seriously, which made for plenty of laughs.

Winners by category

• Under 9: Englewood Dot, Englewood Fishing Club; raced by Axell Enderley, 9, and Jacob McGinn, 9.
• Ages 10–16: Englewood Dot, Englewood Fishing Club; raced by Jake McClain, 14, and Jordan Fletcher, 12.
• Over 16: Sea Dog, Port Charlotte High School Electrathon Club; raced by Luiz Silva Pinto, 17, and Jesse Porter, 17.
• Captain’s Choice: Blood Sharks; raced by Owen Silberstrom, 11, Erik Strahan, 12, and Bryson Singleton, 11.
  

Organizers said the event’s success was also thanks to the many local sponsors: Englewood Chamber of Commerce, Englewood Sailing Association, Tracy Lasbury Realty, Jubilee Center at St. David’s Episcopal Church, Venice Sea Scouts, Stumpy’s Free Ride golf cart shuttle, musician Dale Shumate, photographer John Bass IV, and food trucks Shaz Shack and Outside the Lunchbox.

The cardboard boat races remain a highlight of Pioneer Days, a community festival that has brought residents and visitors together for nearly seven decades.

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