Overview

The Palms of Manasota is a gay and lesbian (LGBT) community in Palmetto and between Sarasota and St. Petersburg. It was the first gay and lesbian community in America. The Palms' inception was 1994 and residents moved in in 1998. Organized and impromptu dinners, holiday celebrations, in home musical recitals, and informal gatherings are embedded into the social fabric of the community, as well as needed support by the "we care" committee during times of need. Unfortunately the NY Times reported in Oct.2011 that the community has filed for bankruptcy protection.