Welcome back, winter residents!

You good?

Pardon the informality, but we just had to ask.

While you were gone these past few months in New York, Michigan, Wisconsin and other points north, the folks holding down fort have seen and experienced a lot.

First of all, it was really hot and it rained, like, every day.

OK, maybe not the sexiest of headlines, but c’mon, it was and it did. But nearly every day ended with a one-of-a-kind sunset, so that was kind of nice.

Then there were the weeks and weeks of dealing with the effects of COVID-19. And while the physical symptoms of those who were unlucky enough to be directly affected were no laughing matter, everyone's lives changed.

We learned to Zoom (some of us better than others), we found ways to enjoy ourselves without access to parks, tennis courts, friends and other amenities. And on it goes.

So, as we get ready to brief you below on the Sarasota and Longboat Key news you might have missed,  we felt we had to ask.

Because even if you were smiling, it’s hard to tell behind that mask.

You good?

Welcome back, Sarasota:  Everything from a new use for Bobby Jones Golf Course, renourishment of Lido Beach, a possible move for the iconic Unconditional Surrender and more. 

Welcome back, Longboat Key: Beach parking that was open, closed, open, closed, and now open, a sewage spill, a shipwreck and more.