Thanks for the many memories, Destin

With our final Snowbird column of the year, we would like to reflect on our wonderful winter in Destin.

Now that most of the Snowbirds have headed back to the still snow-covered North, we notice the many changes on the landscape. Instead of seeing about ten people walking the beach in January and February, now we are inundated with thousands of spring breakers, families, coolers and castle makers.

Our quiet condo complex we have it all to ourselves is full of strangers, here for a week, trying to pack thirty hours into every day. That drive into Destin or Fort Walton Beach that took 30 minutes each way might take at least double that now. I can imagine what it's like in the summer.

We'll remember that 27-inch redfish we caught in the surf and enjoyed for a couple of meals. Our trips on the Swoop and the Just B Cause were fun with lots of mingos, triggerfish and white snapper, even though all the red snapper, 27-inch amberjack and some grouper had to be returned.

Having talked to a captain one day who was working on his boat, I asked him what he thought of the regulations on so many species. He said that it was severely hurting most captains who fish for a living. When he told me he could remember 25 years ago, coming in with thousands of pounds of fish, one couldn't help but wonder if this type of fishing in the past led to the present situation.

Thanks to the some-300 volunteers at the three Snowbird organizations who made it possible for us to play cards, golf, dance, fish, gamble, do crafts, critique books, play Ma Jong, create art and whatever else I might have missed. Special thanks to all the facilities that allow us to gather for our many activities. Thanks also to the Destin and Walton libraries that are both so well-stocked and willing to help in any way.

Finally, we'll always remember our -14 in the Sunday lowball at Foxwood, where instead of rehashing all the missed putts, we could actually reflect on all the made putts. What golf fan could forget Tiger Woods' reaction in Orlando on Sunday as he sunk a 24-footer to win the tournament by one stroke? Who says when you have a lot of money you no longer get excited?

We loved attending the Okaloosa-Walton College Raiders basketball games and will always remember the packed athletic center for the undefeated Chipola Indians unbelievable atmosphere and a Raider victory to boot. Please can someone tell me why the state finals are always in Marianna? Add this home court advantage to Chipola's annual strength, and it is very frustrating and unfair for the rest of the league.

Until next year, thanks Destin for your beautiful beaches and your hospitality.

Brian Cosgrove and his wife, Nancy, are Snowbirds from Canada.