Historic riverfront is changing fast

As you may have heard, Lane Development Co. has purchased two more riverfront parcels adjacent to the current townhouse and retail development downtown. While I have yet to see the plans for this addition, it might be a good move for all concerned.

Let me explain: the parcels in question are a vacant lot on the riverfront, the Florida Petroleum Co.'s fueling docks, and - get this - the "tank farm" east of Front Street. I must say I never thought I'd see that parcel sold. Just the reclamation costs alone will be sky high.

Lane plans to continue fuel sales for the new marina there. They will install the tanks underground, with parking on top. This use might be a good application for a once-tank-farm, considering the soil conditions. So, gone will be the familiar and somewhat unsightly fuel tanks.

And for some, another piece of our small town.

My hope is that as the waterfront is developed, the owners keep in mind the citizens are very concerned about the view of the river being lost. While we now have a great view, due in large part to the dilapidated old buildings there, new buildings will certainly change that view. Everyone I know is concerned that we may end up with a Destin Beach problem -no views.

So, congratulations to Lane Development Co. I'm sure the purchase of this piece is a big step for them. Hold on to your hat friends, the times they are a-changing. Your riverfront is about to change a lot.

Shrimp festival memories

I was thinking about this event recently, and I realized that I have never missed a shrimp festival in my life. When I was a little boy (here we go, folks), the event was no bigger than a few shrimp boats racing up and down the river, accompanied by a case of beer. That was about it, but it was something we all looked forward to. I rode on Cecil Bennett's boat, or the Tringali brothers' boat, depending on which boat had room at the time.

It was lots of fun for a little kid, and over the years, the boat race faded away (due to cost of wear and tear), but the festival gained a new life of its own. Yes, the event is far more commercialized than it was first envisioned. And sure, there is still a healthy debate as to whether it's actually a benefit for some businesses here.

But in the grand scheme of things, I still love the festival, and I look forward to it.

At our house, we have re-created the full-size eight flags that flew over the island during its history, and we fly them around our porch that weekend. They really brighten up the place! The festival gives us an excuse to invite lots of old friends to visit during the event for a cookout.

So for most locals, and us, this is a big deal. If you haven't attended yet, I recommend it.

Arrr! Of course, there is the Pirate Parade at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 1, on Centre Street. Friday evening, the Pirates invade the town at the main docks, and stir up the crowd with their swashbuckling antics. The festival runs May 2-4.