Monday

31 August  2009

 Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Picture of the Day

B.O.B., Johnny P and Phil

Click on pic to enlarge

The Picture of the Day......... What a way to end the month of August ! 

A shot of B.O.B. and Johnny P. of Eagles Landing fame.... and Two Branch Phil heading up-river on last Tuesday nite in the skiff named ... "Bernie Jugs". 

We just left Kinder's, where Jill took care of us and everyone was having a good time as we headed for Phil's river house in Two Branch Estates. 

Look close and you can spot the Golden Eagle Ferry in the background.

River Bill says.... Thanks B.O.B. and Johnny P. for the ride up-river !
 

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2007 ...... was sent in by Capt'n Larry Byrnes.

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: MSO Chicago
Date: 8/30/09
Subject: U.S.C.G. SECTOR LAKE MICHIGAN NOTICE TO MARINERS M378-09
NAVNOTICE # 1863

P 302048Z AUG 09 ZUI ASN-A09242000016
FM COMCOGARD SECTOR LAKE MICHIGAN WI//SCC//
TO CCGDNINE CLEVELAND OH//DPW/DPB//
COMCOGARD SECTOR UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER ST LOUIS MO//SCC//
INFO COGARD MSU CHICAGO IL
COGARD STA CALUMET HARBOR IL
CCGDEIGHT NEW ORLEANS LA//DPW/DPB//
BT
UNCLAS //N16600//
SUBJ: BROADCAST NOTICE TO MARINERS
SAFETY BCST PLUS SCHEDULED BCSTS UNTIL CANCELLED
U.S.C.G. SECTOR LAKE MICHIGAN NOTICE TO MARINERS M378-09
IL - ILLINOIS WATERWAY - DES PLAINES RIVER
1. THE CSX ROCK ISLAND RAILROAD DRAW BRIDGE AT MM 287.6 ON THE DES
PLAINES RIVER IN JOLIET IS CURRENTLY STUCK IN THE DOWN POSITION.
THE DRAWBRIDGE IS EXPERIENCING MECHANICAL PROBLEMS. ESTIMATED TIME OF REPAIR IS 1500 LOCAL ON MONDAY THE 31ST OF AUGUST.
2. ALL MARINERS ARE ADVISED THAT THE DRAWBRIDGE IS ONLY YIELDING A
9 FOOT VERTICAL CLEARANCE. ALL TRAFFIC MUST MAKE APPROPRIATE TRANSIT ACCOMODATIONS IN THE VICINITY OF JOLIET HARBOR.
3. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT COAST GUARD SECTOR LAKE MICHIGAN ON CHANNEL 16 VHF-FM OR VIA LANDLINE AT (414)747-7182.
BT
NNNN

 

Check the CG/COE Hot Topics website for most current memos

Missouri State Water Patrol News Release.....

Click here to check out the Missouri State Water Patrol website

Con Trios Yacht Club News Flash!
    

August 29 email from Con Trios member Jim Farr

While laid up in the hospital last week someone came by the house bs ed ray ray and hooked up a trailer with a complete 454 engine and all mercruiser parts and a bravo one outdrive said to be pulling a boat with parasail one name on it large late modle pickup said name was richard and obviously knew me by name any clue who is or has been runniing a parasail around here lately?/ any help will be kept confidentailPlease forward to all contrios and others asap Jim--- ---

http://www.contriosyachtclub.org/

Jim’s email address is citmrtwest@aol.com

River History....

The city of St. Louis traded the the Terminal Railroad Association the MacArthur Bridge for the Eads Bridge with
 

US Army Corps of Engineers Photo

Moving Rock on Mississippi River

    

A lot of rock is being moved up-river these days.  When we were above Winfield Dam a few weeks ago, there barges full of rock moored just above the dam and outside of the channel on the Illinois side of the river..

There is also some construction going on on the Illinois side of the river, just above the dam.

Flood Rescue Technology
    New Equipment Allows Rescuers To Walk On Water..............

According to a news story from khou.com............ Over the weekend, Firefighters were introduced to the Rescue Mat, a new life-saving tool, at a Dallas, Texas Firefighters convention. The Rescue Mat is a product of First Alert.

The mat is manufactured from a buoyant material, and unrolls much like giant swimming pool lounge. Given the large surface area distributing the weight of a rescuer, it is possible for rescue workers to crawl, or even walk to the victims.

The mat is intended to reach victims that are unreachable by boat or swimmers. One drawback is that the mat may not work in swift currents associated with flash flooding..........

Click here to read this news story....with photo

Click here to visit the Rescue Mat website..

New Link...

   Tim Woodson and the River Rat Kings

Added a link to Tin Woodson and the River Rat Kings in the column on the left hand side under Bands.

Click here and check it out !
 

Lake of the Ozarks

   Shootout Photos
 

Click here and check out this weekend's Shootout Photos from Lake Expo.com

Click on pic to enlarge

Confluence of Missouri & Mississippi Rivers

     Living History Reenactors  

     Fall Encampment and Shoot

Walk in the footsteps of the Spanish Fort “Fort Don Carlos” (1767-1780) located on the south-side of the mouth of the Missouri River. It was officially known as Fort Don Carlos el Senor Principe de Asturias, and it was an 80-foot square palisade with four bastions.

Lost.........

Bill ,

2 black snap on boat covers blew out of our boat will driving west on hyw 70 between offalon and truckston ,on aug. 21st if any one stopped and picked them up would gladly pay $ 100.00 dollar reward

Craig Percell

2kegcraig@sbcglobal.net

Chicago River

    Flatwater Classic

   Sunday  04 October 2009  

Who
Friends of the Chicago River, and 1,000 paddlers, volunteers and spectators. From first-time paddlers to avid racers and from families to corporate teams, Flatwater Classic participants power down the river in standard canoes and kayaks, as well as 26-foot Voyageur replica boats.

What
The Chicago River Flatwater Classic, the only canoe and kayak race on the Chicago River. The race begins with our Voyageur Challenge, in which 10 - 12 corporate and other organizational teams compete for the Voyageur trophy. The race then opens up to hundreds of individual racers and non-competitive participants.

Where
Paddlers begin the 7.25 mile course at Clark Park (3400 N. Rockwell) and paddle south the finish at Ping Tom Memorial Park in Chinatown (300 W. 19th St.). Along the way, participants enjoy all of the visual splendor that the Chicago River has to offer, including the wooded riverbanks of the north side neighborhoods, industrial corridor surrounding Goose Island, and awe-inspiring vista of downtown as seen by the river.

Click here for more information

US Coast Guard Photo

Welcome to the Weekend

Saturday, Sunday

29, 30 August  2009

 Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

 Last updated Sun at 5:00AM

Con Trios Yacht Club News Flash!
August 29 email from Con Trios member Jim Farr

While laid up in the hospital last week someone came by the house bs ed ray ray and hooked up a trailer with a complete 454 engine and all mercruiser parts and a bravo one outdrive said to be pulling a boat with parasail one name on it large late modle pickup said name was richard and obviously knew me by name any clue who is or has been runniing a parasail around here lately?/ any help will be kept confidentailPlease forward to all contrios and others asap Jim--- ---

http://www.contriosyachtclub.org/

Picture of the Day

Sunday

Lionel & Marvin of the Band.... Rail

Click on pic to enlarge

The Picture of the Day......... is of Lionel and Marvin of the river rock and roll band...Rail  at Oasis Bar and Grill on Friday night. 

The band was closing the their last set of the night with one of my favorites... House of the Rising Sun.  Here's Marvin and Lionel out on the floor at Marvin's table finishing up the song.

Click here here and check out Rail's website
 

Picture of the Day

Saturday

Boat Cruise

Click on pic to enlarge

The Picture of the Day......... was sent in by Betty Van Kirk of the boat.... Royal Flush

BILL,

HERE WE ARE AT THE RIVER WEDNESDAY ON JOHN & PAT'S BOAT....(ALL OF US WHO DON'T WORK.)....IT WAS A BEAUTIFUL DAY AND JOHN AND PAT TOOK US TO MEL'S IN HARDIN FOR DINNER.....AND A RIDE....MAYBE A FEW DRINKS.

BETTE VAN KIRK

(ROYAL FLUSH)
 

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Sunday

Hogback 2007

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2007 ...... were from Dan and Laura Hamilton of Dan's Boats fame.  They sent us an update of the Hogback 2007 party.

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Saturday

Louisiana, Mo... Paddlefest 2006

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2006 ...... was from Louisiana , Missouri's Paddlefest 2006. 

Above are Kevin Dempsey, Event Organizer, along with Susan Spalding, kayak enthusiast; both are from Louisiana.

Navigation Notices ......

To:     ALL MARINERS
From:   Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 8/25/09
Subject: MM 583.0 UMR (LOCK & DAM 11 CLOSURE)
NAVNOTICE # 1861

SUBJ: WESTERN RIVERS BNM NR 0357-09 UM
SAFETY AND SCHED BCSTS UNTIL 011800Z SEP 09
USCG NOTICE TO MARINERS EIGHTH DISTRICT NR 0357-09 UM
UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER
LOCK AND DAM 11 MM 583.0 UMR WILL BE CLOSED TO NAVIGATION FROM 0700-1300 ON MONDAY 01 SEPTEMBER 2009. THE PURPOSE OF THE CLOSURE IS TO ADJUST THE NUMBER 2 AND NUMBER 4 MITER GATES. TOWBOAT OPERATORS ARE REQUESTED NOT TO TIE UP ON THE GUIDEWALLS DURING THIS CLOSURE PERIOD.
 

Check the CG/COE Hot Topics website for most current memos

Updated Sun at 5:00AM

Mississippi River In Eastern Iowa
     Mississippi River Rat Caucus Formed To Explore Opportunities.........

According to a news article from thonline.com................... Organizers of a new coalition in eastern Iowa intend to bring together state, federal, and local agencies, property owners, and private citizens that are concerned with the Mississippi River, and the communities that it flows through.

Though the first Mississippi Partnership Council was held Friday, three more introductory meetings are slated to be held in the next two months.

The council was brought about by an amendment to a bill about regional watershed, floodplain management, and land-use policies. The "River Rat Caucus" is intended to be a venue to work with other state governments, and federal agencies in order to promote the quality of life of residents near to the river, as well as visitors to the river............

Click here to read this new article.
 

Updated Sun at 5:00AM

Boat Manufacturer News
     Boat Sales Drop Off Slows In July.................

According to a news report from tradeonlytoday.com.................. Compared to July of last year, new boat sales volume in the fiberglass 14-30 foot segment declined slower this year. These conclusions are from 30 early reporting states, which represent 64% of the U.S. market.

The sales numbers of fiberglass boats 14-30 feet in length for July are 7,470 units, down from 9,396 in July, 2008. This represents a decrease of 20.5%.

Aluminum boats fell from 7,708 to 5,806 units sold, a decrease of 24.6%.

PWC sales fell from 9,348 in July '08, to 6,867 this year. This was a decrease of 26.6%.

Documented vessels are not included in the results, due to delays in the Coast Guard's data entry............
 

Click here to read this news report.
 

Updated Sat at 12noon

Meramec River At Simpson County Park
     Operation Clean Stream Achieves Milestone Last Weekend.................

According to a news report from websterkirkwoodtimes.com..................... Operation Clean Stream was in full effect last weekend, removing debris from the Meramec River.

Saturday, August 22, 2009 marked the 40th anniversary of Operation Clean stream. The organization is one of the largest, and longest running river restoration projects.

The annual event draws close to 2000 volunteers to assist in the clean-up of the Meramec River, and it's tributaries................

Click here to read this news report.

Updated Sat at 12noon

Mississippi River @ St. Louis

     Chain of Rocks Bridge
     Date Set For Route 66 Festival................

According to a news article from joplinindepandant.com.............. The date and time for the Route 66 Festival has been set for October 3, 2009, and will run from 11 am to 6:30 pm, on the old Chain of Rocks Bridge.

The Chain of Rocks Bridge is where Route 66 crossed the Missisisippi River.

Festivities will include a classic car display, Route 66 authors and speakers, live music, and American "road food", from BBQ to frozen custard................

Click here to read this news article.

Missouri Department of Conservation News................. 

Don’t move a mussel” during Labor Day weekend
Boaters can keep the clammy hands of invasive species off Missouri waters.
 

JEFFERSON CITY – With Labor Day coming up, the Missouri Department of Conservation is urging boaters and anglers to be aware of the danger that invasive aquatic plants and animals pose for Show-Me State waters and take measures to prevent their spread.
          Invasive Species Coordinator Tim Banek said zebra mussel larvae, known as velligers, were found in recent surveys of microscopic plants and animals at Pomme de Terre Lake in southwest Missouri. He said that as adults, the fingernail-sized invaders could interfere with the established food chain in Missouri lakes and streams, making them less productive for sport fish and replacing native animals.
          “We don’t know exactly what changes might occur, but other areas where zebra mussels have taken hold have experienced ecological changes that were bad for fishing and tourism,” said Banek. “Missourians can avoid spreading zebra mussels with some reasonably simple precautions.”
          Banek urged the thousands of Missourians who will be out fishing and boating during the long Labor Day weekend to take the following precautions:

• Inspect submerged portions of boats for adult zebra mussels after each use. Adults are fingernail sized with dark and light stripes. Small zebra mussels give hard surfaces a sandpapery feel.

• Check trailers, ropes, minnow buckets and anything else that was in the water. Report any suspected zebra mussels to the nearest Conservation Department office.

• Remove suspected zebra mussels, along with vegetation or other material clinging to boats and trailers and put it in a trash container.

• Rinse boat bilges, trailers, motor drive units and live wells with water at least 104 degrees if live zebra mussels are found, or if your craft has been in waters known to be infested with zebra mussels. Most commercial car washes meet this standard. Allow boats and other equipment to dry in the sun at least five days before re-launching.

         Anglers have a special role to play in preventing the spread of other invasive aquatic plants and animals, such as the rusty crayfish and Asian carp. One of the best things anglers can do is dispose of live bait properly. Unused bait should be placed in trash bags and deposited in trash receptacles away from water. Never release unused bait – whether fish, worms, crayfish or anything else – into lakes or streams unless it came from the same water.
          Boaters can prevent invasive plants and animals from hitching a ride by draining all water from bilges and live wells and removing vegetation and other trash from boats and trailers when they move them from one body of water to another.
          More information about invasive aquatic species prevention is available at invasivespeciesinfo.gov/aquatics/main.shtml.

-Jim Low-

  Click here to check-out the latest MDC All Outdoor News page

State of Illinois

   It's Our River Day... Sept. 19, 2009

In a news article in the State Journal Register.................  A major element of the Illinois statewide “It’s Our River Day” on Sept. 19 will be.... cleaning up. The event will also celebrate all that the rivers of Illinois offer to wildlife, to outdoor recreation and to tourism.

All rivers in he United States have generally benefited since the enactment of the federal Clean Water Act of the 1970s.

“Today there are walleye and bass tournaments on the Illinois River,” said Gary Clark, director of DNR’s office of water resources. “Thirty years ago, people didn’t even want to boat on that river.”

The Living Lands and Waters organization has conducted annual river cleanups in several states.  The Mississippi River is their main target, but they also work on cleaning up tributaries such as the Illinois River.

The cleanups are becoming victims of their own success along some rivers because it's getting more and more difficult to find enough littler to keep everyone busy.... .

Click here to read this news story.......
 

Click here for more information on "It's Our River Day"

RiverBil says.... Thanks Greg Moore for the News Tip !
 

Illinois River Cleanup

The sweep is always scheduled for the third Saturday in September,

Click here to go to Friends of the Illinois River website for more info

It's Our Island Paradise ... Lets Keep It Clean !

Click on pic to enlarge

Confluence of Missouri & Mississippi Rivers

     Living History Reenactors  

     Fall Encampment and Shoot

Walk in the footsteps of the Spanish Fort “Fort Don Carlos” (1767-1780) located on the south-side of the mouth of the Missouri River. It was officially known as Fort Don Carlos el Senor Principe de Asturias, and it was an 80-foot square palisade with four bastions.

Lost.........

Bill ,

2 black snap on boat covers blew out of our boat will driving west on hyw 70 between offalon and truckston ,on aug. 21st if any one stopped and picked them up would gladly pay $ 100.00 dollar reward

Craig Percell

2kegcraig@sbcglobal.net

Lake Ozarks Shootout......

From the Lake Expo.com....

    2009 Lake Shootout Preview: Bigger, Better, Faster... Click here

    2009 Schedule: Lake of the Ozarks Shootout... Click here

    Water Patrol: No Wake 32.4-36MM for Shootout ... Click here

2nd Annual Winfield Catfish Classic

Where:    Winfield Mo Alyssa's Landing Mississippi River
When:     Saturday October 17th 2009
               Starting @ 8am -6pm
Cost:       Entry fees are $20.00 per man or $60.00 per boat.
               Day of tournament $40.00 per man or $120.00 per boat.
 

*after all cash prizes are paid out remaining entry fees will be donated to Winfield Ball Assoc.*
 

To win grand prize you must catch at least one catfish.
To win door prizes you must be present after the tournament.
 

Grand prize...... $ 500.00
1st ..................$ 350.00
2nd .................$ 200.00
3rd ..................$ 100.00
Biggest fish......  $ 40.00
Smallest fish .....$ 20.00

Thanks,

Nick Dougherty

(636) 528-8898

nldougherty@yahoo.com

Keep your anchor right where it's at cause....

Entry Forms and more info will be available on RiverBill's soon.

US Coast Guard Photo

Friday

28 August  2009

 Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Picture of the Day

After a Great Day Of Boating !

Click on pic to enlarge

The Picture of the Day......... was sent to us by Capt'n Dave Podwojski of Vette's Restaurant fame.  Dave hails out of the Yacht Club of St. Louis.

Bill,

Here's a fun crew posing after a great day of boating.
 

Thanks,

Dave -

Vette's - Yacht Club
 

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Yesteryear's Pictures of the Day from 2006......   were from Carl Fisher of the Alton Lake Sailing Association.  He sent us some really neat pictures that his wife Dot took .

Carl wrote:

Bill,

Here are some pictures my wife, Dot Fischer, took 8.26.06 on the grounds of Alton Lake Sailing Association (http://alsasailing.org/).  That's on the Missouri side (of the Mississippi River) between Portage and the Power Plant.

Hope you can use them!

Regards,

Carl Fischer

Hazelwood

Missouri State Water Patrol News Release.....

NEWS RELEASE
PUBLIC INFORMATION SECTION, P.O. Box 1368, Jefferson City, MO  65102

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Lake of the Ozarks

Water Patrol Advisory for Lake Area Shootout

The Missouri State Water Patrol would like to remind boaters of the upcoming Lake of the Ozarks Shootout race event near the Hurricane Deck Bridge on Lake of the Ozarks. The event will take place from approximately 10am to 5pm each day on Saturday, August 29th and Sunday, August 30th. Navigational traffic will be restricted to no wake, idle speed from the 32.4 mile mark to the 36 mile mark. The no wake area will be enforced up to 30 minutes after the last race. The race course itself will stretch from approximately the 34.8 mile mark down to the 33 mile mark.

Boaters wishing to enter or exit coves blocked by the race course during the event will be allowed to do so upon the signal of Water Patrol Officers, or other authorized event personnel, at the earliest and safest opportunity. Every attempt will be made to minimize inconvenience to boaters navigating in the area.

We do encourage all boaters to use caution while traveling to and from the event since a large turnout is expected. Several boats from the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and from local fire protection districts will help direct boaters in the area in addition to volunteer event personnel.



News Release ID: N07090153
 

Click here to check out the Missouri State Water Patrol website

Confluence Of The Mississippi And Missouri Rivers
   Campout At The Confluence Has Been Scheduled..............

In a news release from suntimesnews.com................. The Missouri Department of Conservation has announced the dates for their Discover Nature: Families Confluence Campout.

The Confluence Campout is scheduled for Saturday, and Sunday, October 3-4, 2009. The event will be held at the Columbia Bottom Conservation Area.

There will be a campfire Saturday evening for cooking dinner. However, you will be required to provide your own food. Desert will be provided, in the form of S'mores ingredients, so, some assembly will be required. Other festivities will include campfire storytelling, a night hike and even an opportunity to night fish. Sunday morning will feature a provided continental breakfast, and a bird watching hike, with activities wrapping up around 11 am.

This event is free, but early registration, and a small, refundable deposit will be required...............

Click here to read this news release.
 

The Columbia Bottom Conservation Area was purchased by the Conservation Department in 1997, in an effort to establish an urban conservation area. Columbia Bottom is located in north St. Louis County, at the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers............

Click here to read more from the Missouri Department of Conservation website.
 

It's Our Island Paradise ... Lets Keep It Clean !

Welcome Home Tim !

Welcome Home Tim !

Hi Bill,
Thank you for the picture of the day (08-26-09) showing a welcome home party for Carl Sondker's son, Tim.
I don't know Carl or his son Tim, but I know Carl is very proud of him. I know I am proud of him and all the other brave men and women serving our country around the world. God bless them all. Please remember them in your prayers.

Paul & Joan Barbary
Grafton Harbor
"The Last One" ( our new boat)
 

Illinois Fishing Report .......

Illinois Fishing Report..

Click here to read the Illinois Fishing Report on Prairie States Outdoors website.  Covers the State of Illinois from Lake Michigan to Rend Lake.

Missouri Fishing Report  ------ The Missouri Department of Conservation has issued this week's Fishing Report.  

76 degrees, normal, muddy; channel catfish good on nightcrawlers and stinkbaits; carp and buffalo fair on nightcrawlers, corn and doughbait; shovelnose sturgeon fair on nightcrawlers; white bass fair on small spinnerbaits; all other species slow.

(Report made on 8/27/2009)
 

Missouri River (below New Haven)

(Report made on 8/27/2009)


 

~~~~~^~~~~~^~~~~~^~~~~~^~~~~~

The above reprinted from the weekly [Mo-fish] Weekly Fishing Report e-mail.

Check out the report for the entire state of Missouri

go to  http://www.mdc.mo.gov/fish/fishrt/

Largemouth Bass Went Wild Last Week at Emiquon Preserve.......

According to a news report in the Prairie State Outdoors website.......  Fishing was normal last Sunday at the Emiquon Preserve , located near Havana, IL, until something flipped the "fish switch"...... then that afternoon two fisherman reportedly caught 150 largemouth bass !
 

They said it was very hard to keep count when almost every cast yielded a fish !

"More importantly, why keep count?  Better just to laugh and enjoy the moment."
 

Click here to read this fishing report and learn more about Emiquon Preserve.

Lost.........

Bill ,

2 black snap on boat covers blew out of our boat will driving west on hyw 70 between offalon and truckston ,on aug. 21st if any one stopped and picked them up would gladly pay $ 100.00 dollar reward

Craig Percell

2kegcraig@sbcglobal.net

Lake Ozarks Shootout......

From the Lake Expo.com....

    2009 Lake Shootout Preview: Bigger, Better, Faster... Click here

    2009 Schedule: Lake of the Ozarks Shootout... Click here

    Water Patrol: No Wake 32.4-36MM for Shootout ... Click here

Mercury Marine Update
     Union States There Will Be No Second Vote..............

According to a news report from jsonline.com................. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers has announced that unless Mercury Marine makes changes in their contract proposal, there will be no second vote.

Last Sunday, the union voted down Mercury's proposed 7 year contract reportedly by a "wide margin", although actual tallies have not been released.

Some union members are calling for another vote on the proposed contract. Mercury's offer expires at Midnight on Saturday.

Mercury has stated that there will be no changes to the contract, and there will be no more scheduled negotiations. As a result of Sundays vote, Mercury is already ramping up plans to relocate hundreds of jobs to the non-union Stillwater, Oklahoma facility..................
 

Click here to read this news report
 

2nd Annual Winfield Catfish Classic

Where:    Winfield Mo Alyssa's Landing Mississippi River
When:     Saturday October 17th 2009
               Starting @ 8am -6pm
Cost:       Entry fees are $20.00 per man or $60.00 per boat.
               Day of tournament $40.00 per man or $120.00 per boat.
 

*after all cash prizes are paid out remaining entry fees will be donated to Winfield Ball Assoc.*
 

To win grand prize you must catch at least one catfish.
To win door prizes you must be present after the tournament.
 

Grand prize...... $ 500.00
1st ..................$ 350.00
2nd .................$ 200.00
3rd ..................$ 100.00
Biggest fish......  $ 40.00
Smallest fish .....$ 20.00

Thanks,

Nick Dougherty

(636) 528-8898

nldougherty@yahoo.com

Keep your anchor right where it's at cause....

Entry Forms and more info will be available on RiverBill's soon.

US Coast Guard Photo

Thirsty Thursday

27 August  2009

 Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Picture of the Day

Gramps.... Is The Man !

Click on pic to enlarge

The Pictures of the Day......... was sent to us Terrie, who hails out of lake Center Marina in the boat... Gulliewash.

Hey Bill,

Here is a pic taken of "GRAMPS"(from "whats up on the river website") he has been boating on the river since before I was born--and I'm not young--HIS LEGEND LIVES ON!
We love him and his river stories are wonderful--first pic is his car next is him on river speaks for itself
 

TERRIE
Lake center Marina
"GULLIEWASH"
 

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2007......   was from Capt'n Darryll Weil, webmaster for Con Trios Yacht Club.

Darryll wrote:

The Con Trios Yacht Club Moonlight Cruise aboard the Grafton Ferry on Saturday, August 26th was another fantastic party thanks to Fleet Captain Gary, his wife Judy, The Rail Band, food catered by Sharky's Landing, a full moon, perfect weather and 130 people having a great time dancing the night away on the water. Go to the Con Trios Yacht Club website:
www.contriosyachtclub.org
to see all the pictures.
Darryll

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 8/25/09
Subject: MM 202.4 TO 196.6 UMR PRIVATE AIDS TO NAVIGATION LIGHT DISCREPANCIES
NAVNOTICE # 1860

SUBJ: WESTERN RIVERS BNM NR 0356-09 UM
SAFETY AND SCHED BCSTS UNTIL CANCELLED
USCG NOTICE TO MARINERS EIGHT DISTRICT NR 0356-09 UM
UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER
THE COAST GUARD HAS RECEIVED A REPORT OF THE FOLLOWING DISCREPANCIES TO PRIVATE AIDS TO NAVIGATION LIGHTS BETWEEN MM 202.4 AND 196.6 UMR
LEFT DESCENDING BANK ALL ARE SHOWING IMPROPER CHARACTERISTICS
1. ALTON MARINA BREAKWATER LIGHTS, LLNR 16230, MM 202.4 UMR, ALL LIGHTS EXTINGUISHED.
2. AMOCO DOCK LIGHTS, LLNR 16265, MM 199.0 UMR, MISSING
3. KOCH NITROGEN DOCK LIGHT, LLNR 16270, MM 198.8 UMR, LIGHT EXTINGUISHED.
4. AMOCO DOCK LIGHTS, LLNR 16280, MM 198.7 UMR, LIGHT EXTINGUISHED.
5. MERS DOCK LIGHTS, LLNR 16285, MM 198.1 UMR, LIGHT EXTINGUISHED.
6. REDCO DOCK LIGHTS, 16295, MM 197.8 UMR, LIGHT EXTINGUISHED.
7. CLARK OIL LIGHTS, LLNR 16305, MM 197.2 UMR, LIGHT EXTINGUISHED.
8. SIOUX CITY AND NEW ORLEANS TERM LIGHTS, LLNR 16310, MM 197.0 UMR, LIGHT EXTINGUISHED.
9. MARATHON DOCK LIGHTS, LLNR 16320, MM 196.6 UMR, LIGHT EXTINGUISHED.
ALL MARINERS ARE REQUESTED TO TRANSIT THE AREA WITH CAUTION.
 

Check the CG/COE Hot Topics website for most current memos

Con Trios Yacht Club's

    Full Moon Cruise

MOONLIGHT CRUISE invitations are coming in the mail. Due to limited capacity they will be taken on a first come first served basis as received by regular mail, NO PAYING AT THE DOOR REQUESTS, ALL MUST BE PAYED IN ADVANCE. This is to be fair to all, even those without email or internet access. Click HERE or on the picture above for a printer friendly reservation form. Form can be filled out online and then printed for regular mail.



Darryll Weil,

Fleet Captain and Webmaster,

Con Trios Yacht Club,

www.contriosyachtclub.org
 

Mississippi River Hydrokinetic Power News
   Commercial Operations Begin For First U.S. Hydrokinetic Project...........

According to a news story from energy.gov............ On August 20, 2009, the first in-stream, federally licensed hydrokinetic power project in the United States Started commercial operations. The project is in the Mississippi River, at Hastings, Minnesota. The project produces electricity from water moving through an in-stream turbine, without the need for a dam.

Owned by Hydro Green Energy, the turbine is suspended from a barge anchored in the out flow channel of the existing Hastings hydropower dam. The turbine has a capacity of 100 kilowatts, but actual output is estimated at around 35 kilowatts. A more efficient, and powerful turbine is expected to come on line next spring.

After receiving Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) approval in December, the turbine was installed and undergone testing since February. An environmental research group put together a pre-install model that estimated the survivability of fish passing through the turbine at 97.5%. Actual testing conducted in June showed that fish were faring much better against the blade.........
 

Click here to read this news story. With Photo.

Click here to visit the Hydro Green Energy website.

 

It's Our Island Paradise ... Lets Keep It Clean !

US Coast Guard Photo

Show Me the Mississippi Meeting .........

 

To: All Show Me the Mississippi Committee Members
Re: Meeting Notice: September 3, 6:00 pm, Duck Club Yacht Club

From: Jim Marr, Chairman 2009

Our September 2009 Show Me the Mississippi Committee of the Chamber of Commerce meeting will be held Thursday,

September 3, at Duck Club Yacht Club. Arrive for a beverage of your choice at 6:00pm the meeting starts at 6:30pm.


Duck Club Yacht Club
6257 Highway V
St. Charles, MO 63301
636-250-4333
www.duckclubyc.com

Our most important discussion will be the updating of our 2010 Alton Pool Map.
This map has been the most useful advertising tool (and the only map of the area showing the businesses belonging to the Show Me Committee).

Please contact any prospective member to advise them that if they wish to be included on this map, now is the time. Otherwise they will have to wait until 2011 !!

If your ad copy remains the same, we can reuse our existing artwork. If your ad will change or if your ad will be new, send your artwork to Heidi. Call her with any questions.

Our Goal for the meeting should be:

1. To discuss membership development (invite and bring a new prospect). Guests Welcome!
2. Review National Marina Day
3. Nominate a Chairman for 2010
4. Discuss goals for 2010
5. Review the details of reprinting our Show Me the Miss- Map. Please tell any prospective members that if they want to have their business show on the map, they need to join now!

Call with any questions, comments and items to add to the agenda.


Thanks - Jim
 

Lost.........

Bill ,

2 black snap on boat covers blew out of our boat will driving west on hyw 70 between offalon and truckston ,on aug. 21st if any one stopped and picked them up would gladly pay $ 100.00 dollar reward

Craig Percell

2kegcraig@sbcglobal.net

2nd Annual Winfield Catfish Classic

Where:    Winfield Mo Alyssa's Landing Mississippi River
When:     Saturday October 17th 2009
               Starting @ 8am -6pm
Cost:       Entry fees are $20.00 per man or $60.00 per boat.
               Day of tournament $40.00 per man or $120.00 per boat.
 

*after all cash prizes are paid out remaining entry fees will be donated to Winfield Ball Assoc.*
 

To win grand prize you must catch at least one catfish.
To win door prizes you must be present after the tournament.
 

Grand prize...... $ 500.00
1st ..................$ 350.00
2nd .................$ 200.00
3rd ..................$ 100.00
Biggest fish......  $ 40.00
Smallest fish .....$ 20.00

Thanks,

Nick Dougherty

(636) 528-8898

nldougherty@yahoo.com

Keep your anchor right where it's at cause....

Entry Forms and more info will be available on RiverBill's soon.

Wednesday

26  August  2009

 Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Picture of the Day

Welcome Home Tim !

Click on pic to enlarge

The Picture of the Day......... was sent to us by Capt'n Carl Sondker of the boat.... "Don't Blink."

Bill,

This weekend we celebrated our son coming home from Iraq for his 2 week R&R. Was a Great weekend on the river and Sat. night we had a welcome home party at Longshots. Tim (aka TJ) is the one standing under the banner with the black shirt and sunglasses.

See ya on the river

Carl S.

RiverBill says.... Welcome home Tim !   We salute you . Thanks for all you do.

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

"Lady Tampa Bay"

Click on pic to enlarge

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2008......   was sent to us by Captain Greg Sadowski and crew. 

Bill.

"HMR C. Bernadette Able" , Riverbill's picture of the day Aug. 17, meets
"Lady Tampa Bay", Riverbill's picture of the day Aug. 23, to share
Stories, Dinner, and River History...
photo by Teresa from the Camanche, IA, Library Pier
pictured left to right, Ian, Hanna, Ernie, Phil, & Greg
not pictured, Lindsey & Buddy
Web-Cam view from Lock 15, the same day.. by Tom Stolze

Captain Greg Sadowski

RiverBill's received another e-mail a bit later:

Correction ... Buddy is in the picture. Can you find him?
Greg

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 8/25/09
Subject: MM 202.4 TO 196.6 UMR PRIVATE AIDS TO NAVIGATION LIGHT DISCREPANCIES
NAVNOTICE # 1860

SUBJ: WESTERN RIVERS BNM NR 0356-09 UM
SAFETY AND SCHED BCSTS UNTIL CANCELLED
USCG NOTICE TO MARINERS EIGHT DISTRICT NR 0356-09 UM
UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER
THE COAST GUARD HAS RECEIVED A REPORT OF THE FOLLOWING DISCREPANCIES TO PRIVATE AIDS TO NAVIGATION LIGHTS BETWEEN MM 202.4 AND 196.6 UMR
LEFT DESCENDING BANK ALL ARE SHOWING IMPROPER CHARACTERISTICS
1. ALTON MARINA BREAKWATER LIGHTS, LLNR 16230, MM 202.4 UMR, ALL LIGHTS EXTINGUISHED.
2. AMOCO DOCK LIGHTS, LLNR 16265, MM 199.0 UMR, MISSING
3. KOCH NITROGEN DOCK LIGHT, LLNR 16270, MM 198.8 UMR, LIGHT EXTINGUISHED.
4. AMOCO DOCK LIGHTS, LLNR 16280, MM 198.7 UMR, LIGHT EXTINGUISHED.
5. MERS DOCK LIGHTS, LLNR 16285, MM 198.1 UMR, LIGHT EXTINGUISHED.
6. REDCO DOCK LIGHTS, 16295, MM 197.8 UMR, LIGHT EXTINGUISHED.
7. CLARK OIL LIGHTS, LLNR 16305, MM 197.2 UMR, LIGHT EXTINGUISHED.
8. SIOUX CITY AND NEW ORLEANS TERM LIGHTS, LLNR 16310, MM 197.0 UMR, LIGHT EXTINGUISHED.
9. MARATHON DOCK LIGHTS, LLNR 16320, MM 196.6 UMR, LIGHT EXTINGUISHED.
ALL MARINERS ARE REQUESTED TO TRANSIT THE AREA WITH CAUTION.
 

Check the CG/COE Hot Topics website for most current memos

Missouri State Water Patrol News Release.....

NEWS RELEASE
PUBLIC INFORMATION SECTION, P.O. Box 1368, Jefferson City, MO  65102

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Boating Restriction for Truman Lake

The Missouri State Water Patrol is notifying boaters about new, temporary "No Boating Areas" on Truman Lake. Beginning Tuesday, September 1, 2009, the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) will begin a bridge repair project on the Mile Long Bridge that is located over the Osage River Arm of Truman Lake. MoDOT has contracted with APAC Missouri, general contractor, to make hinge modifications.

While repairs are being made, the contractor will be working on platforms under the bridge. To ensure safety to boaters passing under the bridge, boats will not be permitted to pass under the repair area while work is taking place overhead. The No Boating Areas will be limited to the immediate area of the hinge that is being modified and boaters will be allowed to pass under the bridge in other areas that are not affected by the repair work.

The No Boating Areas will be designated with "Boats Keep Out" buoys and "Boats Keep Out" signs. In addition, "No Wake-Idle Speed" buoys will be placed 100 ft. out from the No Boating Areas to help boaters recognize the restricted areas.

Modifications will be made to four hinge areas and work is expected to last approximately 60 days. The No Boating Areas will remain in effect until the work is completed on all four hinges.



News Release ID: N07090155
Release Date: 20090825


 

Click here to check out the Missouri State Water Patrol website

Con Trios Yacht Club's

    Full Moon Cruise

MOONLIGHT CRUISE invitations are coming in the mail. Due to limited capacity they will be taken on a first come first served basis as received by regular mail, NO PAYING AT THE DOOR REQUESTS, ALL MUST BE PAYED IN ADVANCE. This is to be fair to all, even those without email or internet access. Click HERE or on the picture above for a printer friendly reservation form. Form can be filled out online and then printed for regular mail.



Darryll Weil,

Fleet Captain and Webmaster,

Con Trios Yacht Club,

www.contriosyachtclub.org
 

Coconuts .. Lake Ozarks

    2009 Babe Extreme Contest Photos

Click here and take a look at the photo fron the 2009 Babe Extreme contest at Coconuts.... Lake Ozarks
 

Shootout Poker Run...... Lake Ozarks

   

Click here for an update from LakeExpo.com on this weekend's poker run at Lake Ozarks.....
 

Ohio River Sternwheel Festival......

   Friday, Saturday, Sunday, September 11, 12, 13, 2009

Marietta, Ohio is the location of the 34th celebration of the Sternwheel festival. The weekend after Labor Day, sternwheelers arrive in Marietta, home of the American Sternwheel Association and home to two sternwheelers on the National Register of Historic Places.
 

For more information go to:
http://www.ohioriversternwheelfestival.org
 

8th Annual Wheeling Heritage Port Sternwheel Festival...
   September 17, 18, 19, 2009

    Heritage Port Wheeling, WV

Boat rides, live music, entertainment, fireworks and more.

Click here for more information

It's Our Island Paradise ... Lets Keep It Clean !

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

Public Affairs

Date: August 23, 2009

Contact: Doug Edelman
Assistant District Staff Officer - Public Affairs
636-379-0877
edeldoug@charter.net
http://www.uscgauxflotilla3-13.org
 

NEWS RELEASE

Lack of boater education linked to rise in recreational boating fatalities

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary has expressed concern over statistics reporting a rise in recreational boating fatalities in a recently released publication of the 2008 boating safety statistics.

The fatality rate, a measure of the number of deaths against the number of registered recreational boats, increased to 5.6 deaths per 100,000 registered recreational boats in 2008 from 5.3 in 2007. During this time, the Coast Guard recorded 709 deaths, 3,331 injuries and approximately $54 million dollars in damage to property, stemming from 4,789 recreational boating accidents.

Operator inattention, careless or reckless operation, no proper lookout, operator inexperience and passenger or skier behavior rank as the top five contributing factors to recreational boating accidents.

Alcohol consumption continues to be of major concern in fatal boating accidents and is listed as the leading contributing factor in 17 percent of the deaths.

Rear Adm. Kevin Cook, the Coast Guard's director of prevention policy, emphasized the importance of boating education, saying, "The 2008 report shows a clear link between safety and boating education by highlighting that only 10 percent of deaths occurred on boats where the operator had received boating safety education. This statistic indicates that boaters who have taken a boating safety course are less likely to be involved in an accident. In addition, two-thirds of all fatal boating accident victims drowned; and of those, 90 percent were not wearing a life jacket. The Coast Guard urges all boaters, whether as an operator or passenger, to take a boating safety course and to always wear your life jacket."

For seventy years the Coast Guard Auxiliary has provided boater education to the American boating public. Courses are taught by experienced and knowledgeable instructors committed to the highest standards of the U.S. Coast Guard. For more information about Coast Guard Auxiliary boater education course please visit http://www.cgaux.org/boatinged/. In addition to boater education courses the Auxiliary also offers free Vessel Safety Checks.

To learn more about boater education, Vessel Safety Checks and other services provided by the Coast Guard Auxiliary - or if you are interested in learning hhow to become one of us - please visit us online at www.uscgauxflotilla3-13.org or contact us at bcz@charter.net.

The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is composed of uniformed, non-military volunteer civilians who assist the Coast Guard in all of its varied missions, except for military and direct law enforcement. These men and women can be found on the nation’s waterways, in classrooms and on the dock, performing safety patrols, vessel safety examinations and public education. The 28,000 members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary donate millions of hours annually in support of Coast Guard missions

 

###
 

2nd Annual Winfield Catfish Classic

Where:    Winfield Mo Alyssa's Landing Mississippi River
When:     Saturday October 17th 2009
               Starting @ 8am -6pm
Cost:       Entry fees are $20.00 per man or $60.00 per boat.
               Day of tournament $40.00 per man or $120.00 per boat.
 

*after all cash prizes are paid out remaining entry fees will be donated to Winfield Ball Assoc.*
 

To win grand prize you must catch at least one catfish.
To win door prizes you must be present after the tournament.
 

Grand prize...... $ 500.00
1st ..................$ 350.00
2nd .................$ 200.00
3rd ..................$ 100.00
Biggest fish......  $ 40.00
Smallest fish .....$ 20.00

Thanks,

Nick Dougherty

(636) 528-8898

nldougherty@yahoo.com

Keep your anchor right where it's at cause....

Entry Forms and more info will be available on RiverBill's soon.

US Coast Guard Photo

Tuesday

25  August  2009

 Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Picture of the Day

Dawn's Birthday Cruise on the Water Wallet

Click on pic to enlarge

The Picture of the Day......... was sent to us by Jan Desherlia of Grafton Harbor fame !

Hi Bill,

Dawn Naney and her friends of Grafton Harbor enjoyed Dawn's Birthday Cruise on the Water Wallet" to Cedar Hill on Saturday.

 
Captain Jason Naney was smiling pretty big as he pulled away. Beautiful women and a beautiful day!!

Jan Desherlia
Grafton Harbor

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

2005 Ground Breaking For Grafton Harbor

Click on pic to enlarge

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2005......   was of developer Joe DeSherlia speaking at the Ground Breaking Ceremony for the Grafton Harbor on Wednesday afternoon.  The ground breaking ceremony officially started the construction on the new facility that is scheduled to be completed by February of 2006.  This project has been in the works since the 1960's and it has now become a reality.  The new harbor will be built along the bank of  the Illinois River in the town of Grafton, IL, near the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi.  It will be located just up-river from the Grafton Ferry Landing and in front of the old school building.  (You know the school building that is next to the road that goes up the bluff to Aries Winery.)

I also got to meet Carl Seidler from Godfrey. IL.  Carl is an avid boater, who grew up on the river near Winfield Dam,  just below present day location of Cedar Hill Restaurant.  You might spot Carl  in the "family section" of Mason Chute or  on Iowa Island.  Stop and say hello.
 

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: MSO Chicago
Date: 8/24/09
Subject: BROADCAST NOTICE TO MARINERS
NAVNOTICE # 1858

SUBJ: BROADCAST NOTICE TO MARINERS
CANCEL SECTOR LAKE MICHIGAN NOTICE TO MARINERS M356-09 SAFETY BCST PLUS SCHEDULED BCST UNTIL CANCELLED U.S.C.G. SECTOR LAKE MICHIGAN NOTICE TO MARINERS M361-09 IL - CHICAGO SANITARY AND SHIP CHANNEL - MILE MARKER 296.0
1. THE COAST GUARD HAS ESTABLISHED A SAFETY ZONE ON THE CHICAGO SANITARY AND SHIP CANAL BETWEEN MILE MARKERS 296.0 AND 296.7 TO RESTRICT PASSAGE OF VESSELS ACROSS THE ELECTRICAL DISPERSAL BARRIER. THE ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS HAS CONDUCTED INITIAL SAFETY TESTING ON COMMERCIAL TOWING OPERATIONS. PRELIMINARY DATA FROM THOSE TESTS INDICATE THAT VESSELS MEETING THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS MAY TRANSIT THE SAFETY ZONE IF GRANTED PERMISSION BY THE CAPTAIN OF THE PORT'S REPRESENTATIVE. NUMBER ONE - THE VESSEL MUST HAVE AN ENTIRELY METALLIC HULL, BE POWERED BY DIESEL FUEL, AND BE AT LEAST TWENTY FEET IN LENGTH. NUMBER TWO - TOWS CONSISTING OF BARGES NOT CARRYING COMBUSTIBLE LIQUID OR FLAMMABLE CARGOS AND MADE UP USING WIRE ROPE. NUMBER THREE - TOWS CONSISTING OF BARGES CARRYING FLAMMABLE OR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUID CARGOS MUST BE MADE UP USING WIRE ROPE AND ENGAGING THE SERVICES OF A BOW BOAT AT ALL TIMES DURING THE TRANSIT. THESE VESSELS MUST RECEIVE PERMISSION TO TRANSIT FROM THE CAPTAIN OF THE PORT'S REPRESENTATIVE AT (630) 336-0296 OR CHANNEL 16 VHF.
2. VESSELS PERMITTED TO TRANSIT MUST COMPLY WITH THE FOLLOWING THREE REQUIREMENTS: NUMBER ONE - ALL PERSONNEL MUST REMAIN INSIDE A DECKHOUSE OR SUPERSTRUCTURE DURING THE TRANSIT. NUMBER TWO - ANY VESSEL ENGAGED IN TOWING THAT WISHES TO TRANSIT DURING COAL LOADING OPERATIONS AT THE MID WEST GENERATION POWER PLANT MUST ENGAGE THE SERVICES OF A BOW BOAT. NUMBER THREE - ALL VESSELS MUST ENTER THE SAFETY ZONE FOR THE SOLE PURPOSE OF TRANSITING TO THE OTHER SIDE AND MUST MAINTAIN HEADWAY THROUGHOUT THE TRANSIT. THIS PROHIBITS MOORING, LAYING UP, AND/OR LOITERING WITHIN THE ZONE. NUMBER FOUR - TOWBOATS MAY NOT MAKE OR BREAK TOWS WITHIN THE SAFETY ZONE NUMBER FIVE - VESSELS ENGAGED IN COMMERCIAL SERVICE MAY NOT MEET OR OVERTAKE OTHER VESSELS BETWEEN MILE MARKERS 295.0 AND 297.5 OF THE CHICAGO SANITARY AND SHIP CANAL. NUMBER SIX - ALL VESSELS MUST COMPLY WITH ANY OTHER REQUIREMENT OR CONDITION IMPOSED BY THE CAPTAIN OF THE PORT'S REPRESENTATIVE.
3. THIS SAFETY ZONE WILL REMAIN IN EFFECT THEREBY CLOSING THIS PORTION OF THE CANAL TO ALL OTHER VESSEL TYPES. THE CAPTAIN OF THE PORT WILL ISSUE A BROADCAST NOTICE TO MARINERS NOTIFYING THE PUBLIC OF FURTHER INTENTIONS. VIOLATION OF THIS SAFETY ZONE IS PUNISHABLE BY A MAXIMUM CIVIL PENALTY OF $32,500 FOR EACH VIOLATION. A WILLFUL VIOLATION OF THE SAFETY ZONE MAY ALSO CONSTITUTE COMMISSION OF A CLASS D FELONY.  A CLASS D FELONY IS PUNISHABLE BY A FINE OR NO MORE THAN $250,000 AND OR IMPRISONMENT FOR NOT MORE THAN 6 YEARS.
4. IF YOU HAVE ANY GENERAL QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS REGARDING THE SAFETY ZONE, CONTACT THE NINTH COAST GUARD DISTRICT PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE AT (216) 902-6020. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING THE OPERATION OF THE U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS DISPERSAL BARRIER, CONTACT THE ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER AT (312) 846-5330.

Check the CG/COE Hot Topics website for most current memos

Missouri State Water Patrol News Releases.....

News Release N07090148

Drowning - Meramec River - 8/22/2009

Location:

     Blue Springs ranch Take Out 
Summary : 

10 YEAR OLD BOY GOT IN THE CURRENT AND HIS FOOT GOT CAUGHT IN A LOG AND HE WAS UNABLE TO GET LOOSE. NUMEROUS WITNESSES SAW THE CHILD IN TROUBLE AND ATTEMPTED TO RESCUE HIM , HOWEVER DUE TO THE CURRENT IT TOOK APPROXIMATELY 5 MINUTES TO GET HIM OUT OF THE WATER. ONCE THE CHILD WAS OUT OF THE WATER CPR WAS ADMINISTERED UNTIL EMS ARRIVED. 8/24/09 -- VICTIM WAS PRONOUNCED DEAD AT 1:47 PM AT CHILDRENS HOSPITAL IN ST. LOUIS, MO.

News Release- Near drowning victim was pronounced dead at Children's Hospital at 13:47 on 8/24/09

Corporal Lou Amighetti
Public Information Officer
Missouri State Water Patrol

Click here to check out the Missouri State Water Patrol website

Missouri State Water Patrol News Release.....

NEWS RELEASE
PUBLIC INFORMATION SECTION, P.O. Box 1368, Jefferson City, MO  65102

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Lake of the Ozarks

Water Patrol Advisory for Lake Area Shootout

The Missouri State Water Patrol would like to remind boaters of the upcoming Lake of the Ozarks Shootout race event near the Hurricane Deck Bridge on Lake of the Ozarks. The event will take place from approximately 10am to 5pm each day on Saturday, August 29th and Sunday, August 30th. Navigational traffic will be restricted to no wake, idle speed from the 32.4 mile mark to the 36 mile mark. The no wake area will be enforced up to 30 minutes after the last race. The race course itself will stretch from approximately the 34.8 mile mark down to the 33 mile mark.

Boaters wishing to enter or exit coves blocked by the race course during the event will be allowed to do so upon the signal of Water Patrol Officers, or other authorized event personnel, at the earliest and safest opportunity. Every attempt will be made to minimize inconvenience to boaters navigating in the area.

We do encourage all boaters to use caution while traveling to and from the event since a large turnout is expected. Several boats from the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and from local fire protection districts will help direct boaters in the area in addition to volunteer event personnel.



News Release ID: N07090153
 

Click here to check out the Missouri State Water Patrol website

River History....

 
William Warfield, who sang 'old man river' in the 1951 movie version of showboat, died at the age of 82.

It's Our Island Paradise ... Lets Keep It Clean !

Valley Sailing Racing on August 23

Hello everyone,

It seemed that we had a large group who wanted to race yesterday but most went home disappointed with the wind.
We had a racing fleet of two Lightning’s and two Comets. We had a large fleet of sunfish and unidentified others who showed their disdain for the course that I set up by hovering near the coffee grounds!
Race started right on schedule at 2:38. We did have a slight no wind postponement. Normal start time is 1:00. Oops!
There was a good start with the two Lightning’s as they went through the line with sails pulling and both pointing in the right direction. Unfortunately, our Commodore, Nelson decided to try a new tactic by letting the current pull him through the starting line backwards and before the horn! The other Comet tried to follow his lead by going through backwards but he was outside of the starting pin so I only had to yell at Nelson for over early.

Both Comets recovered and came back for a good start in short order. It looked like the wind had returned but it was only temporary.
There was a lull that lasted long enough to bring the second Comet down nearly to Eagles Nest Island . A little wind returned which brought the two Lightning’s and Nelson back upstream. I went down and picked up the marooned Comet and was back in time to give the signal horn to the winner Stu and crew and Rick Conaway second.
We didn’t hold another race.
Our new Sea Scout C-Dory performed flawlessly as the back up Committee boat.

Barry Munsell



Ps
Our joint Valley Sailing / Sea Scout open house fund raiser was a huge successon August 8th. . We were able to take a great many people out on the water and we also had a successful fund raiser.
I see a bright outlook for both the Scouts and Valley. We have some very talented and loyal members of both groups. (There is a fairly large intermingling of members in both groups).
I feel that we can all look forward to Valley and the Scouts sailing together for many years to come. Come and join us, and call a friend!

FYI
Sea Scouts are a part of the Boy Scouts of America. Membership is open to boys and girls age 14 through 20. Please pass this information along with my number to interested youth and adult leaders. Barry 314 363 8235
 

Mississippi River
     Site of New St. Louis Bridge

     Archaeologist Finding Remnants of Ancient Civilizations

According to a news article from STLtoday.com........... Archaeologist crews have discovered outlines of houses, storage pits, broken pottery and flint chips at the site of the new St. Louis bridge on the Illinois side of the Mississippi River.

It is estimated that the items are from the time period of 1050 to 1200 AD.

Illinois' Archaeological Research Program works at future construction sites in advance of all IDOT projects. They assist the state of Illinois in the preservation of their historic resources.

Items recovered at a dig site are usually taken to a laboratory where they are  analyzed and reported on and usually make their way to a museum or exhibit.

Click here to read this news article.

2nd Annual Winfield Catfish Classic

Where:    Winfield Mo Alyssa's Landing Mississippi River
When:     Saturday October 17th 2009
               Starting @ 8am -6pm
Cost:       Entry fees are $20.00 per man or $60.00 per boat.
               Day of tournament $40.00 per man or $120.00 per boat.
 

*after all cash prizes are paid out remaining entry fees will be donated to Winfield Ball Assoc.*
 

To win grand prize you must catch at least one catfish.
To win door prizes you must be present after the tournament.
 

Grand prize...... $ 500.00
1st ..................$ 350.00
2nd .................$ 200.00
3rd ..................$ 100.00
Biggest fish......  $ 40.00
Smallest fish .....$ 20.00

Thanks,

Nick Dougherty

(636) 528-8898

nldougherty@yahoo.com

Keep your anchor right where it's at cause....

Entry Forms and more info will be available on RiverBill's soon.

Hog Back Date Change.....August 28 - 30, 2009

Follow the crowd to Quincy for Hogback 2009 August 28^th-30th. This is a trip through 4 locks on the Mississippi to Quincy Illinois. Not for the faint of heart and adults only.

To follow along in a group meet at 8 am Friday August 28th at Cedar Hill. The Tiki bar will be open and Danishes will be provided.

We will stop halfway in Louisiana at the Two Rivers Marina (217-437-2321) for ice and fuel.

Once in Quincy we can dock at Quinssippi Boat Club if you are staying on your boat or Call Art Keller Marina for slips. They have gas and slips. Art Keller Marinas number is 217-228-9227.

We will gather Friday night at Quinssippi Boat Club for a party. Saturday is the big Beach Party at Hogback Island. Saturday night dinner still needs to be determined. We will miss the Phinn’s they are playing downtown Quincy the week before.

Sunday you’re on your own to travel back home at your own speed. Most people get up and head out around 10 or 11am.

If you need a hotel room there is a block of rooms reserved under my name at Quincy City Centre (old Holiday Inn.) The number is 217-222-2666. The rooms are only reserved until July 24^th at the rate of $68.00/night.

Please RSVP if you plan to go so I can warn the Marinas and bars along the way. If you could email me your boat name how many people in your boat and t-shirt sizes by August 3^rd that would be great.

Any questions email me at cnelson@englube.comThanks,

DATE CHANGED

US Coast Guard Photo

Click to enlarge

Monday

24  August  2009

 Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Picture of the Day

Little John's Motorsports Team  getting #1 Award

Keith getting his award !

Ashly

Click on pic to enlarge

The Pictures of the Day......... Are of Little John's Motorsports Team at the Litchfield, IL Drag Boat Races
 

Hi All

Attached are some pictures of a great weekend of racing in Litchfield Ill.

Ashly won the show (that should put us back in first place)
Kieth took 2nd place in his class (his first time in a real race)

AND NOTHING BROKE

It is 10.00 on Sunday night and we just got home.
After all of our downfalls, and frustration, it would be great to celebrate

BUT
As we speak, Ashly is on her way to SLU to her new dorm, for her first day
in college tomorrow

My wife Terrie has to be at Orchard Farm School at 6.00 am at her job as school bus monitor.
Kieth has a full day at his job.
I have to get my two grandsons (Jordan and Casey) up and on the school bus.
The reason we have the boys right now, is because their mother is just coming home from the hospital with a brand new 6 lb. BABY GIRL.
I also (luckily, in today's situation) have a full weeks work.

We have to get through this week, and be in Livermore Ky. by 8.00 am next Sat. To defend our title there.

I don't know how this is all going to work out, but as River Bill says
WE ARE LIVING THE DREAM

I would like to thank all the people that came to Livermore, and cheer us on.
The support of our friends, not only make us want to try harder, but makes this all worth while.
 

Little John

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Click on pic to enlarge

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2007......   was sent in by Capt'n Harry Ragland, who hails out of Palisades Yacht Club in the sailboat Tapacolo.

Bill,
This past weekend I spent Friday night at Grafton and then sailed to Alton on Saturday. Normally the prevailing winds would make this easy, but last Saturday the winds were strong out of the East. I had to work hard tacking the whole way. However, this O'Day 34 between Alton and Harbor Point makes it look easy because she's going the other way under a giant spinnaker.

Harry Ragland

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 8/23/09
Subject: No Wake Zone UMR MM 179.5 - 180.0 (BNM NR 353-09)
NAVNOTICE # 1856

A LAND BASED EVENT WILL BE TAKING PLACE AT THE JEFFERSON NATIONAL MONUMENT GROUNDS AT THE WATERS EDGE ON THE 23RD OF AUGUST ALONG THE RIGHT DECENDING BANK. ALL MARINERS ARE REQUESTED TO TRANSIT AT A NO WAKE SPEED BETWEEN MM 179.5 TO MM 180.0 UMR BETWEEN 9:15 TO 11:00 AM.

Check the CG/COE Hot Topics website for most current memos

Missouri State Water Patrol News Releases.....

News Release N07090152

 2 Boat Collision - Meramec River - 8/23/2009

Location:

     Highway 30 Bridge - St. Clair  
Summary : 

BOAT 1 WAS TRAVELING DOWN STREAM WHEN HE STOPPED. BOAT 2 WAS FOLLOWING TO CLOSE AND RAN ON TOP OF BOAT 1. MR TUCKER SUFFERED A BROKEN ARM.

Boat Number 1

     1991 SHOALRUNNER

Boat Number 2

     2007 GATOR JET BOAT

Injuries

     Jeff Gorsuch.... Minor Injuries

     Jon Huber........Moderate

Click here to check out the Missouri State Water Patrol website

River History....

Ground Breaking for Grafton Marina.

Flood of 1993…..The locks on the Mississippi River are reopen to commercial river traffic

It's Our Island Paradise ... Lets Keep It Clean !

Mercruiser
     Wisconsin Union Votes No On Contract

     Mercury to Re-Locate Jobs To Stillwater, Oklahoma

According to a news article from msn.com........... Union workers from the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) voted down the proposal offered by Mercury Marine that lined out the concessions needed for Mercury to remain in Fon du Lac, Wisconsin.

With the union's rejection, Mercury is expected to consolidate manufacturing operations to it's Stillwater, Oklahoma facility over the next 2 - 3 years.

Mercury had asked for concessions to it's existing contract, which had no pay cuts for employees, but 2% raises in the final two years of the contract would be eliminated. Average hourly wages are are around $20 per hour...............

Click here to read this news article.

2nd Annual Winfield Catfish Classic

Where:    Winfield Mo Alyssa's Landing Mississippi River
When:     Saturday October 17th 2009
               Starting @ 8am -6pm
Cost:       Entry fees are $20.00 per man or $60.00 per boat.
               Day of tournament $40.00 per man or $120.00 per boat.
 

*after all cash prizes are paid out remaining entry fees will be donated to Winfield Ball Assoc.*
 

To win grand prize you must catch at least one catfish.
To win door prizes you must be present after the tournament.
 

Grand prize...... $ 500.00
1st ..................$ 350.00
2nd .................$ 200.00
3rd ..................$ 100.00
Biggest fish......  $ 40.00
Smallest fish .....$ 20.00

Thanks,

Nick Dougherty

(636) 528-8898

nldougherty@yahoo.com

Keep your anchor right where it's at cause....

Entry Forms and more info will be available on RiverBill's soon.

It's the Weekend !

Saturday, Sunday

22, 23  August  2009

 Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Updated Sunday at 4:30PM

News Flash...

Little John's Motorsports Won at Litchfield, IL

Congarts to LittleJohn's Motor Sports !

Picture of the Day

Sunday

RPM Music Rocks the River

Click on pic to enlarge

The Picture of the Day......... Sharon and Stan Asberry who hail out of Woodland Marina in the boat "Captain Crunch."

Hi River Bill,

Here are river pictures from last Saturday (08-08-09) of D.J. Rick Paul, of RPM Music, Rockin the River again on the top deck of “Captain Crunch”..

D.J. Rick kept everyone dancing on the boat from Woodland Marina to Iowa Island, where more people climbed aboard to join our party. Everyone enjoyed the live entertainment provided by RPM Music, so we booked Rick again next summer.

Sharon and Stan Asberry
 

Picture of the Day

Saturday

Saturday Morning Sunrise

Click on pic to enlarge

The Picture of the Day......... is a Saturday morning River Sunrise taken about 6:30 Am this morning near the Two Branch Island area of the river !

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Sunday

Our Lady of the River

Click on pic to enlarge

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2008......Sunday... was sent in by Capt'n Brian Schnelle.
 

Hello,

Had a few pics I wanted to submit, all were taken while flying my powered parachute, enjoy!

Brian Schnelle

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Saturday

Our Lady of the River

Click on pic to enlarge

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2008......was sent in by Capt'n Tony Luebbert of Marine Max

Bill,

Here is a pic of the Shrine I took last night.

It's more impressive in person at night then the pictures could capture.

Tony Luebbert
MarineMax
2725 Veteran's Memorial Parkway
Saint Charles, MO 63303

Updated Sunday at 6:00 AM

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 8/22/09
Subject: Clark Highway Bridge (LLNR 16240) MM 202.4 UMR lights extinguished
NAVNOTICE # 1855

THE DOWNSTREAM RIGHT DESCENDING PIER LIGHT AND THE DOWNSTREAM GREEN CENTER CHANNEL LIGHT ON THE CLARK HIGHWAY BRIDGE (LLNR 16240) AT MM 202.4 UMR ARE EXTINGUISHED. ALL MARINERS ARE REQUESTED TO TRANSIT THE BRIDGE WITH CAUTION.

To: ALL MARINERS
From: MSO Chicago
Date: 8/21/09
Subject: MSU CHICAGO BROADCAST NOTICE TO MARINERS
NAVNOTICE # 1854

SAFETY BCST PLUS SCHEDULED BCST FM 1800 ON 21 AUG 09 UNTIL CANCELED U.S.C.G. SECTOR LAKE MICHIGAN NOTICE TO MARINERS M000-09 IL - CHICAGO SANITARY AND SHIP CANAL - MILE MARKER 296.0
1. THE COAST GUARD HAS ESTABLISHED A SAFETY ZONE ON THE CHICAGO SANITARY AND SHIP CANAL BETWEEN MILE MARKERS 296.0 AND 296.7 TO RESTRICT PASSAGE OF VESSELS ACROSS THE ELECTRICAL DISPERSAL BARRIER. THE ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS HAS CONDUCTED INITIAL SAFETY TESTING ON COMMERCIAL TOWING OPERATIONS. PRELIMINARY DATA FROM THOSE TESTS INDICATE THAT VESSELS MEETING THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS MAY TRANSIT THE SAFETY ZONE IF GRANTED PERMISSION BY THE CAPTAIN OF THE PORT'S REPRESENTATIVE. NUMBER ONE - THE VESSEL MUST HAVE AN ENTIRELY METALLIC HULL, BE POWERED BY DIESEL FUEL, AND BE AT LEAST TWENTY FEET IN LENGTH. NUMBER TWO - TOWS CONSISTING OF BARGES NOT CARRYING COMBUSTIBLE LIQUID OR FLAMMABLE CARGOS AND MADE UP USING WIRE ROPE. NUMBER THREE - TOWS CONSISTING OF BARGES CARRYING FLAMMABLE OR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUID CARGOS MUST BE MADE UP USING WIRE ROPE, CONFIGURED NO MORE THAN ONE BARGE IN LENGTH AND TWO WIDE, AND ENGAGING THE SERVICES OF A BOW BOAT AT ALL TIMES DURING THE TRANSIT. THESE VESSELS MUST RECEIVE PERMISSION TO TRANSIT FROM THE CAPTAIN OF THE PORT'S REPRESENTATIVE AT (630) 336-0296 OR CHANNEL 16 VHF.
2. VESSELS PERMITTED TO TRANSIT MUST COMPLY WITH THE FOLLOWING THREE REQUIREMENTS: NUMBER ONE - ALL PERSONNEL MUST REMAIN INSIDE A DECKHOUSE OR SUPERSTRUCTURE DURING THE TRANSIT. NUMBER TWO - ANY VESSEL ENGAGED IN TOWING THAT WISHES TO TRANSIT DURING COAL LOADING OPERATIONS AT THE MID WEST GENERATION POWER PLANT MUST ENGAGE THE SERVICES OF A BOW BOAT.
NUMBER THREE - ALL VESSELS MUST ENTER THE SAFETY ZONE FOR THE SOLE PURPOSE OF TRANSITING TO THE OTHER SIDE AND MUST MAINTAIN HEADWAY THROUGHOUT THE TRANSIT. THIS PROHIBITS MOORING, LAYING UP, AND/OR LOITERING WITHIN THE ZONE. NUMBER FOUR - TOWBOATS MAY NOT MAKE OR BREAK TOWS WITHIN THE SAFETY ZONE NUMBER FIVE - VESSELS ENGAGED IN COMMERCIAL SERVICE MAY NOT MEET OR OVERTAKE OTHER VESSELS BETWEEN MILE MARKERS 295.0 AND 297.5 OF THE CHICAGO SANITARY AND SHIP CANAL. NUMBER SIX - ALL VESSELS MUST COMPLY WITH ANY OTHER REQUIREMENT OR CONDITION IMPOSED BY THE CAPTAIN OF THE PORT'S REPRESENTATIVE.
3. THIS SAFETY ZONE WILL REMAIN IN EFFECT THEREBY CLOSING THIS PORTION OF THE CANAL TO ALL OTHER VESSEL TYPES. THE CAPTAIN OF THE PORT WILL ISSUE A BROADCAST NOTICE TO MARINERS NOTIFYING THE PUBLIC OF FURTHER INTENTIONS.
4. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS REGARDING TRANSITING THE SAFETY ZONE, CONTACT THE NINTH COAST GUARD DISTRICT PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE AT  (216) 902-6020. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING THE OPERATION OF THE U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS DISPERSAL BARRIER, CONTACT THE ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER AT (312) 846-5330.
 

Check the CG/COE Hot Topics website for most current memos

Please check our website www.sundownersstl.com

It's Our Island Paradise ... Lets Keep It Clean !

Boating and River Tidbits

Illinois catfish lure maker ties one on...Click here

Visitor's Guide to the Middle Mississippi River Valley...... Click here

Hardin man gets probation for killing bald eagle..... Click here

Requested stimulus funds may save Katy Bridge .... Click here

Lake Ozarks

    33 ft Donzi Stolen From Boat Dealer's Lot Recovered !

In a news article from Lake Expo.com..... The 33ft Donzi that was stolen from a dealer's lot on Bagnell Dam Blvd. earlier this week has been recovered with the help of one of the Lake Expo.com's reader tip.
 

The boat, the trailer and a purple boat cover were stolen from Midwest Boat Brokerage and towed by an unidentified vehicle that proceeded westbound on Highway 54.

A part-time lake area resident spotted the boat in an abandoned parking lot in St. Louis and called the police.

Lake Ozark Police coordinated with the St. Louis Police Department to confirm the identification of the stolenboat and executed the recovery. The Donzi, estimated at $85,000

Click here to read this news report.

River says... Thanks Ken Goode for this news tip !

2nd Annual Winfield Catfish Classic

Where:    Winfield Mo Alyssa's Landing Mississippi River
When:     Saturday October 17th 2009
               Starting @ 8am -6pm
Cost:       Entry fees are $20.00 per man or $60.00 per boat.
               Day of tournament $40.00 per man or $120.00 per boat.
 

*after all cash prizes are paid out remaining entry fees will be donated to Winfield Ball Assoc.*
 

To win grand prize you must catch at least one catfish.
To win door prizes you must be present after the tournament.
 

Grand prize...... $ 500.00
1st ..................$ 350.00
2nd .................$ 200.00
3rd ..................$ 100.00
Biggest fish......  $ 40.00
Smallest fish .....$ 20.00

Thanks,

Nick Dougherty

(636) 528-8898

nldougherty@yahoo.com

Keep your anchor right where it's at cause....

Entry Forms and more info will be available on RiverBill's soon.

Friday

21  August  2009

 Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Picture of the Day

Click on pic to enlarge

The Pictures of the Day......... are from Capt'n Scott Shipman

Riverbill,

Thanks keeping the site fresh, I use it daily. A few photos from last Saturday's (august 8th) beautiful sunset and a dive from the boat while the sun faded (you can see the UE plant in the distant background). The diver Rob Wilson thought he was going for the gold. I hail out of Harbor Point Yacht Club in the boat "Eye Value".

Scott Shipman
Keep up the great work and postings...
 

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Farmer Wants A Wife At Anchor Yanker's

Click on pic to enlarge

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2008...... was sent to us by Terry Burton of Anchor Yankers

Portage de Sioux’s own Matt Neustadt of TV’s Farmer Wants a Wife fame on Anchor Yankers Island Aug 17th. with OUR AY beauties!!!


Terry Borton Club Photog

Anchor Yankers

Please check our website www.sundownersstl.com

Illinois Fishing Report .......

Illinois Fishing Report..

Click here to read the Illinois Fishing Report on Prairie States Outdoors website.  Covers the State of Illinois from Lake Michigan to Rend Lake.

Missouri Fishing Report  ------ The Missouri Department of Conservation has issued this week's Fishing Report.  

80 degrees, low, muddy; flathead catfish and blue catfish good on cut bait; channel catfish good on stinkbaits; carp good on corn; drum good on nightcrawlers; all other species slow. (Report made on 8/20/2009)

Salt (below Mark Twain):

82 degrees, high, clear; crappie good on minnows and jigs using nibblets around brush; largemouth bass good on plastic lures; all other species slow.

(Report made on 8/20/2009)
 

Missouri River (below New Haven)

~~~~~^~~~~~^~~~~~^~~~~~^~~~~~

The above reprinted from the weekly [Mo-fish] Weekly Fishing Report e-mail.

Check out the report for the entire state of Missouri

go to  http://www.mdc.mo.gov/fish/fishrt/

It's Our Island Paradise ... Lets Keep It Clean !

Click here to start show

Con Trios yacht Club

    Alton Get Away Picture Show By Gulliewash

It was a blast and ALTON MARINA you rock!!  great service-- great staff--great place-we will be staying again, thanks Con Trios for another really good PARTY!!!

Darryl and Maureen you are the hosts with the most--THANKS
 

Terrie & Brian Bert

"GULLIEWASH"
Lake Center Marina

 

Loopers......

Did you know ?

The circumnavigation of Eastern North America by water routes is known as the Great Loop or the Great Circle....

The trip ranges in length between 5,000 miles to 7,500 miles depending on the choice of routes taken. The vessels commonly used range from personal watercraft to 60-foot yachts and include sailboats, but the most common boat is a 34 - 45 ft trawler.

Limiting factors for the trip and boat include the limited 5 foot draft in some areas on the loop and the low bridge height of 19 feet in Chicago, Illinois.

The boaters that make the Great Loop are known as "loopers" ....and their numbers are growing as the Baby Boomers reach retirement age.

Source: Wikipedia Encycledia
 

Lake Ozarks

    33 ft Donzi Stolen From Boat Dealer's Lot

In a news article from Lake Expo.com..... A 33ft Donzi was stolen from a dealer's lot on Bagnell Dam Blvd. earlier this week.
 

The boat, the trailer and a purple boat cover were stolen from Midwest Boat Brokerage and towed by an unidentified vehicle proceeded westbound on Highway 54.
 

Click here to read this news report.

Travelers Boat Insurance
     Discount For Using Autotether Wireless Emergency-Stop Lanyard...

In a news article from tradeonlytoday.com................. Travelers insurance company has announced that they are offering a discount on boat and yacht insurance premiums if the operator is using an Autotether wireless emergency-stop lanyard.

The device shuts down the engines if the pilot is thrown overboard.

The Coast Guard reports that falls overboard are among the leading causes of boating fatalities, injuries, and property damage. Lanyard use is required by law in six states: Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Nevada, and New Jersey.

Travelers is looking over similar products manufactured by other companies, in hopes of offering a future discount to boaters that use the safety devices..............

Click here to read this news article.

Click here to visit the Autotether website.

Click here to visit the Travelers website.
 

2nd Annual Winfield Catfish Classic

Where:    Winfield Mo Alyssa's Landing Mississippi River
When:     Saturday October 17th 2009
               Starting @ 8am -6pm
Cost:       Entry fees are $20.00 per man or $60.00 per boat.
               Day of tournament $40.00 per man or $120.00 per boat.
 

*after all cash prizes are paid out remaining entry fees will be donated to Winfield Ball Assoc.*
 

To win grand prize you must catch at least one catfish.
To win door prizes you must be present after the tournament.
 

Grand prize...... $ 500.00
1st ..................$ 350.00
2nd .................$ 200.00
3rd ..................$ 100.00
Biggest fish......  $ 40.00
Smallest fish .....$ 20.00

Thanks,

Nick Dougherty

(636) 528-8898

nldougherty@yahoo.com

Keep your anchor right where it's at cause....

Entry Forms and more info will be available on RiverBill's soon.

Mercury MerCruiser

     Unveils New Big Block Marine Engine.............

According to a news report from tradeonlytoday.com............... Mercury MerCruiser has announced that they have developed a new generation of big-block marine power. The new design boasts more power, improved fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and better mid-range acceleration.

The new engine features aluminum cylinder heads, designed to produce more power, especially in the mid range, on 87 octane fuel. The engines also feature design improvements to control oil consumption, improved access to service points, and even emissions reducing catalysts.

The power plants will be offered in both sterndrive and inboard applications, in base and HO power ratings. The new engines will also be compatible with MerCruiser technology, including Axius, SeaCore, SmartCraft, and even digital or mechanical throttle/shift controls............

Click here to read this news report

 

Boat Manufacturer News
    Union To Vote On Mercury Marine Contract Sunday.................

According to a news article from tulsaworld.com.............. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, Local 1947 (IAMAW) will vote Sunday on a proposed contract with Mercury Marine. The fate of Mercury's non-union plant in Stillwater, Oklahoma, and it's 380 employees may hang in the balance.

If the union rejects the contract, Mercury may very well relocate it's operations from Fon du Lac, Wisconsin, to their Stillwater facility.

The Wisconsin contract would replace a contract that still has 3 years left on it. The new contract will bring a pay reduction to new and returning workers, in addition to granting Mercury a bit more leeway with employee overtime.................

Click here to read this news article.

 

Thursday

20  August  2009

 Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Picture of the day

Rivers Edge RV Park Is The Place To Be !

The Pictures of the Day......... were sent to us by Jim and Vivian Powell

“It’s one Great Day on the River Sir!”

We wanted to send you a couple of pictures of our day on the river and our camping site at Rivers Edge RV Park. Saturday was kid’s day and we had our Grandbaby girls with us. Girls out numbered the boys. 10 Girls and 3 Boys, 4 if you count “Waldo” our Cocker. It was so pretty and everyone had such a great time. The first picture is of our Son’s boat his girlfriend, her daughter Zoe, and the group he had with him. The next picture is of our Campsite at Rivers Edge RV Park & Boat Storage. It is a great place to camp and bring the family. John and Dorothy have done a wonder job of making the campground a place nice, clean, safe, and comfortable for you, your family, and children. We love it there and if you love the river life on pool 26 this is the place to be.


Thanks so Much
Jim & Vivian Powell
 

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Click on pic to enlarge

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2008...... were sent in by Debbie House of Riverbend Marina.

Bill,

The USS LST 325 (Second World War) came by our place tonight. Here are some pics.

Debbie House
RiverBend Marina

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: MSO Chicago
Date: 8/19/09
Subject: BROADCAST NOTICE TO MARINERS
NAVNOTICE # 1853

SAFETY BCST PLUS SCHEDULED BCST FM 1800 ON 19 AUG 09 UNTIL CANCELED U.S.C.G. SECTOR LAKE MICHIGAN NOTICE TO MARINERS M000-09 IL - CHICAGO SANITARY AND SHIP CANAL - MILE MARKER 296.0

1. THE COAST GUARD HAS ESTABLISHED A SAFETY ZONE ON THE CHICAGO SANITARY AND SHIP CANAL BETWEEN MILE MARKERS 296.0 AND 296.7 TO RESTRICT PASSAGE OF VESSELS ACROSS THE ELECTRICAL DISPERSAL BARRIER. THE ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS HAS CONDUCTED INITIAL SAFETY TESTING ON COMMERCIAL TOWING OPERATIONS. PRELIMINARY DATA FROM THOSE TESTS INDICATE THAT BARGES NOT CARRYING FLAMMABLE OR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUID CARGOS MAY SAFELY TRANSIT THROUGH THIS AREA IF THEY ENGAGE THE SERVICE OF A BOW BOAT. THESE VESSELS MUST RECEIVE PERMISSION TO TRANSIT FROM THE CAPTAIN OF THE PORT’S REPRESENTATIVE AT (630) 336-0296 OR CHANNEL 16 VHF. VESSELS PERMITTED TO TRANSIT ARE REMINDED THAT THE PROVISIONS OF THE REGULATED NAVIGATIONAL AREA REMAIN IN EFFECT, INCLUDING THE REQUIREMENT TO CONNECT ALL VESSELS IN A TOW WITH STEEL CABLES. THIS PORTION OF THE CANAL WILL REMAIN CLOSED TO ALL OTHER VESSEL TYPES AND TO BARGES CARRYING FLAMMABLE OR COMBUSTIBLE CARGOS UNTIL FURTHER TESTING AND ANALYSIS IS CONDUCTED. THE CAPTAIN OF THE PORT WILL ISSUE A BROADCAST NOTICE  TO MARINERS NOTIFYING THE PUBLIC OF FURTHER INTENTIONS.

2. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS REGARDING TRANSITING THE SAFETY ZONE, CONTACT SECTOR LAKE MICHIGAN AT (414) 747-7182. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING THE OPERATION OF THE U.S. ARMY  CORPS OF ENGINEERS DISPERSAL BARRIER, CONTACT THE ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER AT (312) 846-5330.
BT
NNNN
 

Check the CG/COE Hot Topics website for most current memos

It's Our Island Paradise ... Lets Keep It Clean !

River History....

The city of Alton, IL broke ground for the Alton Marina

Fishing News
     New Government Study Results: Mercury In Fish Is Widespread..................

According to a news report from newson6.com.................. A federal study that was released on Wednesday shows that all of the fish tested in 300 streams across America had some level of mercury contamination. The good news is that only about a quarter of the fish tested had levels exceeding the limits the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) deemed safe for those consuming normal amounts of fish.

The main source for mercury is from coal-fired power plant emissions. After raining down into the waterways, natural processes convert the mercury into methlmercury a more absorbable form of the toxin.

The highest concentration of contamination was recorded in the remote blackwater streams along the coasts of the Carolinas Georgia, Florida, and Louisiana. It is believed that the surrounding forests and wetlands assist in the methlmercury conversion.................
 

Click here to read this news report.
 

2nd Annual Winfield Catfish Classic

Where:    Winfield Mo Alyssa's Landing Mississippi River
When:     Saturday October 17th 2009
               Starting @ 8am -6pm
Cost:       Entry fees are $20.00 per man or $60.00 per boat.
               Day of tournament $40.00 per man or $120.00 per boat.
 

*after all cash prizes are paid out remaining entry fees will be donated to Winfield Ball Assoc.*
 

To win grand prize you must catch at least one catfish.
To win door prizes you must be present after the tournament.
 

Grand prize...... $ 500.00
1st ..................$ 350.00
2nd .................$ 200.00
3rd ..................$ 100.00
Biggest fish......  $ 40.00
Smallest fish .....$ 20.00

Thanks,

Nick Dougherty

(636) 528-8898

nldougherty@yahoo.com

Keep your anchor right where it's at cause....

Entry Forms and more info will be available on RiverBill's soon.

Sailboat News
     Decline In Sailboat Sales Slowing.................

According to a news report from tradeonlytoday.com................ While brokerage sales of sailboats did continue to fall in July, the fall was not as severe as earlier in the year.

For the same time period 2008, unit sales were down by 23%, and the value of vessels sold was down by 21%. Earlier in the year, sales were down by 30%, and valuation was down over 40%.

Sales by length results show that the under 26 foot segment showed the smallest year over year decline in comparison to the larger segments. Boats in the over 55 foot category actually showed improvement, with more boats sold than one year ago. However, year to date sales for the over 55 crowd is down about the same as other segments, approximately 30%................
 

Click here to read this news report.

 

Boat Gear Manufacturer News
    Garmin May Make Offer For Purchase of  Raymarine ..........

According to a news article from tradeonlytoday.com.................... Garmin Ltd. has released a statement responding to reports that they were in early negotiations with Raymarine to purchase the United Kingdom based company.

Following the City Code for Takeovers and Mergers, Garmin states that any offers made for Raymarine shares will likely be made in cash.

Garmin also adds that at this point, it is not certain that an offer will be made for the company, nor what the terms of the offer might be.

The Garmin company product lines span various areas of interest, including automotive, aviation, marine, fitness, outdoor recreation and wireless applications.

RayMarine product line consists of marine electronics, including radar, GPS, fish finders, autopilots, instruments, software, marine satellite TV and weather.
 

Click here to read this news article.

Click here to visit the Garmin website.

Click here to visit the Raymarine website.
 

US Coast Guard Photo

Coast Guard responds to sunken historic Navy tug, USS Wenonah

SAN FRANCISCO-- Capt. Paul Gugg (right), commander of Coast Guard Sector San Francisco, and Petty Officer 1st Class Brian Higgins, from the Incident Management Division at Sector San Francisco, assess the scene of a sunken vessel, Monday, August 17, 2009. The vessel, USS Wenonah, was a historic tug maintained by volunteer Merchant Marine officers. After sinking, it released oil into the surrounding area near Pier I on Treasure Island, in San Francisco. 090817-G-5394S-002

(Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer Erik Swanson)
.

Wednesday

19  August  2009

 Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Picture of the day

St. Norbert Group

The Picture of the Day......... is from Dave and Deb Heacock of the boat ... That's The Spirit"

Hi RiverBill,

We have an annual fall auction at St Norbert School in Florissant Mo. ,and this past year we put in the auction a "A Day on the Mississippi Summer 2009." We had 11 Couples bid on this outing, many who have never experienced the river life before. We gave them the tour from Oasis - Kinder's - Long Shots - Palisades - Island swimming and then back to Oasis for buffet dinner.

We wanted to send a special thanks out to Oasis Bar and Grill for the wonderful hospitality that they provided us, along with the great "buffet" dinner. Also to the other restaurants who also showed this group what the "River Restaurants" and "River People" are all about.

"I never knew any of this existed, we're trading the Lake House to bring the boat up on the river, because we have never met nicer people." Just a quote from a few on the outing!

Hog Back Next!
Deb and Dave Heacock

"That's The Spirit" -

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Click on pic to enlarge

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2008...... was sent in by Mike Halley, who hails out of the Yacht Club of St. Louis in the cruiser...."Over Exposed"

Its a picture of the girls & women in our raft at Mason's Chute from last Sunday the 10th of August, taken on the top deck of Gary & Judy's boat, "Beads".


Mike & Karen Halley
Yacht Club
Over Exposed

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 8/17/09
Subject: Shoaling at MM 94.7 ILR
NAVNOTICE # 1851

SUBJ: WESTERN RIVERS BNM NR 0350-09 UM
SAFETY AND SCHED BCSTS UNTIL CANCELLED
USCG NOTICE TO MARINERS EIGHTH DISTRICT NR 0350-09 UM
UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER
THE COAST GUARD HAS RECEIVED A REPORT OF POSSIBLE SHOALING IN THE VIC OF MM 94.7 ILR ALONG THE RED BUOY LINE. A M/V RAN AGROUND AT THIS LOCATION WITH A 9'0" DRAFT AND THE LA GRANGE L/D UPPER POOL GUAGE READING OF 9.48 FEET ON 16AUG09. ALL MARINERS ARE REQUESTED TO TRANSIT THE AREA WITH CAUTION.
 

Check the CG/COE Hot Topics website for most current memos

Missouri State Water Patrol News Release.....

NEWS RELEASE
PUBLIC INFORMATION SECTION, P.O. Box 1368, Jefferson City, MO  65102

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: St. Charles, MO.

Water Patrol Teaches Boating Safety To Pujols Family Foundation Participants

The Missouri State Water Patrol provided boat rides and life jacket safety instruction for 47 children and their families in a joint effort with the Pujols Family Foundation on Saturday, August 15. The event was held at Hide Away Harbor Park on the Mississippi River in St. Charles County to give those affected by Down syndrome an opportunity to learn first-hand about boating in Missouri. The Pujols Family Foundation was founded in 2005 to improve the lives of those affected by Down syndrome in both the St. Louis area and the Dominican Republic.

Water Patrol Officers and volunteers greeted the participants and gave them event T-shirts supplied by the South County Dodge Chrysler Jeep Dealership and the Missouri Water Patrol Association. The T-shirt, featuring Cardinals mascot Fredbird, promotes the use of lifejackets. Participants and their chaperones then were fitted for life jackets and taken in groups for 20 minute boat rides with Water Patrol officers on the Mississippi River.

A boat was also set up on shore so participants could spend more time on board a boat. Also on display were different types of life jackets. This showed the varieties and styles available from the bulky type II life jackets the participants wore to the compact fanny pack style worn by officers. The Rivers Pointe Fire Protection District had trucks on display as well as a live fire hose skills game. St. Charles County Ambulance District had a unit there for the participants to learn about treating minor medical issues. A Water Patrol canine unit was also on hand for the participants to interact with.

"The Missouri State Water Patrol participates in many community events to promote boating safety. The excitement and enthusiasm shown by participants was proof that this experience will stay in their minds for a long time. The pleasure of being able to provide this kind of experience will remain with our officers as well," said Lt. Col. Mike Smith who was on hand for the event. Over the course of the day, Water Patrol officers gave rides to 47 participants and 50 chaperones. The Water Patrol would like to thank the St. Charles County Parks Department for use of the event grounds.



News Release ID: N07090144
 

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Contact: Doug Edelman
Assistant District Staff Officer - Public Affairs
District 8WR USCGAUX
edeldoug@charter.net
636-379-0877
August 17, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

FUNDAMENTALS OF RESPONSIBLE BOATING

Each year the US Coast Guard Auxiliary partners with the National Safe Boating Council and other organizations during National Safe Boating Week and throughout the year, to promote safe and responsible boating. We would like to remind the boating pub