~~~~~~ RiverBill's Archives~~~~~~
February 2009

A WEBSITE FOR THE  BOATING COMMUNITY 

OF THE 

MISSISSIPPI, ILLINOIS AND MISSOURI RIVERS

Last Updated Sat at 5:00PM...Added news, NAVNOTICE # 1566,

Picture of the Day

Sunday

The Kinder's Girls !

Our River Picture of the Day..... Is from Mary Beth Tiemann. 

Its a shot of Jill, Amanda, Jeni and Mary at Kinder's Season Opener on Friday night.

Kinder's is open...

That means spring and boating season are right around the corner.
 

Picture of the Day

Saturday

Empty Bench With A View

HA !

Our River Pictures of the Day..... Is from Capt'n Larry Demko, who hails out of the Duck Club....

Bill:

Blue Marlin (Andy) was at the docks and saw, what we believe to be your new boat.

That empty bench on it explains a lot of things...


Larry Demko
Fastrac Media


 

Yesteryear's

Picture of the Day

Sunday

Click on pic to enlarge

YesterYear's River Picture from 2007----  was sent in by Betty Bannister, who hails out of Grafton Harbor.  She sent us a shot of some pelicans on the little island across from the Loading Dock.   

Yesteryear's

Picture of the Day

Saturday

Click on pic to enlarge

YesterYear's River Pictures from 2005----- was a picture of  mason_schute, a favorite summer hangout for a lot of boaters. This pic was sent in by Steve Schulte of  www.steveschulte.com. 

Navigation Notice ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 2/27/09
Subject: Updated High Waters on the Illinois River, Ice Conditions on the UMR
NAVNOTICE # 1565

SUBJ: WESTERN RIVERS BNM NR 0036-09 UM
SAFETY AND SCHEDULED BROADCASTS UNTIL CANCELLED
CANCEL WESTERN RIVERS BNM NR 0030-09 UM
USCG NOTICE TO MARINERS EIGHTH DISTRICT NR 0036-09 UM
UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER/ILLINOIS RIVER
USCG SECTOR UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER ISSUES THE FOLLOWING SAFETY
ADVISORY:
A. ZONES 1-16 (MM 457.2 TO MM 857.6 UMR) REMAIN IN THE ACTION PHASE
FOR ICE CONDITIONS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE UMR WAP ANNEX.
B. ZONES 17-22 (MM 301.2 - MM 457.1 UMR) ARE IN THE WATCH PHASE
FOR ICE CONDITIONS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE UMR WAP ANNEX.
C. ZONES 4-6 (MM 80.3 - MM 145.5 ILR) ARE IN THE WATCH PHASE FOR
HIGH WATER CONDITIONS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE ILR WAP ANNEX. ALL
VESSELS ARE REQUESTED TO TRANSIT THESE AREAS WITH CAUTION AND AT THE SLOWEST SAFE SPEED TO MINIMIZE WAKE DAMAGE.
E. MARINERS ARE REQUESTED TO ENSURE THAT FLEETS ARE CLOSELY
MONITORED AND MOORING LINES ARE ADEQUATELY SECURED, AND TO EXERCISE DUE CAUTION TO AVOID SINKING BARGES AND HIGH LOCALIZED FLOW OR OUT DRAFT CONDITIONS DUE TO WATER BYPASSING A TEMPORARY DAM THAT MAY BE CAUSED BY AN ICE GORGE.
F. MARINERS SHOULD BE AWARE THAT BUOYS MAY BE UNRELIABLE DUE TO ICING CONDITIONS. ICE RENDERS REFLECTIVE MATERIAL INEFFECTIVE, AND ICE FLOWS MAY DRAG BUOYS OFF STATION AND SEVER BUOYS FROM THEIR MOORINGS.

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

1222 Spruce Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2833 / www.mvs.usace.army.mil

Levee protection restored in St. Louis District

St. Louis, MO, Friday, February 27, 2009 – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in St. Louis announced today that authorized levels of protection have been restored to levees damaged by flooding in the summer of 2008 in both Missouri and Illinois.

      The District had targeted February 28 for the work, which was completed yesterday.

      Level of Protection – or LOP – is determined by restoring the levees that were
damaged to their heights prior to last summer’s floods.

      Forty-five levees were proposed for repairs under Public Law 84-99, under which the majority of repair funding comes from the Federal Government. To date about $13 million in Federal dollars have been expended on the work.

      While all breaches in the levees have been closed, Corps of Engineers authorities
indicate substantial work remains to fully restore the levees. This work includes replacing some damaged gravity drains, which allow precipitation water to drain when rivers are below flood stage; replacing some damaged pumps and seeding levees to restore grass coverage which reduces erosion.

      Some of this work will have to be delayed until weather improves.

      Work was delayed several times this winter due both to freezing and rainfall
conditions. This required designs and construction to be altered to properly install and compact levee materials.

       Even before all work is completed, Corps of Engineers authorities indicate that current levels of protection, combined with plans and materials to conduct flood fighting if necessary, will provide required interim protection.

-30-

Information presented on Corps Web public web sites is considered public information and may be distributed or copied.

Click here to go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website.

Updated Sat at 5:00PM

Excessively Thick Ice Causes Late Shipping Season For The Upper Mississippi River............

In a news report on cruelkev2.blogspot.com.......... The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has announced that the start of the shipping season will be delayed for the second straight year due to ice that is overly thick for this time of year.

Measurements that the Corps have taken at Lake Pepin are around 18-20 inches.

The Corps will be taking measurements each week through March, and estimate that shippers will have to wait until April to shipping on the upper Mississippi River.........

Click here to read this news report.

Updated Sat at 5:00PM

Mississippi River Sediment To Aid Marsh Restoration...........

According to a news story from nola.com.......... The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has granted an $8.4 million contract to Weeks Marine Inc. to dredge the Southwest Pass at the mouth of the Mississippi River. The sediment will be used in the restoration of approximately 130 acres of marsh land.

Almost 2.3 million cubic yards of sediment is expected to be dredged from the main shipping channel at the Port of New Orleans. The material will be placed on the east and west shores. Some will be placed behind rock dikes, in an effort to restore the riverbank.

In western Louisiana, Lake Charles Harbor & Terminal District, the state and the U.S.A.C.E. signed an agreement promising close to $20 million for a dredging project in the Calcasieu Ship channel. The sediment will be used to construct a 440 acre marsh close to Black Lake, as well as 227 acres of marsh in the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge.

Click here to read this news story.

Updated Sat at 5:00PM

Did You Know ? 

For more information go to http://www.nps.gov/archive/miss/tug/miles.html

February 28, 1870 in River History ------  
   The east channel pier caisson for the Eads Bridge reached bedrock more than two years after cornerstone was laid on top of bedrock for the west abutment.

My River Home Docks For Rent....

   Rent a 36 foot dock for the year and get the free use of a hoist.

   Call Andy 314.566.5403

U.S. Coast Guard photograph

NEW YORK -

An entanglement team from the Center for Coastal Studies, based in Glouchester, Mass., attempt to free an entangled humpback whale from a lobster pot and netting eight miles east of Sandy Hook, N.J., Feb. 26, 2009.

The Coast Guard enforced a 500-yard safety zone around the animal to protect it and boaters during the attempt.

(U.S. Coast Guard photo/PA3 Barbara L. Patton)

 

Click here for more information
 

Saturday    21 &  28  February, 2009

Cabela’s at Mills Mall to Host USCG Auxiliary Safe Boating Class

Contact: Doug Edelman
Flotilla Staff Officer - Publications 3-13 8WR USCGAUX
Assistant District Staff Officer - Public Affairs
edeldoug@charter.net
636-379-0877
January 5, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Cabela’s at Mills Mall to Host USCG Auxiliary Safe Boating Class

Boater Education Saves Lives

Missouri’s Mandatory Boater Education Law, which took effect January 1, 2005, requires that every Missouri resident born after January 1, 1984 who operates a vessel on Missouri lakes must carry a boating safety identification card issued by the State Water Patrol, and a valid photo ID. This requirement includes operators of personal watercraft like Jet-Skis. The boating safety ID card indicates successful completion of a boating safety education course.

Flotilla 3-13 of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary will be offering the Boating Skills and Seamanship course at Cabela’s in Hazelwood, at the St Louis Mills Shopping Center . The class meets from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM on 2 consecutive Saturday mornings, February 21 and February 28, 2009. Successful completion of this course will not only earn the boating safety ID card, but will give you invaluable information which will help you to remain safe on the water.

Pre-registration is necessary as space is limited. Sign up will be held at Cabela's during their Great Outdoors Hunting and Fishing Days event on February 15. For more information, contact Mark at msz@charter.net or cell phone number 314-803-7044.
 

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 how 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.

###

The RiverBills.com February 2009 Calendar ------ 

      To make a wall calendar.....click here and print it on a piece of 8 1/2 X 11 photo paper. Set the paper to "landscape" and "center" the photo on the paper.
Enjoy

Picture of the Day

Goodland, Florida

Boat Mardi Gras Parade

Click on pic to enlarge

Our River Pictures of the Day..... Is from Capt'n Larry Hellrung, who hails out of Grafton Harbor in the boat... "Liberty."

Bill,

 I know spring is just around the corner but not many boating pictures until then. Here are some from Florida. Dick and Sue Forbis, (Bidder Suite from Harbor Point) went to the Goodland, FL Mardi gras parade with us. Attached is picture of Sue Forbis and Patty Hellrung dressed for the parade. I wonder how they got the beads? Second picture is Dick and Sue Forbis on our boat. Attached are pictures of the some of the floats.

Larry & Patty Hellrung

Liberty

Grafton Harbor
 

Yesteryear's

Picture of the Day

Click on pic to enlarge

YesterYear's River Pictures from 2006----- was of Captain Jacks Bar and Grill all blocked up and ready to be raised up above the 500 year flood level.  

It now Oasis Bar & Grill

Kinder's Season Opener....... Tonight  Friday, Feb 27th  

Come Join Us for Kinder's Opening Day Party !

  RAIL  

Will be providing the Rock -n- Roll

 See You There !

 Kinder's Restaurant is opening for business.  Drop by on Friday and help us start the boating season off right.  Have a bite to eat and a good cold drink...visit with river friends and the good folks at Kinder's.  ........There are some docks out !

Check out Rail's website

www.RailRock.com

Dining Room Hours....

Friday ......... 5 PM - 9PM

Sunday....... 11AM - 7PM 

Weather Permitting

Call 618 - 883-2586 or  618 - 883-2356  

Click here to go to Kinder's website

Click here for more information
 

Signs Designating Illinois River Road To Be Installed Soon............

In a news report from mywebtimes.com......... Back in 2005, the roads between Ottawa and Havana along the Illinois River were designated as part of the Illinois River Road National Scenic byway. The signage was unveiled in a ceremony in 2007, however, construction of the signs, and placement planning have taken some time. The signs have already been installed in Peoria, Il.

The 291 mile scenic byway runs through Ottawa on U.S. 6 and route 71.

The U.S. Secretary of Transportation recognizes 126 routes as National Scenic Byways. The Illinois River Road's mission statement is to "provide a living museum without walls that will enhance people's experience of the nature, history, archaeology and other intrinsic qualities of the byway, while providing and maintaining unique recreational and educational experiences for visitors and residents, and sustaining local communities' economies and quality of life."

Click here to read this news report.

Illinois House Passes Omnibus Appropriations Bill, H.R. 1105........

According to a news report from bnd.com........... An appropriations bill passes through the Illinois House of Representatives, and is on the way to the Illinois Senate. This $9.8 million bill includes funding for many projects, including water infrastructure:

* $287,000 to start [the] design of levee repairs, in the Alton to Gale levee districts.

* $2.4 million for north levee berm construction at the Chain of Rocks

* $718,000 to address underseepage in East St. Louis

* $1.8 million for operations and maintenance to the Kaskaskia Navigation System

* $335,000 for sewer improvements in Madison and St. Clair counties

* $502,000 to address underseepage at Prairie Du Pont

* $2.6 million for construction of relief wells for the Wood River levee district, as well as Madison County

Click here to read this news report
 

My River Home Docks For Rent....

   Rent a 36 foot dock for the year and get the free use of a hoist.

   Call Andy 314.566.5403

U.S. Coast Guard photograph

Ice Rescue Training in Sandusky

Members of Coast Guard Station Marblehead deploy ice rescue gear during a multi-agency drill February 23, 2009, with local fire departments.



 

Con Trios Yacht Club February "Get Together"
Saturday February 28th, 2PM to 6PM
Big Muddy Food and Spirits,
 

Click here to go to the Con Trios website for more information

The RiverBills.com February 2009 Calendar ------ 

      To make a wall calendar.....click here and print it on a piece of 8 1/2 X 11 photo paper. Set the paper to "landscape" and "center" the photo on the paper.
Enjoy

River History........
    Chicago Portage National Historic Site

The French explorers, Fr. Jacques Marquette, and Louis Joliet were shown the short portage between the Mississippi River system and The Great Lakes in 1673. This ancient Indian portage ultimately led to Chicago becoming a major trading hub.

During the expedition up the Illinois and Des Plains Rivers to Portage Creek, the Indian guides revealed to Fr. Marquette and Joliet the 1.5 mile portage to the Chicago River. The expedition was then able to continue on to Lake Michigan.

Ever the visionary, Louis Joliet foresaw a canal connecting Portage Creek to the Chicago River, thus bypassing the portage. In 1848, that vision was realized, and the Illinois and Michigan Canal was completed.

In 1952, a memorial, the Chicago Portage National Historic Site, was erected to commemorate the important discovery. The memorial is a portion of the Illinois and Michigan National Heritage Corridor.

Source: howstuffworks.com
 

Henderson County, Ill.
    After The Flood Of 2008, Cleanup Involves Removal Of Hazardous Materials..........

In a new story from kwqc.com....... Cleanup efforts are still underway after the 2008 floods in Henderson County, Illinois. Workers are wearing masks for protection against the hazardous black mold that thrives in the flood decimated homes. Most debris will be disposed of in the Des Moines County Landfill in Iowa.

FEMA is picking up 75% of the tab for the restoration, and the remaining 25% is picked up by Henderson County..........

Click here to read this news story.

Picture of the Day

Click on pic to enlarge

Our River Pictures of the Day..... was sent in by Capt'n Pete Zimmer, who hails out of Grafton Harbor in the cruiser..... "Jack Daniels Old #7"

Bill,

Waiting for Barkley Lock to open on a trip with Byron Smyrniotis on his 36 carver.

J. Peter Zimmer
 

Yesteryear's

Picture of the Day

Click on pic to enlarge

YesterYear's River Pictures from 2008----- was sent in by Sharon G

I'm soooo looking forward to digging my toes 

in the sand!

Bill,

   I think we're all getting tired of the icy cold and are looking forward to spring. Here's a colorful sunset taken near Hamburg last May. (2007)

Hey, May's not too far off, I'm soooo looking forward to digging my toes in the sand!

Sharon G

RiverBill says....  That is superb picture Sharon.  Come on Spring !

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 2/25/09
Subject: River Testing at the Chain of Rocks Canal
NAVNOTICE # 1564

SUBJ: WESTERN RIVERS BNM NR 0035-09 UM
SAFETY AND SCHEDULED BROADCASTS UNTIL CANCELLED
USCG NOTICE TO MARINERS EIGHTH DISTRICT NR 0035-09 UM
UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER
THE CHAIN OF ROCKS CANAL WILL HAVE THE BOTTOM OF THE RIVER TESTED 20 TO 30 FEET OUTSIDE THE CHANNEL ON THE RIGHT DESCENDING BANK ABOVE AND BELOW THE ENTRANCES OF THE CHAIN OF ROCKS CANAL. THIS WILL COMMENCE ON THE 2ND OF MARCH 2009 AND WILL TAKE PLACE FROM 0700 CST UNTIL 1730 CST MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MARINERS MAY CONTACT THE M/V E. FRAKES ON VHF-FM CHNLS 13 AND 16. NAVIGATION WILL NOT BE AFFECTED. ALL MARINERS ARE REQUESTED TO TRANSIT THE AREA WITH CAUTION.
 

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

Click here for more information
 

Black Bears in Missouri..........

RiverBill's received the following e-mail press release from Jim Low of the Missouri Conservation Commission.

The bears came over the mountains
Now numbering in the hundreds, Missouri
bears are part of the Show-Me Landscape.

JEFFERSON CITY—Show-Me State hunters see them. So do anglers and campers. Most encounters are fleeting, leaving surprised outdoors people wondering how a black bear got into Missouri. The answer is “over the mountains.”

Resource Scientist Jeff Beringer is the Missouri Department of Conservation’s expert on furbearing mammals, including black bears. He said the Show-Me State’s native bear population probably was gone by the early 20th century.

“It is possible that a few survived in remote pockets of the Ozark Mountains,” said Beringer, “but they had a lot working against them. They got hit with a double whammy of unregulated hunting and large-scale deforestation. It seems more likely that the bear population we have today came from Arkansas.”

Black bears did survive in the 160,000-acre White River National Wildlife Refuge in southeastern Arkansas – once known as “The Bear State.” By the middle of the 20th century, however, the refuge and other areas in southeastern Arkansas harbored so few native bears that the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission imported bears from Minnesota and Manitoba for a bear restoration effort in other parts of the state.

The agency released 254 black bears in the Ouachita Mountains of western Arkansas and in the Ozark Mountains of northwestern Arkansas between 1958 and 1968. Today the Game and Fish Commission estimates Arkansas’ black bear population at 3,000. Hunters harvested a record 400 bears in Arkansas’ 2007 hunting season.

Beringer said black bears may need up to 30 square miles of habitat per individual. These home ranges often overlap. Females with adjoining ranges generally are related. Males, on the other hand make long “dispersal moves” at about 1.5 years of age to establish territories among unrelated animals.

That, said Beringer, is how Missouri got many of its male bears. Females in an established bear population generally do not make long moves. However, Missouri probably received a few females from the initial Arkansas release, as these animals traveled widely before settling down into home ranges.

Bears’ secretive nature makes estimating the Show-Me State’s black bear population difficult. Beringer said the best estimate is a few hundred. Although bears have been seen as far north as Marion County, near Hannibal, most of the state’s bears live south of I-44. Counties with the most sightings include Carter, Ripley, Reynolds, Howell, Ozark, Barry, Taney, Christian, Stone and Douglas.

Unlike mountain lions, which have only been documented as individual animals in Missouri, black bears clearly are reproducing and rearing their young here. A recent incident in Christian County provides the latest proof.......click here to go to the Missouri Conservation Commission website and continue reading.

Unnamed Group Formed To Coordinate Barge Traffic.........

In a news report from waterwaysjournal.com........ In the upcoming years, barge traffic will be facing delays, as repairs, and upgrades are performed at 5 Mississippi and 2 Illinois River locks. These delays could be up to 11 hours, for each tow, at each lock. For the next ten years or so.

As a result, during a meeting of the Upper Mississippi River Basin Association in St Louis, a new committee was formed to coordinate navigation. Members include representatives from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the towing interests, as well as the companies that ship by barge.

At present, the committee has established a charter, and will conduct regular meetings, possible quarterly. The committee has yet to pick a name............

Click here to read this news report.
 

Kinder's Season Opener....... Friday, Feb 27th  

Come Join Us for Kinder's Opening Day Party !

 Live Music by The Rock n' Roll River Band

 Rail 

See You There !

Click here to go to Kinder's website

Click to enlarge

Lewis Boats... boat of the week

2009 Regal 2565 Window Express, bimini top, full enclosure, dockside A/C, vacuflush, SEVEN YEAR engine/drive warranty.

Contact us for discounted pricing and owners events info.

Grafton Harbor.........

    Boater Swap Meet

Sat. May 16, 2009
10:00 AM
Boater Swap Meet

Bring your boating accessories that you no longer need to Grafton Harbor .

Anchors, life jackets, chairs……..

Sell, Buy, and Trade with river friends.

For more information call Grafton Harbor at 618-786-7678.

           

My River Home Docks For Rent....

   Rent a 36 foot dock for the year and get the free use of a hoist.

   Call Andy 314.566.5403

U.S. Coast Guard photograph

Arctic Domain Awareness Patrol (For Release)

BARROW, Alaska - Whale bones near the Arctic Ocean in Barrow.

(Official U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Kurt Fredrickson)

 

New Sailor.........

Bill,

Thanks for being there all the time. 

This is the newest sailor of the Mississippi River, hailing out of Yacht Club of Stl.

 TYLER KELLY 7.66 lbs 20 in

Thank you,

Captin Paul Broyles of the Life of Riley

Click on pic to enlarge                  

Con Trios Yacht Club February "Get Together"
Saturday February 28th, 2PM to 6PM
Big Muddy Food and Spirits,
 

Click here to go to the Con Trios website for more information

The RiverBills.com February 2009 Calendar ------ 

      To make a wall calendar.....click here and print it on a piece of 8 1/2 X 11 photo paper. Set the paper to "landscape" and "center" the photo on the paper.
Enjoy

Fishy News..........
   Missouri River Catfish Noodlers Lobby Jefferson City

According to a news story from stltoday.com............ Several catfish noodlers attended a hearing before a Missouri state senate committee in an effort to legalize hand fishing. The art of hand fishing, or noodling, seems to be a tradition, to be passed down from generation to generation.

Apparently, the Missouri Conservation Commission believes that the practice of hand fishing is targeting the largest catfish, who are nesting. Potentially, this could cause a future population reduction.

Missouri state Senator Chuck Purgason (R) advised both sides of the issue to find a resolution amongst themselves, leaving the lawmakers out of it. Purgason doesn't care for the idea that bureaucrats, not knowing anything about noodling, making decisions on gaming law...........

Click here to read this news story.

Mississippi River

   Keokuk, Iowa
   City Is Considering Building A "World Class" River Port Terminal

In a news story from connecttristates.com........ The city of Keokuk, Iowa is looking into constructing a "world class" river port terminal on the Mississippi River banks. Since Keokuk is at the northernmost point on the Mississippi River that barge traffic can flow year-round, Mayor David Gudgel believes that a port would be a wise investment.

Since barge shipment is the most economical way to ship goods, a port terminal would contribute to not only attracting new businesses, but help anchor existing businesses to the Keokuk area........

Click here to read this news story.
 

River Facts

   The Illinois River(s)........

Did you know that there is more than one Illinois River ? 

Everyone is familiar with the Illinois River that runs through the State of Illinois from the Great Lakes and joins the Mississippi River at Grafton, Illinois, but did you know there are more Illinois rivers ?    
 

• There is another Illinois River that is a tributary of the Arkansas River, in Arkansas and Oklahoma.....click here.

• And yet another Illinois River in the state of Oregon. Its a tributary of the Rogue River... click here.

Picture of the Day

Click on pic to enlarge

Our River Picture of the Day..... was sent in Capt'n Pete Zimmer, who hails out of Grafton Harbor in the cruiser..... Jack Daniels Old #7.

Pete wrote:

We had a little disagreement at

Harbor Point Yacht Club

one meeting

Yesteryear's

Picture of the Day

YesterYear's River Pictures from 2008...... was sent in by Sharon G

Bill:

      How about a summer sunset, dreaming of warmer weather...no birds, just a peaceful evening on the river.

RiverBill says...Thanks Sharon for the great picture !    

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 2/23/09
Subject: ATON DISCREPANCY (BNM NR 0032-09 UM)
NAVNOTICE # 1561

ILLINOIS RIVER
1. THE USCG SECTOR UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER ISSUES THE FOLLOWING
AIDS TO NAVIGATION NOTICE:
A. BLUE CREEK POINT LOWER LIGHT (LLNR 7015) MM 172.5 RDB ILR. LIGHT
IS EXTINGUISHED.
B. SPRING BAY LIGHT (LLNR 6995) MM 174.3 RDB ILR. LIGHT IS
EXTINGUISHED.
C. BABBS SLOUGH LIGHT (LLNR 6920) MM 184.1 LDB ILR. LIGHT IS
DESTROYED.
D. BENNETTS LANDING LIGHT (LLNR 6910) MM 184.8 RDB ILR. LIGHT HAS
BEEN DESTROYED.
E. LACON LIGHT (LLNR 6895) MM 190.0 ILR. LIGHT IS EXTINGUISHED.
F. HENRY ISLAND LIGHT (LLNR 6875) MM 193.3 RDB ILR. LIGHT IS
EXTINGUISHED.
G. WILLOW POINT DAYBEACON (LLNR 6805) MM 201.0 RDB ILR. LIGHT IS
DESTROYED AND MISSING.
H. FLAT BEND LIGHT (LLNR 6795) MM 204.0 RDB ILR. LIGHT IS
DESTROYED.
I. BUREAU CREEK LIGHT (LLNR 6760) MM 209.4 LDB ILR. LIGHT IS
DESTROYED.
J. HUSE SLOUGH LOWER DAYBEACON (LLNR 6670) MM 219.8 LDB ILR. LIGHT
IS DESTROYED AND MISSING.
K. PERU LOWER DAYBEACON (LLNR 6665) MM 220.7 RDB ILR. LIGHT IS
DESTROYED AND MISSING.
2. MARINERS ARE REQUESTED TO TRANSIT THESE AREAS WITH EXTREME
CAUTION.

 

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

Boat Show News......

   Slow Boat Show Attendance Has Silver Lining,  Buyers Showed Up

According to a news report from bnd.com......... In spite of the economic issues and very low attendance, the people that showed up at the boat shows in St. Louis and Belleville were "buyers.".

The boat industry trade association, however, is speculating that sales will be down by about a third. The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) concurs, estimating a 30% decrease in sales for '09.

Industry insiders remain optimistic, citing that prior issues, like high fuel costs, are just inconveniences to be overcome. Boaters seem to adjust their lifestyle, and adapt to conditions...... finding a way to be on the water.

Click here to read this news report.

Click here for more information
 

The New Issue of Heartland Boating is Out........

The March edition of Heartland Boating is on the shelf at your local boat store. 

This issue has an article by our own Sherri Stanczak,  tilted....

"And Now, A Little Historical Perspective"

Find out what makes rivers go up and down -- and how often.

Check it out !

Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal.......
  Crumbling Canal Walls All That Stands Between Joliet, Illinois

  and 39 Feet Of Water

According to a news article from the chicagotribune.com......... The Lockport Lock and Dam is but one example of the decaying waterway infrastructure desperately in need of a make-over. Studies at Lockport have shown that water is getting past the deteriorated concrete walls, and boiling up in a nearby creek. This poses a flood threat to the nearby Des Plains River Valley.

Consequently, a breach, or shut-down of the Lock system will disrupt the water shipping industry. A representative from the Waterways Council states that the water shipping industry is "out of sight, out of mind", and the public is not aware of how much of the nation's fuel, grain and steel are shipped by water.

Only a portion of the needed funds have been appropriated in the stimulus packages. However, the projects have been called shovel-ready, in that they are just the type of make-work project that will get people back to work.............

Click here to read this news article.
 

We Finally Got the Date Set

   Kinder's Season Opener....... Friday, Feb 27th  

Come Join the Season Opener Party !

The river band

 Rail 

Will be playing the music

    Dining Room Hours....

Friday ......... 5 PM - 9PM

Sunday....... 11AM - 7PM 

Weather Permitting

Call 618 - 883-2586 or  618 - 883-2356

Click here to go to Kinder's website

Increase In River Barge Traffic Could Be Coming..........

In a news story from recordonline.com.......... With the increase of roadway traffic, and pollution concerns, shipping by water has been getting a new lease on life. A 15 barge tow can move the equivalent cargo of 1,050 tractor trailers. This efficiency translates to 1 gallon of diesel being able to move a ton of cargo 576 miles on a barge, versus 413 miles by train,, or 155 miles by semi.........

Even though there was a time in our nation's history when most all goods were shipped by water, upgrading the waterway infrastructure to handle current shipping demands will require a major infusion of funds............

Click here to read this news story.
 

Mixon Insurance Agency........

Mixon Insurance Agency has a new website and a new ad on RiverBill's.

Click the ad on the right and check out their new website.

My River Home Docks For Rent....

   Rent a 36 foot dock for the year and get the free use of a hoist.

   Call Andy 314.566.5403

A Look Back in Time......

   An Old-time Boat Show Photo

Click here  and take a look at a photo from the 1964 Iowa Sports, Boat and Vacation Show. Its a classic shot of two young ladies and a pair of water skies in a fiberglass runabout.

All the guys look pretty interested !

RiverBill says... A big muddy thanks goes out to Matt Burrows for sending us the link.  You all remember Matt......he was one of the bartenders at Capt'n Jacks.

Show Me The Mississippi Meeting......

  
To: All Show Me the Mississippi Committee Members
Re: Meeting Notice: March 5, 6:00 pm, Big Muddy Food and Spirits

From: Jim Marr, Chairman 2009

Greetings!!! We are happy to announce that there will be a 2009 Season on the river and it will be great!!

Our first 2009 Show Me the Mississippi Committee of the Chamber of Commerce meeting will be held Thursday, March 5 at Big Muddy Food and Spirits. Arrive for a beverage of your choice at 6:00pm the meeting starts at 6:30pm.

The address is 3761 New Town Blvd. , St. Charles , MO 636-724-7920
 

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

Thanks - Jim

Contact:
Jim Marr – Safe Harbor Yacht Sales – 636-250-3500
jim@safeharboryachts.com

or
Heidi Fairbanks – St. Charles Chamber of Commerce – 636-946-0633
heidi@stcharleschamber.org

U.S. Coast Guard photograph

Click to enlarge

New Orleans, Mardi Gras

A Coast Guard 25-foot response boat from the Maritime Safety and Security Team from Kings Bay, Ga., patrols the Mississippi River as fireworks signify the official start to Mardi Gras Monday, Feb. 23, 2009.

The Coast Guard delivers Rex, King of Carnival and King Zulu, king of the Krewe of Zulu to give their proclamations and kick off Lundi Gras as part of Mardi Gras festivities.

U.S. Coast Guard photograph / Petty Officer 3rd Class Tom Atkeson
 

World Wide Marine Training.....

   Captain’s License Classes in Grafton, IL
 

8-day OUPV (6-Pak) Class ..... Mon, March 2 through Mon, March 9, 2009

4-hour Towing Endorsement Class.....Thurs, March 5, 2009

3-day Master Upgrade Class..... Wed, March 11 through Fri, March 13, 2009

4-hour Sailing Endorsement Class..... Thurs, March 12, 2009

Call Toll Free: 866-249-2135

 

The RiverBills.com February 2009 Calendar ------ 

      To make a wall calendar.....click here and print it on a piece of 8 1/2 X 11 photo paper. Set the paper to "landscape" and "center" the photo on the paper.
Enjoy

Friends of the Mississippi River

  January Website Update........

The Friends of the Mississippi River website has been updated for February.  Below are a few of this month's river related articles:

~ River corridor critical area legislation introduced
~ Mississippi River Challenge July 25th and 26th
~ RBC grant helps FMR educate, mobilize on water stewardship
~ No more winter boating on the Mississippi?


 

Click here and check it out

Law Firm Issues Summary Of The Marine Provisions In The Stimulus Act..........

In a news report from marinelog.com......... The Blank Rome law firm released an advisory summarizing nautical funds in the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

On top of the $4.6 billion to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, $60 million to states for ferries, and terminals, and grants totaling $100 million for shipyards, other maritime programs include:

$150 million in grants for new port security;

$1.5 billion in discretionary grants, including funds for port infrastructure;

$300 million in grants to fund the EPA's Diesel Emissions Reduction Act;

$600 million for repair and construction of NOAA facilities:

And the extension of the Renewable Energy Production Tax Credit through 2013..........

Click here to read this news report.

Illinois......

  Weather Conditions To Blame For Poor Waterfowl Hunt In '08

In a news report from blogs.suntimes.com......... Due to the summer floods causing sub-par food conditions for waterfowl along the rivers, and the early freeze, the hunting for waterfowl was down, but goose hunting was close to normal.

Click here to read this report.
 

Lymon Morse Yacht Company Builds Solar Powered Generator..........

According to a news story from ksdk.com........ Zach Lymon, of the Maine based Lymon Morse Yacht Co. has invented a solar powered generator.

Called the Powercube, and capable of producing about 3.5 kilowatts, the solar panels charge a battery inside the unit. The output is similar to a medium sized generator.

Lyman also has a solar energy company in Washington D.C.. The Powercube has stirred interest from power companies and the military. In fact, the military has a few of the units deployed overseas.

Priced at $27,000 per unit, as the Powercubes enter production, expect costs to fall to roughly half..............

Click here to read this news story.
 

The Fold-up Boat....

While cruising the inter-net late one night we ran up on a "fold-up fishing boat" that is advertised to fold up to 4 inches flat and is supposed to be more stable than an inflatable !

Click here to go to the Porta-Bote website and check it out....

The Colombian Coffin......  

Picture of the Day

Lewis and Clark

Boat House and Nature Center

Click on pic to enlarge

Our River Picture of the Day..... is of the Lewis and Clark.... Boat House and Nature Center, located on the St. Charles riverfront.

The Lewis & Clark Boat House and Nature Center is the Discovery Expedition's permanent home. It is located on the riverbank of the Missouri River at Bishop's Landing on the St. Charles riverfront.  The building has an educational facility that features exhibits relating to the Lewis and Clark expedition.  It also has exhibits related to the Missouri River ecosystem.

For more information visit their website    http://www.lewisandclark.net/

Yesteryear's

Picture of the Day

A Cold Icy Day on the River

Brrrr....

YesterYear's River Pictures from 2008...... were from Paul and Joan Barbary.  

Hi Bill,
I work in Alton and I get to see the Mississippi on a daily basis. I thought the river looked cool today. No, I mean really cool. Lot's of ice.
I took a couple of shot's from the old lock & dam site here in Alton. We are looking from the Illinois side to the Missouri side.
One day closer to spring.

Seeya on the river,

Paul & Joan Barbary

Missouri River

   Two Spring Pulses Scheduled..........

In a news story from ksfy.com............ The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has decided that since there is plenty of water in storage, two spring pulses have been authorized.

Although the spring pulses were approved approximately six years ago, they have not been utilized due to drought conditions.

The temporary raising of water levels is intended to help the endangered pallid sturgeon. Biologists will be investigating if the water levels will help the sturgeon.

The first pulse is set for March, and the second should be in May..........

Click here to read this news story.
 

World Wide Marine Training.....

   Captain’s License Classes in Grafton, IL
 

8-day OUPV (6-Pak) Class ..... Mon, March 2 through Mon, March 9, 2009

4-hour Towing Endorsement Class.....Thurs, March 5, 2009

3-day Master Upgrade Class..... Wed, March 11 through Fri, March 13, 2009

4-hour Sailing Endorsement Class..... Thurs, March 12, 2009

Call Toll Free: 866-249-2135

 

Spring is Near ...........

Bill:

FYI - Spring officially begins Friday, March 20th, 2009 at 6:44 AM !

Darryll

Click here for more information
 

Fishing News
   Illinois' Proposed Fishing Tackle Lead Ban......

In a news story on Prairie States Outdoors...... The proposed ban of lead fishing tackle in Illinois is causing a great deal of concern among the state's anglers.

Illinois State Senator, Heather Steans, wants to do something to reduce the amount of lead in the water and reduce poisoning problems for waterfowl.  She admits her bill still needs some work.  She plans to discuss it with fishing advocates and make changes before sending it to committee so that it don’t impact the ability of people to go fishing.

Click here to read more.....
 

We Finally Got the Date Set

   Kinder's Season Opener....... Friday, Feb 27th  

Come Join the Season Opener Party !

The river band

 Rail 

Will be playing the music

    Dining Room Hours....

Friday ......... 5 PM - 9PM

Sunday....... 11AM - 7PM 

Weather Permitting

Call 618 - 883-2586 or  618 - 883-2356

Click here to go to Kinder's website

STLRIVERRATS.COM......
 

Hello Bill

I am Larry from Maryland Heights your website is great been following it since you started it.. I am a Union Carpenter layed off also a novice webguy..Got a chatroom going for fellow river rats check it out STLRIVERRATS.COM
Maybe you can put a link on your page?????

My other websites include STLCHITCHAT.COM STLCARPENTERS.COM STLOUISYOUTUBE.COM

kEEP UP THE GOOD WORK HOPE YOU CHECK MY SITES

Peace,,, Larry
 

My River Home Docks For Rent....

   Rent a 36 foot dock for the year and get the free use of a hoist.

   Call Andy 314.566.5403

River Destinations

   Vicksburg, Mississippi

   Great Sunday Drive Retraces Union Fleet's Ill-Fated Campaign.........

In a news story from the sunherald.com........ In 1863, General Grant was searching for a way to get around the Confederate defenses along the Mississippi and Yazoo Rivers at Vicksburg. After spending months digging a canal far away from the confederate gun emplacements, the Union decided to take a more direst route. The Union would send 5 Ironclads to try to navigate the rivers and bayous in an effort to thwart the rebels holding Vicksburg.

Using a Federal grant, free tour guides were printed, and 7 interpretive signs were installed, so tourists can follow the Union Navy's journey from Rolling Fork to Vicksburg. It is estimated that the entire tour would take about 4 hours, and cover 100 miles.

It is believed that the new tour will give visitors a peek at the size and complexity of the Vicksburg campaign, as well as the strategies needed for the union victory..........

Click here to read this news story.
 

Marking Docks With 911 Address

   Legislation Introduced To Aid Water Patrol and Emergency Workers....

According to a news article from connectmidmissouri.com.......... If Missouri state representative Wayne Cooper has his way, 911 emergency response will be greatly improved at the Lake of The Ozarks. Cooper filed a bill to order docks to be marked with the nearest 911 address.

House bill 957 will require the docks to have the proper permits, as well as the 911 area to have at least 950 miles of shoreline constructed, and/or maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.....

Click here to read this news article.

The RiverBills.com February 2009 Calendar ------ 

      To make a wall calendar.....click here and print it on a piece of 8 1/2 X 11 photo paper. Set the paper to "landscape" and "center" the photo on the paper.
Enjoy

Illinois River

   East Peoria, Ill.
   Ducks Unlimited Donates Land To IDNR.......

According to a news report from yourheartofillinois.com........... The most prolific waterfowl and wetland conservation group, Ducks Unlimited, has recently donated 370 acres along the Illinois River to the state of Illinois.

Apparently, Ducks Unlimited has around $1 million invested in the procurement and restoration of the land.

The property has been assigned as a waypoint along the Illinois River national scenic byway.

Click here to read this news report.

Missouri Conservation Commission to Meet March 11 & 12.......

Click here for more information
 

Military Tests Stealth Boat As New Drug Intervention Weapon........

In a news article from abcnews.go.com........ Going against usual protocol, the U.S. military teamed up with the Columbian Navy to test a drug interdiction vessel. The Columbian Navy played the part of drug runners, using small Go--Fast boats that are capable of outrunning the standard Coast Guard boats. The U.S. sailors got to play with the Stiletto.

The Stiletto is unique in appearance, with her M shaped hull, and is quite special in her capabilities. She is capable of launching a 33 foot RIB complete with a U.S. Coast Guard boarding party in less than a minute. This means response times are greatly reduced.

However, the Stiletto is not perfect, and still needs further design modification. High speed handling is an issue, as injuries and sea-sickness is common. Other refinements are to weapons systems, and revised sensors.........

Click here to read this news article.
 

From the Weekend Edition

Roger Spain.....

RiverBill's received the following e-mail from Little John....

Long time Contrios member Roger Spain of the boat Bad Inflence (the carpet guy)is in the hospital with serious heart issues. Roger is in Intensive Care, and special tests will be done on MondayThey are waiting for his heart to get stronger, to do much of anything.We will update as soon as we can, but in the meantime, Please keep Roger and Donain your thoughts and prayers

LJ

Atlantis.....

   Grid Is Not Lost City Of Atlantis !

In a news story from theage.com.au........ Google's mapping utility "has not" discovered the lost city of Atlantis.

Unexplained images produced by Google Earth appeared to be a grid of streets on the ocean floor just off the coast of Africa.  The find cause much stir among Atlantis hunters last week because the grid was located at one of the possible sites of the lost city. 

Futher study has determined that the grid is actually tracks left by boat sonar.
 

Click here to read this news story
 

Delta Queen Update........  

RiverBill's received the following e-mail from the save-the-delta-queen organization.

Dear Bill,

good news first: The National Trust for Historic Preservation eventually is supporting our efforts to save the Delta Queen as an overnight passenger vessel.

Kentucky preservationist Don Clare has nominated the Delta Queen to the National Trust's 2009 list of America's 11 Most Endangered Historic Places and we'll find out in late April whether or not she makes the final cut But in the meantime the Trust is helping the cause with this story on its website, PreservationNation: Delta Queen Steamboat.

Please join us in thanking our friends at the Trust for coming to our aid. You can do that at info@nthp.org. And if you haven't done so already, please second Don Clare's nomination of the boat to the 11 Most Endangered List: 11Most@nthp.org.

Delta Queen status update

On February 11, the Delta Queen arrived at Chattanooga, TN, where she'll stay for a while serving as a floating hotel (see: www.deltaqueenhotel.com). Ambassadors International will stay owner of the boat but is leasing her to Chattanooga Water Taxi Co. owner Harry Phillips. He's planning to open the hotel in April.

Ambassadors International states that this leasing contract is subject to end in case US Congress issues a new exemption for the Delta Queen and the boat will stay intact as she is, no alterations made.

For the moment this seams to be a good thing for the Delta ! Queen co mpared to sitting on idle in the humid climate of New Orleans at a spot with lot of river traffic and hence highly dangerous. At Chattanooga she'll be taken care of very well, Mr. Phillips has promised.

Next steps

Even though newspaper reports are talking about the Delta Queen being "permanentely moored" at Chattanooga we still belief this is just temporary. The fight for a new exemption for the Delta Queen continues, but at the same time we wish Mr. Phillips success for the Delta Queen hotel plans as this will also help preserving and eventually saving the Delta Queen.

If you want to do something right now, please contact the National Trust and support the DQ's nomination for the 11 Most Endangeres Historic Places. You might also want to inform your local newpapers about the National Trust's support for the Delta Queen.

Thanks very much for your help. Together we'll save the Delta Queen!

Yours Sincerely,
Franz Neumeier
www.save-the-delta-queen.org

Twin Vee Catamarans.......  

Picture of the Day

Sunday

KJ's Place

Click on pic to enlarge

Our River Picture of the Day..... is of some of the crowd celebrating Mardi Gras at KJ's Place last night in Portage Des Sioux, Mo

Next time your in the area stop in say HELLO, have a cold drink and a bite to eat.

Click on button above

and check out their webpage

Picture of the Day

Saturday

Happy Birthday Bernie !

Click on pic to enlarge

Our River Picture of the Day..... is from Bernie Patrico's Birthday Party at The Big Muddy last nite.  Pictured above are Sarah, Bernie, John and Michelle Patrico !

Happy Birthday Bernie !

More pictures from last nite's party

Yesteryear's

Picture of the Day

Sunday

A Cold Icy Day on the River

YesterYear's River Pictures from 2008...... was a shot from the Winfield Dam RiverCam taken yesterday about 4:25 PM.......Brrrrrrr 

Click here to go to the 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers  Research and Development Center website

Yesteryear's

Picture of the Day

Saturday

YesterYear's River Pictures from 2006...... was sent in by Greg Sadowski, who hails out of Woodland Marina.  Greg snapped a picture of these 3 white pelicans as they were taking to flight.  

RiverBill rates this one  as a "National Geographic quality picture" !

Updated Sunday at 7:11AM

Navigation Notice ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 2/21/09
Subject: PEKIN RAILROAD BRIDGE, MM 151.2 ILR
NAVNOTICE # 1560

USCG SECTOR UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER ISSUES THE FOLLOWING SAFETY ADVISORY:

DUE HAZARDOUS NAVIGATION CONDITIONS NEAR THE PEKIN RAILROAD BRIDGE AT MM 151.2 ILR, THE COAST GUARD REQUESTS ALL TOWS USE AN ASSIST VESSEL WHEN TRANSITING THE AREA AROUND THE BRIDGE. HIGH WINDS AND A VARIABLE STRONG CURRENTS HAVE BEEN REPORTED IN THIS AREA.
ALL MARINERS REQUESTED TO USE DUE CAUTION WHEN TRANSITING THE AREA.

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

Updated Sun at 8:15AM

Roger Spain.....

RiverBill's received the following e-mail from Little John....

Long time Contrios member Roger Spain of the boat Bad Inflence (the carpet guy)is in the hospital with serious heart issues. Roger is in Intensive Care, and special tests will be done on MondayThey are waiting for his heart to get stronger, to do much of anything.We will update as soon as we can, but in the meantime, Please keep Roger and Donain your thoughts and prayers

LJ

Updated Sun at 8:15AM

Illinois River

   Steamed Asian Carp Plant

According to a news article in pjstar.com....... Heartland Processing is planning to open a pilot plant in Havana, IL and start steaming the dreaded Asian Carp to turn them into fish meal and fish oil.

Click here to read this news story
 

Grafton's Landing Bar and Grill....

Grafton's Landing Bar & Grill will be open this weekend.

The restaurant will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from now on until the weather gets better.

Patricia Marcum
 

River History ........... The city of Portage Des Sioux was founded in 1799 by Spanish Lt. Gov. Zenon Trudeau and François Saucier. 

   The French name, Portage Des Sioux, originated from an overland escape route between the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers that was used by a band of Sioux Indians fleeing enemies. The Sioux portaged their canoes across the land in this area and outdistanced their rivals who took the river all the way to the confluence.

Source...Wikipedia Encyclopedia

U.S. Coast Guard photograph

Updated Sun at 7:15AM

Members of the 32nd Civil Support Team receive training on how to signal rescue crews in open water at Fort Meade, Md., Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2009. The Coast Guard is training the CST to be more familiar with maritime operations and survival for responding to hazards in and around maritime environments. U.S. Coast Guard photo/ Petty Officer 3rd Class Ayla Kelley.
 

River History ...........

River Mardi  Gras

August 6, 2005 

Iowa Beach @ UMR 224

Click here ...n' take a look back at this River Mardi Gras party

Mississippi River

   Hannibal Needs New Fuel System At The Marina...........

According to a news story from connecttristates.com........... During the floods of '08, the fuel system at the Hannibal Marina was damaged. Apparently, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources has found that the marina's fuel system is corroded and leaking. Hannibal has been issued 3 citations.

Costs just to remove the old tanks and piping is estimated to be between $12,000 and $20,000.

The fuel system at the Hannibal marina is vital in that it not only provides fuel for local boaters, but transient mariners as well.

It is hoped that FEMA will shoulder some of the bill, as the damage was caused by flooding.

Click here to read this news story.

Palisades Yacht Club

   Mardi Gras Party ..........

My River Home Docks For Rent....

   Rent a 36 foot dock for the year and get the free use of a hoist.

   Call Andy 314.566.5403

Kaskaskia River

   Kaskaskia Above Flood Stage In Clinton County..........

In a news report from fox2now.com...... The flood warning for the Carlyle tw is still in effect. As of 2:30 pm on Friday, the river was just over flood stage at 423.8 feet. Flood stage is at 423.5 feet.

Minor flooding has been forecast, and the Kaskaskia River is expected to reach 424.3 feet by Monday morning.

Click here to read this news report.

 

The RiverBills.com February 2009 Calendar ------ 

      To make a wall calendar.....click here and print it on a piece of 8 1/2 X 11 photo paper. Set the paper to "landscape" and "center" the photo on the paper.
Enjoy

Meramec River

   Historic River Bridge May Be Closing......

According to a news story from threeriverspublishing.com............ Crawford County road workers were performing maintenance and repairs to the historic Bird's Nest Road bridge that spans the Meramec River. Repairs included replacement of metal braces, and boards, as well as the lubrication of pins.

MoDOT will have to inspect and approve of the work that has been completed. It will also have evaluate the bridge's safety for traffic.

Commissioner John Hewkin has stated that the bridge will eventually not be safe for vehicle travel, and as a result will be closed. It has been determined that the bridge is not essential, and the county can't cough up the necessary funds for its replacement..........

Click here to read this news story
 

Fishing News
   Fall Might Just Be Prime Time For Hooking Up Gigantic Flathead Catfish......

In a news story from 2.arkansasonline.com......... Arkansas waters are ripe with the flathead catfish. From the lakes, to the trophy-flathead producing Arkansas River, there are plenty of places to drop a line, and tempt the cats.

And due to the flathead's propensity to feed and bulk up for winter, the autumn season is the time to fish for the record-breakers.

It is believed that the flatheads feed in the fall, and "hibernate" similar to bears, and other mammals as the colder winter season sets in.

This hibernation is backed up by eye witness accounts of the large cats lying on the bottom, covered in silt, as if in a state of suspended animation.

Click here to read this news story

Atlantis.....

   Has Google Earth Discovered The Lost City Of Atlantis?

In a news story from cbs2chicago.com........ Google's mapping utility has produced many "discoveries" over the years, from a guy with a sniper rifle, a lost Roman villa in the pristine forests of Mozambique, to the discovery of the lost city of Atlantis.

The "finding" located off the coast of Africa resembles street grids. The exact coordinates are 31 15'15.53N, 24 15'30.53W.

Google released a statement that the underwater street grids are actually a byproduct of the mapping process..................

Click here to read this news story.

 

Lake of the Ozarks

   Polar Bear Plunge This Weekend.......  

The 14th annual Polar Bear Plunge will be held  at Lake of the Ozarks State Park on Saturday, Feb. 28th.

Registration Opens at 12:00 Noon, Parade of Costumes starts at 2:00 - Plunge starts at 2:30

Click here for more information. 

Friends Of Pool 9 Honored In Washington...........

In a news report from the gazetteonline.com........... A friends group that formed after usage limitations were proposed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, will be acknowledged as the National Friends Group of the Year in Washington. This group was formed three years ago, to preserve the Mississippi River for future generations to enjoy.

The group that would become the Friends of Pool 9 met with Fish and Wildlife reps in 2006, to discuss shortcomings in the upkeep of beaches on the upper Mississippi River. The group was granted permission to rehab the beaches, and quickly organized funds, labor, and well as equipment to restore them.

The national recognition award will be the second in the group's history. Last summer, Friends of Pool 9 was given the Izaak Walton League of America's Honor Roll Award.

Click here to read this news report.

Click here to visit the Friends of Pool 9 website.

Welcome New Advertiser !

Picture of the Day

A River Sunrise

Click on pic to enlarge

Our River Pictures of the Day..... are of a river sunris, taken last Sunday morning in the Two Branch Island area of the Mississippi River.

Sitting on a river bench

watching the sun rise and the river flow !

Yesteryear's

Picture of the Day

click on pic to enlarge

YesterYear's River Pictures from 2006...... was of workers moving the harbor building into Grafton Harbor. 

Lynne Adams took the above pictures.

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 2/19/09
Subject: ATON DESTROYED
NAVNOTICE # 1559

SUBJ: WESTERN RIVERS BNM NR 0029-09 UM
SAFETY AND SCHED BCSTS UNTIL CANCELLED
USCG NOTICE TO MARINERS EIGHTH DISTRICT NR 0029-09 UM
ILLINOIS RIVER
1. THE USCG SECTOR UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER ISSUES THE FOLLOWING
AIDS TO NAVIGATION NOTICE:
A. BLUE CREEK POINT LOWER LIGHT (LLNR 7015) MM 172.5 RDB ILR. LIGHT
IS EXTINGUISHED.
B. SPRING BAY LIGHT (LLNR 6995) MM 174.3 RDB ILR. LIGHT IS EXTINGUISHED.
C. BABBS SLOUGH LIGHT (LLNR 6920) MM 184.1 LDB ILR. LIGHT IS DESTROYED.
D. BENNETTS LANDING LIGHT (LLNR 6910) MM 184.8 RDB ILR. LIGHT HAS
BEEN DESTROYED.
E. HENRY ISLAND LIGHT (LLNR 6875) MM 193.3 RDB ILR. LIGHT IS EXTINGUISHED.
F. WILLOW POINT DAYBEACON (LLNR 6805) MM 201.0 RDB ILR. LIGHT IS
DESTROYED AND MISSING.
G. FLAT BEND LIGHT (LLNR 6795) MM 204.0 RDB ILR. LIGHT IS DESTROYED.
H. BUREAU CREEK LIGHT (LLNR 6760) MM 209.4 LDB ILR. LIGHT IS DESTROYED.
I. HUSE SLOUGH LOWER DAYBEACON (LLNR 6670) MM 219.8 LDB ILR. LIGHT
IS DESTROYED AND MISSING.
J. PERU LOWER DAYBEACON (LLNR 6665) MM 220.7 RDB ILR. LIGHT IS
DESTROYED AND MISSING.
2. MARINERS ARE REQUESTED TO TRANSIT THESE AREAS WITH EXTREME
CAUTION.

 

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

Grafton's Landing Bar and Grill....

Grafton's Landing Bar & Grill will be open this weekend.

The restaurant will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from now on until the weather gets better.

Patricia Marcum
 

Coast Guard Auxiliary

   Boating Safety Class at Cabela's in Hazelwood........

The Coast Guard Auxiliary still has room available for late registrants for the Boating Safety Class being offered on Feb 21 and 28, from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM at Cabela's in Hazelwood.

If people are interested, they can email Mark at msz@charter.net for information. Would appreciate if you could get a small notice up.


 

Delta Queen

   Ohio Rep Introduces New Resolution To Save The Delta Queen.............

According to a news report from wcpo.com......... Ohio State Representative, Robert Mecklenborg (R) has introduced a resolution urging the National Trust for Historic Preservation to select the Delta Queen as one of America's Most Endangered Places.

Previously, Mecklenburg's resolution to urge Congress to renew the Queen's exemption from the 1966 Safety At Sea Act was unanimously accepted by the Ohio General Assembly.

The Queen's cessation of operations affects not only the Mississippi and Ohio River corridors, but the tourism of many states as well.............

Click here to read this report.

Con Trios Yacht Club.......

    February "Get Together"

Con Trios Yacht Club February "Get Together"

Saturday February 28th, 2PM to 6PM

Big Muddy Food and Spirits,
3761 New Town Boulevard,
St. Charles, MO
(636) 724-7920

Click here to go to the Con Trios website for more information

Grafton Harbor....

   Slips Now Available............. No Personal Property Tax

   Call now.....618 - 786 - 7678

Mississippi River Fishing News......
   Study Shows Fish Wintering In Dredge Cuts, Under Ice

According to a news story from the press-citizen.com............ After spending the summer and fall of catching and installing transmitters on the dorsal fins of crappie, bass, and bluegill from the Mississippi River near Debuque, Iowa, researchers returned to the frozen waters armed with a radio frequency receiver, knotted line with a sinker to measure depth, and an auger to see just where the fish go during the winter months.

One of the things the researchers discovered is that the fish tend return to the areas where they have survived winters past.

Click here to read this news story.
 

My River Home Docks For Rent....

   Rent a 36 foot dock for the year and get the free use of a hoist.

   Call Andy 314.566.5403

Boat Show News.....

$3 Million In Sales At Atlanta, Atlantic City And Miami Boat Shows Indicate Improving Consumer Confidence.........

According to a news story from motorboating.com.......... Everglades Boats, manufacturer of luxury fishing boats, reported exceptional sales numbers from several important boat shows.

This, in conjunction with the planned production shutdown has allowed sales figures to catch up with production. Workers will resume production starting March 2nd, and will gradually ramp up in response to demand.

Started in 1999, and located in Edgewater, Fla., Everglades Boats has rapidly moved to the forefront in the family/sports fishing category. With models ranging in size from 21-35 ft, and construction processes rendering the boats virtually unsinkable, it is no wonder that Everglades has been honored with 3 industry awards............

Click here to read this news story.

Click here to visit the Everglades Boats website

 

38th Annual Illinois Boat Show Docks In Rockford, Ill............

In a news report from the dailyherald.com............ the 38th annual Illinois Boat Show is taking place this weekend in  Rockford Illinois..

Fri, 20, February..... 4pm-8pm
Sat, 21, February.....10am-6pm
Sun, 22, February..... 11am-5pm

Show location:
8800 E Riverside Blvd. Loves Park, In the East Expo Hall..........

Click here to read this report.
 

Des Plaines River

   EPA States Oil Spill Cleanup Complete.....

In a news story from wthitv.com............. Caterpillar, Inc.'s oil spill clean-up effort is being monitored by the EPA. They released a statement that the lion's share of the cleanup is complete, and any penalties against Caterpillar will be announced at a later time.

The EPA stated that the oil spill has not had a sizeable impact on the ecology.....

Click here to read this news story.

Great lakes

   Environmentalists Call For Stricter Federal Regulations On Ballast Water....

According to a news report from dispatch.com............ Invasive aquatic species pose a grave threat to the Great Lakes marine ecosystems, as well as Lake Erie's $1 billion per year tourism industry.

The U.S. EPA has identified 30 species of aquatic invaders, 13 of which have decided to call the Great Lakes home. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service puts the cost of damage to wildlife and businesses at $100 billion, each year.

Elimination of invaders is not practical, so the focus turns to prevention, however the suggested ballast tank filters and treatment systems have met with opposition from the shipping companies. The EPA has not stated their position on species invasion prevention...........

Click here to read this news report.

Sort of Crazy News
   Surfer Rescued from Lake Superior !   In February !

In a news report from sootoday.com............ The U.S. Coast Guard, in cooperation with the Marquette, Michigan Fire Department, Police, and EMS workers rescued a surfer from Lake Superior earlier this week.
 

According to the news story, the man and his surfboard were swept over a break wall into the cold waters of Presque Isle Harbor.  The surfer was trying to paddle to back to the shore, but was still 150 years out when rescued.

The surfer collapsed prior to reaching shore. Luckily, EMS personnel were standing by to rush the victim to the hospital.

Click here to rear this news report.

Lake of the Ozarks

   Polar Bear Plunge This Weekend.......  

The 14th annual Polar Bear Plunge will be held  at Lake of the Ozarks State Park on Saturday, Feb. 28th.

Registration Opens at 12:00 Noon, Parade of Costumes starts at 2:00 - Plunge starts at 2:30

Welcome New Advertiser !

Picture of the Day

Who Is That River Rat ?

Click on pic to enlarge

Our River Picture of the Day..... is of River Rat, Capt'n Johny Hornung at the St. Louis Boatshow last week.

Who is he ?

John is one of the people that works down in the hull of the RiverBills.com boat to keep it a-float and on-line each and every day.

John likes to burn the midnight oil cruising around on the water-ways of the internet in search of river news and oddities.  He likes to write the news intro's and he puts together the RiverBIll's monthly calendars.  He takes pictures here and there ....and... even dabbles in a little river history now and then. 

Say hello to Johny next time you see him out and about ...or ...on the river.

RiverBill says...Thanks for all you do John !

Yesteryear's

Picture of the Day

click on pic to enlarge

YesterYear's River Picture of the Day in 2006...... was sent in by Tony and Debbie.  It's a picture of a beautiful orange and yellow river sunset with a silouette of the lighthouse at the Duck Club in the foreground.  Great shot !

RiverBill says........Thanks for the picture Tony & Debbie

Mississippi River

   Hannibal Railroad Bridge Slow, But Functional.......

According to a news story from kmov.com........... The Norfolk Southern railroad bridge spanning the Mighty Mississippi River at Hannibal, Mo. has to raise to allow passage for large river traffic. Usually, this operation takes about three minutes. After the breakage of a driveshaft coupling, the process takes more than 3 times as long.

The U.S. Coast Guard was concerned with the safety of the bridge, and concluded that it would operate safely enough. Bridge operators must have 30 minutes notice before mariners can pass through...........

Click here to read this news story.

Lake of the Ozarks

   Polar Bear Plunge This Weekend.......  

The 14th annual Polar Bear Plunge will be held  at Lake of the Ozarks State Park on Saturday, Feb. 28th.

Registration Opens at 12:00 Noon, Parade of Costumes starts at 2:00 - Plunge starts at 2:30

Click here for more information. 

Con Trios Yacht Club.......

    February "Get Together"

Con Trios Yacht Club February "Get Together"

Saturday February 28th, 2PM to 6PM

Big Muddy Food and Spirits,
3761 New Town Boulevard,
St. Charles, MO
(636) 724-7920

Click here to go to the Con Trios website for more information

Grafton Harbor....

   Slips Now Available............. No Personal Property Tax

   Call now.....618 - 786 - 7678

Illinois Fishing Report .......

 

Click here for the Chicago Sun-Times Fishing Report

My River Home Docks For Rent....

   Rent a 36 foot dock for the year and get the free use of a hoist.

   Call Andy 314.566.5403

Drinking Beer and Walking......  Captain George Shindel sent us a bit of info in 2008 on drinking beer and walking....

A recent study found that the
average American walks about 900 miles a year.
Another study found
Americans drink, on average, 22 gallons of beer a year.
 

That means, on average, Americans get 41 miles per gallon of beer !

So what is a boater's ratio for nautical miles per gallons of beer ?

Boat Show News.....

Miami Florida
Attendance At The Miami International Boat Show Down By 26%...........

According to a news report from miamiherald.com............ In concurrence with expectations of lower attendance and sales, the Miami International Boat Show saw a decrease in show goers to the tune of 26%.

96,736 people rotated the turnstiles this year versus 130,487 in '07.........

Click here to read this news report.
 

Louisville, Ky.
Preparations Underway For The 2009 National Houseboat Expo........

According to a news story from houseboatmagazine.com............ Set-up for the 11th annual National Houseboat Expo began at the Kentucky Exposition Center. With manufacturers rolling in the houseboats, and vendors prepping to hawk their wares.

The show will start Friday afternoon ........

Click here to read this news story
 

The RiverBills.com February 2009 Calendar ------ 

      To make a wall calendar.....click here and print it on a piece of 8 1/2 X 11 photo paper. Set the paper to "landscape" and "center" the photo on the paper.
Enjoy

Missouri River

   Kansas City Officers Look For Man In Missouri River.......

In a news report from kansascity.com......... Police are searching for a man who went into the Missouri River from the Heart of America Bridge in Kansas City.

Officials are not sure whether the man fell in the river, or if he jumped.

Water rescue teams are searching the river in boats..........

Click here to read this report.

Coast Guard Auxiliary

   Boating Safety Class at Cabela's in Hazelwood........

The Coast Guard Auxiliary still has room available for late registrants for the Boating Safety Class being offered on Feb 21 and 28, from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM at Cabela's in Hazelwood.

If people are interested, they can email Mark at msz@charter.net for information. Would appreciate if you could get a small notice up.


 

Mississippi River
   A Minnesota City Woman Charged In Boating Accident.........

In a news article on news.postbulletin.com............ Mary Louise Salisbury of Minnesota City faces six charges stemming from the July 4th collision on the Mississippi River between the powerboat she was piloting and a pontoon boat. Salisbury was towing a tuber, and her attention was focused behind her vessel when the collision occurred.

A passenger from the pontoon boat was impaled on one of the powerboat's cleats, and dragged off of the pontoon. The victim was taken to shore for medical attention..........

Click here to read this news article.

Welcome New Advertiser !

Picture of the Day

Every Boat Has It's Story

Click on pic to enlarge

Our River Picture of the Day..... was taken last week at the St. Louis Boat Show.   Its some of the members of the Mississippi Valley Antique & Classic Boat Society.

A great bunch of boaters. 

Every boat they had on display had it's own story !   All interesting !

The group put together movies of boaters on the Mississippi River taken in the 40's and 50's and were showing on an old classic television set....Wow.   They were really remarkable. One of the first things I noticed is that there was no River Road along the bluffs yet !

Keep your anchor right where it is...... because we have more stories and pictures coming down the river from these guys in the future.

RiverBill says... A big muddy thanks goes out to everyone from the Mississippi Valley Antique & Classic Boat Society for the tour and the stories !

Yesteryear's

Picture of the Day

BRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR

click on pic to enlarge

YesterYear's River Pictures of the Day in 2007......were from Clarence Forti. He titled them "BRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR"

Bill, 
I hope this weekend is the start of the spring thaw.......We shall see.......

Clarence 

 RiverBill says.... Boy...it really looks cold in those pictures !   

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 2/17/09
Subject: Waterway Restriction/Closure - Hannibal R/R Bridge - CANCEL
NAVNOTICE # 1558

The Hannibal Railroad Drawbridge is now open to navigation.
 

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

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

Contact: Doug Edelman
Assistant District Staff Officer - Public Affairs
District 8WR USCGAUX
edeldoug@charter.net
636-379-0877
February 18, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

National Safe Boating Week is May 16 – May 22, 2009

The North American Safe Boating Campaign began in 1957 and has developed through the years into a large scale, international campaign. Working with partner organizations such as the US Coast Guard Auxiliary and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, the North American Safe Boating Campaign promotes a message of boating safety, encourages boater education, and helps to save lives. The campaign sponsors National Safe Boating Week during the week preceding the Memorial Day Weekend each year. Memorial Day is deemed by many as the unofficial kickoff to the boating season.

The primary message of the Campaign this year is to promote the wearing of life jackets every time and all the time you are on the water. The slogan is as simple as the message, “Wear It!”

Life jackets unquestionably save lives. The overwhelming majority of boating fatalities involve drowning, and it is rare that a drowning victim is wearing their life jacket. Many lives would be saved if everyone wore their life jacket all the time on the water. There is no other single safety action one can take which could directly reduce as many boating fatalities.

Unfortunately far too many boaters do not wear them! A life jacket kept “within reach” is vastly different from a properly fitted and worn life jacket when accidents can happen in an instant and you find yourself in the water!

While many boaters will rationalize that life jackets are bulky, ugly, or uncomfortable, newer life jackets come in a variety of styles and types which are much more comfortable and stylish than those of years past. There are even “barely there” inflatable life jackets which inflate automatically if you fall in the water.

The US Coast Guard Auxiliary will be emphasizing the “Wear It” message in their many safety events leading up to and culminating with National Safe Boating Week in May.

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 how 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 29,000 members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary donate millions of hours annually in support of Coast Guard missions.

### 

First Boat Top Ten Most Popular Boat Names For 2008.......  
      

 Click here to read this news article on www.firstboat.com.

Spring & Longer Evenings  Are On The Way.......... 

• Only 30 days until Spring.  The Spring Equinox is Friday, March 20th this year.

• Plus Daylight Savings Time  is right around the corner .... it begins on March 8 and ends Nov.1st this year.

We Finally Got the Date Set

   Kinder's Season Opener....... Friday, Feb 27th  

Come Join the Season Opener Party !

The river band

 Rail 

Will be playing the music

    Dining Room Hours....

Friday ......... 5 PM - 9PM

Sunday....... 11AM - 7PM 

Weather Permitting

Call 618 - 883-2586 or  618 - 883-2356

Click here to go to Kinder's website

Grafton Harbor....

   Slips Now Available............. No Personal Property Tax

   Call now.....618 - 786 - 7678

"Flood Pulses" On Missouri River Mimic Nature...........

According to a news story from argusleader.com............. An effort to save the pallid sturgeon, the spring pulses, imitate a naturally occurring event. That is the heavy flow of water downstream, due to the snow melt. These efforts, however, are controversial due to the effect on barge traffic.

It is believed that the Missouri River dams have changed the way the river functions. Biologists hope that the increase in flow will urge the endangered pallid sturgeon to spawn, and breathe new life into the river ecosystem. The pulses bring invertebrates for young fish to eat, as well as create "nurseries" for sturgeon youngsters to grow.

Click here to read this news story.

My River Home Docks For Rent....

   Rent a 36 foot dock for the year and get the free use of a hoist.

   Call Andy 314.566.5403

Bait Shop Locator Offered By BoatUS......

In a news report from portclintonnewsherald.com........ Whether you need help planning a fishing trip , or just the location to the nearest bait and tackle shop, boatusangler.com/bait has your answers, with the ability to search by regions, states, zip codes, and even bodies of water!

Click here to read this news report.

Click here to visit the boatusangler.com/bait website.

 

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

RiverBill's received the following e-mail from Jim Low of the the Missouri Department of Conservation..

Few fishing regulations changes for 2009 (w/pic)
Anglers will find little changed since last year,
but they need to buy new permits March 1.

JEFFERSON CITY—Missourians will not have to adjust to many changes to the state’s fishing regulations this year, but they do have to remember to buy a new permit for outings starting March 1.

Missouri’s permit year runs from March 1 through the last day of February the following year. 2009 resident fishing permits and prices remain unchanged from 2008. However, resident and nonresident anglers under age 16 will be able to buy trout permits for $3.50 instead of the regular price of $7, effective July 1. Daily trout tags at Missouri’s four trout parks will remain $3 for adults and $2 for anglers under age 16. Also effective July 1, the price of a nonresident fishing permit will increase from $40 to $42.

The only other change in 2009 fishing regulations affects nonresident students attending public or private secondary, post-secondary or vocational schools in Missouri. These students can buy 2009 resident permits – except lifetime permits – starting July 1. Such purchases must be made at Missouri Department of Conservation offices. Nonresident students must carry evidence of Missouri residence and student status while fishing on resident permits.

More information about Missouri fishing permits is available at mdc.mo.gov/regs/permits.htm.

-Jim Low-

 

The RiverBills.com February 2009 Calendar ------ 

      To make a wall calendar.....click here and print it on a piece of 8 1/2 X 11 photo paper. Set the paper to "landscape" and "center" the photo on the paper.
Enjoy

U.S. Coast Guard photograph

USCGC Osage

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Osage, homeported in Sewickley, Penn., and its crew steam down the Ohio River during an underway trip Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2009.

The Osage, a 65-foot inland river tender that pushes a 100-foot barge, has an area of responsibility that covers the Allegheny, Monongahela, Ohio, Kanawha and Big Sandy rivers in and throughout the Pittsburgh area.

The crew is tasked with maintaining approximately 800 aids to navigation in and along the rivers' banks, while also brush-cutting areas around shore aids during the summer months. The Osage, along with other river tenders in the Coast Guard's fleet, is responsible for maintaining a safe and navigable water system throughout the U.S. Crews of the river tenders work long hours enduring extreme weather conditions to ensure that commerce is flowing up and down the U.S. river system.

(U.S. Coast Guard photo/Petty Officer 2nd Class Thomas M. Blue)



 

Coast Guard Auxiliary

   Boating Safety Class at Cabela's in Hazelwood........

The Coast Guard Auxiliary still has room available for late registrants for the Boating Safety Class being offered on Feb 21 and 28, from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM at Cabela's in Hazelwood.

If people are interested, they can email Mark at msz@charter.net for information. Would appreciate if you could get a small notice up.


 

Guidelines For New Boat Owners.............

In a news article from housebaotmagazine.com............. After purchasing your "new" houseboat, or any boat for that matter........ there are a few chores you better attend to. The big three start with taking care of registration and title, taxes, and guaranteeing the proper care for your boat, whether in use, or in storage...............

Click here to read this news article.
 

17th Century Wreck Discovered in Lake Michigan Believed To Be The French Griffin..........

According to a news report from guardian.co.uk.......... An epic journey, started 34 years ago, when a teacher taught Steve Libbert of the Griffin's disappearance on Lake Michigan, came to a head, when divers discovered a length of timber sticking from the sandy bottom. It is believed that this is just the beginning of the recovery of a French exploration ship filled with shipyard supplies, cannons, muskets, and furs.

As a result, the French government has decided to get involved in the battle for rights to the wreck. The state of Michigan, however, states that the wreck is set into the lake bottom, and was abandoned; thus it is state property.........

Click here to read this news report.

Welcome New Advertiser !

Picture of the Day

A Sunday Morning Sunrise

Click on pic to enlarge

Our River Picture of the Day..... is a shot taken early Sunday morning in the Two Branch Island area. 

Yesteryear's

Picture of the Day

A Flock of Snow Geese

click on pic to enlarge

YesterYear's River Pictures of the Day in 2006......... was sent in by her entry in by Lynn Williams. 

    It's actually a series of pictures.  The first one, shown above, is of the Grafton Ferry crossing the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers.  

Put on your life jacket, throw out your anchor and then  click here.  Watch the amazing sequence of pictures of what happens when the ferry disturbs the flock of white snow geese in it's path !

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 2/16/09
Subject: Waterway Restriction/Closure - Hannibal R/R Bridge
NAVNOTICE # 1557

The Hannibal R/R bridge at MM 309.9 UMR is immobiblized in the closed to navigation position due to mechanical failure. All vessels are requested to contact USCG Sector Upper Mississippi River on VHF-FM ch 16 or at (314) 269-2332.
 

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

COMEDY NIGHT

$10 per person

Saturday February 21, 2009 @ 8pm

Back by popular demand

is nationally touring comedian

David Graham

As seen on Comedy Central & the Tonight Show

With opening act Chris Smith

Doors open at 6pm with a limited menu.

Live music by DJ Ray following the show.

Reservations recommended, David’s shows

 sell out nationwide.

Call 636-250-3042 and leave a message.

Must be 21.

105 Lake Village Drive, St. Charles, MO 63301

636-250-3042

Mississippi River

   Bank Stabilization Along Great River Road........

In a news report from thetelegraph.com........ The Illinois Department of Transportation has teamed up with Baxmeyer Construction Inc. to shore up the eastern bank of the Mississippi River along the Great River Road. The damaged riverbanks stem from last years flooding.

Crews are dumping large rocks along the the river bank to help stabilize the ground and prevent erosion.

The work between Grafton to Alton has been going on for the last couple of weeks.  It should be completed this Wednesday.

Click here to read this news report.
 

Grafton Harbor....

   Slips Now Available............. No Personal Property Tax

   Call now.....618 - 786 - 7678

Upper Mississippi, Illinois and Missouri Rivers

   Flood, Maintenance, And Repair Estimates For 2009.....

According to a news article from connecttristates.com........ The Upper Mississippi, Illinois, and Missouri Rivers Association got together for their annual meeting to discuss river issues. High on the agenda was the flood estimates for this spring. Given the slow snow melt, the forecast looks good and the chances for a major flood are fairly low.

Other topics under discussion were the state of levee repairs, as well as the needed updates and repairs to several locks and dams.

Click here to read this news article.

My River Home Docks For Rent....

   Rent a 36 foot dock for the year and get the free use of a hoist.

   Call Andy 314.566.5403

Coast Guard Auxiliary

   Boating Safety Class at Cabela's in Hazelwood........

The Coast Guard Auxiliary still has room available for late registrants for the Boating Safety Class being offered on Feb 21 and 28, from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM at Cabela's in Hazelwood.

If people are interested, they can email Mark at msz@charter.net for information. Would appreciate if you could get a small notice up.


 

Saturday    21 &  28  February, 2009

Cabela’s at Mills Mall to Host USCG Auxiliary Safe Boating Class

Contact: Doug Edelman
Flotilla Staff Officer - Publications 3-13 8WR USCGAUX
Assistant District Staff Officer - Public Affairs
edeldoug@charter.net
636-379-0877
January 5, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Cabela’s at Mills Mall to Host USCG Auxiliary Safe Boating Class

Boater Education Saves Lives

Missouri’s Mandatory Boater Education Law, which took effect January 1, 2005, requires that every Missouri resident born after January 1, 1984 who operates a vessel on Missouri lakes must carry a boating safety identification card issued by the State Water Patrol, and a valid photo ID. This requirement includes operators of personal watercraft like Jet-Skis. The boating safety ID card indicates successful completion of a boating safety education course.

Flotilla 3-13 of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary will be offering the Boating Skills and Seamanship course at Cabela’s in Hazelwood, at the St Louis Mills Shopping Center . The class meets from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM on 2 consecutive Saturday mornings, February 21 and February 28, 2009. Successful completion of this course will not only earn the boating safety ID card, but will give you invaluable information which will help you to remain safe on the water.

Pre-registration is necessary as space is limited. Sign up will be held at Cabela's during their Great Outdoors Hunting and Fishing Days event on February 15. For more information, contact Mark at msz@charter.net or cell phone number 314-803-7044.
 

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 how 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.

###

The RiverBills.com February 2009 Calendar ------ 

      To make a wall calendar.....click here and print it on a piece of 8 1/2 X 11 photo paper. Set the paper to "landscape" and "center" the photo on the paper.
Enjoy

U.S. Coast Guard photograph

A crew member from Coast Guard Cutter Resolute shoots a tow line across to the Coast Guard Cutter Dependable

 

The Future of Boating Magazines ..........
 

According to a news report on tradeonlytoday.com....... a group of industry publishing experts speaking at the Miami International Boat Show predicted that boating magazines are here to stay, but their editors and writers need to work multimedia into their future plans.

They predicte a continuing move from paper magazines to electronic publications. Boaters read paper magazines to get ideas, find out about products and destinations..... and then use the Internet to find out more.

Click here to read this news story

Welcome New Advertiser !

Picture of the Day

Sundowners

Boatshow Party Bus

Click on pic to enlarge

Our River Picture of the Day..... is from Capt'n Darryll Weil, who hails out of the Yacht Club of St. Louis in the cruiser...."After You."

Bill,

Updated my website, www.captainweil.com with some more pictures. On Friday, February 13th, 2009. Sundowners at Yacht Club of St. Louis organized a bus trip to the Boat Show. We had snacks and refreshments on the bus and then the Rail Band played at the club when we returned. We then stayed on our boat that night. Great way to go to the Boat Show.

To see the pics go to: http://www.captainweil.com/20090213boatshow/default.htm

Enjoy,

Darryll
 

Yesteryear's

Picture of the Day

click on pic to enlarge

YesterYear's River Pictures of the Day in 2007......... were sent in by our friend Carl Seidler.  

   Carl, his wife Marsha and son Daniel hail out of Grafton Harbor.  

Bill, 

   Daniel and I went up to the farm Wednesday evening and took a Couple Pictures at the Ferry, Here we are watching the Ice Cubes go down the River and my Friend Larry (Liberty) Is Chasing his Stolen Boat around Florida in the Sunshine, Just glad he got it back in one piece, Hope they never messed it up to much.

Take Care, 

Carl

RiverBill says...Thanks for the pictures Carl.     Buoy ..that water looks cold.

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 2/15/09
Subject: High Waters on the Illinois River, Ice Conditions on the UMR
NAVNOTICE # 1556

SUBJ: WESTERN RIVERS BNM NR 0028-09 UM
SAFETY AND SCHEDULED BROADCASTS UNTIL CANCELLED
CANCEL WESTERN RIVERS BNM NR 0026-09 UM
USCG NOTICE TO MARINERS EIGHTH DISTRICT NR 0028-09 UM
UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER
USCG SECTOR UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER ISSUES THE FOLLOWING SAFETY
ADVISORY:
A. ZONES 1-17 (MM 437.1 TO MM 857.6 UMR) REMAIN IN THE ACTION PHASE
FOR ICE CONDITIONS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE UMR WAP ANNEX.
B. ZONES 18-19 (MM 364.2 - MM 437.0 UMR) HAVE ENTERED THE WATCH
PHASE FOR ICE CONDITIONS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE UMR WAP ANNEX.
C. ZONES 4-6 (MM 80.3 TO MM 145.5 ILR) HAVE ENTERED THE WATCH PHASE
FOR HIGH WATER CONDITIONS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE ILR WAP ANNEX. ALL VESSELS ARE REQUESTED TO TRANSIT WITH CAUTION AND AT THE SLOWEST SAFE SPEED TO MINIMIZE WAKE DAMAGE BETWEEN THESE ZONES.
D. MARINERS ARE REQUESTED TO ENSURE THAT FLEETS ARE CLOSELY
MONITORED AND MOORING LINES ARE ADEQUATELY SECURED, AND TO EXERCISE DUE CAUTION TO AVOID SINKING BARGES AND HIGH LOCALIZED FLOW OR OUT DRAFT CONDITIONS DUE TO WATER BYPASSING A TEMPORARY DAM THAT MAY BE CAUSED BY AN ICE GORGE.
E. MARINERS SHOULD BE AWARE THAT BUOYS MAY BE UNRELIABLE DUE TO ICING CONDITIONS. ICE RENDERS REFLECTIVE MATERIAL INEFFECTIVE, AND ICE FLOWS MAY DRAG BUOYS OFF STATION AND SEVER BUOYS FROM THEIR MOORINGS.
 

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

St. Louis, Mo

   16 February 1854 in River History.......

Fifty were killed and twenty-five badly injured when the steamer "Kate Kearney" blew up as she was pulling away from a St. Louis wharf on 16 February 1854. Some of the passengers and crew were blown into the Mississippi River and lost.

Click here to read more 
 

Grafton Harbor....

   Slips Now Available............. No Personal Property Tax

   Call now.....618 - 786 - 7678

Boat And Sports Show Attendees' Vehicles Broken Into.........

According to a news story on ksdk.com........ The image of St. Louis has been tarnished by the thieves who broke into several vehicles and swiped some of the contents. One of the vehicles had been broken into three times over three successive nights.

A theft victim states that he did not have to alert authorities. Several of the vehicles had been fingerprinted, and an officer's business card had been left behind.

The St. Louis Police Department gave details on one of the thefts, in that it occurred at an attended lot, but the attendant did not notice anything unusual.

The thefts are reminiscent of the incident last summer, where 2 motorcycles were stolen during the Shriners International Convention.............

Click here to read this news story.

My River Home Docks For Rent....

   Rent a 36 foot dock for the year and get the free use of a hoist.

   Call Andy 314.566.5403

Update

   State of Illinois Lead ban........

The Prairie State Outdoors website........ has an update on the proposed bill that has introduced in the Illinois Senate to end the sale or distribution of lead sinkers and lead jigs in the state.

The bill would forbid the use of lead sinkers and lead jigs in the state's freshwater lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, brooks and similar bodies of water where the Illinois Department of Natural Resources has jurisdiction.

The Prairie State Outdoors website has some links to additional reading on  the matter.

Click here

Mississippi River, East Dubuque, Ill.
   Snow And Ice Spice Up Charity Golf Tournament.........

In a news report from thonline.com............ Some spouses may file for divorce over a Valentine's day present of a round of golf. Especially if the course is covered in snow and ice. But not Karan Lawler.

She, and hubby Scott, participated in the 6th annual Ice Golf Classic at Mid-Town Marina. The 168 participants shot 18 holes on the frozen Mississippi River.

The fundraiser benefits the St. Mark's Community Center in Dubuque.

Click here to read this report.

New portable Lift For Pontoon Boats Now Available.......

In a news report from north-american-waterway.com............. When you get the Sea Legs Pontoon Lift, you truly can take it with you.

Lower your Sea Legs to when making berth, Raise the Sea Legs to cruise. With features such as remote controls, single pump/single reservoir power unit, and an automatic shut-off upon full retraction, the system is available for twin and tri toon pontoon hulls........

Click here to read this report.

Click here to go to Sea-Legs website

The RiverBills.com February 2009 Calendar ------ 

      To make a wall calendar.....click here and print it on a piece of 8 1/2 X 11 photo paper. Set the paper to "landscape" and "center" the photo on the paper.
Enjoy

Upcoming Midwest Boat Shows........

   Endangered Species Proposed Delistings ........

 According to a news report on the Prairie States Outdoors website...... the Illinois Endangered Species Protection Board is expected to remove eagles from the state's threatened species list.   That doesn't mean a person cna go out and shoot them, because they are federally protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty and by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.

Click here to read this news article

   18th Annual St. Patrick’s Parade on the Water on Saturday, March 14 ........

 According to a news report on the LakeExpo.com...... The 18th annual on-the-water St. Patrick’s Parade at Lake of the Ozarks will be held on Saturday, March 14.

The boat parade will begin at Ozark Bar-B-Que with a breakfast buffet at 9AM.  The parade will begin at 11:30AM.
 

The Tropic Island Cruise Boat will be available to transport St. Patrick Day partiers without a ride to Coconuts, Jolly Rogers, Richard Knoggin’s and Three Pigs on the Water.

The awards ceremony will be at Ozark Bar-B-Que at 4:30PM.

.Click here to read this news story.

Last updated Sat at 7PM...Added Sunday pics, and News.....Add KKK Complete Marine Servise Ad.....Added flyer for Anchor Yankers St Patricks Dinner Dance, Con Trios Feb Get Together Info

Welcome New Advertiser !

Pictures of the Day

Sunday

River Gator

Click on pic to enlarge

Our River Picture of the Day..... was sent in by Capt'n Pete Zimmer, who hails out of Grafton Harbor in the cruiser "Jack Daniels Old #7."

Bill,

On our trip to the Gulf in Byron's Boat Zoe, we noticed these large bluish-green logs on the bank of the river down south. Pretty soon they started swimming after us.

This was around Demopolis on the Tom Bigbee Waterway and Black Warrior River.

Pete Zimmer
 

Pictures of the Day

Saturday

A Lighthouse n' Sailboats

and

Eagles n' Ice

Click on pic to enlarge

Our River Pictures of the Day..... Are from Valerie Aulabaugh, who hails out of Grafton Harbor in the boat "Last Call".

Bill,

We just got back from New Smyrna Beach, Florida. I thought I would send you a picture of sailboats and the Lighthouse at St Augustine.

We went to Grafton Harbor today to check on our boat. I took some pictures of the ice on the river and just happened to catch your readers favorite subject--a couple of eagles.

Hope everyone is staying warm. At least we have the boat show next week to look forward to.

Valerie Aulabaugh

Last Call

 

Yesteryear's

Picture of the Day

Sunday

click on pic to enlarge

Yester Year's River Pictures of the Day in 2007----- was sent in by Dave Tiefenbrunn , who hails out of Eagles Landing Marina, in the boat "Wet Bar".

Dave wrote:

Bill,

   A few of us got together yesterday at Eagles Landing Marina. (Sunday..02/11/07). 

   When being close to the river just isn't good enough you have to move the fire onto the river.   I know this does not look like a good idea, but Butch said it was fine!!

Thought you might like the pic.

Thanks,
Dave Tiefenbrunn
Boat - "Wet Bar" - Eagles Landing Marina

Yesteryear's

Picture of the Day

Saturday

click on pic to enlarge

Yester Year's River Pictures of the Day in 2007----- was sent in by Sharon Gwillim.   She took this picture at West Alton on Monday the 12th.    She snapped this picture just as this eagle caught his lunch out of the river.   

RiverBill says.... Good picture Sharon ..... Thanks!

Public Notices Open For Comment

   Posted on the US Army Corps Of Engineers Website.....

1. P-2707: The applicant request authorization to suction dredge up to 700,000 yards of sand between Mississippi River Miles 191 to 194, within St. Louis County, Missouri. The public notice opens on February 23, 2009 and closes on March 15, 2009.

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

The above was reprinted from the US Army Corps of Engineers website.

Information presented on CorpsWeb public web sites is considered public information and may be distributed or copied.

Click here to go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website

Note:  Lock and Dam 26 at Alton, IL is at Mississippi River Mile 200.5

St. Louis Boat & Sportshow.........

America's Center and Edward Jones Dome
701 Convention Center Plaza
St. Louis, MO 63101

Show Hours

Wednesday, February 11    5 pm –  10 pm
Thursday, February 12        2 pm –  10 pm
Friday, February 13            noon –   10 pm
Saturday, February 14        10 am – 10 pm
Sunday, February 15          11 am –   5 pm

For more information Click here

Online.....

Buy 3 tickets and get one free... Click here

River Valentines Day Parties......
 

Oasis Bar & Grill ....Sweetheart Dinner...click here

Palisades Yacht Club.... Sweetheart Dinner..  click here

Kinder's Restaurant....Dinner Dance......Click here

Missouri State Water Patrol News Release.....

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Jefferson City

2009 Serial Number Verification Stations Announced

In Missouri boaters are required to have a title for all vessels and/or outboard motors unless the vessel is powered by oar alone or is a sail boat less than 12 feet in length powered by sail alone. Any person who tries to register their boat or motor with the Department of Revenue will find that without a proper title many times they are required to have a serial number verification performed by the Missouri State Water Patrol. During this inspection a Water Patrol officer will check for a proper serial number and verify the vessel or motor is not stolen. The officer will complete a form 798 that will be submitted to the Department of Revenue along with the application paperwork. In order to make it easier for the public to have a serial number verification performed, the Missouri State Water Patrol has established the below listed station locations at which the public can bring a boat or motor by at the designated times. For a complete list of Department of Revenue requirements for registering a vessel/outboard motor please visit their web site at:

http://dor.mo.gov/mvdl/motorv/watercraft
 

Click here to continue reading this news release


 

Click here to check out the Missouri State Water Patrol website

Updated Sat at 7:00PM

Peoria, IL

   River Group Reviews 2008 Flooding

   
According to a news article in thehawkeye.com.........The Upper Mississippi, Illinois and Missouri Rivers Association met in Peoria, Illinois to review the 2008 flood season.  Not much has changed since 1993, and they everyone agreed that the Flood of 2008 reminded them that the levees along the rivers need to be improved to higher levels.

There are fears that funding to improve the levees will be delayed this year.  The Mississippi River Commission OK'd the Army Corps of Engineers plan to improve the levees in August of 2008.  Congress is now reviewing the proposal.

Click here to read this news story.




 

Updated Sat at 7:00PM

River Destinations

    Memory Lane Cafe.... Portage Des Sioux, Mo

   
According to a news article in the St. Charles Journal...... for some eagle watching and home made cooking stop by the Memory Lane Cafe located at 1850 Main street in Portage Des Sioux.

 The house is just a few blocks from the Mississippi River near the statue of the Lady of the Rivers.  Its the 2nd oldest house in St. Charles County.... Built in 1850.

The cafe is open only on Saturday and Sunday from 12 noon to 7 PM and has seating for 60 in the main dining room ...and 25 additional in the the smaller rooms.

Click here to read this news article.

Anchor Yankers

   St. Patrick's Day Dinner & Dance ......

The Anchor Yankers Boat Club will once again be celebrating our annual St. Pat’s Dinner and Dance on Saturday evening, March 14, 2009. This is a great evening of cocktails, dinner and dancing along with an open bar for only $39.95 each.

 A reservation form is available at http://www.a-y.us/09_stpats_ announcement.pdf


Richard D. Roberts
2244 Kehrs Ridge Drive
Chesterfield, MO 63005
(636) 532-5424

 

Updated Sat at 8:20AM

Con Trios Yacht Club

    February Get Together.

Con Trios Yacht Club February Get Together is set for Saturday, February 28th at Big Muddy from 2PM to 6PM. Registration is $10 per person to cover the appetizers, entertainment, etc. Cash Bar.

Check the Con Trios website for more information. This does qualify as an official event to help make your membership requirement of attending 2 events.

Darryll Weil,

Fleet Captain and webmaster

Click here to go to Con Trios yacht Club website for more info.....
 

My River Home Docks For Rent....

   Rent a 36 foot dock for the year and get the free use of a hoist.

   Call Andy 314.566.5403

Update

   Alton Amphitheater........

According to a news story on TheTelegraph.com........ there is a a lot of interest

in holding concerts, weddings and maybe even a martial arts exhibition at Alton's new Riverfront Amphitheater.

The city of Alton is using other cities' agreements to help model application, policies and restrictions, such as no coolers allowed. 

The city envisions concerts at the amphitheater bringing in audiences from well beyond Alton and that the facility would be used for smaller venues also.
 

The amphitheater will seat 4,000 people.


Click here to read this news story .

TheTelegraph.com Photo.... The Clark Bridge

     Click here for a photo from TheTelegraph.com of a disappearing Clark Bridge.