Wednesday

      30 September 2009

        Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Back at Longshot Saloon for one last time

"Rogers, Nienhaus & Crawford" -

 Saturday, October 3rd 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm

Annual Rat Run - "Mid Life Crisis" - Sunday, October 4th

1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Picture of the Day

Sunday Morning @ Grafton Harbor

   click to enlarge

The Pictures of the Day ..... were sent in by Paul & Joan Barbary, who hail out of Grafton Harbor in the boat ........."The Last One."

Hi Bill,
On Sunday morning with my coffee cup in hand, I walked to the end of the dock. Looking down river I said to myself, go get the camera. I got back in time to get these shots. You can see the Grafton Ferry and the Lighthouse silhouetted against the sun and clouds. I love this time of year.

Paul & Joan Barbary
Grafton Harbor
"The Last One"
 

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2007----  was sent in by Capt'n Bill Moyer, who hailed out of Grafton Harbor at that time, in the cruiser "Copier Cat".......  It's some of the party crew on "F" Dock.

Featured Boat of the Day

For Sale.....  1990 36' Carver Aft Cabin

To View This and Other Featured Boats ....Click Here


RiverBill's All Classifieds Page... Click here 

New Classifieds, New Prices

42' Bertram FB Motor Yacht                        1977 Marine Trader Trawler

River Levels / Flood Warnings.........  
   The graphs are checked for updates every 20 minutes !  

Winfield                                                 Grafton

Click here                                                                Click here

Alton                                                                 Hardin

• Click here for current Doppler Radar and up-to-date River Levels / forecasts for Winfield, Grafton and Alton Dam 

• Click here for U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, ST. LOUIS DISTRICT, RIVER & RESERVOIR DAILY REPORT.

• Click here to activate map from NOAA's National Weather Service website then click on gauge location for current river levels, river forecast and flood watches, warnings and advisories.

Front Page Index

Classifieds....... 

Click here  to check out RiverBIll's Featured Boats

Restaurant Section...... 

 Click here to check Business Hours....Dinner Specials...Drink Specials & Who's Playing Where ! 

What's Going On At The River This Week Section...... 

 Click here to check out this week's upcoming events

River News !  

Back To Index

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 9/29/09
Subject: Dredging at MM 185.1 UMR/ RIVER CLOSURE 1700-0700 CDT
NAVNOTICE # 1914

SUBJ: WESTERN RIVERS BNM NR 0409-09 UM
SAFETY AND SCHED BCSTS UNTIL CANCELLED
USCG NOTICE TO MARINERS EIGHTH DISTRICT NR 0409-09 UM
UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER
DREDGING OPERATIONS HAVE COMMENCED IN THE CHAIN OF ROCKS CANAL AT MM 185.1 UMR AND WILL CONTINUE UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. DREDGING OPERATIONS WILL BE PERFORMED FROM 1700-0700 CDT. DURING THIS PERIOD THE RIVER WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL NAVIGATION AND WILL REOPEN FROM 0700-1700 CDT. ALL MARINERS ARE REQUESTED TO CONTACT DREDGE AMERICA ON VHF-FM CHANNELS 8,13, OR 16 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO TRANSITING THE AREA FOR PASSING INSTRUCTIONS DURING THE OPEN TO NAVIGATION PERIOD. ALL MARINERS ARE URGED TO TRANSIT AT THEIR SLOWEST SAFE SPEED TO MINIMIZE WAKE AND PROCEED WITH CAUTION AFTER PASSING ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE.
 

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

  Oasis Bar and Grill

                  636- 250 - 3100

    Mon - Wed ..... 11AM - 9PM

      Thur ............... 11AM - 11PM

Fri.....Oct 2.. Rail
Sat..Oct 3...TBA
Sun.. Oct .....4 S & M Show

Football Chili Dog buffet 1-9

$5.00 Lunch Specials...Wed - Thur

Sunday Breakfast Brunch  9AM - 12 Noon

Click here for webpage

Little John's Motorsports Update

     Smokin In The Cove

2009 Smokin in the Cove on Lake Catherine in Arkansas. Little John's Motorsports was the #3 qualifier, with a 7.005 run. There were 27 boats in their class and only 16 get to qualify ! They ran on a 1000 ft track, 16th boat ran a 7.08. 135 boats at the race. Sunday Little John's Motorsports team ran too fast and broke out with a 6.96 and lost the race.

Click here and check it out more pictures from last weekend's race !

RiverBill says.... Thanks Capt'n Darryll Weil for the update.

Lake Ozarks

   Pictures From the OSS Boat Races From Lake Expo.com

Click here for RACE COVERAGE of the OSS National Championship 2009.

Click here for photos of spectators of the OSS National Championship 2009.
 

105 Lake Village Drive   St. Charles, Mo

636 - 250 - 3042 

Bar and Grill  Thurs 12-12     Fri-Sat 12-1:30am     Sun 12-10pm
Wednesday & Thursday ..Closed

Friday 4 -1:30AM

Saturday  12 Noon -1:30AM

Sunday  12 Noon - Dusk

Click here for map of Courtesy Docks

Please check our website www.sundownersstl.com

Missouri State Water Patrol News Release.....

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Jefferson City, MO

Water Patrol Conducts Swift Water Training to Respond to Major Flooding

The Missouri State Water Patrol held a swift water rescue training course in simulated fast-moving flood conditions below the Pomme De Terre Dam near Hermitage, Missouri last week. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers increased water flow from Pomme De Terre Lake to create the swift water conditions needed for a realistic class. Ten Water Patrol officers and five Missouri Department of Conservation agents took part in the training.

"This is invaluable training for both the Water Patrol officers and the Conservation agents involved. These were very realistic conditions and our officers need this kind of experience in advance to be ready when flooding happens. This training will not only help with getting more victims out of flood water, but it will ensure the safety of the officers and agents," said Lt. Eldon Wulf Director of training for the Missouri State Water Patrol.

During spring flooding in 2008, the Water Patrol was very active in water rescues. These rescues occurred in some of the most dangerous conditions a Water Patrol officer will ever face. There were several close calls during the 2008 floods that caused the Water Patrol to explore better training for officers. On March 18 two Water Patrol officers' boat became capsized along with another agency's rescue boat while trying to help victims stranded in trees on the flooded Hurricane Creek in Southern Missouri. The Water Patrol and Conservation Departments also had boats capsize in Ellington, Piedmont, and on the Mississippi River. Fortunately in each instance the officers were able to make it to safety.

During the training Water Patrol instructors covered boat operations in swift water, self rescue techniques, rope and pulley rescue systems and other flood rescue techniques. Many of the techniques focused on methods of rescuing victims without putting a boat in the water because conditions are often simply too dangerous to maneuver a boat and perform a rescue. The rope and pulley techniques learned will allow the officers to better coordinate efforts with rescuers from other departments that have received similar training. The Water Patrol plans to expand this training both to be better prepared to serve Missourians and to ensure officer safety in times of disaster.



News Release ID: N07090175
Release Date: 20090929

Click here to check out the Missouri State Water Patrol website

River History....

Flood of 1993…..The Mississippi River at St. Louis, Missouri, was above flood stage for 144 days between April 1 and September 30, 1993

Send Us Your News Tip !
 

  If you see something that you think your fellow boaters would be interested in, send us a news tip. 

E-mail it to RiverBill@prodigy.net and we will get it on-line. 

Use your cell phone if it's setup for e-mail.

636 - 724 - 7920 

Ladies 80's Night Every Wednesday

All You Can Eat Crab Legs- Monday Nights $21.95

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

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBill's........... click here

Always Somebody Else's Fault

Dan Owen sent us a link to a news article about a lawsuit that is the result of boating accident that happen on the Ohio River near Ravenswood, W. Va. in June 2007.

According to the news article in TheRecord.com.......The drowning deaths of two young children and their aunt has resulted in lawsuits between the survivors of the boating accident and owners of the towboat that collided with the personal watercraft on which the children and their aunt were riding.

The boating accident happed during the late night and early morning hours in June of 2007.

The pleasure craft was cruising down the Ohio River when they encountered a heavy fog and restricted visibility.  The adult passengers on the pleasure craft became disoriented, so they shut off the engine and began using strong lights in an attempt to locate the river bank.

At the same time the towboat, Michael Fisher, was attempting to locate the bank near mile 216.

According to the news article....the Bayliner moved into the path of the towboat and its tow, resulting in a collision.  The deceased.....Jesse and Samantha Fisher were asleep in the cuddy cabin of the pleasure craft.  They were unattended and not wearing personal flotation devices.  Jennifer Poston did not know how to swim and was not wearing a life jacket.
 

Click here to read the newspaper article .

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

Bill,

Here is a message that I received from a towboat captain in the same area at the same time. The bracket insertions are mine, to make the message more explainable to your readers. It goes to show that if a licensed towboat pilot ties up in the fog in an area he is familiar with, that pleasure boater had absolutely no business on the river at the time.

Dan Owen

The towboat captain wrote:

Yep, sure had a feeling that some legal action would result from this.

It took me a second for this to jog my memory, but I still remember that night perfectly, as we were headed back to Parkersburg light boat after taking a MMT [Magnolia Marine Transport Co. ]barge to Catlettsburg. I went off watch at midnight just after clearing the East End bridge, and it was still clear as a bell with just a few wisps of fog coming off the water. About a half hour later just as I was dozing off, the pilot went all stop and put a hell of a steer in her. I ran upstairs, and it had completely shut out in that short of time. As the closest good spot to tie off while light boat was an hour back behind us, I came back on watch and got her on up inside the small chamber at Byrd lock where we waited for it to lift. Luckily, I had a Crounse boat running ahead of me for much of that journey to let me know how things looked ahead. I had a hard enough time keeping my bearings with just my radar (didn't have a chartplotter on there at the time), and it most definitely was NOT a night for a pleasure boat to be out there trying to find their way around.

As a side note, what has not been mentioned anywhere is that the deckhand from the Dirk Taylor dove in the water after the collision to try to rescue the occupants that were trapped in the cuddy cabin of the sinking boat. The deckhand is actually a former employee of ours that left on good terms...he went to work for SMI [SMI Marine Transportation LP] since it cut down considerably on his daily travel time. I hope for his sake that the case against SMI is dismissed so he doesn't have to relive the events of that night through a court trial.

 

RiverBill says...Thanks Dan Owen for keeping us informed......

Visit Dan Owen's Boat Photo Museum  ...click here

Blue River At Kansas City

Sewage Spill In A Tributary Of The Missouri River.............

According to a news story from kansascity.com.............  At least 3 million gallons of raw sewage spilled into the a tributary of the Blue River in south Kansas City, Missouri.  The Blue River empties into the Missouri River.

The spill is attributed to a sewer line failure.  The ruptured line was discovered Friday, and was reported to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) regional office, rather than the DNR spill hotline, which is manned at all hours.  The DNR did not receive the voicemail until noon Monday.

The DNR arrived at the scene of the spill, to find city workers repairing the sewer line.  Following the repair, water samples are being studied from both above and below the breach, as well as in the Blue River........

Click here to read this news story.

.

636 - 899 - 1093

Best View of the Bluffs on the River !

Hours: Thur - Sunday Opening Daily at 11:30am

Thursday: $1.00 Sloppy Joes
Friday: $1.00 Can Beer All Day        Saturday: $10 Buckets and $5.00 Martinis
 

WIFI is now available ! 

Oct 9th and 23rd ....Rockingbird DJ & Kareoke... 8pm

Click here for map from MapQuest             Click here  for website

Palisade yacht Club still has a few 36 foot docks available.

Contact Amy at 636-899-1093 or 314-706-2313.

River Research

Scale Waterway Project Provides Clues For Healthy River..............

According to a news report from physorg.com...........  A team of researchers form the University of California, Berkley have reverse-engineered a meandering waterway, and come up with some surprising results.  Vegetation and sand are crucial for a healthy river. 

It has been long acknowledged that vegetation is needed to slow erosion, and contributes to bank reinforcement, but the results of this model show vegetation plays a critical component in meandering.  This experiment also demonstrates the need for sand, for it's ability to create point-bars, and to block off chutes that may reduce flow through the channel, as well as the overall health of the waterway. 

This model is a first using the combination of "gravel" (sand), fine sediment, vegetation, and water, for a model that behaves similar to an actual healthy waterway.  In 130 hours of operation. the model mimicked portions of the Mississippi River.  The scale changes of the model reflect 5 - 7 years of change along the Mississippi River.............

Click here to read this news report.

Knight's I-70

Boat & RV Storage

(314) 456- 1386

Click here for map from MapQuest

Asian Carp Watch

Biologists Fear Asian Carp One Step Closer To Lake Michigan.............

Even though the Army Corps of Engineers has turned up the voltage on their $9 million electric fish barrier located in the Chicago Ship and Sanitary Canal, the Asian carp have been migrating up the adjacent Des Plaines River.   Since the Asian carp invasion may be only a rainstorm away from Lake Michigan, biologists feel that sandbags may be the only answer. 

Authorities are concerned that if the Des Plaines floods, it will overflow into the Chicago Canal, and give the carp a pathway to the Great Lakes around the electric barrier.  The Des Plaines has a history of leaving it's banks.

It has been suggested to build an emergency berm between the waterways.  This will be no small feat, as the needed barrier would cover 6 miles.  Other obstacles include obtaining the land rights to build the berm, where the necessary permits would be obtained, and whether local homeowners would be more likely to be flooded...........

Click here to read this news article from jsonline.com.

Click on Ad above 

US Coast Guard Photo

Fountain Powerboats Update

New Deal Being Hammered Out Between Fountain and Liberty Investments...

According to a news report from wdnweb.com..............  A deal is in the works for Liberty Investments to become the primary shareholder of Fountain Powerboat Industries, Inc.  This move would allow Fountain to reorganize and retain their assets, as opposed to being auctioned off on Monday, October 5th.

Liberty Investments, who have recently become primary shareholders in Donzi and Pro-Line, would finance the reorganization, and assist with the repayment of debt.  Reggie Fountain would remain as president and CEO of Fountain Powerboat Industries, Inc.

Last week, Hustler Powerboats was close to purchasing a $19.6 million bank note from Fountain's largest creditor, Regions Bank.  However, the note had been purchased by Oxford Investment Group for $6.5 million.  If the deal with Liberty goes through, Oxford will be treated as a secure creditor, and Fountain's debt will be repaid over time............

Click here  to read this news report.

.

Tuesday

      29 September 2009

        Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Back at Longshot Saloon for one last time

"Rogers, Nienhaus & Crawford" -

 Saturday, October 3rd 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm

Annual Rat Run - "Mid Life Crisis" - Sunday, October 4th

1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Picture of the Day

Capt'n Tim and his Crew !

click to enlarge

The Pictures of the Day ..... arrgh from Capt'n  John !

Bill

Looks like the Pirate theme has caught on around the Alton Pool. Capt'n Tim and crew in the Pirate ship "Gypsy Rose" made another cruise around the area Saturday and Sunday. It looks as though the pirate ship will become a regular scene around these parts. Capt'n Tim plans to make October and Halloween the purrrrrrrrrfect time to be a pirate

John Sturm

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2005 ----  was of a row of sailboats silhouetted against last  Saturday's sunset......What a picture......Look at those magnificent colors !

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 9/28/09
Subject: Shoaling IVO MM 180.0 ILR, approximately 250 ft off the RDB
NAVNOTICE # 1912

ILLINOIS RIVER
THE COAST GUARD HAS RECEIVED A REPORT OF SHOALING IVO MM 180.0 ILR, APPROXIMATELY 250 FEET OF THE RIGHT DESCENDING BANK. A M/V BUMPED BOTTOM AT THIS LOCATION WITH A 9 FOOT DRAFT WITH THE PEORIA L/D UPPER POOL GAUGE READING 440.12 FEET ON 28SEP09. ALL MARINERS ARE REQUESTED TO TRANSIT THIS AREA WITH EXTREME CAUTION.

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

Mississippi River

     Idaho Man Floats From St. Louis To Memphis On A Flatboat........

According to a news story from klewtv.com...............  Tom Eier, from Lewiston, Idaho, and a crew of 11, re-enacted Meriwether Lewis' final journey down the Mississippi River aboard a replica flatboat. 

It took two weeks to float the 400 miles from St. Louis, Missouri to Memphis, Tennessee.  Eier states that the job of the crew was to avoid the barges that shared the river, especially through the ox-bows.

Eier believes that journeys like his re-enactment, serve to keep history alive...........

Click here to read this news story.  With Video.

Meriwether Lewis

While serving as the first American Governor of the Louisiana Territory, Meriwether Lewis left his headquarters in St. Louis, for Washington D.C..  Originally intending to reach D.C. via a ship sailing from New Orleans, he changed his mind while floating down the Mississippi River.  Lewis intended to take an old pioneer road, the Natchez Trace, instead.  Lewis died about 70 miles from Nashville, Tennessee.  October 11, 2009 marks the 200th anniversary of his death.........

Source: Wikipedia Encyclopedia.  Click here to read more.

US Army Corps of Engineers

     River Runts Program

Beginning October 21st, River Runts will meet for an hour a week for 6 weeks at the National Great Rivers Museum in Alton, IL. Kids ages 3-5 are invited to attend, but must be accompanied by an adult. During each session, the Runts will hear a story, make a craft, and have a snack that are all related to the current season and local wildlife. Participants must register in advance by visiting www.mtrf.org. This is the first offering of what we hope to be a very successful program, so please help us get the word out!

For more information, contact either me or Erin Hilligoss-Volkmann. Unfortunately, we are experiencing a temporary phone outage, so email is the best means of communication.

Thank you,

Mindy Cory, Park Ranger
US Army Corps of Engineers

National Great Rivers Museum
PO Box 337
Alton, IL 62002

E-mail: mindy.j.cory@usace.army.mil
Office: 618.462.6979
Mobile: 314.581.9058
 

Mississippi River At New Orleans, Louisiana

    Oil Tanker Runs Aground In The Mississippi River Shipping Channel....

An oil tanker, the Eagle Tuscon, loaded with 602,000 gallons of crude oil, has run aground in the Lower Mississippi River shipping channel.  The incident occurred just before 3 am Monday morning, near Pilottown, Louisiana.

The Coast Guard has been dispatched to determine if any oil had been spilled.  No spills were reported. 

Traffic in the channel has been restricted to vessels with less than a 35 foot draft, passing through one at a time.  Six tugs are assisting the Eagle Tuscon, and lightering ship is standing by, to remove oil from the Eagle Tuscon, if needed......

Click here to read this news article from nola.com.

Pilottown, Louisiana

A small river community about 85 miles downriver of New Orleans.  The town acts as a base for river pilots to guide ships up and down the Mississippi River..............

Source:  Wikipedia Encyclopedia.  Click here to read more.

From Monday's Edition.... We had a bad link in the AM

Unusual Tow Job

     Smelly too.......

Click here for a picture of the Union 8, Antwerpen with a whale in tow !

Click here for photo #2

RiverBill says...Thanks to Capt'n Dan Owen for sending us the above link..... 

Visit Dan Owen's Boat Photo Museum  ...click here

Cedar Hill Resort Update.....
 

The last day of operation for the 2009 boating season will be on Sunday, October 25 th

Send Us Your News Tip !
 

  If you see something that you think your fellow boaters would be interested in, send us a news tip. 

E-mail it to RiverBill@prodigy.net and we will get it on-line. 

Use your cell phone if it's setup for e-mail.

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

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBill's........... click here

Boat Sales

   Boat Sales Decline Slows In August......... 

According to a news article from tradeonlytoday.com................  Slower boat sales declines were the rule for August across all segments.  All fiberglass boats, including personal watercraft, dropped by 18.9%

In the 14 - 30 foot segment, not including personal watercraft, fiberglass boat sales declined by 21.1%, and aluminum fell by 19%.

Personal watercraft sales figures show a decline of 13.3%.  The higher sales volume in this segment helped fiberglass vessel sales outperform aluminum vessel sales for August..........

Click here To read this news article.

Yappy Hour Tonight

     Riverfront Park, Alton, IL

Bill,

We have talked a few times on the river, I’m one of the owners of Spirits Lounge in downtown Alton. We are hosting a Yappy Hour at Riverfront Park tomorrow night. Thought some of the river dog fans might find this event of interest. The money goes to the “dog park” development fund to be used for a dog park in Alton for all to use. If you could post this on Riverbill's I would greatly appreciate it!!!

I know most people are winterized but I know I can count on your crew being out for another month. We stay out to the bitter end as well, hope to see you out.


Thanks,
Tim Brueggeman

Boat Manufacturer

   Genmar's Reorganization Plan Deadline Has Been Extended..........

According to a news report from tradeonlytoday.com..............  A Minnesota bankruptcy judge has granted Genmar's request to extend to due date for their reorganization plans.  The plans were originally due at the end of September.

Genmar had requested the extension run through to December 31, 2009.  The judge's ruling allows for a new deadline of November 4, 2009.

Since the case involves 22 debtors, with over 7000 creditors, the size of the case alone was grounds for extending the exclusivity period............

Click here to read this news report.

Genmar Holdings, Inc. produces several boat brands, including:  Ranger, Champion, Marquis, Triumph, Stratos, FinCraft, Windsor Craft, Carver, Seaswirl, Larson, Glastron, Hydrasports, Wellcraft, and Four Winns. 

Click here to visit the Genmar website.

Mississippi River At New Madrid, Missouri

   Cabela's King Kat Fishing Tourney Results

Saturday afternoon marked the end of Cabela's King Kat Fishing Tournament, held in the Mississippi River at New Madrid, Missouri.  The tourney is the final competition leading up to the King Kat Classic national tournament.

The winners were Kentucky natives, Glynn Grogan, and Walter Hays.  They brought in 160 lbs of catfish. 

The largest fish caught was 59.9 lbs, and caught by the Illinois team of Dale Kerns, and Greg Edwards.

Click here to read this news report from standard-democrat.com.  With Photo.

US Coast Guard Photo

Monday

      28 September 2009

        Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Back at Longshot Saloon for one last time

"Rogers, Nienhaus & Crawford" -

 Saturday, October 3rd 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm

Annual Rat Run - "Mid Life Crisis" - Sunday, October 4th

1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Picture of the Day

River Dawgs

Jade & Lilly

click to enlarge

The Pictures of the Day ..... were sent in by Mary Delano and Dan the Zebra Man, who hail out of the Alton Motor Boat Club in the boat..... The Bullet

Hi Bill,

Hope all is well. Great day on the river today, as most all are!

Had to send a picture of my new river dawgs before the year came to an end. Had them out at 9 weeks and now turning 6 months. My Shanny was a river Dawg, and hope she can always be as I lost her to leukemia in February but I know her spirit will always be with the river. This is Jade and Lily, and they love the river and all the friends they made this summer, especially those on dog island!! Hope we have a short winter and see you on riverbills until next summer!! Thanks for all you do!!!


( I like the first pic but had to send all just to show you what river dawgs they really are!)

Mary Delano and Dan the Zebra Man
Jade and Lily
The Bullet
Alton Motor Boat Club

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2006 ----  was from Kurt Jaeger, who hails out of the My River Home harbor in the boat "Patricia Ann".  He sent us a picture of his wife enjoying a beautiful river-sunset:

Kurt wrote: 

   St. Charles County
 

          
According to a news report in STLtoday.com........ The Federal Emergency  Management Agency informed St. Charles city and county that they would re-issue proposed floodplain maps for the area if a local government report shows that inaccurate data to create the maps.

This action is a result of a presentation that St. Charles city and county officials gave to FEMA District 7 officials on September 17.  The presentation illustrated concerns about inaccurate data.

The proposed revisions to the FEMA maps would add hundreds of properties in the city and county to the 100-year floodplain. The proposed change would require property owners in the revised flood plain to buy flood insurance and make them comply to various restrictions.

Click here to read this news story

Saturday, Oct 31

Music by Park Road

Pumpkin Bowling, Door Prizes, Great Time!!

Valley Sailing's Governor’s Cup

   Saturday - Sunday  03, 04 October 2009  

          
The 60th Annual Missouri Governor's Cup Regatta
One Designs, Cats, Misc., and Cabin Boats – October 3 & 4, 2009
Valley is North of Hwy 94, 1.5 mi E of Portage Des Sioux or 1.4 mi W of Sioux Passage Power Plant.

Saturday Schedule - October 3rd
    8:00 Registration (Coffee & Bagels)
    9:30 Skippers meeting
    10:00 Harbor gun
    10:45 1st Race warning signal
    Lunch Follows 1st Race
    2nd race warning signal follows lunch
    3rd race warning signal Immediately following
    No race to start after 3:30 pm


Sunday Schedule - October 4th
    8:30 Race Notifications posted
    10:00 Harbor gun
    10:45 1st Race warning signal
    2nd race warning signal to follow
    No race to start after 1:00 pm

This is a Regatta open to all classes of mono hulls and catamarans. One Design Classes that have participated in the past include:
Lightning, Comet, Mutineer, Laser and Hobie.
Cabin Boats will be scored using a USSA approved handicapping system.

Go to  www.valleysailing.org for more information.

Illinois River

    Brussels Ferry

    Grant For New Push Boat and Vehicle Barge

 According to a news story in TheTelegraph.com......... The Illinois Department of Transportation has received a $1.76 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation for a new push boat and vehicle barge for the Brussels Ferry !

The ferry connects Illinois Route 100 in Jersey County to Highway 1 in Calhoun County, Illinois.  It is located about one mile west of Grafton and four miles east of Pere Marquette State Park.

The Brussels Ferry push boat and 12-vehicale car barge project was built in 1979.  It recently failed and was removed from service.

Click here to read this news story
 

Smokin In The Cove

     Little John's Motorsports Update

Saturday Report

Little John's Motorsports is the #3 qualifier, with a 7.005 run at the dragboat races at Lake Catherine, Arkansas.  That's just outside of Hot Springs.

• There are 27 boats in their class and only 16 get to qualify !

• They are running on a 1000 ft track

• 16th boat ran a 7.08

• 135 boats at the race

Sunday Report

Little John's Motorsports team ran too fast today and broke out with a 6.96 and lost the race.

Mississippi River

    Flood Plain Meeting

A public meeting will be held on Wednesday to discuss a  proposal to raise 120 levees along the Mississippi River north of Pike County, Mo., to the 500-year flood plain level.

Where...The Pike County fairgrounds, 15884 Highway 54 near Bowling Green at 2PM.

The Mississippi River Commission has a proposal on the table to raise improve levees on the Illinois side of the Mississippi River. Their plan has not been authorized nor funded, but it has raised concerns that it would increase flooding in areas south of those levees, including St. Charles, Lincoln and Pike counties.

Click here to read this news story
 

Unusual Tow Job

     Smelly too....... (Link fixed)

Click here for a picture of the Union 8, Antwerpen with a whale in tow !

Click here for photo #2

RiverBill says...Thanks to Capt'n Dan Owen for sending us the above link..... 

Visit Dan Owen's Boat Photo Museum  ...click here

Big Ohio River Blue Cat Picture

Click here for a picture of a big blue cat that was caught on the Ohio River by Jamie Riley.  She just happens to own Katjuice bait enhancer company.

Fishing at the Grafton Ferry Landing Picture

Click here for a picture of fisherman, Curtis Washington, at the Grafton Ferry Landing.....

Send Us Your News Tip !
 

  If you see something that you think your fellow boaters would be interested in, send us a news tip. 

E-mail it to RiverBill@prodigy.net and we will get it on-line. 

Use your cell phone if it's setup for e-mail.

Mississippi and Kaskaskia Rivers

   Madison County, Illinois

   Lawsuit Alleges Herbicide A Threat To Drinking Water...........

A class-action lawsuit filed in Madison County, Illinois in 2004 is finally moving forward.  The lawsuit claims that farm runoff of the herbicide, atrazine, is polluting drinking water supplies. 

The plaintiff states that there are 80 Illinois water providers, including those that draw from the Mississippi, Illinois, and Kaskaskia Rivers,  have atrazine contamination.

The defendants argue that the chemical has been federally monitored since it was first sold domestically in 1959.  The U.S. EPA allows 3 part per billion atrazine level for safe drinking water. This works out to about a spoonful in an Olympic-sized swimming pool.

Some recent studies show that atrazine may be harmful in smaller concentrations than 3 parts per billion..........

Click here to read this news report from bnd.com.

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

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBill's........... click here

Mississippi River Watershed

   Farmers Endorse USDA's Mississippi River Basin Initiative..........

The National Corn Growers Association has strongly endorsed the USDA's plan to assist with making the watersheds in the Mississippi River basin healthier. 

The USDA's initiative provides funding of $320 million over 4 years to support conservation practices that prevent, control, and contain nutrient runoff, improve wildlife habitats, while maintaining agricultural productivity.  The initiative is distributing funds to 12 states, including Missouri. 

Click here to read this news article from agprofessional.com.

Chain of Rocks Bridge

    Route 66 Festival

The bridge that carried the Old Route 66 across the Mississippi River is the site of the second annual St. Louis Route 66 Festival.

When .....Saturday, October 3rd

Time .......11 a.m to 6:30 p.m.

Classic cars, great food and live music.

For more information, visit www.trailnet.org
 

    Riverftont Park ... Alton

RiverJam 09 took place at Riverfront Park in Alton, IL on Saturday Sept 26......

The Riverbend Family Ministries sponsored the event, with contemporary Christian music in the early afternoon and a major concert venue after dark..... BarlowGirl and Superchick with special guest VOTA performed.

Click here to read this news story.

Let the Flood Plains be Flood Plains !

   Fox River In Kendall County, Illinois

   Farmland Along The Fox River To Be Restored To Its Natural State.........

In an effort to reduce flooding, and improve water quality, 27 acres of farm land along the Fox River will be restored from crop land to native vegetation.  The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation division has granted $86,500 for this wetlands restoration project.

These wetlands serve to scrub excess nutrients, and pollutants from the water before it reaches the Fox River, which is a tributary of the Illinois River.

Over the next year, 864 acres across Illinois will be involved with floodplains restoration projects...........

Click here to read this news article from surburbanchicagonews.com. 

From the Wikipedia Encyclopedia

The Fox River is a tributary of the Illinois River.  It begins in the state of Wisconsin and runs through the state of Illinois into the Illinois River..

The Fox River has 15 dams and in the early history of the State of Illinois, the Fox River provided water for the Illinois and Michigan Canal via a feeder canal, allowing the canal to pass over the Fox River on an aqueduct....click here
 

Northern Mississippi River Fishing

    Fish Not Following Normal Patterns, Except Catfish.........

Mississippi River anglers near Dubuque, Iowa report that over the last month, bass and walleye has been difficult to catch.  In fact, the only fish really biting is catfish. 

It is believed that fish are not at their normal places, due to low water, and fluctuating water temperatures.

Another factor may be a recent hatch of bait fish, thus reducing the chances that a bass might strike at artificial lures.

For better chances of catching bass, fishing pros suggest looking for bass in places they normally wouldn't be, and casting white lures in the fall..........

Click here to read this news article from thonline.com.

US Coast Guard Photo

The Weekend Report

Saturday, Sunday..

      26, 27 September 2009

        Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Back at Longshot Saloon for one last time

"Rogers, Nienhaus & Crawford" -

 Saturday, October 3rd 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm

Annual Rat Run - "Mid Life Crisis" - Sunday, October 4th

1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Picture of the Day

Sunday

Saturday's River Sunrise

The Picture of the Day ..... is of Saturday morning's river sunrise taken near the Two Branch area of pool 26.

Photo by RiverBill

Picture of the Day

Saturday

The Pirates of Palisades !

The Picture of the Day ..... was sent to us by Amy Spencer of Palisades Yacht Club and Grandpa Bob of Sea Mist

Elizabeth (LIZ) the Pirate Lady

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Sunday

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2006 ----  were from Terrie and Brian Bert,  of the boat Gulliewash.  They snapped a shot of one of those marvelous sunsets we have this time of year. 

  ~~~~^~~~~~~^~~~~~~^~~~~~~^~~~~~~

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Saturday

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2005 ----  was  some pictures from the Cardboard Boat Races at Capt'n Jack's. 

Four entries , 3 actually made the race. 

Chuck and Sue in MoonDoggie II tipped right away, Dennise and MaryBeth screamed around the course in record time, the Pirate ship with Capt'n Bill, Egg Throwing Mike and Gary made across the harbor and last but not least the, the Pontoon Battle Ship manned by all of the "Off-Brothers" ruled the waters that day.

  ~~~~^~~~~~~^~~~~~~^~~~~~~^~~~~~~

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 9/25/09
Subject: DREDGING CONTINUED AT MM 184 UMR/ RIVER CLOSURE
NAVNOTICE # 1910

SUBJ: WESTERN RIVERS BNM NR 0405-09 UM
SAFETY AND SCHED BCSTS UNTIL 290000Z SEP 09
CANCEL WESTERN RIVERS BNM NR 0394-09 UMR
USCG NOTICE TO MARINERS EIGHTH DISTRICT NR 0405-09 UM
UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER

DREDGING OPERATIONS HAVE COMMENCED IN THE CHAIN OF ROCKS CANAL AT MM 194.0 UMR AND WILL CONTINUE UNTIL APPROXIMATELY 29 SEP 2009. DREDGING OPERATIONS WILL BE PERFORMED FROM 1700-0700 CDT. DURING THIS PERIOD THE RIVER WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL NAVIGATION AND WILL REOPEN FROM 0700-1700 CDT. ALL MARINERS ARE REQUESTED TO CONTACT DREDGE AMERICA ON VHF-FM CHANNELS 8,13, OR 16 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO TRANSITING THE AREA FOR PASSING INSTRUCTIONS DURING THE OPEN TO NAVIGATION PERIOD. ALL MARINERS ARE URGED TO TRANSIT AT THEIR SLOWEST SAFE SPEED TO MINIMIZE WAKE AND PROCEED WITH CAUTION AFTER PASSING ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE.

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

Updated Sun at 6:00AM

Missouri State Water Patrol News Releases.....

News Release N07090173

Swamping - Meramec River 10/14/2008

Location:

     Scotts Ford Access, Steelville, Mo
Summary : 

Mrs Marquard was backing the truck down the access and Mr. Marquard was in the water unloading the boat. Mr. Marquard and the boat were caught by the current and swept under a low water bridge. Mr. Marquard sustained a 1 inch laceration to his head. He was transported to Missouri Baptist as a precaution.

Boat Type : 

Utility

Damage Estimate: 

Total

Click here to check out the Missouri State Water Patrol website

Updated Sun at 6:00AM

Missouri River Flood

    North Dakota Announces Public Cost Of The 2009 Flood..........

The adjutant general of the North Dakota Army National Guard, Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, has announced that the public cost of 2009's flooding on the Missouri River will total $140 million.  This figure is expected following the completion field assessments within the next few weeks.  The $140 million price tag does include the costs of fighting the flood, and assistance to victims, but does not include unreimbursed costs to homeowners, or their insurance companies.

The North Dakota National Guard teamed up with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in order to fight the flood.  However, North Dakota is going about damage assessment duties themselves.  The reason is that FEMA took over two years to run damage assessments from the flood of 1997, prior to providing assistance.  North Dakota is one of two states possessing the self-management authority to review damages incurred from disasters.

North Dakota is expected to complete assessments of the 2009 flood within the next three weeks, after only 6 months of review.................

Click here to read this news report from minotdailynews.com.

Updated Sun at 6:00AM

Mississippi River Watershed

    Farmers Endorse USDA's Mississippi River Basin Initiative..........

The National Corn Growers Association has strongly endorsed the USDA's plan to assist with making the watersheds in the Mississippi River basin healthier. 

The USDA's initiative provides funding of $320 million over 4 years to support conservation practices that prevent, control, and contain nutrient runoff, improve wildlife habitats, while maintaining agricultural productivity.  The initiative is distributing funds to 12 states, including Missouri. 

Click here to read this news article from agprofessional.com.

Updated Sat at 2:00 PM

Smokin In The Cove

     Little John's Motorsports Is #3 Qualifier

Little John's Motorsports is the #3 qualifier, with a 7.005 run at the dragboat races at Lake Catherine, Arkansas.  That's just outside of Hot Springs.

• There are 27 boats in their class and only 16 get to qualify !

• They are running on a 1000 ft track

• 16th boat ran a 7.08

• Lots of boats there

Little John said.... The sun is shining

                           The boat is running good !

                           Life is good

Missouri State Water Patrol News Release.....

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Lake of the Ozarks

Lake of the Ozarks Navigation Restrictions For This Weekend's Offshore Super Series Races
 

The Missouri State Water Patrol would like to remind boaters of the upcoming Lake of the Ozarks Offshore Super Series boat races on Lake of the Ozarks. The event will take place from approximately 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26 and Sunday, Sept. 27. Navigational traffic will be restricted to no wake, idle speed from approximately the 9 mile mark to the 5 mile mark. The no wake area will be enforced up to 30 minutes after the last race. The race course itself will stretch from approximately the 8.5 mile mark to the 5.5 mile mark of the main channel.

All efforts will be made to minimize inconvenience to boaters navigating in the area. There will be temporary delays on the north side of the main channel just downstream from the mouth of the Gravois Arm during the actual races. The south side of the channel will remain open to idle speed boating traffic during the entire event.

Anchoring will be allowed on the north side of the channel from North Buck Creek Cove at the 8 mile mark to the mouth of the Gravois Arm near the 6 mile mark. Anchoring will also be allowed on the south side of the channel from just downstream of Toad Cove at the 7 mile mark to the mouth of Cornett Branch Cove just downstream from the 6 mile mark. Anchoring will be limited to these areas to provide a safe environment for spectators.

We recommend all boaters use caution while traveling to and from the event. The Missouri State Water Patrol will have numerous patrol boats in the area to assist boaters. In addition, several boats from the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and from local fire protection districts will help direct boaters in the area. Volunteers from the event will also help direct boaters in the area.


News Release ID: N07090172
Release Date: 20090925
 

Click here to check out the Missouri State Water Patrol website

Missouri River At The St. Charles Riverfront

    This Weekend St. Charles Will Host Oktoberfest...........

St. Charles will be celebrating Oktoberfest this weekend, through Sunday.  The festival will be held at Frontier Park, along the banks of the Missouri River.

Festivities will include a beer tent, wine garden, food, vendors, a parade, as well as other entertainment. 

Oktoberfest will run from 10 am -11 pm Saturday, and 10 am - 5 pm Sunday.

Click here to read this news announcement from stltoday.com.

Click here to visit the St. Charles Oktoberfest website

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

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBill's........... click here

Upper Mississippi River

   Upper Mississippi Refuge Receives New Manager..........

Beginning November 9, 2009, the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge will have a new manager. 

Kevin Foerster has been tapped to replace Don Hultman, who was the manager of the refuge from 2002, until his retirement in June.  Foerster was the manager for the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Complex in California. 

The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge spans from Wabasha, Minnesota to Rock Island, Illinois............

Click here to read this news story from wxow.com.

Lake Of The Ozarks

   Offshore Super Series National Championship Race Sat &  Sun.........

35 boats in 9 OSS classes, and 5 Pro-Am classes will be the highlight of the Offshore Super Series event scheduled for this weekend at the Lake of the Ozarks. 

The race course begins and ends near the Horny Toad, and Shady Gator's Bar and Grill, close to the 7 mile marker.  For the best view of the races by land or water, it is recommended to find a spot between the 6 and 9 mile markers. 

Spectators will be allowed in the Race Village to check out the boats, buy swag, take photos, get autographs, or just mingle with racers and crews.  Other scheduled entertainment for the weekend is the legendary Rick Derringer, who will be performing a concert at the Horny Toad Amphitheater...........

Click here to read this news article from lakeexpo.com.

Click here to visit the OSS website.

From The Oops Files........

   Mississippi River Rescue Near Burlington, Iowa.......

Three men from Burlington, Iowa had to be rescued from the Mississippi River, Thursday, after their boat began taking on water, and then capsized.

The men were spotted by railroad workers, who called in the authorities.  The railroad crew had the boaters safely out of the water by the time rescue workers arrived. 

It is believed that the boaters forgot to install their drain plug.............

Click here to read this news story from kcci.com

Friday..

 25 September 2009

  Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Picture of the Day

The Pirates ....of

Palisades Yacht Club

Click on pic to enlarge

The Picture of the Day ..... was sent to us by Capt'n Tyler Mitchell who hails out of Palisades Yacht Club in the sailing vessel ..... Saint Somewhere.

BILL,

ARRRG! PIRATE DAY SAT. SEPT.19TH @ PYC.

WHAT A GREAT DAY!

WE STARTED WITH A PROPER DENAMING AND RENAMING AND CHRISTENING OF THE "TAM O SHANTER". THEN WE RACED AROUND THE ISLANDS AND HAD NAVEL BATTLES . CANNONS BALLS AND ARROWS WERE EVERYWHERE AKA-WATER BALLONS AND WATER GUNS. THERE WERE HEAVY CASALUTIES (EVERYONE WAS SOAKED). EVEN HAD 2 CANOES FROM PRINCIPIA JOIN IN THE FUN.

AFTER THAT AND SOME PLUNDERIN & PILLAGIN, IT WAS TIME FOR SOME GRUB & GROG-ARRRG!  (GREAT FISH-SWABS). THEN WE ALL SAT AROUND A FIRE AND LISTENED TO DITTY'S, DRANK MORE GROG, AND TOLD SEA STORIES.

HERE'S SOME PICS. GROUP, WENCHES, AND THE SCURVY DOGS THAT WON THE RACE-KIM AND I.

TYLER MITCHELL

(SAINT SOMEWHERE)

PYC

 

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2007 ----  was from Kelsie Brown who hails out of Grafton Harbor.

River Dawg "Billy"

Hey Bill!
I got a new River Dawg for you. 

This is Billy! He went for his first boat ride last night and He had a blast. When we took him back to Grafton Harbor he ran up and down the docks a few times. He's just like his Owners.... he loves to be by or on the water.

See You on the river!
Kelsie

  ~~~~^~~~~~~^~~~~~~^~~~~~~^~~~~~~

Navigation Notices ......

1909 9/24/09 

MULTIPLE RED NUN BUOYS MISSING IVO MM 335 UMR

1908 9/24/09 

RED NUN BUOY MISSING IVO MM 320 UMR

1907 9/24/09 

MULTIPLE RED NUN BUOYS MISSING BETWEEN MM 305-307 UMR

 
1906 9/24/09 

NUN BUOY MISSING IVO MM 256 UMR

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

Mississippi River

    $320 Million Will Be Spent By USDA On Pollution Prevention

Over the next 4 years, the federal government will be spending $320 million assisting landowners and farmers in 12 states, including Missouri, curb the amount of farm chemicals that runoff into the Mississippi River. 

The program will help farmers and land owners with the costs of farming techniques that will prevent excessive fertilizer runoff.  Funds may also be used to create wetlands that will trap the chemicals prior to reaching the waterways.

The USDA, while working on a task force with the EPA, announced the project funding Thursday.  The task force is working on ways to remedy the gulf of Mexico dead zone that is at the Mississippi River's mouth...........

Click here to read this news article from desmoinesregister.com.

Lake of the Ozarks

    Missouri Governor Promises To Cleanup Lake

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon announced a "massive" effort to clean up Lake of the Ozarks !   He called the quality of water in the lake "unacceptable."

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources will begin inspections of about 400 facilities, located around the lake, that have wastewater permits. Violators will be punished with a "zero-tolerance" policy.

The Governor called the effort "massive" and "unprecedented."

Osage Beach Mayor, Penny Lyons, blamed the geese for the E. coli problem in the lake.   The Mayor said during times of heavy rains..... the geese gather on the beaches and leave droppings.  The droppings contain the harmful bacteria.

Click here to go to Lake Expo.com and read this news report.
 

Illinois Fishing Report .......

Illinois Fishing Report..

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

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

 70 degrees, low, clear; channel catfish good on stinkbaits; drum good on nightcrawlers; carp good on doughbait; all other species. slow. (Report made on 9/24/2009)
 

Missouri River (below New Haven)

68 degrees, normal, dingy; channel catfish good on prepared baits; drum and carp good on nightcrawlers; largemouth bass fair on crankbaits; all other species slow. (Report made on 9/24/2009)

 

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

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

Check out the report for the entire state of Missouri

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

Little John's Motorsports

    Check out YouTube - Ashley Ruf @ Smokin in the cove

     Click here and check it out...... Ashley Ruf at Smokin in the cove

Sanitary and Ship Canal.... Chicago, IL

   Asian Carp are within A Mile Of Electric Barrier Protecting lake Michigan

According to a news report on the Prairie States Outdoors......... The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reported that DNA testing shows that the Asian carp within one mile of the electric barrier protecting Lake Michigan....

The Corps of Engineers is working with University of Notre Dame to use water samples and DNA testing to check for Asian Carp in the waters near rom electric barriers in the Sanitary and Ship Canal, the Des Plaines River, and the I&M Canal.

The university notified the Corps of Engineers in the middle of the month of September that six of the ninety-nine water samples tested positive for the presence of silver carp. The northernmost positive sample was from less than one mile south of the electric barriers.

The article reported that there are no Asian carp north of the barrier .

 

Click here to read this news article.......

Old Man River Project Update

   Annie And Crew Rowed Through The Twin Cities Wednesday.......

Wednesday afternoon the Old Man River Project, and their faithful York boat, Annie, arrived at Coon Rapids Dam, the last of 11 portages they would have to traverse, on their travels down the Mississippi River.

The crew has not cruised as quickly as anticipated, due to low water levels, and the obstacles that are lurking below the surface.  The crew has had to make two major repairs in one week. 

The second time, the boat unknowingly pulled along side the docks at the Larson Boat factory in Little Falls, Minnesota.  The crew at Larson Boats volunteered to repair the hull, with fiberglass.......

Click here to read this news article from wcco.com.

Click here to visit The Old Man River Project website.

Missouri River At Council Bluffs, Iowa

   Fuel Spill Causes Fish Kill.............

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources state that a fuel spill near the Missouri River caused the death of an estimated 20,000 minnows, and 200 bluegills. 

Although the spill occurred at a construction site near the river, apparently the diesel fuel did not actually reach the river. 

Authorities believe that the spill was intentional, and are searching for those responsible.

Click here to read this news story from omaha.com.  With Photo.

River Lockage Fees

   Mississippi Senators Voice Opposition To Lockage Fees..........

Republican senators Thad Cochran and Roger Wicker, both of Mississippi, have repeated their opposition to a lock usage fee proposal backed by the Obama Administration.  This proposed fee would help bolster the Inland Waterways Trust Fund. 

The senators are part of a 20 senator bi-partisan group the opposes the lockage fee, reasoning that the fee is not a fair or efficient way to repair the fiscal issues with the Inland Waterways Trust Fund.  Congress has rejected the fee in the past. 

The lock fee is intended to replace the existing 20 cent tax on diesel fuel.  The Trust Fund is used to assist with the 50/50 cost sharing requirements for building, replacing, or expanding U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers waterways projects........

Click here to read this news report from msbusiness.com.

US Coast Guard Photo

BEACHED VESSEL

MAYPORT, Fla. Đ The crew of the 78-foot commercial fishing vessel Kingfish climb back aboard the vessel after it went aground on Atlantic Beach on Naval Station Mayport Thursday afternoon Sept. 24, 2009. Coast Guard Station Mayport rescued two men from the vessel before the vessel went aground. The Kingfish is homeported in Mayport and the vessel owner is responsible for salvage or any necessary cleanup.

 U.S. Coast Guard photo/ Petty Officer 1st Class Bobby Nash.
 

 

 

Thurtsy Thursday..

 24 September 2009

  Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Picture of the Day

Labor Day ...Slim Island Breakfast

Click on pic to enlarge

The Picture of the Day ..... were sent in by Capt'n Todd White, who hails out of Harbor Point Yacht Club in the boat.... "Bank of Bad habits."

Bill,

Even some early morning work is fun after spending the night along Slim Island.

First mate Karen cleaning the grill before fixing a nice river breakfast from the galley of Bank of Bad Habits which hails from Harbor Point Y.C.

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Harley Houseboat

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2008 .......  was a  picture of a Harley Colored Houseboat moored in the upper harbor at Capt'n Jack's Marina.  The vessel is owned by Kent and Judy Houdek from Stillwater, MI.  They told me that they have been on the river for 1 1/2 years since they departed from Lock and Dam #1... and...... "there is"  a Harley on the front deck.  

    Kent told me "This is the coolest spot they have visited so far."

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

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 9/23/09
Subject: NUN BUOYS MISSING BETWEEN MM 149.3-150.3 ILR
NAVNOTICE # 1905

USCG NOTICE TO MARINERS EIGHTH DISTRICT NR 0400-09 UM
ILLINOIS RIVER MULTIPLE NUN BUOYS ARE MISSING BETWEEN MM 149.3-150.3 ILR. ALL MARINERS ARE REQUESTED TO FAVOR THE GREEN BUOY LINE AND TO EXCERCISE CAUTION WHILE TRANSITING THIS AREA.

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

Missouri State Water Patrol News Releases.....

News Release N07090171

 Drowning  - Lake Ozarks - 10/14/2008

Location:

     14 MM
Summary : 

Husband came home and found his wife's belongings on the dock. He then reported her missing to Camden County. Mrs. Benton was recovered by the dock at the 14 mm by Mid-Co Fire Protection Divers..

Deceased Name : 

Claudia Benton, 4/07/1948

Click here to check out the Missouri State Water Patrol website

Mississippi River At Alton, Illinois

   The Alton Marina Among Businesses Honored..........

Six local businesses, including the Alton Marina, will be honored as Captains of the River Bend during a luncheon on Thursday, October 22, 2009. 

Besides the Alton Marina, which is operated by Parrot Pointe Marine, honorees include the Alton Square Mall, ConocoPhillips Wood River Refinery, Jacoby Arts Center, Liberty Bank, and Morrissey Construction. 

After the recognition portion of the State of the River Bend luncheon, the River Bend Growth Association will provide updated information on the state of the River Bend economy, in addition to new programs offered by the group............

Click here to read this news story from altondailynews.com.

Send Us Your News Tip !
 

  If you see something that you think your fellow boaters would be interested in, send us a news tip. 

E-mail it to RiverBill@prodigy.net and we will get it on-line. 

Use your cell phone if it's setup for e-mail.

River History....

River Reading

   "Remembering Elsah" Chronicles 19th Century Elsah, Illinois........

A new two-volume book, "Remembering Elsah" by Beverly A. Bauser has just been released.  The 850 page newspaper compilation focuses on the history of 19th century Elsah, Illinois. 

"Remembering Elsah" is the product of 5 years worth of research by Bauser.  The tome is made up of correspondence mailed to local newspapers from area residents in the 1800's, in addition to detailed descriptions of the village, and surrounding areas, Notch Cliff Mansion (which is now Principia College), railroad construction, and the Piasa Bluffs Hotel.

The book is available at the Elsah Museum, or Jeremiah's Consignment Shop.  It is also available on DVD as an e-book...........

Click here to read this article from thejcstar.com.

Carlyle Lake, IL

    Blood Drive

   Sept 24, 2009

Stop in the Carlyle Lake Visitor Center and give a donation of blood that will save lives. One donation could save as many as three lives!

Those donating will receive free camping.
 

Click here for more information.......

Mississippi River

   Louisiana Delta

Mississippi River delta reconstruction for sale?

The state of Louisiana could become a player in emerging cap & trade markets by selling "carbon credits" tied to the restoration of the Mississippi River delta.

Click here to read this news story on WLOX abc13

Mississippi River/Missouri River Fishing News

   Ban Proposed On Harvesting Shovelnose Sturgeon............

Tuesday, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed a ban on harvesting shovelnose sturgeon from the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, as well as the Platte River, Kansas River, Atchafalaya River, and the Yellowstone River.  These are areas that the shovelnose sturgeon, and the endangered pallid sturgeon co-exist. 

The reason for the proposed ban is that the pallid sturgeon is an endangered species, and closely resembles the non-endangered shovelnose sturgeon.  When fishermen are harvesting shovelnose sturgeon, they may also be illegally harvesting the pallid sturgeon.

The eggs of the shovelnose sturgeon are in demand as a stand-in for Russian Beluga caviar.  Two ounce tins of shovelnose sturgeon caviar sell for between $30 - $90.

Comments on the new regulations will be accepted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service through November 23, 2009.......

Click here to read this news story from semissourian.com.

US Coast Guard Photo

Wednesday..

 23 September 2009

  Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Picture of the Day

Tuesday's Sunset

Click on pic to enlarge

The Golden Eagle Ferry ..... was sent in by Capt'n Phil.  He wrote:

The Sky was on Fire Tuesday Night. Pictures do not do this Sunset Justice
 

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

click to enlarge

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2008 .......  were sent in by Sherri Stanczak.

Hi Bill,

Here are some friends that Mike and I met Sunday night. They were a lot of fun. We had a beautiful sunset to finish off the last day of summer.

Talk to you soon.

Sherri

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

The National Great Rivers Research and Education Center Update

Click here to read an update from the Telegraph.com on the National Great Rivers Research and Education Center’s new Confluence Field Station.  The center is slated to become an "international center for scientific education and public outreach"
 

It will be located on the confluence of the Mississippi, Illinois and Missouri rivers.  Its a  natural location to conduct research. ........ wildlife, navigational and recreational.

The field station is the product of a joint educational partnership between the LCCC, the Illinois Natural History Survey and the University of Illinois.
 

Illinois River Destination At Ottawa, Illinois

  Riverboat Excursions and Riverfront Dining Coming To Ottawa In 2010......

Bob Bishop, owner of Starved Rock Adventures boat and houseboat rental, is gearing up to launch two new ventures:  river excursions aboard The Ottawa Lady, and the opening of the Riverside Bar and Grill. 

Already approved to move forward, The Ottawa Lady is expected to start cruising regularly when the weather warms up in 2010.  Plans call for the Lady to offer river tours from May through October. 

Riverside Bar and Grill is currently under construction, and will consist of two floating structures.  With a capacity of 150 seats, Bishop anticipates seeing the facilities used for musical events, parties and receptions.  Bishop further states that docking facilities will be available along the dining area as well..............

Click here to read this news story from mywebtimes.com.  With Photo.

Click here to visit the Starved Rock Adventures website.

Send Us Your News Tip !
 

  If you see something that you think your fellow boaters would be interested in, send us a news tip. 

E-mail it to RiverBill@prodigy.net and we will get it on-line. 

Use your cell phone if it's setup for e-mail.

River History....

Missouri River

   St. Charles, Mo

   Eco Park Dedication ... Sept 30th

According to a news report in the STLtoday.com...... There is a dedication ceremony planned for Eco Park on Wednesday, Sept. 30.  The ceremony will be held at the entrance to the Eco Park trail, which is located at the Blanchette Landing boat launch.

Eco Park is located along the Missouri riverfront in DuSable Park and features three miles of trails along wetlands and river outlooks.

For more information, call the park office at 636-949-3372.

Click here to read this news report
 

Click here for more information from St. Charles County Parks website

Boat Propulsion

  Mercury's New Big Block Will Be Released In Early 2010..........

Mercury Marine has announced that their new MerCruiser Big Block will be released in early January, 2010, in a base rating of 380 hp, as well as a high output version rated at 430 hp., all on 87 octane fuel.

Replacing the venerable 8.1L Big Block is a new 8.2L Big Block that will be equipped with catalysts initially, with the non-catalyst model expected to be released by mid 2010.  The engines will be available in both sterndrive and inboard configurations.  The new package is compatible with MerCruiser's Axius joystick sterndrive control, SmartCraft engine monitoring system, and the SeaCore corrosion protection system.

Reportedly, the new engine produces more power with fewer emissions, has improved midrange acceleration, and excellent fuel economy.  All of these improvements were achieved without adding to the cost of the propulsion package.............

Click here to read this news article from tradeonlytoday.com.

Click here to visit the Mercury Marine website.

Lake of the Ozarks

   This Weekend's Powerboat Races...

The following story links are to LakeExpo.com

~ Powerboat race has Norwegian team All Jack'd Up... Click here

~ Powerboating mayhem, live entertainment to roar this weekend.... Click here

~ No-wake zone 5-10MM for OSS boat races.... Click here

River Answers

   Capt'n Tim's Pirate Ship......

Hi Bill,

I have answers for the questions on Capt. Tim's Pirate Ship.
Her name is Gypsy Rose.
She currently calls Port Charles home.
Capt. Tim and crew plan to be scouring the River this again this weekend.


As Capt. Tim always says " Always leave'em wanting more".

Arrrrrrrgh
Capt'n John Sturm

RiverBill says........Thanks for the info John !

Tuesday..

 22 September 2009

  Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

It's the last day of Summer Boating

Fall is upon us this evening

Another of a Historical Photo Series

From Dan Owen's Boat Photo Museum

The Golden Eagle Ferry

1955

Click on pic to enlarge

The Golden Eagle Ferry .....
 

This is Fred W. Pohlman, aboard the sternwheeler GOLDEN EAGLE FERRY.
Mr. Pohlman was a member of the family that operated the ferry for many years.

This was in 1955 and there were sure a lot of rules and regulations even back then.

That uncovered and unenclosed light bulb certainly would not be seen on a Coast Guard-inspected ferry these days.

That rear view mirror shows the pilot had all corners of the boat covered without him having to turn around.

Dan Owen

Click here for a picture of the Golden Eagle Ferry in 1955

This is the 4th in a historical series of photos of the Golden Eagle Ferry from Dan Owen's Boat Photo Museum.  Visit Dan Owen's Boat Photo Museum  ...click here

RiverBill says........ Thanks Dan for the great photos and the ride back in time !

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

click to enlarge

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2007 .......  was from Devin Lause. 

Flying Carp Invasion

Riverbill,

Staying with the Asian Carp theme.

 Here's one my brother (J.J.) stuck (to go along with the dozen or so that jumped in the boat) with bow and arrow and reel in front of Pere Marquette State Park back in July.


Devin Lause

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

Missouri State Water Patrol News Releases.....

News Release N07090170

 Two Boat Collision  - Table Rock Lake - 09/20/2009

Location:

     PT 3 , OLD 86 CAMPGROUND
Summary : 

BOAT # 1 WAS FOLLOWING BOAT # 2 . BOAT # 2 MADE A 180 DEGREE TURN, BOAT # 1 WAS UNABLE TO STOP AND STRUCK BOAT # 2. EJECTING BOTH OPERATORS INTO THE WATER..

Boat Type : 

Both Personal Watercraft

Click here to check out the Missouri State Water Patrol website

Reader Commentary

   The Tim Woodson Pirate Ship

What a fantastic job. Wish we could have seen it.
Where is it berthed? Is it named yet?
They could have a contest.
How often will it be going out?
Inquiring minds want to know.
 

Gary & Sandy Mincher
M/V Sandy M
Woodland Marina

RiverBill says....... Send us an e-mail Capt'n Tim !

Missouri River

    US Army Corps To Hold Meetings To Discuss River Usage...........

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has scheduled meetings to begin a study that will compare the usage of the Missouri River now, as opposed to the intended usage that was approved of by the federal Flood Control Act of 1944.  The first meeting will be held in Fort Pierre, South Dakota on October 1, 2009.  The second meeting is scheduled for October 8, 2009 in Kansas City, Kansas.

Interests in the upper and lower Missouri River basin have long been squabbling over the river's usage, where upstream residents are more oriented toward recreational use, and wildlife habitats, however, the lower Missouri River interests want water for barge navigation. 

The $25 million for this study was in a House bill passed earlier in the year.  Any alteration of 1944's federal Flood Control Act must be approved by congress............

Click here to read this news report from kansascity.com.

The Pick-Sloan Flood Control Act of 1944

Allowed the construction of thousands of dams and levees all across the United States.  President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Act into law on December 22, 1944.  The Flood Control Act of 1944 served six purposes on the Missouri River.  Hydropower, water supply navigation, flood control, recreation, and fish and wildlife.............

Source:  Wikipedia Encyclopedia.  Click here to read more.

Send Us Your News Tip !
 

  If you see something that you think your fellow boaters would be interested in, send us a news tip. 

E-mail it to RiverBill@prodigy.net and we will get it on-line. 

Use your cell phone if it's setup for e-mail.

River History....

Abraham Lincoln and James Shields, then State Auditor of Illinois, rowed out to an island in the Mississippi River across from Alton, IL. to duel with broadswords. 

The duel was over Lincoln's severe criticism of Shields' proclamation that ordered tax collectors at that time to accept only gold and silver for payment of taxes and school debts.   The issue ended up being resolved peacefully ...and ... the duel never took place.

Fountain Powerboats

   Hustler Powerboats Negotiating Purchase Of Fountain Powerboats.......

Monday, Hustler Powerboats made the announcement that they are in negotiations to purchase Fountain Powerboats, along with its assets.  If the purchase is made, Hustler will re-locate their operations to North Carolina, with the intention to bring Fountain and Baja back to full capacity within four years. 

Fountain had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on August 24, 2009.  An auction for the assets of Fountain Powerboats is scheduled for October 5, 2009, with a final ruling on the sale motion set for October 9, 2009.

Hustler's parent company, Global Marine Power, has been building the Hustler line for over 20 years, and has a worldwide dealer network including the United States, Russia, Germany, Spain, France, Italy, Martinique, and the Ukraine.........

Click here to read this news article from tradeonlytoday.com.

Click here to visit the Fountain Powerboats website.

Click here to visit the Hustler Powerboats website.

Winter Boat Show Dates...

Feb 10-14, 2010

   56th St. Louis Boat & Sport show

   Americas Center & Edward Jones Dome
 

Jan 15-17, 2010

   4th St. Charles Boat Show 

   Saint Charles Convention

Monday..

 21 September 2009

  Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Picture of the Day

Capt'n Tim and Crew

On Maiden Voyage To Grafton

  Click pic to enlarge

The Picture of the Day......... is from Doug and Leslie Woods, who hail out of Woodland Marina

Bill,

Check out Tim Woodson's pirate ship on her maiden voyage Saturday. They
were on their way to Grafton Harbor for Talk Like A Pirate Day where it
was a big hit.
He has been working on it for 40 days now and as you can see he is getting
close to being done.
Tim played at our pig roast "Woodlandstock" at Woodland Marina last
weekend a big thanks to him and everyone that attended we had a great
time.
 

Thanks,
Doug and Leslie Woods
Woodland Marina
 

Picture of the Day

Pirate Louise

of the vessel "We-Z Gone Wild"

  Click pic to enlarge

The 2nd Picture of the Day......... is from Jan and Joe DeSherlia of Grafton Harbor

Arrr! Ahoy me hearties!

Louise Haldiman from the vessel We-Z Gone Wild poses in front of Tim Woodson's Pirate Ship docked at Grafton Harbor for the Great Grafton Pub Crawl Saturday Night.

A sea dog says 't this way!
Joe and Jan
Grafton Harbor
 

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

click to enlarge

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2004 .......  was a  Red Sky over Two Branch Island taken in 2004 while heading back up- river after a Kinder's trip one evening.

Mississippi River Along The St. Louis Riverfront

   A-B Teams Up With LL&W For Annual River Cleanup

Over 200 people headed down to the St. Louis Riverfront on Saturday, to help clean up the River.  The majority of the volunteers were Anheuser-Busch employees.

After being purchased by In-Bev last year, there was speculation that A-B's community service would decrease around St. Louis.

The river clean-up of 2009 marks the sixth year that Anheuser-Busch has teamed up with Living Lands and Waters for the project..........

Click here to read this news story from fox2now.com.  With Video.

Click here to visit the Living Lands and Waters website.

Lots Of Pictures

RiverBill's has a lot of e-mails and river pictures from this season that we haven't posted on-line yet...... we have not forgot you, we are just on slow throttle and running a bit behind.

Watch for more Summer time pics as the weather cools and the pictures and e-mails start slowing down....... 

Keep your anchor right here for a bit more of Summer.....and ....Thanks for logging on to RiverBills.com LLC........

See ya on the River,

Bill

Send Us Your News Tip !
 

  If you see something that you think your fellow boaters would be interested in, send us a news tip. 

E-mail it to RiverBill@prodigy.net and we will get it on-line. 

Use your cell phone if it's setup for e-mail.

Lake of the Ozarks

   No-wake Zone For OSS Boat Races
 

 The Offshore Super Series Boat Races are scheduled to take place at the Lake of the Ozarks this coming weekend.......  Sept. 26-27.

There will be a no-wake zone established from 10 a.m. until one half hour after the final race on Saturday and Sunday between the 5 and 10-mile markers.

"The fastest boats in the world will be competing for the National Title....it's the biggest event   "Ever" to come to the Lake of the Ozarks." The OSS Boat Races can bee seen from the Shady Gator's or The Horny Toad.

The boats will be on the lake between 11AM and 4PM on Saturday for testing.  The OSS Pro Am Teams will hold their National Championship Saturday afternoon.

Sunday racing starts at 12 noon.

Click here to go to the LakeExpo.com to read the news story.

Reader Commentary

  Ya just never stop learnin !

With my daughter and family camping on Enterprise Island and Karen and I in our almost one year old Myacht (3712), having a great time all week suddenly found us beach from a 3ft. river drop. Digging for over 2hrs. on the pontoons she dropped down 4in. and I started the two 60hp.motors to help pull me off but sucked water into both. Six “Good old boy” pushing me my jon boat got her floating but still motor dead. I called Port Charles, the owner Paul and son immediately came and pushed my houseboat to their marina. Picked her up and cradled her in the parking lot for repairs. My request for mech. Al was a no way but Taylor was ready and got started on the motors right away. They set up a ladder and power for Karen and I for the night and Taylor had one motor running in about two hrs. Not so lucky on the second motor, it sheared the time wheel key (just as Taylor guessed) and found ONE at St. Charles Marina. In the meantime, I picked up my daughter and family from the island, dropped them off at Woodland Marina and picked up my son and 3 kids and dropped them back at Enterprise Is. And told them they would be on their own for a day or (god knows how long). Back to Port Charles to find motor on its way in repairs. In less than 24hrs. we were on our way back to the island to finish Labor Day weekend.

Port Charles: Gold Star Marina with Super Service


Thanks,
Jim and Karen Goulding
 

2nd ANNUAL WINFIELD CATFISH CLASSIC

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

• Bank Fisherman allowed
• No minimum length on catfish.
• Maximum 6 fish per boat.
• Fish must be kept in some type of live-well.
No fish other than catfish or baitfish allowed in boat.
• Rule meeting @ 7:35am Pole and line fishing only.
• Shotgun start @8:00 Am
• Two poles in the water per man regardless of men per boat, so bring some friends.
• All boats must be back to weigh-in @ or before 6:00 pm.
• All boats are to remain 200 feet apart while anchored.
• All Missouri fishing laws are to be observed at all times.
• Everyone is suggested to have fun: win or lose, rain or shine.
• Trailoring will be allowed

For more information or to enter the tournament call Nick @ 528-8898, stop by R@S Bait on highway N in Winfield Missouri, Riverbills.com or Craigslist under events.

Send entries to; Nick Dougherty / Winfield catfish classic.
375 East Cherry Street
Troy, Mo 63379
Entry forms donated by KENDE’S PRINTING

Name:_______________________Partners:________________________
Address:_____________________Address:________________________
City:___________________________City:________________________
State & Zip:_______________State & Zip:________________________
Phone #:____________________Phone #:_________________________
 

Ralph Brown, the owner of Dream Boats, and his brother Bob set out on an Atlantic Ocean crossing on June 27, 2009.  What's odd about the trip, is that the duo made the trip unescorted, and in a 21 foot Dream Boats Intruder.  The boat is a center console power catamaran, equipped with a 140 hp Suzuki outboard, along with a Suzuki 9.9 hp kicker motor.

For the crossing, the unsinkable foam filled hull was also equipped with several auxiliary fuel tanks, an EPIRB, 2 satellite phones, VHF radio, survival suits and life jackets.     

The trip took 76 days. Starting in Tampa, Florida, the pair cruised up the east coast to Canada, where they hop-scotched Greenland to Iceland to England to France, and finally ending up in Germany on September 10.  The journey was chronicled on the website, crosstheatlantic.com.

The Trans-Atlantic crossing was named "I am Second - Wounded Hero Voyage" in honor of  3 of Ralph Brown's Marine Corps brothers that perished in the 1980 attempt to rescue American hostages in Iran.  Brown's unit was scheduled for that mission, but was not deployed.............

Click here to read this news article from tradeonlytoday.com.

Click here to visit the Dream Boats Inc. website.

Click here  to visit the crosstheatlantic.com website.

US Coast Guard Photo

STRAFFORD, N.H.-

A Coast Guard boat crew helped partner agencies extinguish a fire on a recreational boat about 11 miles inland on the Cocheco River near Strafford, N.H., around 2:15 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 20, 2009. There were four people aboard the boat, two adults and two children from Lee, N.H., who were plucked from the burning vessel by a nearby good Samaritin.

(Coast Guaard photo/Coast Guard Station Portsmouth Harbor)

 

 

Saturday, Sunday..

Talk Like A Pirate Weekend

 19, 20 September 2009

  Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Updated Sat Night.... Late

Picture of the Day

Sunday

Marina at Hannibal Harbor

  Click pic to enlarge

The Picture of the Day......... was sent in by Eric and Lisa Ridenhour , who hail out of the Yacht Club of St. Louis in the  “Lisa Diane”.

Hi RiverBill,


We took a boat trip up to Hannibal last week and this is a picture of our daughter, Marina, taken at Hannibal Harbor . As usual, the pool north of Winfield was extremely scenic and made for a beautiful trip. This was our kid’s first real river trip and like always, all the stops on the way to Hannibal , like Two Rivers Marina and the beaches along the way, were awesome.



Thanks for the great website. It offers all of us boaters a great onestop website to see what’s going on out there on the River!



Eric and Lisa Ridenhour from the “Lisa Diane” out of Yacht Club of St. Louis

RiverBill says.... What a great picture !

Picture of the Day

Saturday

Catch of the Day

  Click pic to enlarge

The Picture of the Day......... was sent to us by Angie Testerman titled

"A good day fishing Labor Day 2009"

Tony Wichlan,  Randy Testerman,  Steve Hoffman

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Sunday

click to enlarge

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2006.........were from Bob and Jo Ann Tucker of the boat "Tunes - 2".  They sent us some really good river wildlife shots !

Bob wrote: 

Bill,
Just wanted to share some photos that my 
wife (Jo Ann) has taken of her "critters" on 
the river. I'm always amazed at what we see
each time we go boating.

Thanks Again for the great site!
Bob & Jo Ann Tucker (Tunes-2)

"A day not spent on the boat... Is a wasted day!!!!

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Saturday

click to enlarge

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2007 ----  was sent in by Clarence... 

Flying Asian Carp..... Close Call !

Bill,

   The Asian Carp are taking over the Mississippi River in Illinois!! Doug Nikirk from Golden Eagle, IL was almost hit in the head when this 15lb carp jumped into his boat last week! 

  His wife Jeanne was taking pictures of the jumping fish when this one jumped. 

  I thought maybe you would find this interesting............

Clarence

Updated Sun at 8:00AM

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 9/19/09
Subject: -ILLINOIS RIVER- VARIOUS BRIDGE LIGHTS EXTINGUISHED
NAVNOTICE # 1900

USCG NOTICE TO MARINERS EIGHTH DISTRICT NR 0395-09 UM
ILLINOIS RIVER
THE COAST GUARD RECEIVED A REPORT THAT THE FOLLOWING BRIDGE LIGHTS ARE EXTINGUISHED:
1. MCCLUGAGE DUAL BRIDGE (LLNR 7050) MM 165.8 ILR - THE RED UPSTREAM LIGHT IS EXTINGUISHED.
2. CEDAR STREET BRIDGE (LLNR 7170) MM 161.6 ILR - THE GREEN UPSTREAM LIGHT IS EXTINGUISHED.
3. BEARDSTOWN RAILROAD BRIDGE (LLNR 7625) MM 87.9 ILR - THE RED DOWNSTREAM LIGHT IS EXTINGUISHED. IT WAS ALSO REPORTED THAT THE BEARDSTOWN BRIDGE DOES NOT HAVE ANY REFLECTIVE MATERIAL ON IT.

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

Updated Sun at 8:00AM

Sad News

   Ed Katzenmeyer passed away on Thursday, September 17th, 2009

   Member of Con Trios Yacht Club
  

Updated September 20th, 2009:



Con Trios Yacht Club member Ed Katzenmeyer passed away Thursday, September 17th, 2009 at the age of 68. Visitation Sunday 5 - 8 pm at JOHN L. ZIEGENHEIN and SONS (South County) 4830 Lemay Ferry Rd. Funeral Monday 11:00 am. (Services conclude at the funeral home.)

Ed’s Obituary on STLToday.com - http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/stltoday/obituary.aspx?n=edwin-b-katzenmeyer&pid=133133740



Our condolences go out to Lilli and her family.


 

Click here to go to Con Trios Yacht Club website for more information

KJs Place
   530 Highway J,   Portage Des Sioux

   (636) 899-1139

       Sat night......Sept 19th, Karoke

Friends of the Mississippi River

  September 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:

~ Mississippi River Challenge photo gallery
~ River otter's return a sign of healthier Mississippi
~ Clean water laws are neglected
~ Rock Island Swing Bridge preservation plan at risk
~ Mississippi National River and Recreation Area to be featured in new documentary


 

Click here and check it out

Send Us Your News Tip !
 

  If you see something that you think your fellow boaters would be interested in, send us a news tip. 

E-mail it to RiverBill@prodigy.net and we will get it on-line. 

Use your cell phone if it's setup for e-mail.

Please check our website www.sundownersstl.com

Alton, IL Riverfront

   Mississippi Earthtones Festival
   
 Saturday is “It’s Our River Day” in the state of Illinois and the  Mississippi Earthtones Festival is going on all day long on the Alton Riverfront.

It's Our River Day is about the importance of conserving Illinois’ rivers and watersheds through education and recreation.    There are 61 such events throughout the state. “

Click here to read this news report in the AltonDaily News.

For more info go to http://riverfrontamphitheater.com/earthtones/

Mississippi River

   Spanish Lake Casino

A plan to build a $350 million casino complex in north St. Louis County near Spanish Lake moved forward last week.

Click here to read this news report in the St. Louis Business Journal

Talk Like A River Pirate Day,

Saturday,  Sept 19th

Click here.... for more information mate !  Arrgh !

Palisades Yacht Club........

FRIDAY $1 Can Beer

SATURDAY PIRATE DAY -Wear your pirate gear and be ready for naval battle!
   Pictures at 1:00
   Race/battle from about 2:00 till 5:00
   Bring a dish dinner with fish fry 5:00 on Palisades Yacht Club porch.
   Party till?
   Probably a late night sail.
   Contact Barry Munsell for more info 314 363 8235


MARK YOUR CALENDARS & SAVE THESE DATES:
   Motorcycle Rat Run 10/4/09

   PYC Chili Cook Off 10/24/09
   Our Lady of the Rivers Benefit Car Show 10/11/09 -See attached flyer
   Pig Roast Haul Out Party 11/7/09
   PYC Trim A Tree Christmas Party 12/5/09


Music & Karaoke Entertainment Update next week.............


Thanks
Amy@PYC

US Coast Guard Photo

MIAMI - Personnel from the Joint Civilian Orientation Conference gather on the bow of the Coast Guard Cutters Diamondback and Gannet while transiting the Port of Miami, Thursday, Sept. 17, 2009. The purpose of JCOC is to increase public understanding of national defense through a forum of free exchange among influential citizens, Department of Defense officials, and military leadership. (Coast Guard photo/ Petty Officer 3rd Class Barry Bena)
 

 

 

 

Friday.. Arrgh!

 18 September 2009

  Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Picture of the Day

An Awesome Wednesday

on Iowa Beach

  Click pic to enlarge

The Pictures of the Day.........Were sent to us by Phil with the following caption:

Hanging out on Iowa Island Wednesday afternoon.

What a awesome day.

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

click to enlarge

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2007 ----  was from Tyler Mitchell, who hails out of Palisades Yacht Club in the boat..."Saint Somewhere"

 The top picture is of an E scow , "Irie Vibes",  leaving Palisades Yacht Club on their 2007 "Pirate Day" celebration .......... 

The 2nd picture is a great shot of the sailboats with the bluffs in the background.

Arrgh Matey !

Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 9/17/09
Subject: MM 194.0 UMR (DREDGING / RIVER CLOSURE PERIODS)
NAVNOTICE # 1899

SUBJ: WESTERN RIVERS BNM NR 0394-09 UM
SAFETY AND SCHED BCSTS UNTIL CANCELLED
CANCEL WESTERN RIVERS BNM NR 0370-09 UMR
USCG NOTICE TO MARINERS EIGHTH DISTRICT NR 0394-09 UM
UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER
DREDGING OPERATIONS HAVE COMMENCED IN THE CHAIN OF ROCKS CANAL AT MM 194.0 UMR AND WILL CONTINUE UNTIL APPROXIMATELY 24 SEP 2009. DREDGING OPERATIONS WILL BE PERFORMED FROM 1700-0700 CDT. DURING THIS PERIOD THE RIVER WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL NAVIGATION AND WILL REOPEN FROM 0700-1700 CDT. ALL MARINERS ARE REQUESTED TO CONTACT DREDGE AMERICA ON VHF-FM CHANNELS 8,13, OR 16 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO TRANSITING THE AREA FOR PASSING INSTRUCTIONS DURING THE OPEN TO NAVIGATION PERIOD. ALL MARINERS ARE URGED TO TRANSIT AT THEIR SLOWEST SAFE SPEED TO MINIMIZE WAKE AND PROCEED WITH CAUTION AFTER PASSING ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE.

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

Illinois Fishing Report .......

Illinois Fishing Report..

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

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

68 degrees, low, clear; channel catfish good on stinkbaits and nightcrawlers; carp good on doughbait; blue catfish fair on cut baits; all other species slow.

(Report made on 9/17/2009)
 

Missouri River (below New Haven)

(Report made on 9/17/2009)

 

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

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

Check out the report for the entire state of Missouri

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

KJs Place
   530 Highway J,   Portage Des Sioux

   (636) 899-1139

       Sat night......Sept 19th, Karoke

Possibly Another New Illinois State Record

   Pumpkinseed Sunfish
  
According to a news story from PrairieStateOutdoors.com ............. The Pumkinseed Sunfish Illinois state fishing record reported earlier this week is already in jeopardy.

There are reports that Presley’s Outdoors in Bartonville, IL  weighed in a pumpkinseed on Tuesday at 0.64 pounds. 

The state recorded reported earlier this week was .....0.41-pound.

An Illinois fisheries biologist will inspect the fish.

The fish was caught at the same lake....the Emiquon Preserve.


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

Look What I Caught ......

  
We ran across a delightfully cute picture of Taya Jones holding a 9 pound channel catfish she had just caught.

 Click here and check it out on Prairie State Outdoors
 

River History....

• The Upper Mississippi River is closed from Claryville, Mo., mile marker 109.9 to 185.4.

• The Missouri River is closed from Waverly, Mo. mile marker 0 to the mouth of the Missouri River at mile marker 300.

• The Illinois River is closed from Grafton, Ill., mile marker 0.0 to 9.9 and from mile marker 129, near Liverpool, Ill. to mile marker 199.9.

Send Us Your News Tip !
 

  If you see something that you think your fellow boaters would be interested in, send us a news tip. 

E-mail it to RiverBill@prodigy.net and we will get it on-line. 

Use your cell phone if it's setup for e-mail.

Mississippi Riverfront At St. Louis
    Arch Lights Out Until End Of September......................

According to a news article from bnd.com............. The spotlights that normally illuminate the Gateway Arch every night will be turned off through the end of September.

Apparently, the lamps are turned off for two weeks, every fall and spring to help facilitate bird migrations. The thought is the lights may disorient migrating birds over the Mississippi River waterway, which is one of the major North-South migration routes in North America.

The keepers of the Gateway Arch, the National Park Service, had collaborated with the Audubon Society in order to set up a schedule for turning the Arch lights off............

Click here to read this news article.
 

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

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBill's........... click here

Water Pollution News
    Study Shows Winter Salt Polluting Waterways.............

 Many Urban waterways have become salty enough to be a danger to aquatic life, and the salt used for deicing roads during the winter may be the culprit.

The U.S. Geological Survey has studied the levels of chloride in urban streams and in the groundwater, with some startling results. 40% of urban streams tested have chloride levels higher than those deemed safe for aquatic life. During the winter, those levels spiked to as much as 20 times the federal standards.

Groundwater fared better, as less than 2% of wells sampled had chloride levels higher than federal standards for human consumption.

A study conducted by the University of Minnesota determined that the Northern waters are becoming saltier, since the salt is being retained in the watershed, as opposed to being flushed down the Mississippi River...............

The above news information from the newportdailynews.com

Mississippi River

   Lock And Dam No. 3 Construction Work To Commence...............

According to a news report from wxow.com................ The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has been granted $70 million is stimulus funding for repairs to the Mississippi River Lock and Dam No.3 at Red Wing Minnesota. These repairs will improve navigation safety, in addition to rehabilitating the lock and dam.

Construction work is expected to begin mid-January 2010, and run through the end of September, 2011.

Although the lock will be open to navigation for the shipping season starting March 29, 2010, the contractor has permission to close the lock for 96 hours per month, 24 hours at a time. Closures will not be permitted over the weekends, or on holidays...................
 

Click here to read this news report.
 

Talk Like A River Pirate Day,

Saturday,  Sept 19th

Click here.... for more information mate !  Arrgh !

Palisades Yacht Club........

FRIDAY $1 Can Beer

SATURDAY PIRATE DAY -Wear your pirate gear and be ready for naval battle!
   Pictures at 1:00
   Race/battle from about 2:00 till 5:00
   Bring a dish dinner with fish fry 5:00 on Palisades Yacht Club porch.
   Party till?
   Probably a late night sail.
   Contact Barry Munsell for more info 314 363 8235


MARK YOUR CALENDARS & SAVE THESE DATES:
   Motorcycle Rat Run 10/4/09

   PYC Chili Cook Off 10/24/09
   Our Lady of the Rivers Benefit Car Show 10/11/09 -See attached flyer
   Pig Roast Haul Out Party 11/7/09
   PYC Trim A Tree Christmas Party 12/5/09


Music & Karaoke Entertainment Update next week.............


Thanks
Amy@PYC

DuPage River
    Hindu Statues Discovered In A Northern Illinois River.............

According to a news story from upi.com.............. While canoeing with his son over the Labor Day holiday, Mark Coleman came across two broken Hindu statues partly submerged in the DuPage River.

One of the statues is of a tiger, which represents the Hindu Goddess Durga. The second statue is of the Hindu god Shiva, with his wife, the goddess Parvati, and their son Ganesha.

Since the local Hindu temples were not missing any statues, an expert has offered an explanation as to why the statues are in the water. Traditionally, when a deity leaves an icon, the best way to dispose of the icon is to submerge it in a body of water, as water is non-polluting.............
 

Click here to read this news story.

Click here for more information on the DuPage River from the Wikipedia Encyclopedia

US Coast Guard Photo

Coast Guard Station Quillayute River Rescue

SEATTLE — A 47-foot Motor Life Boat crew from Coast Guard Station Quillayute River, Wash., brings aboard two men and their life raft after their vessel sank. The Coast Guard responded to a sunken fishing vessel approximately 20 miles off Cape of Alava, near Ozette, Wash., Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2009.

U.S. Coast Guard photo.
 

 

 

Thursty Thursday... Arrgh!

 17 September 2009

  Over 2.4 Million Visitors Strong !

Picture of the Day

Arrgh Matey !

  Click pic to enlarge

The Pictures of the Day......... were sent to us by Rick, Mary & Katy, who hail out of Lake Center Marina in the cruiser Y2Katy II...

Ahoy, Bill!

We were anchored in the Two Branch sluice last Sunday minding our own business when we came under attack by a pirate ship. As you can see Captain Mike McCarty of "Kiss D Girl" was aiming his "Canon" at the Y2Katy hoping to seize our cargo and/or hold her for ransom. Luckily we had just downed our last bit of "Rum light" and had nothing to fight for. So, after a couple of hours in a standoff, Captain Mike and first mate Betty, and Micah and Tory and the crew of the Y2Katy parted ways, only to fight again another day. Action shots provided by my brother K.C. (he says AARRGH!)
The shot of the license plate was taken months ago on Highway B, but being pirate week the timing seemed right to send it to you.

See you on the high seas,
Rick, Mary & Katy
 

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

click to enlarge

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day from 2006 ----  was from Captain Darryll Weil, who hails out of the Yacht Club of St. Louis in the cruiser named "After You".

Darryll wrote:

We took the boat down to Alton Marina over the weekend to attend the Con Trios Yacht Club Alton Getaway.  After getting the boat settled in our slip for the weekend we went up on land to enjoy the party.  Check out the pictures at:

CTYC Alton Getaway 2006

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Navigation Notices ......

To: ALL MARINERS
From: Coast Guard Upper Miss
Date: 9/17/09
Subject: Shoaling at MM 109.2 ILR
NAVNOTICE # 1898

SUBJ: WESTERN RIVERS BNM NR 0393-09 UM
SAFETY AND SCHED BCSTS UNTIL CANCELLED
USCG NOTICE TO MARINERS EIGHTH DISTRICT NR 0393-09 UM
ILLINOIS WATERWAY
THE COAST GUARD RECEIVED A REPORT OF SHOALING IVO MM 109.2 ILR MID CHANN