~~~~~~ RiverBill's Archives~~~~~~
October 2019

10-11-19  -   10-20-19

 

A WEBSITE FOR THE  BOATING COMMUNITY 

OF THE 

MISSISSIPPI, ILLINOIS, MISSOURI, MERAMEC AND KASKASKIA RIVERS

 

THE WEEKEND

Sat, Sun..19, 20 Boatober 2019

 

Over 9.4 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

Pumpkin Carving Contest

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Sun Pic

 click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day... was sent to us by Capt'n Glenn Sadowski

 

 

Hi Bill,


It was good to see you yesterday evening.
Everyone did a great job with the party.

Glenn

 

Grafton Marina

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Sun Pic

 

 

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

The Pictures of the Day... were sent to us by Jan DeSherlia of Grafton Harbor

 

Hi Bill!


What an amazing Fall Saturday! Thanks so much to everyone that joined us in Grafton today! The Grafton Rendezvous, Witches on the Water, and the First Mate Boat Show were all so much fun! If you didn’t make it, no worries, the Rendezvous and the Boat Show continue on through Sunday.


See you on the river!
Jan from Grafton Harbor

 

 

The Ramjet Report

Living in Florida aboard the Ginger G

Sat Pic

 

 

 

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day... was sent to us by Ramjet, a former Pool 26 boater now living in Florida aboard the Ginger G

 

 

Hi Bill,

All in All it went well
A lot of water and wind.
No debris. Anything weak probably got knocked down by Michael last year. Only one repair completed!

Ramjet

Hoppies Marina

Mississippi River at Kimmswick, Mo

Sat Pic

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day... was sent to us by Claudia Burris who hails out of Hoppies Marina in Kimmswick, Mo

 

 

Hi Bill!


Kevin Belli, a regular contributor to Riverbills.com, helps a Looper pull into Hoppie’s Marina.

 

See you on the river!


Claudia Burris
Hoppie’s Marina Correspondent

 

 

The Ramjet Report

Living in Florida aboard the Ginger G

Sat Pic

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day... was sent to us by Ramjet, a former Pool 26 boater now living in Florida aboard the Ginger G

 

 

Good Morning Bill,

Well it’s 5am eastern time.
The winds are picking up and the storm surge is approximately 2’ at this time. The dock walk area we are moored to is about to go under. I am responsible for 3 boats including Ginger. They are tied for the tidal surge well. All items are stowed well and the hatches are locked down. They say it’s likely we will be loosing power soon. Powder is handling it well. She acquired some new drinking buddies at the bar last night. I will try to get some live feeds out on Facebook at daybreak.
I will send you a follow up report with pictures tomorrow evening. Ginger is starting to rock a bit and the gusts are getting worse. As for us it’s Godspeed.

 

See all y’all on the other side!

RAMJET

 

 

Steak Friday

Chicken Sunday

Sat.. Oct 19.. 2pm.. Scott Rayfield

Sun.. Oct 20..2pm.. 3 of a Perfect Pair 

 

Sat..Oct 26.. The Nightmare

An Alice Cooper Experience

click here for more info

 

Open Thursday through Sunday at 11AM

 

Website.. click here        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

 

Grafton Harbor

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

 

Wednesday Night Jet Ski Ride

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Sat Pic

 

 

 

 

 

 Click pic to enlarge

 

The Pictures of YesterYear's On This Day in 2018.. were sent to us by Capt'n Mike Stanczak

 

Hey Bill.

 

Took a jet ski ride tonight was beautiful!

 

Nobody was out. Must be winterizing. LOL

 

Mike

 .

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

FOR SALE

50' Steel Hull Cruiser

$15,000 or Make Offer

 

Click here for more info

 

Click here for website           Click here for Facebook

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Shoes Contest

 

October 26th – Halloween Party

 

Open Tuesday through Sunday 11AM to 1AM

 

GRAFTON OYSTER BAR FESTIVAL & MUSIC SCHEDULE...  click here

Menu..  click here   Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

Make sure to check out our sister restaurant @Abigail's Tap Room for BREAKFAST Sat & Sun mornings 8 a.m. ~ 11 a.m. LUNCH or DINNER Wed-Sun 11 a.m.~ 10 p.m. Located in the historic Ruebel Hotel on E. Main St.
 

 

River News !  

 

 

Added Sunday

River Des Peres

Volunteers Clean Up Over 7 Tons Of Trash........

 

The 17th annual River Des Peres Trash Bash was held Saturday, and 424 volunteers spent several hours cleaning up 7 tons of trash from 15 clean-up locations.

 

Officials from the Metropolitan Sewer District say that a lot of the trash came from littering and illegal dumping.  On Saturday, crews found a dumpster and a porta potty floating in the creek.

 

Metropolitan Sewer District engineer Ronald Biehl says that whenever it floods, there are rains and stormwater runoff........

 

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

 

Added Sunday

hio River Near Cincinnati, Ohio

Algal Bloom Is Growing, Posing Health Risks........

 

The cloudy greenish, blueish looking algal bloom in the Ohio River has been growing.  The bloom can look blue or green depending upon the angle it's viewed from .

 

According to Greg Kesterman, assistant health commissioner with Hamilton County Public Health, there are significant health risks associated with the algae bloom.

 

Kesterman notes that the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky drinking water sources are safe, the Cincinnati Water Works is keeping tabs on the situation, and is testing the drinking water supply each day........

 

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

 

Added Sunday

Illinois Fishing News

Fall Trout Season Has Arrived........

 

On Saturday, October 19th, the 2019 Illinois Fall Trout Fishing Season opened at 57 ponds, lakes and streams across Illinois.

 

The Illinois catchable trout program is funded by the people that use the program through the sale of Inland Trout Stamps, as well as through the Illinois Fish Management Fund.

 

This year, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources has added a new Fall Trout Fishing site, Kaufman Lake in Champaign.  Rock Springs Pond in Decatur will temporarily be removed from the program due to a maintenance problem.........

 

Click here to read this news report from khqa.com.  With Photo.

 

Added Sunday

Mississippi River At Alton, Illinois

Multiple Winners In Riverfront Chili Cookoff........

 

On Saturday, Alton Main Street hosted the Downtown Alton Chili Cook-Off along the Mississippi Riverfront at Argosy Casino.  All throughout the day, the crowd sampled chili and voted for prize winners.

 

This year, 18 teams participated in the event.  Judges awarded $100 prizes to winners in four categories, Families, Organizations, Business and Restaurants.

 

Attendees voted for their favorite recipe, and that team was awarded the People's Choice award, taking home the coveted silver ladle plaque and bragging rights........

 

Click here to read this news article from riverbender.com.  With Photos

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED OCTOBER 16, 2019 

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE

The following area is in the extreme high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex: Zone 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 109.9). All towboats transiting between Mile 184.0 and 179.0, shall avoid carrying barges on the hip and have a minimum of 250 horsepower for each loaded barge. South-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours only and northbound tows shall have enough h.p., to maintain a minimum speed of 3 MPH on the approach to the St. Louis Harbor Bridges. Vessels are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed, based upon prevailing conditions, in order to minimize wake damage to personal property. It is recommended that all vessels avoid laying up on levees in this zone, asses bridge clearances in advance and fleets be attended by a towboat at all times. Mariners are requested to review anchoring requirements and pre-identify layup areas in the event of a river closure or barge breakaway. Mariners are encouraged to ensure that moored vessels and barges are adequately secured with the anticipation of an increase in water velocity and high water. Recreational traffic is discouraged within this zone. Drift and debris may present navigation obstructions and may drag buoys off station.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following area is in the extreme high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 109.9).

The following areas are in the high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 3 (Mile 815.1 – Mile 796.9),

Pool 17 (Mile 475.1 – Mile 437.1),

Pool 18 (Mile 437.5 – Mile 410.0) and

Pool 20 (Mile 364.1 – Mile 343.2).

The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

 Pool 5A (Mile 738.0 – Mile 728.6),

Pool 15 (Mile 493.2 – Mile 482.9),

Pool 16 (Mile 482.8 – Mile 457.2),

Pool 19 (Mile 410.0 – Mile 364.2),

Pool 21 (Mile 343.1 – Mile 324.9),

Pool 22 (Mile 324.4 – Mile 301.1),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

 Pool 26 (Mile 241.3 – Mile 205.5).

High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize their wake, exercise caution and avoid laying up on levees. Recreational traffic is not recommended. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent breakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting

MILE 332.9 - MILE 331.6 - DREDGE OPERATION
Continuing until further notice, the M/V LaSALLE is conducting dredging operations between approximate Miles 332.9 and 331.5. Work will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., 7-days a week. The M/V LaSALLE will monitor VHF-FM Channel 13, 14 or 16 and requests 30-minutes advance notice of passage, for passing arrangements. Mariners are urged to transit the area at their slowest safe speed to minimize their wake and proceed with caution.

MILE 283.2 - BRIDGE DEMOLITION
Champ Clark Bridge; Explosive demolition of old bridge’s main navigation channel span to occur on or about October 18, 2019. The main channel span will be blocked up to 24-hours, while debris recovery is completed. An alternate span will be available for transit during this time. Mariners may contact Massman Construction workboat via VHF-FM Channel 13 or 16 or the Project Supervisor at (816) 898-7117.

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Peoria (Mile 187.0 – Mile 145.6),

Copperas Creek (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Havanna (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0), Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and

Grafton (Mile 9.9 – Mile 0.0).

High water and drift could be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. The laying up on levees is prohibited and recreational vessel traffic is not recommended. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid downstreaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

MILE 22.0 - AID TO NAVIGATION
A nun buoy has been reported not properly marking the channel, mid-channel, in the vicinity of Mile 22.0. Mariners are urged to exercise caution in the area.

 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website

 


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

 

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 5,305 members as of 10-17-19....... Click here and check it out. 

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

Mississippi River Near Grafton, Illinois

Grafton Mulling Property Sale, Including The Loading Dock........

 

During this week's meeting of the Grafton City Council, the topic of selling city-owned property was discussed as a way to refill the city's coffers following this year's flooding.

 

Grafton Mayor Rick Eberlin says that at the beginning of his administration, the city was nearly $200,000 in debt, but was only about a month from being in the black when the flooding began. 

 

Eberlin adds that considering the sale of some of these extra properties may ward off future issues with issues with losing tax-generating property.   One property being considered for sale is the lot leased by the owners of The Loading Dock........

 

Click here to read this news article from altondailynews.com.  With Photo and Audio.

 

Hawg Pit BBQ Barn

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton, IL

Weekend Line-up.....

 

Check out the Hawg Pit on  Facebook... click here

 

Saturday, 19 October, 2019

Con Trios Yacht Club Membership Meeting

New Location........

 

Click here for more information

 

RiverBills Place

23 Harbor Drive

Woodland Marina

Next to Little John's Marine Service....

click here for map

 

Marissa will be at the party

Handing out RiverBills Goodies and helping with the 50/50 Raffle

 

Road Closures Due to Flooding.......

 

•  Illinois Road & Ferry Closures...click here

 • Missouri Road Closures... click here

 • St. Charles County Road Closures... click here
 

Mississippi River At Louisiana, Missouri

The Old Champ Clark Bridge Has Been Demolished........

 

Friday morning and afternoon, demolition crews checked and rechecked the explosives placed on the old Champ Clark Bridge, guaranteeing that the steel truss bridge would drop into the Mississippi River.

 

Demolition crews will have 48 hours to remove the steel trusses and debris from the river channel so that it can be reopened to traffic.

 

The original Champ Clark Bridge was named for Hames Beauchamp Clark.  Construction began on it in 1927 and it was opened to traffic in 1928........

 

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

 

llinois Flooding Aftermath

Illinois Appealing Flood Assistance Decision........

 

On Friday, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker filed an appeal on behalf of some 1.4 million Illinois residents affected by spring flooding.  He is urging the federal government to reconsider their decision denying Individual Assistance under the federal Stafford Act.

 

Individual Assistance aid was denied to businesses and individuals after the historic flooding along the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers earlier in the year.

 

Pritzker said that more than three months after the flooding ended, individuals, businesses and local governments are still feeling the effects........

 

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

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

River Des Peres

Trash Bash Set For Today........

 

On Saturday, October 19th, from 8 am to 2 pm, the Greta Rivers Greenway will be hosting the 17th annual River Des Peres Trash Bash.

 

Organizers are still looking for volunteers of all ages to help with cleaning litter and trash from several locations within the River Des Peres Watershed, including Deer Creek, Gravois Creek, River Des Peres and the Mississippi River.

 

The actual cleanup will run from 9 am to noon, when participants will be invited to head to Willmore Park for a post-cleanup celebration and a free lunch........

 

Click here to read more from fox2now.com.  With Video.

 

Boat Propulsion Manufacturer

Q3 Sales Increase For Volvo Group........

 

Volvo Group, parent company of Volvo Penta, recently reported sales of $10.2 billion during it's third quarter, a 7 percent increase compared to the 3rd quarter of 2018.  Volvo also posted operating income of $1.13 billion and operating margins of 11 percent.

 

Martin Lundstedt, president and CEO of Volvo Group says that the company's service revenues were stable during the third quarter as a result of good activity levels and fleet utilization among their customers.

 

Lundstedt adds that demand for new vehicles is declining and they are facing tougher market conditions.  The company did not break out Volvo Penta Marine sales or directly refer to them in their news release........

 

Click here to read this news report from tradeonlytoday.com

 

 Pool 26 Halloween Parties

 

  Boathouse..........................................    Sat, Oct 26

  Froge's ...............................................   Sat, Nov 02

  Grafton Harbor....................................   Sat, Oct 19.. Witches on the Water

  Grafton Oyster Bar..............................    Sat, Oct 19..Witches on the Water

  Grafton Oyster Bar..............................   Sat, Oct 26

  Hawg Pit.............................................   Sat, Oct 26

  Kinders ..............................................    N/A

  Longshot Saloon................................    No Party This Year

 

  And ....There Will Be Lots of Halloween Parties All Around Grafton too

 

 

Look for updates as they become available

  

 

Piasa Creek Near Elsah, Illinois

A Body Was Recovered From A Vehicle In The Creek........

 

Friday evening, emergency responders recovered a vehicle from Piasa Creek with at least one body inside in rural Elsah, approximately a mile west of Illinois Route 3.

 

Jersey County Sheriff's Deputies and QEM Fire and Ambulance personnel were originally called out at 3:45 pm.  The Godfrey Fire Department reports that three people were submerged in the vehicle and did not resurface.

 

Jersey County Sheriff Mike Ringhausen said that initial witness statements contradict whether the vehicle lost control and ended up in the creek, or if any other vehicles were on the road at the time of the incident........

 

Click here to read more from thetelegraph.com.  With Photo.

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "April 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

NOW OFFERING TRAILER REHAB AND CLEANUP

Boat trailers, Campers, RV's

 

If your trailer, whether it be a boat trailer or a camper was stranded in the flood water and the wheels have been submerged for any amount of time they are going to have muck, mud, and rust in them. If not attended to, they will be locked up in no time at all.

 

We will remove tires, drums, bearings and properly clean or replace as needed or as agreed upon.

 

Washing entire trailer and repairing wiring are also options.

 

 e-mail... LITTLEJOHNSINC@aol.com 

Phone or text to... 636 541 2962

Thank You,

LJ

 

Rehabbing a trailer that was underwater during the flood

Alex washing the flood muck off & tear down for inspection.

One wheel on trailer was completely locked up and not rotating.

 

. The brake and backing plate assembly loaded with mud and muck

 

A new complete brake and backing plate assembly ready to go on.

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

 

OPEN DAILY ALL YEAR
Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

$5.00 lunch specials

Mon - Fri from 11am till 2pm

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

 

Check out the Deli's

Lunch Specials..click here

Breakfast Specials... click here

 

Bloch Marine Service

Yacht Club of St. Louis Location......

 

Hello Everyone!
We are happy to announce that Bloch Marine Service is becoming Yacht Club Marine. As of October 1st, 2019, Bloch Marine Service will no longer be taking new work orders, and will cease operations by October 31st, 2019.
But to keep service seamless, Yacht Club Marine will be performing the same quality service that you have come to expect over the years at both the Yacht Club of St. Louis and at Harbor Point Marina.
With that said, the winterization season is just around the corner, and it's time to get on the schedule to have expert winterization performed on your boat to protect it from the ravages of winter freezing. And also, winter is the best time to have Yacht Club Marine perform that much needed maintenance or big project that you have been putting off.
If your winterization request is received before October 15th, 2019, you will receive a 10% discount on winterization labor.
There is also a 10% discount on labor performed during the winter months for those big or small projects that the boat may need.
Best regards, and we'll see you out there!
The Yacht Club Marine Crew.

 

Reprinted from Bloch Marine FaceBook.. click here

 

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

Friday Specials...
Firecracker Shrimp Appetizer,
Eight Tiger Shrimp Hand Battered and Fried golden tossed in a Sriracha Sweet Chili Sauce topped with chives $9.99
Chipotle Turkey Burger,
Grilled Turkey Burger topped with PepperJack Cheese, Applewood Smoked Bacon and Chipotle Mayo served with Lettuce, Tomato and Red Onion on a Split Top Gourmet Bun with Steak Fries $10.99
12 oz Garlic Parmesan NY Strip and Shrimp,
12 oz Aged Angus NY Strip chargrilled and topped with Four Garlic Parmesan Tiger Shrimp in a Cream Sauce served with Vegetable Medley and Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes with choice of soup or salad $21.99
Fireball Apple-cider Martini $8
OBB Oktoberfest Pints $5

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

Open 7 Days a week

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

 

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 

Steak Friday
Chicken Sunday
Sat.. Oct 19.. 2pm.. Scott Rayfield
Sun.. Oct 20..2pm.. 3 of a Perfect Pair 

 

 

Deck closing November 1st.

 

Open Thurs - Sun at 11AM

 

 Upcoming Events.. click here

 

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

 
 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

 

Closed Due to Flooding

Con Trios Yacht Club

 

 

Sat.. Oct 19.. Membership Meeting.. RiverBills Place

                    click here for flyer

                     

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

New fall hours for the Duck Club:
Fri.....kitchen 4pm-9pm and bar 4pm-1:30am
Sat...kitchen 11am-9pm and bar 11am-1:30 am
Sun...kitchen 11am-8pm and bar 11-am-9pm

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

 

Smoked Pork Steaks

Sat - 2pm-til gone. 1 1/2 inch smoked pork steaks w/2 sides $11.49

 

CLOSED on Monday's

 

Every Friday throughout the year we serve whole catfish, catfish nuggets, Alaskan Pollock and salmon served with 2 sides and a soft drink for $8.99 from 11am until gone or 10pm

 

Fall Kitchen hours

Tu-Th 11am-8pm,  Sunday 12-8pm,  Friday & Saturday never change

 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Broom & Witch's Shoes Contest

click here for more info

 

Sat.. Oct 19-20, 2019

Boat Show & Swap Meet

Click here for more info


Grafton Harbor has brand new Landau Pontoon Boats! Come rent a boat with us! We boat thru the Fall Season! Pack a picnic lunch and just enjoy the beauty and serenity of the Illinois River!. click here

 

 

Grafton Harbor Gift Shop & Winery is open 7 day a week

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Fri.. Oct 18, 2019

Taste of Italy dinner sunset cruise
 

Call 618-786-7678 for reservations

 

1 hour cruises offered every Sat & Sun thru Nov.3

Click here for more info

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

Two Week Activity  Calendar

 

Look forward to seeing all you fellow witches this weekend! It gets more fun every year!

 

Click here and check out Grafton's

Event and Music Calendar ....    Oct 14 - Oct 27

 

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Broom & Witch's Shoes Contest

click here for more info


October 26th – Halloween Party

 

Open Tuesday - Sunday

11AM to 1AM

 

If your have not been yet...make sure to check out our sister restaurant @Abigail's Tap Room for BREAKFAST Sat & Sun mornings 8 a.m. ~ 11 a.m. LUNCH or DINNER Wed-Sun 11 a.m.~ 10 p.m. Located in the historic Ruebel Hotel on E. Main St.

 

 

2019 FESTIVAL & MUSIC SCHEDULE...  click here

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 



 

Hawg Pit BBQ

Grafton, IL

 

Fri...Oct 18..Isaiah Christian & The Rebel Saints 7-11pm

Sat. Oct 19.. Witches on the Water

Sat..Oct 19.. Catfish Willie..4-8pm

Sun..Oct 20.. Jake Weber and the Lonesome Drifters

Kaskaskia River Run

Kaskaskia River

 

Brian Shackelford
July 27 at 10:25 AM ·

As the weather we have had this year with Heavy heart The event is going to be pushed till next year. 2020 The River levels we have had this year there is still no docks currently at New Athens, Water is still high on the Mississippi and the sandbar is still currently under water & still alot of floating logs in the Mississippi and Safety is a top priority. All Company's that have donated towards the event will remain the same. If anyone is interested in their Company joining for next year please reach out to me. All Tshirts sales will remain the same and Store will open up next year to purchase Tshirts. If you are interested in a Refund please always reach out if not your order will remain the same and your order will be sent out before the event next year. A date is not set in stone but will be set shortly. Possibly Labor day weekend have a tie up in party cove on Kaskaskia for people that will be staying local. Thank you Any thoughts please post below...Happy Boating
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

CLOSED FOR THE 2019 SEASON

 


 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

 

September 6 at 3:21 PM ·
Come fill up for the weekend!!!
The automatic gas system is running again at Lake Center Marina.
$3.40 for 93 octane .

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members!
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Mike's La Rosa at My River Home

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Closed For The Season

 

Port Charles Harbor

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

As Much As We Hate To Say It, Its Time To Schedule Your Boat Winterization Now! Call For Current Specials & Prices!

636.250.BOAT

 

TowBoatUS St. Charles/St. Louis
August 8 at 9:14 PM ·

27/7 with 365 days a year coverage for only 85.00 per year
Can’t beat this deal! Call 636.250.2628 to enroll before the weekend!

 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

WE ARE OPEN

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

Happy Fall, Y’all!
Cozy up and don’t forget to stop in for salted caramel and green apple Crown!

 

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

INTRODUCING...Yamaha's 2020 boats are here...Check them out at yamahaboats.com.#2020yamahawatercraft #RunTheWater

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 

Sunday- Wednesday 9-4 and

Thursday-Saturday 9-6

 

Reprinted from Two Rivers Marina Facebook.... click here

 

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Woodland Marina is feeling excited.
August 2 at 10:10 AM ·
Marina Update: We are open with limited services! However, we are working off-site as we cannot occupy the office. Please feel free to email woodlandmarina1@gmail.com if you have any questions or need assistance. Woodland Marina’s main line, 636-250-3446, is being monitored. You can leave a message for rack storage at 636-250-4547, and most importantly, we are splashing boats!

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis Restaurant

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

 

08-23-19
Fuel dock is open, please use pump #1. Hope everyone has great weekend on the water!!

 

07-08-19

Plans for the club.....
The Clubhouse is insured with FEMA. The adjusters have been through the club and will hopefully be letting us know in the next coming weeks whether or not the building is repairable. We are on hold until that point.
The club got approximately 6 ft of water, covering all electric panels and all AC units. So clean up of building is taking longer while getting temp electric/water going.
I understand there is a lot of speculation, but there will be a club/pool at the harbor
We are doing the best we can and I will keep you informed as we hear.
Sorry, as I know this is not the season you were hoping for.

 

Reprinted from Yacht Club of St. Louis Facebook.. click here


 

Facebook Event Calender.. click here

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Open for the Season

Will close after Veterans Day on November 11th. We will be open on the 11th from 10am to 6pm  and we will be giving all Veterans free ferriage that day.!

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 
3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Open All Year
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Open
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Open
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open All Year
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Closed for the 2019 Season
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
LaRosa Cantina................................. Closed
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Closed

 

FRIDAY

18 Boatober 2019

 

Over 9.4 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day... was posted on RiverBills Boaters Group by Capt'n Mark Newlin who hails out of Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Sunrise over My River Home

 

 

RiverBill says.... What a great shot Mark !

 

 

Steak Friday

Chicken Sunday

Sat.. Oct 19.. 2pm.. Dawn Turlington

Sun.. Oct 20..2pm.. 3 of a Perfect Pair 

 

Sat..Oct 26.. The Nightmare

An Alice Cooper Experience

click here for more info

 

Open Thursday through Sunday at 11AM

 

Website.. click here        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

 

Grafton Harbor

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

 

Flood of October 2018

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

 Click pic to enlarge

 

The Pictures of YesterYear's On This Day in 2018.. were sent to us by Capt'n Mark Warner

 

Hello Bill,

Some pictures I took with my drone on Monday afternoon of the Shrine and My River Home.

Mark Warner
Portage Des Sioux

 .

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

FOR SALE

50' Steel Hull Cruiser

$15,000 or Make Offer

 

Click here for more info

 

Click here for website           Click here for Facebook

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Shoes Contest

 

October 26th – Halloween Party

 

Open Tuesday through Sunday 11AM to 1AM

 

GRAFTON OYSTER BAR FESTIVAL & MUSIC SCHEDULE...  click here

Menu..  click here   Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

Make sure to check out our sister restaurant @Abigail's Tap Room for BREAKFAST Sat & Sun mornings 8 a.m. ~ 11 a.m. LUNCH or DINNER Wed-Sun 11 a.m.~ 10 p.m. Located in the historic Ruebel Hotel on E. Main St.
 

 

River News !  

 

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED OCTOBER 16, 2019 

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE

The following area is in the extreme high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex: Zone 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 109.9). All towboats transiting between Mile 184.0 and 179.0, shall avoid carrying barges on the hip and have a minimum of 250 horsepower for each loaded barge. South-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours only and northbound tows shall have enough h.p., to maintain a minimum speed of 3 MPH on the approach to the St. Louis Harbor Bridges. Vessels are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed, based upon prevailing conditions, in order to minimize wake damage to personal property. It is recommended that all vessels avoid laying up on levees in this zone, asses bridge clearances in advance and fleets be attended by a towboat at all times. Mariners are requested to review anchoring requirements and pre-identify layup areas in the event of a river closure or barge breakaway. Mariners are encouraged to ensure that moored vessels and barges are adequately secured with the anticipation of an increase in water velocity and high water. Recreational traffic is discouraged within this zone. Drift and debris may present navigation obstructions and may drag buoys off station.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following area is in the extreme high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 109.9).

The following areas are in the high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 3 (Mile 815.1 – Mile 796.9),

Pool 17 (Mile 475.1 – Mile 437.1),

Pool 18 (Mile 437.5 – Mile 410.0) and

Pool 20 (Mile 364.1 – Mile 343.2).

The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

 Pool 5A (Mile 738.0 – Mile 728.6),

Pool 15 (Mile 493.2 – Mile 482.9),

Pool 16 (Mile 482.8 – Mile 457.2),

Pool 19 (Mile 410.0 – Mile 364.2),

Pool 21 (Mile 343.1 – Mile 324.9),

Pool 22 (Mile 324.4 – Mile 301.1),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

 Pool 26 (Mile 241.3 – Mile 205.5).

High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize their wake, exercise caution and avoid laying up on levees. Recreational traffic is not recommended. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent breakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting

MILE 332.9 - MILE 331.6 - DREDGE OPERATION
Continuing until further notice, the M/V LaSALLE is conducting dredging operations between approximate Miles 332.9 and 331.5. Work will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., 7-days a week. The M/V LaSALLE will monitor VHF-FM Channel 13, 14 or 16 and requests 30-minutes advance notice of passage, for passing arrangements. Mariners are urged to transit the area at their slowest safe speed to minimize their wake and proceed with caution.

MILE 283.2 - BRIDGE DEMOLITION
Champ Clark Bridge; Explosive demolition of old bridge’s main navigation channel span to occur on or about October 18, 2019. The main channel span will be blocked up to 24-hours, while debris recovery is completed. An alternate span will be available for transit during this time. Mariners may contact Massman Construction workboat via VHF-FM Channel 13 or 16 or the Project Supervisor at (816) 898-7117.

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Peoria (Mile 187.0 – Mile 145.6),

Copperas Creek (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Havanna (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0), Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and

Grafton (Mile 9.9 – Mile 0.0).

High water and drift could be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. The laying up on levees is prohibited and recreational vessel traffic is not recommended. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid downstreaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

MILE 22.0 - AID TO NAVIGATION
A nun buoy has been reported not properly marking the channel, mid-channel, in the vicinity of Mile 22.0. Mariners are urged to exercise caution in the area.

 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website

 


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

 

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 5,305 members as of 10-17-19....... Click here and check it out. 

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

File Photo

 

 

Mississippi River At Grafton, Illinois

Grafton Sky Tour Is Almost Completed........

 

The Grafton Sky Tour project is getting close to completion, and the town's tourism bureau is getting excited about the new attraction.

 

The Grafton Sky Tour will feature gondolas and open air lifts that will ferry passengers from downtown Grafton, up the hill to Aerie's Winery.

 

Amy Chartrand, spokesperson for the Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau says that they are hoping that The Grafton Sky Tour will be open in time for visitors to enjoy the fall colors........

 

Click here to read this news story from altondailynews.com.  With Photo and Audio

 

File Photo

 

Friday, October 18, 2019

Mississippi River Louisiana, Mo

Champ Clark Demolition........

 

 

Reprinted from Champ Clark Bridge Replacement Facebook... click here

Hawg Pit BBQ Barn

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton, IL

Weekend Line-up.....

 

Check out the Hawg Pit on  Facebook... click here

 

Saturday, 19 October, 2019

Con Trios Yacht Club Membership Meeting

New Location........

 

Click here for more information

 

RiverBills Place

23 Harbor Drive

Woodland Marina

Next to Little John's Marine Service....

click here for map

 

Marissa will be at the party

Handing out RiverBills Goodies and helping with the 50/50 Raffle

 

Water is Cooling Down

Mississippi River at Winfield Dam.......

 

Reprinted from US Army Corps of Engineers

Temp glitch on Oct 3rd removed from this graph

click here for full size with glitch

 

The water temperature has cooled down quite a bit, almost 20 degrees in the last month from about 80° on September 19 to almost 60° on October 18. 

 

 

Click here for information on hypotherma

 

Road Closures Due to Flooding.......

 

•  Illinois Road & Ferry Closures...click here

 • Missouri Road Closures... click here

 • St. Charles County Road Closures... click here
 

Upcoming Events Saturday, October 19, 2019

Mississippi River At Alton, Illinois

Downtown Alton Chili Cook-Off Coming To The Riverfront........

 

On Saturday, from noon to 3 pm, Alton Main Street will be hosting the Downtown Alton Chili Cook-Off along the Mississippi riverfront in the valet parking lot of the Argosy Casino.

 

The Chili Cook-Off pits local chefs, both professional and amateur, and their recipes against one another in similar categories.  There are 18 teams registered, and judges will award $100 prizes to winners in 4 categories.

 

Chili Cook-Off attendees will vote for their favorite recipe, and the entrant chosen as the "People's Choice" will won the coveted silver ladle plaque and the bragging rights........

 

Click here to read more from riverbender.com.  With Photos.

 

Google maps

 

Mississippi River At Alton, Illinois

Riverview Park Wall Repair Will Be Pricy........

 

The damaged historic decorative retaining wall in Alton's Riverview Park will be able to be saved, however, the cost of restoration could top $500,000.

 

There are less costly plans available for steadying the shifting soil that has caused cracks in the retaining wall at the famous Mississippi River overlook.  The damage is believed to have been caused by heavy storms in mid-August.

 

On Monday, Alton Aldermen will discuss the proposed plans, from saving the retaining wall at a cost of over $500,000, removing the wall and grading the soil back at the overlook and installing a guardrail or closing Riverview Drive, or removing the wall and diverting storm water to control erosion.........

 

Click here to read this news article from thetelegraph.com.  With Photos.

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Mississippi River At St. Louis, Missouri

Wayward Pontoon Boat Blocked Traffic On The JB Bridge........

 

Thursday afternoon, traffic along the Jefferson Barracks Bridge spanning the Mississippi River in south St. Louis County was backed up after a pontoon boat slid off of the back of a semi trailer onto the roadway.

 

A large wrecker was called in to hoist the pontoon from the roadway........

 

Click here to read this news tidbit from fox2now.com.  With Photos and Video.

 

Fall Color Outlook

Fall Foliage Slow To Turn In The STL........

 

So far, motorists driving in the St. Louis region are not seeing fall foliage consistent with it being mid October.  So far, the fall colors have been slow to change.

 

In the Metro Region, the fall colors are hit and miss; reds and yellows are appearing in northern counties such as St. Charles and Lincoln.  Southern counties such as Crawford and Washington are still fairly green.

 

At this time, the best guess as to when the fall colors will peak is toward the end of October, and into the early part of November........

 

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

  

 

 

Fall Colors Predictions......Missouri Department of Conservation foresters update "Fall Color" reports weekly from mid-September through early-November.  

 

The peak of fall color in Missouri is usually around mid-October. This is when maples, ashes, oaks, and hickories are at the height of their fall display. Normally by late October, the colors are fading and the leaves beginning to drop from the trees. Fall color is usually finished by the middle of November.
 

 

St. Louis Region:
Fall color is rather variable across the St. Louis Region right now, with our northern counties (St. Charles, Lincoln) becoming more consistent with fall color in the metropolitan area, and southern counties (Crawford, Washington) still more green than not. Up north, the northern red oaks are finally beginning to show color and are contrasting nicely with sugar maple and dogwoods. Dogwoods, sumacs, and sassafras are showing color throughout the area with maples, oaks and hickories being variable depending on your location. The cooler weather in the forecast should help to jump-start more widespread fall color, but an early hard freeze may end things abruptly.

(Updated: 10/17/2019 - 12:00pm)

Click here for the latest information about the "Fall Colors" forecast. 

 

The above partially re-printed from the Missouri Department of Conservation website

 Pool 26 Halloween Parties

 

  Boathouse..........................................    Sat, Oct 26

  Froge's ...............................................   Sat, Nov 02

  Grafton Harbor....................................   Sat, Oct 19.. Witches on the Water

  Grafton Oyster Bar..............................    Sat, Oct 19..Witches on the Water

  Grafton Oyster Bar..............................   Sat, Oct 26

  Hawg Pit.............................................   Sat, Oct 26

  Kinders ..............................................    N/A

  Longshot Saloon................................    No Party This Year

 

  And ....There Will Be Lots of Halloween Parties All Around Grafton too

 

 

Look for updates as they become available

  

Upcoming Events  Saturday, October 26, 2019

Mississippi River At St. Louis, Missouri

The Gateway Arch Is Hosting A Halloween Event........

 

The Gateway Arch is planning on hosting a scary event for the Halloween season.  Frights and Heights is a family-friendly event that will be held at the Gateway Arch Museum and Visitors Center.

 

History actors in costumes will be roving around the museum while kids collect candy and decorate a small pumpkin to take home.

 

Frights and Heights is scheduled for Saturday, October 26th from 6:30 pm to 10 pm.  There will be a haunted tram ride to the top of the Arch, a dance party, face painting, storytelling and treats........

 

Click here to read this news article from fox2now.com.  With Photo

River History....

 

October 18, 1847 in River History


Boatmen’s Bank, the oldest bank west of the Mississippi River, was established on this day in 1847.

The founder , George Knight Budd, arrived in St. Louis by the river aboard a steamer in 1835. After seeing the thriving commerce on Mississippi riverfront, he decided to settle in St. Louis ! 

In 1850 the river was the source of a disaster that spared the bank. Not a flood ! A fire that aboard a steamer on the St. Louis riverfront started a blaze that destroyed much of the city. The fire took more than 400 buildings and 23 steamers, but it spared the Boatmen's building ! It was left standing in the middle of the ashes of the structures around it.

 

Atlantic Ocean At Hatteras, North Carolina

Wooden Shipwreck Revealed By Recent Nor'Easter........

 

A storm recently uncovered the wreckage from a wooden ship that had been buried on a beach located along North Carolina's Outer Banks.  The sand has since washed back in, reburying the wreck.

 

Charlie Hornfeck, owner of the The Wreck Tiki Bar & Food, says that he spotted the wreck on Saturday while walking his dog.  He was checking out the erosion and storm damage near his bar when he made the discovery. 

 

According to his wife Leslie, Charlie is fascinated by shipwrecks, as well as the Outer Banks' reputation as The Graveyard of the Atlantic.  The National Parks Service believes that over 1,000 ships are believed to have been lost around Cape Hatteras.........

 

Click here to read this news report from kmov.com.  With Photo.

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "April 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

NOW OFFERING TRAILER REHAB AND CLEANUP

Boat trailers, Campers, RV's

 

If your trailer, whether it be a boat trailer or a camper was stranded in the flood water and the wheels have been submerged for any amount of time they are going to have muck, mud, and rust in them. If not attended to, they will be locked up in no time at all.

 

We will remove tires, drums, bearings and properly clean or replace as needed or as agreed upon.

 

Washing entire trailer and repairing wiring are also options.

 

 e-mail... LITTLEJOHNSINC@aol.com 

Phone or text to... 636 541 2962

Thank You,

LJ

 

Rehabbing a trailer that was underwater during the flood

Alex washing the flood muck off & tear down for inspection.

One wheel on trailer was completely locked up and not rotating.

 

. The brake and backing plate assembly loaded with mud and muck

 

A new complete brake and backing plate assembly ready to go on.

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

 

OPEN DAILY ALL YEAR
Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

$5.00 lunch specials

Mon - Fri from 11am till 2pm

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

 

Check out the Deli's

Lunch Specials..click here

Breakfast Specials... click here

 

Bloch Marine Service

Yacht Club of St. Louis Location......

 

Hello Everyone!
We are happy to announce that Bloch Marine Service is becoming Yacht Club Marine. As of October 1st, 2019, Bloch Marine Service will no longer be taking new work orders, and will cease operations by October 31st, 2019.
But to keep service seamless, Yacht Club Marine will be performing the same quality service that you have come to expect over the years at both the Yacht Club of St. Louis and at Harbor Point Marina.
With that said, the winterization season is just around the corner, and it's time to get on the schedule to have expert winterization performed on your boat to protect it from the ravages of winter freezing. And also, winter is the best time to have Yacht Club Marine perform that much needed maintenance or big project that you have been putting off.
If your winterization request is received before October 15th, 2019, you will receive a 10% discount on winterization labor.
There is also a 10% discount on labor performed during the winter months for those big or small projects that the boat may need.
Best regards, and we'll see you out there!
The Yacht Club Marine Crew.

 

Reprinted from Bloch Marine FaceBook.. click here

 

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

Friday Specials...
Firecracker Shrimp Appetizer,
Eight Tiger Shrimp Hand Battered and Fried golden tossed in a Sriracha Sweet Chili Sauce topped with chives $9.99
Chipotle Turkey Burger,
Grilled Turkey Burger topped with PepperJack Cheese, Applewood Smoked Bacon and Chipotle Mayo served with Lettuce, Tomato and Red Onion on a Split Top Gourmet Bun with Steak Fries $10.99
12 oz Garlic Parmesan NY Strip and Shrimp,
12 oz Aged Angus NY Strip chargrilled and topped with Four Garlic Parmesan Tiger Shrimp in a Cream Sauce served with Vegetable Medley and Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes with choice of soup or salad $21.99
Fireball Apple-cider Martini $8
OBB Oktoberfest Pints $5

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

Open 7 Days a week

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

 

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 

Steak Friday
Chicken Sunday
Sat.. Oct 19.. 2pm.. Dawn Turlington
Sun.. Oct 20..2pm.. 3 of a Perfect Pair 

 

 

Deck closing November 1st.

 

Open Thurs - Sun at 11AM

 

 Upcoming Events.. click here

 

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

 
 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

 

Closed Due to Flooding

Con Trios Yacht Club

 

 

Sat.. Oct 19.. Membership Meeting.. RiverBills Place

                    click here for flyer

                     

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

New fall hours for the Duck Club:
Fri.....kitchen 4pm-9pm and bar 4pm-1:30am
Sat...kitchen 11am-9pm and bar 11am-1:30 am
Sun...kitchen 11am-8pm and bar 11-am-9pm

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

 

Smoked Pork Steaks

Sat - 2pm-til gone. 1 1/2 inch smoked pork steaks w/2 sides $11.49

 

CLOSED on Monday's

 

Every Friday throughout the year we serve whole catfish, catfish nuggets, Alaskan Pollock and salmon served with 2 sides and a soft drink for $8.99 from 11am until gone or 10pm

 

Fall Kitchen hours

Tu-Th 11am-8pm,  Sunday 12-8pm,  Friday & Saturday never change

 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Broom & Witch's Shoes Contest

click here for more info

 

Sat.. Oct 19-20, 2019

Boat Show & Swap Meet

Click here for more info


Grafton Harbor has brand new Landau Pontoon Boats! Come rent a boat with us! We boat thru the Fall Season! Pack a picnic lunch and just enjoy the beauty and serenity of the Illinois River!. click here

 

 

Grafton Harbor Gift Shop & Winery is open 7 day a week

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Fri.. Oct 18, 2019

Taste of Italy dinner sunset cruise
 

Call 618-786-7678 for reservations

 

1 hour cruises offered every Sat & Sun thru Nov.3

Click here for more info

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

Two Week Activity  Calendar

 

Look forward to seeing all you fellow witches this weekend! It gets more fun every year!

 

Click here and check out Grafton's

Event and Music Calendar ....    Oct 14 - Oct 27

 

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Broom & Witch's Shoes Contest

click here for more info


October 26th – Halloween Party

 

Open Tuesday - Sunday

11AM to 1AM

 

If your have not been yet...make sure to check out our sister restaurant @Abigail's Tap Room for BREAKFAST Sat & Sun mornings 8 a.m. ~ 11 a.m. LUNCH or DINNER Wed-Sun 11 a.m.~ 10 p.m. Located in the historic Ruebel Hotel on E. Main St.

 

 

2019 FESTIVAL & MUSIC SCHEDULE...  click here

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 



 

Hawg Pit BBQ

Grafton, IL

 

Fri...Oct 18..Isaiah Christian & The Rebel Saints 7-11pm

Sat. Oct 19.. Witches on the Water

Sat..Oct 19.. Catfish Willie..4-8pm

Sun..Oct 20.. Jake Weber and the Lonesome Drifters

Kaskaskia River Run

Kaskaskia River

 

Brian Shackelford
July 27 at 10:25 AM ·

As the weather we have had this year with Heavy heart The event is going to be pushed till next year. 2020 The River levels we have had this year there is still no docks currently at New Athens, Water is still high on the Mississippi and the sandbar is still currently under water & still alot of floating logs in the Mississippi and Safety is a top priority. All Company's that have donated towards the event will remain the same. If anyone is interested in their Company joining for next year please reach out to me. All Tshirts sales will remain the same and Store will open up next year to purchase Tshirts. If you are interested in a Refund please always reach out if not your order will remain the same and your order will be sent out before the event next year. A date is not set in stone but will be set shortly. Possibly Labor day weekend have a tie up in party cove on Kaskaskia for people that will be staying local. Thank you Any thoughts please post below...Happy Boating
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

CLOSED FOR THE 2019 SEASON

 


 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

 

September 6 at 3:21 PM ·
Come fill up for the weekend!!!
The automatic gas system is running again at Lake Center Marina.
$3.40 for 93 octane .

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members!
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Mike's La Rosa at My River Home

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Closed For The Season

 

Port Charles Harbor

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

As Much As We Hate To Say It, Its Time To Schedule Your Boat Winterization Now! Call For Current Specials & Prices!

636.250.BOAT

 

TowBoatUS St. Charles/St. Louis
August 8 at 9:14 PM ·

27/7 with 365 days a year coverage for only 85.00 per year
Can’t beat this deal! Call 636.250.2628 to enroll before the weekend!

 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

WE ARE OPEN

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

Happy Fall, Y’all!
Cozy up and don’t forget to stop in for salted caramel and green apple Crown!

 

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

INTRODUCING...Yamaha's 2020 boats are here...Check them out at yamahaboats.com.#2020yamahawatercraft #RunTheWater

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 

Sunday- Wednesday 9-4 and

Thursday-Saturday 9-6

 

Reprinted from Two Rivers Marina Facebook.... click here

 

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Woodland Marina is feeling excited.
August 2 at 10:10 AM ·
Marina Update: We are open with limited services! However, we are working off-site as we cannot occupy the office. Please feel free to email woodlandmarina1@gmail.com if you have any questions or need assistance. Woodland Marina’s main line, 636-250-3446, is being monitored. You can leave a message for rack storage at 636-250-4547, and most importantly, we are splashing boats!

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis Restaurant

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

 

08-23-19
Fuel dock is open, please use pump #1. Hope everyone has great weekend on the water!!

 

07-08-19

Plans for the club.....
The Clubhouse is insured with FEMA. The adjusters have been through the club and will hopefully be letting us know in the next coming weeks whether or not the building is repairable. We are on hold until that point.
The club got approximately 6 ft of water, covering all electric panels and all AC units. So clean up of building is taking longer while getting temp electric/water going.
I understand there is a lot of speculation, but there will be a club/pool at the harbor
We are doing the best we can and I will keep you informed as we hear.
Sorry, as I know this is not the season you were hoping for.

 

Reprinted from Yacht Club of St. Louis Facebook.. click here


 

Facebook Event Calender.. click here

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Open for the Season

Will close after Veterans Day on November 11th. We will be open on the 11th from 10am to 6pm  and we will be giving all Veterans free ferriage that day.!

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 
3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Open All Year
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Open
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Open
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open All Year
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Closed for the 2019 Season
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
LaRosa Cantina................................. Closed
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Closed

 

THURSDAY

17 Boatober 2019

 

Over 9.4 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day.....

 

River Friends

Always There For You !

 

 

Steak Friday

Chicken Sunday

Sat.. Oct 19.. 2pm.. Dawn Turlington

Sun.. Oct 20..2pm.. 3 of a Perfect Pair 

 

Sat..Oct 26.. The Nightmare

An Alice Cooper Experience

click here for more info

 

Open Thursday through Sunday at 11AM

 

Website.. click here        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

 

Desperados / HPYC Flood Stage

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 Click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of YesterYear's On This Day in 2017.. were sent to us by Capt'n Shaun Medley


Hey All,

Here are a few pictures of Harbour Point Yacht Club and M/Y Desperados in West Alton, MO.

Photos Courtesy,
Capt Shaun Medley.

 .

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

FOR SALE

50' Steel Hull Cruiser

$15,000 or Make Offer

 

Click here for more info

 

Click here for website           Click here for Facebook

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Shoes Contest

 

October 26th – Halloween Party

 

Open Tuesday through Sunday 11AM to 1AM

 

GRAFTON OYSTER BAR FESTIVAL & MUSIC SCHEDULE...  click here

Menu..  click here   Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

Make sure to check out our sister restaurant @Abigail's Tap Room for BREAKFAST Sat & Sun mornings 8 a.m. ~ 11 a.m. LUNCH or DINNER Wed-Sun 11 a.m.~ 10 p.m. Located in the historic Ruebel Hotel on E. Main St.
 

 

River News !  

 

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED OCTOBER 16, 2019 

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE

The following area is in the extreme high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex: Zone 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 109.9). All towboats transiting between Mile 184.0 and 179.0, shall avoid carrying barges on the hip and have a minimum of 250 horsepower for each loaded barge. South-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours only and northbound tows shall have enough h.p., to maintain a minimum speed of 3 MPH on the approach to the St. Louis Harbor Bridges. Vessels are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed, based upon prevailing conditions, in order to minimize wake damage to personal property. It is recommended that all vessels avoid laying up on levees in this zone, asses bridge clearances in advance and fleets be attended by a towboat at all times. Mariners are requested to review anchoring requirements and pre-identify layup areas in the event of a river closure or barge breakaway. Mariners are encouraged to ensure that moored vessels and barges are adequately secured with the anticipation of an increase in water velocity and high water. Recreational traffic is discouraged within this zone. Drift and debris may present navigation obstructions and may drag buoys off station.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following area is in the extreme high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 109.9).

The following areas are in the high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 3 (Mile 815.1 – Mile 796.9),

Pool 17 (Mile 475.1 – Mile 437.1),

Pool 18 (Mile 437.5 – Mile 410.0) and

Pool 20 (Mile 364.1 – Mile 343.2).

The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

 Pool 5A (Mile 738.0 – Mile 728.6),

Pool 15 (Mile 493.2 – Mile 482.9),

Pool 16 (Mile 482.8 – Mile 457.2),

Pool 19 (Mile 410.0 – Mile 364.2),

Pool 21 (Mile 343.1 – Mile 324.9),

Pool 22 (Mile 324.4 – Mile 301.1),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

 Pool 26 (Mile 241.3 – Mile 205.5).

High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize their wake, exercise caution and avoid laying up on levees. Recreational traffic is not recommended. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent breakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting

MILE 332.9 - MILE 331.6 - DREDGE OPERATION
Continuing until further notice, the M/V LaSALLE is conducting dredging operations between approximate Miles 332.9 and 331.5. Work will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., 7-days a week. The M/V LaSALLE will monitor VHF-FM Channel 13, 14 or 16 and requests 30-minutes advance notice of passage, for passing arrangements. Mariners are urged to transit the area at their slowest safe speed to minimize their wake and proceed with caution.

MILE 283.2 - BRIDGE DEMOLITION
Champ Clark Bridge; Explosive demolition of old bridge’s main navigation channel span to occur on or about October 18, 2019. The main channel span will be blocked up to 24-hours, while debris recovery is completed. An alternate span will be available for transit during this time. Mariners may contact Massman Construction workboat via VHF-FM Channel 13 or 16 or the Project Supervisor at (816) 898-7117.

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Peoria (Mile 187.0 – Mile 145.6),

Copperas Creek (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Havanna (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0), Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and

Grafton (Mile 9.9 – Mile 0.0).

High water and drift could be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. The laying up on levees is prohibited and recreational vessel traffic is not recommended. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid downstreaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

MILE 22.0 - AID TO NAVIGATION
A nun buoy has been reported not properly marking the channel, mid-channel, in the vicinity of Mile 22.0. Mariners are urged to exercise caution in the area.

 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website

 


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

 

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 5,305 members as of 10-17-19....... Click here and check it out. 

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

Mississippi River At West Alton, Missouri

$4 Million Plan Revealed For Rebuilding, Raising U.S. 67........

 

On Tuesday, the Audubon Center at Riverlands hosted a public meeting, where they revealed plans for elevating the southbound U.S. 67 lanes from the Clark Bridge to the Consolidated North County Levee.

 

The southbound lanes of U.S. 67 will be raised to the same elevation as the northbound lanes.  The construction project will include J-turns instead of traditional intersections in order to foster safer traffic flow.

 

The project is estimated to cost around $3.9 million, and construction is planned to begin in 2021.  The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2022........

 

Click here to read this news report from thetelegraph.com.  With Photos.

 

Thursday, Oct 17, 2019

Grafton, IL at Confluence of Illinois and Mississippi Rivers

Hawg Pit Hosting Four Days Of Events........

 

The Hawg Pit (RB File Photo)

 

 

On Thursday, October 17th, The Grafton Chamber of Commerce will be holding a ribbon cutting ceremony and Business After Hours from 6 to 8 pm at the Hawg Pit along Grafton's riverfront.  A cash bar is planned, and snacks will be provided.

 

The Hawg Pit is planning on hosting three days of concerts later in the week, including Isaiah Christian & the Rebel Saints on Friday, the Catfish Willie Band on Saturday and Jake Weber & The Lonesome Drifters is scheduled for 1 pm Sunday........

 

Click here to read this news tidbit from thetelegraph.com. 

 

Hawg Pit BBQ Barn

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton, IL

Weekend Line-up.....

 

Check out the Hawg Pit on  Facebook... click here

 

Saturday, 19 October, 2019

Con Trios Yacht Club Membership Meeting

New Location........

 

Click here for more information

 

RiverBills Place

23 Harbor Drive

Woodland Marina

Next to Little John's Marine Service....

click here for map

 

Marissa will be at the party

Handing out RiverBills Goodies and helping with the 50/50

 

Road Closures Due to Flooding.......

 

•  Illinois Road & Ferry Closures...click here

 • Missouri Road Closures... click here

 • St. Charles County Road Closures... click here
 

Illinois Flooding Aftermath

Students Pen Letters To Legislators For Levee Assistance........

 

Students from Cobden Junior High School in Cobden, Illinois have joined up with students from Shawnee High School to try to bring help with flooding assistance in Southern Illinois.

 

The Cobden students are writing letters to officials seeking assistance with any flood preventative measures or levee maintenance in Alexander, Union and Jackson Counties.

 

According to Cobden 7th grade student Andrew Sargent, their intention is to help out their neighbors with their flooding aftermath........

 

Click here to read this news story from kfvs12.com. With Video.

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Mississippi River Management

The Lower Missouri River Will Remain High Through December........

 

Officials are saying that the Lower Missouri River will remain high into December due to the huge amount of water being released from the upstream reservoirs into the river.

 

Last week, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said that the amount of water being released by the Gavins Point Dam will be flowing around 80,000 cubic feet of water per second.  The releases are expected to continue into mid-December.

 

While officials are not expecting any significant new flooding, there are many damaged levees that are allowing floodwaters to flow into rural areas........

 

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

Ohio River Near Louisville, Kentucky

Former NASCAR Team Owner Found Dead In The River........

 

At around 6:20 Tuesday evening Fire, Police and emergency responders recovered the body of a former NASCAR team owner, 68 year old Lonnie Troxell, from the Ohio River near the Captain's Quarters restaurant and marina at Louisville, Kentucky.
 
The cause of Troxell's death has not been released, pending the completion of an autopsy.......

 

Click here to read this news story from courier-journal.com.   

 

 Pool 26 Halloween Parties

 

  Boathouse..........................................    Sat, Oct 26

  Froge's ...............................................   Sat, Nov 02

  Grafton Harbor....................................   Sat, Oct 19.. Witches on the Water

  Grafton Oyster Bar..............................    Sat, Oct 19..Witches on the Water

  Grafton Oyster Bar..............................   Sat, Oct 26

  Hawg Pit.............................................   Sat, Oct 26

  Kinders ..............................................    N/A

  Longshot Saloon................................    No Party This Year

 

  And ....There Will Be Lots of Halloween Parties All Around Grafton too

 

 

Look for updates as they become available

  

Upcoming Events  Saturday, October 26, 2019

Mississippi River At St. Louis, Missouri

The Gateway Arch Is Hosting A Halloween Event........

 

The Gateway Arch is planning on hosting a scary event for the Halloween season.  Frights and Heights is a family-friendly event that will be held at the Gateway Arch Museum and Visitors Center.

 

History actors in costumes will be roving around the museum while kids collect candy and decorate a small pumpkin to take home.

 

Frights and Heights is scheduled for Saturday, October 26th from 6:30 pm to 10 pm.  There will be a haunted tram ride to the top of the Arch, a dance party, face painting, storytelling and treats........

 

Click here to read this news article from fox2now.com.  With Photo

River History....

 

October 17, 2013 in River History


The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers started the task of reopening all public facilities and recreation areas that were closed due to the government shutdown.

This included the National Great Rivers Museum at the Melvin Price Lock and Dam and recreational facilities at area Corps of Engineers lakes. The Lock and Dams on the Mississippi River remained open.

The United States federal government entered a shutdown on October 1, 2013 and curtailed most routine operations after Congress failed to enact legislation appropriating funds for fiscal year 2014. The shut down ended on October 16, 2013 after House and Senate voted to reopen the government.

 

Boat Sales

Powerboat Registrations Fall During August........

 

The National Marine Manufacturers Association recently released their latest Powerboat Registrations Report which reveals that powerboat sales had fallen 0.9 percent on a rolling 12 month, year over year basis, and down 2 percent on a rolling three month year over year basis through August.

 

The report states that the total number of new units sold to date in 2019 rose to 274,200 units.  The NMMA is expecting that they are expecting to be on par, or slightly lower than the 2018 numbers.

 

Vicky Yu, director of NMMA business intelligence says that even with the market slowing, small to mid-sized aluminum hulled powerboats sales, wake-sports and personal watercraft segments are doing well........

 

Click here to read this news report from tradeonlytoday.com.  With Photo.

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "April 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

LITTLE JOHN'S MARINE AND FABRICATION

NOW OFFERING TRAILER REHAB AND CLEANUP

Boat trailers, Campers, RV's

 

If your trailer, whether it be a boat trailer or a camper was stranded in the flood water and the wheels have been submerged for any amount of time they are going to have muck, mud, and rust in them. If not attended to, they will be locked up in no time at all.

 

We will remove tires, drums, bearings and properly clean or replace as needed or as agreed upon.

 

Washing entire trailer and repairing wiring are also options.

 

 e-mail... LITTLEJOHNSINC@aol.com 

Phone or text to... 636 541 2962

Thank You,

LJ

 

Rehabbing a trailer that was underwater during the flood

Alex washing off the flood muck off & tear down for inspection.

One wheel on trailer was completely locked up and not rotating.

 

. The brake and backing plate assembly loaded with mud and muck

 

A new complete brake and backing plate assembly ready to go on.

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

 

OPEN DAILY ALL YEAR
Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

$5.00 lunch specials

Mon - Fri from 11am till 2pm

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

 

Check out the Deli's

Lunch Specials..click here

Breakfast Specials... click here

 

Bloch Marine Service

Yacht Club of St. Louis Location......

 

Hello Everyone!
We are happy to announce that Bloch Marine Service is becoming Yacht Club Marine. As of October 1st, 2019, Bloch Marine Service will no longer be taking new work orders, and will cease operations by October 31st, 2019.
But to keep service seamless, Yacht Club Marine will be performing the same quality service that you have come to expect over the years at both the Yacht Club of St. Louis and at Harbor Point Marina.
With that said, the winterization season is just around the corner, and it's time to get on the schedule to have expert winterization performed on your boat to protect it from the ravages of winter freezing. And also, winter is the best time to have Yacht Club Marine perform that much needed maintenance or big project that you have been putting off.
If your winterization request is received before October 15th, 2019, you will receive a 10% discount on winterization labor.
There is also a 10% discount on labor performed during the winter months for those big or small projects that the boat may need.
Best regards, and we'll see you out there!
The Yacht Club Marine Crew.

 

Reprinted from Bloch Marine FaceBook.. click here

 

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

 

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

Open 7 Days a week

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

 

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 

Steak Friday
Chicken Sunday
Sat.. Oct 19.. 2pm.. Dawn Turlington
Sun.. Oct 20..2pm.. 3 of a Perfect Pair 

 

 

Deck closing November 1st.

 

Open Thurs - Sun at 11AM

 

 Upcoming Events.. click here

 

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

 
 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

 

Closed Due to Flooding

Con Trios Yacht Club

 

 

Sat.. Oct 19.. Membership Meeting.. RiverBills Place

                    click here for flyer

                     

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

New fall hours for the Duck Club:
Fri.....kitchen 4pm-9pm and bar 4pm-1:30am
Sat...kitchen 11am-9pm and bar 11am-1:30 am
Sun...kitchen 11am-8pm and bar 11-am-9pm

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

 

Smoked Pork Steaks

Sat - 2pm-til gone. 1 1/2 inch smoked pork steaks w/2 sides $11.49

 

CLOSED on Monday's

 

Every Friday throughout the year we serve whole catfish, catfish nuggets, Alaskan Pollock and salmon served with 2 sides and a soft drink for $8.99 from 11am until gone or 10pm

 

Fall Kitchen hours

Tu-Th 11am-8pm,  Sunday 12-8pm,  Friday & Saturday never change

 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Broom & Witch's Shoes Contest

click here for more info

 

Sat.. Oct 19-20, 2019

Boat Show & Swap Meet

Click here for more info


Grafton Harbor has brand new Landau Pontoon Boats! Come rent a boat with us! We boat thru the Fall Season! Pack a picnic lunch and just enjoy the beauty and serenity of the Illinois River!. click here

 

 

Grafton Harbor Gift Shop & Winery is open 7 day a week

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Fri.. Oct 18, 2019

Taste of Italy dinner sunset cruise
 

Call 618-786-7678 for reservations

 

1 hour cruises offered every Sat & Sun thru Nov.3

Click here for more info

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

Two Week Activity  Calendar

 

Look forward to seeing all you fellow witches this weekend! It gets more fun every year!

 

Click here and check out Grafton's

Event and Music Calendar ....    Oct 14 - Oct 27

 

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Broom & Witch's Shoes Contest

click here for more info


October 26th – Halloween Party

 

Open Tuesday - Sunday

11AM to 1AM

 

If your have not been yet...make sure to check out our sister restaurant @Abigail's Tap Room for BREAKFAST Sat & Sun mornings 8 a.m. ~ 11 a.m. LUNCH or DINNER Wed-Sun 11 a.m.~ 10 p.m. Located in the historic Ruebel Hotel on E. Main St.

 

 

2019 FESTIVAL & MUSIC SCHEDULE...  click here

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 



 

Hawg Pit BBQ

Grafton, IL

 

Fri...Oct 18..Isaiah Christian & The Rebel Saints 7-11pm

Sat. Oct 19.. Witches on the Water

Sat..Oct 19.. Catfish Willie..4-8pm

Sun..Oct 20.. Jake Weber and the Lonesome Drifters

Kaskaskia River Run

Kaskaskia River

 

Brian Shackelford
July 27 at 10:25 AM ·

As the weather we have had this year with Heavy heart The event is going to be pushed till next year. 2020 The River levels we have had this year there is still no docks currently at New Athens, Water is still high on the Mississippi and the sandbar is still currently under water & still alot of floating logs in the Mississippi and Safety is a top priority. All Company's that have donated towards the event will remain the same. If anyone is interested in their Company joining for next year please reach out to me. All Tshirts sales will remain the same and Store will open up next year to purchase Tshirts. If you are interested in a Refund please always reach out if not your order will remain the same and your order will be sent out before the event next year. A date is not set in stone but will be set shortly. Possibly Labor day weekend have a tie up in party cove on Kaskaskia for people that will be staying local. Thank you Any thoughts please post below...Happy Boating
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

CLOSED FOR THE 2019 SEASON

 


 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

 

September 6 at 3:21 PM ·
Come fill up for the weekend!!!
The automatic gas system is running again at Lake Center Marina.
$3.40 for 93 octane .

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members!
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Mike's La Rosa at My River Home

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Closed For The Season

 

Port Charles Harbor

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

As Much As We Hate To Say It, Its Time To Schedule Your Boat Winterization Now! Call For Current Specials & Prices!

636.250.BOAT

 

TowBoatUS St. Charles/St. Louis
August 8 at 9:14 PM ·

27/7 with 365 days a year coverage for only 85.00 per year
Can’t beat this deal! Call 636.250.2628 to enroll before the weekend!

 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

WE ARE OPEN

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

Happy Fall, Y’all!
Cozy up and don’t forget to stop in for salted caramel and green apple Crown!

 

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

INTRODUCING...Yamaha's 2020 boats are here...Check them out at yamahaboats.com.#2020yamahawatercraft #RunTheWater

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 

Sunday- Wednesday 9-4 and

Thursday-Saturday 9-6

 

Reprinted from Two Rivers Marina Facebook.... click here

 

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Woodland Marina is feeling excited.
August 2 at 10:10 AM ·
Marina Update: We are open with limited services! However, we are working off-site as we cannot occupy the office. Please feel free to email woodlandmarina1@gmail.com if you have any questions or need assistance. Woodland Marina’s main line, 636-250-3446, is being monitored. You can leave a message for rack storage at 636-250-4547, and most importantly, we are splashing boats!

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis Restaurant

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

 

08-23-19
Fuel dock is open, please use pump #1. Hope everyone has great weekend on the water!!

 

07-08-19

Plans for the club.....
The Clubhouse is insured with FEMA. The adjusters have been through the club and will hopefully be letting us know in the next coming weeks whether or not the building is repairable. We are on hold until that point.
The club got approximately 6 ft of water, covering all electric panels and all AC units. So clean up of building is taking longer while getting temp electric/water going.
I understand there is a lot of speculation, but there will be a club/pool at the harbor
We are doing the best we can and I will keep you informed as we hear.
Sorry, as I know this is not the season you were hoping for.

 

Reprinted from Yacht Club of St. Louis Facebook.. click here


 

Facebook Event Calender.. click here

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Open for the Season

Will close after Veterans Day on November 11th. We will be open on the 11th from 10am to 6pm  and we will be giving all Veterans free ferriage that day.!

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 
3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Open All Year
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Open
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Open
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open All Year
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Closed for the 2019 Season
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
LaRosa Cantina................................. Closed
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Closed

 

WEDNESDAY

16 Boatober 2019

 

Over 9.4 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Mark Twain Riverboat

Pool 22 of the Mississippi River at Hannibal, Mo

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day..... was taken by Craig Schulte

 

 

 

The Mark Twain Riverboat...

The Mark Twain has been a unique feature on the Hannibal riverfront for more than 30 years. As a family-owned business since 1997, we strive to offer you a unique riverboat experience on the Mighty Mississippi, whether you’re a Hannibal resident or visitor. Choose between our two daily cruise offerings: our Sightseeing Cruise and our evening Dinner Cruise. Whether you are looking to spend the day on the river taking in the sights or dining on the river at sunset, Mark Twain Riverboat has something for everyone.


Mark Twain Riverboat
  Built in 1964 at Dubuque Boiler and Boatworks
  120 feet long, 33 feet wide, 6-foot draft
  350 passenger capacity
  Inspected annually by the USCG
  Wheelchair accessible w/limitations (not 100% wheelchair access)

 

Reprinted from the Mark Twain Riverboat website. Click here and check it out

 

RiverBills Sticker Sighting

Riviera Maya

Cancun, Mexico

 

 Click pic to enlarge

 

 

A RiverBills Sticker Sighting.....  was sent to us by Capt'n John Love

 

Hi Bill,   

 

We opened up our umbrella at the beach in Riviera Maya, Cancun and look what we found, a River Bills sticker. 

 

No sure how it got there! 


 

John and Angela Love,

Duck Club

 

 

 

 

RiverBills Sticker Sighting Page

Click here and check it out...

 

Steak Friday

Chicken Sunday

Sat.. Oct 19.. 2pm.. Dawn Turlington

Sun.. Oct 20..2pm.. 3 of a Perfect Pair 

 

Sat..Oct 26.. The Nightmare

An Alice Cooper Experience

click here for more info

 

Open Thursday through Sunday at 11AM

 

Website.. click here        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

 

You Never Know What You Will See

On The River

 Click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of YesterYear's On This Day in 2017.. was posted in RiverBills Boater's Group by Tim Davidson !
 

Got it lit up again

 .

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

FOR SALE

50' Steel Hull Cruiser

$15,000 or Make Offer

 

Click here for more info

 

Click here for website           Click here for Facebook

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Broom & Witch's Shoes Contest

 

October 26th – Halloween Party

 

Open Tuesday through Sunday 11AM to 1AM

 

GRAFTON OYSTER BAR FESTIVAL & MUSIC SCHEDULE...  click here

Menu..  click here   Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

Make sure to check out our sister restaurant @Abigail's Tap Room for BREAKFAST Sat & Sun mornings 8 a.m. ~ 11 a.m. LUNCH or DINNER Wed-Sun 11 a.m.~ 10 p.m. Located in the historic Ruebel Hotel on E. Main St.
 

 

River News !  

 

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED OCTOBER 16, 2019 

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE

The following area is in the extreme high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex: Zone 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 109.9). All towboats transiting between Mile 184.0 and 179.0, shall avoid carrying barges on the hip and have a minimum of 250 horsepower for each loaded barge. South-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours only and northbound tows shall have enough h.p., to maintain a minimum speed of 3 MPH on the approach to the St. Louis Harbor Bridges. Vessels are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed, based upon prevailing conditions, in order to minimize wake damage to personal property. It is recommended that all vessels avoid laying up on levees in this zone, asses bridge clearances in advance and fleets be attended by a towboat at all times. Mariners are requested to review anchoring requirements and pre-identify layup areas in the event of a river closure or barge breakaway. Mariners are encouraged to ensure that moored vessels and barges are adequately secured with the anticipation of an increase in water velocity and high water. Recreational traffic is discouraged within this zone. Drift and debris may present navigation obstructions and may drag buoys off station.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following area is in the extreme high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 109.9).

The following areas are in the high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 3 (Mile 815.1 – Mile 796.9),

Pool 17 (Mile 475.1 – Mile 437.1),

Pool 18 (Mile 437.5 – Mile 410.0) and

Pool 20 (Mile 364.1 – Mile 343.2).

The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

 Pool 5A (Mile 738.0 – Mile 728.6),

Pool 15 (Mile 493.2 – Mile 482.9),

Pool 16 (Mile 482.8 – Mile 457.2),

Pool 19 (Mile 410.0 – Mile 364.2),

Pool 21 (Mile 343.1 – Mile 324.9),

Pool 22 (Mile 324.4 – Mile 301.1),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

 Pool 26 (Mile 241.3 – Mile 205.5).

High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize their wake, exercise caution and avoid laying up on levees. Recreational traffic is not recommended. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent breakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting

MILE 332.9 - MILE 331.6 - DREDGE OPERATION
Continuing until further notice, the M/V LaSALLE is conducting dredging operations between approximate Miles 332.9 and 331.5. Work will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., 7-days a week. The M/V LaSALLE will monitor VHF-FM Channel 13, 14 or 16 and requests 30-minutes advance notice of passage, for passing arrangements. Mariners are urged to transit the area at their slowest safe speed to minimize their wake and proceed with caution.

MILE 283.2 - BRIDGE DEMOLITION
Champ Clark Bridge; Explosive demolition of old bridge’s main navigation channel span to occur on or about October 18, 2019. The main channel span will be blocked up to 24-hours, while debris recovery is completed. An alternate span will be available for transit during this time. Mariners may contact Massman Construction workboat via VHF-FM Channel 13 or 16 or the Project Supervisor at (816) 898-7117.

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Peoria (Mile 187.0 – Mile 145.6),

Copperas Creek (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Havanna (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0), Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and

Grafton (Mile 9.9 – Mile 0.0).

High water and drift could be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. The laying up on levees is prohibited and recreational vessel traffic is not recommended. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid downstreaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

MILE 22.0 - AID TO NAVIGATION
A nun buoy has been reported not properly marking the channel, mid-channel, in the vicinity of Mile 22.0. Mariners are urged to exercise caution in the area.

 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website

 


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

 

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 5,299 members as of 10-16-19....... Click here and check it out. 

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

llinois Waterways

The IDNR Is Taking Clean Vessel Grant Applications........

 

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has announced that they are accepting grant applications through the federal Clean Vessel Act Grant program.

 

Operators of private marinas, boat yards, yacht clubs and local governments will be able to apply for grants that would be used for constructing or upgrading marine sewage disposal systems and renovating pumpout stations for recreational boaters.

 

The IDNR will forward applications to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for consideration.  If approved, applicants will be reimbursed for up to 75 percent of the allowable expenses.  Applications must be submitted by November 4th.........

 

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

 

Hawg Pit BBQ Barn

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton, IL

Weekend Line-up.....

 

Check out the Hawg Pit on  Facebook... click here

 

Upcoming Event... Saturday, 19 October, 2019

Con Trios Yacht Club Membership Meeting

New Location........

 

Click here for more information

 

RiverBills Place

23 Harbor Drive

Woodland Marina

Next to Little John's Marine Service....

click here for map

 

Marissa will be at the party

Handing out RiverBills Goodies and helping with the 50/50

 

Road Closures Due to Flooding.......

 

•  Illinois Road & Ferry Closures...click here

 • Missouri Road Closures... click here

 • St. Charles County Road Closures... click here
 

Mississippi River Near West Alton, Missouri

Open House Meeting Held To Discuss Raising Southbound U.S. 67 Lanes........

 

Tuesday evening, an open house style meeting was held to discuss plans for raising the lower lanes of U.S. 67 in West Alton, Missouri, which are usually affected by minor to moderate flooding.

 

The Missouri Department of Transportation is working to get the project closer to groundbreaking.  The plans for raising the southbound lanes of U.S. 67 were endorsed by the East-West Gateway Council of Governments.

 

According to Shaunda White, spokesperson for MoDOT, the plans are to raise the roadway to approximately the same height as the upper lanes, from the Clark Bridge nearly to Highway 94.  Work is expected to begin in late 2021........

 

Click here to read this news story from altondailnews.com.  With Photo and Audio.

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Fall Colors In The Riverbend

Leaves Starting To Turn In The Riverbend........

 

While fall is in the air, enjoying the colorful foliage Around the Riverbend is a favored pastime for locals as well as visitors to the region.

 

A late fall color season is expected again this year, as the leaves are just now starting to change.  During a typical year, the peak of of the fall color season is late October into November.

 

Even though the Great River Road is the probably the most popular drive for checking out the fall foliage, Stephanie Tate, spokesperson for the Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau says that there are plenty of other routes to choose from........

 

Click here to read this news article from altondailynews.com.  With Photo and Audio.

 

Lower Illinois River Valley

Proposal Seeks To Tap Illinois River's Potential........

 

A new proposal is looking to tap into the potential of the under-utilized Illinois River.  The Lower Illinois River-Rural Property Initiative believes their link to the river can encourage development in the counties along the Lower Illinois River Valley.

 

Pike-Scott Farm Bureau Executive Director Blake Roderick says that there are several common threads of counties along the river.  The greatest is agriculture, however, river transportation, recreation, tourism and hunting are the common threads they wish to focus on.

 

Organizers say that they want to complement what existing development efforts in the region are doing.  Griggsville farmer Phil Bradshaw says that the next steps for the initiative is to evaluate economic development efforts in the region, as well as plans for the river and activity on the river........

 

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

 

 Pool 26 Halloween Parties

 

  Boathouse..........................................    Sat, Oct 26

  Froge's ...............................................   Sat, Nov 02

  Grafton Harbor....................................   Sat, Oct 19.. Witches on the Water

  Grafton Oyster Bar..............................    Sat, Oct 19..Witches on the Water

  Grafton Oyster Bar..............................   Sat, Oct 26

  Hawg Pit.............................................   Sat, Oct 26

  Kinders ..............................................    N/A

  Longshot Saloon................................    No Party This Year

 

  And ....There Will Be Lots of Halloween Parties All Around Grafton too

 

 

Look for updates as they become available

  

Upper Mississippi River Valley

Corps Recognition May Increase Illinois, Iowa Business Along The River........

 

On Friday, Denise Bulat, the Executive Director of the Bi-State Regional Commission, sent a letter of intent to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announcing their plans for making the majority of the Iowa and Illinois' shared section of the Mississippi River a federally recognized port statistical area.

 

If the region becomes a federally recognized port statistical area, the Mississippi River Ports of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois Port Statistical Area will cover 221 miles along the river, between Keokuk to Dubuque.

 

The area will include 70 barge terminals in Illinois and Iowa.  Iowa ships approximately 4.5 million tons of goods along the river each year.  Around 1.25 million tons of goods are shipped into the state.  This amount of activity would rank the region as one of the 20 busiest inland ports in the nation........

 

Click here to read this news article from msn.com.  With Video. 

Riverboat History....

 

 

16 October 1940 in Riverboat History


The Delta Queen was chartered by the U.S. Navy on 16 Oct, 1940 and served as a floating barracks, a training facility, and troop transport in San Francisco bay until 1946.

 

She ferried (up to 3,200 men at once) wounded Pearl Harbor victims ashore from large ships. For which she was awarded two medals American Campaign Medal and World War II Victory Medal.

 

                Source: DeltaQueenHotel.net

 

Missouri Department of Conservation

Rogersville teen shoots record-breaking gizzard shad........

 

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) confirms Jacob Morgan of Rogersville now holds a state record title after shooting a gizzard shad on the Bull Creek arm of Lake Taneycomo. Morgan was bowfishing when he shot the 2-pound, 13-ounce fish June 6. The previous record was a 2-pound, 10-ounce fish caught March 20 on Bigelow Creek in St. Charles County.
 

Though Morgan shot the shad over the summer, he kept it in his freezer until just recently.


“When I shot it, I just thought, ‘Oh my gosh, that’s a huge shad!’,” said Morgan. “My friends and I have always gone through Bull Creek and see massive shad. I did know it was a state record because we weighed it with one of our own scales. But honestly, I kind of forgot about it in the freezer until we had it weighed on a certified scale.”
The shad was weighed on a certified MDC scale in Taney County on Oct. 4.
“Many people may not realize a fish doesn’t have to be alive when we certify it for a state record,” explained MDC Fisheries Programs Specialist Andrew Branson. “If the fish has been frozen, such as in this case, we require the fish is thawed for an accurate weight.” 

 

Click here to continue reading on MDC website 

 

 

Hop On A Plane For A Mini-Vacation........

 

News Release From BoatUS

Sailing Convention for Women Combines Learning, Camaraderie and Fun
Slated for Feb. 1, 2020 in Southern California


CORONA DEL MAR, Oct. 15, 2019 – Where do women sailors go to learn? The answer is a place where they can enjoy the camaraderie of other women sailors, learn from top instructors both on the water and in the classroom, and have plenty of fun. For 30 years that place has been the Sailing Convention for Women presented by Gail Hine, to be held next on Saturday, February 1, 2020 at the Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club in Corona del Mar, California.


“The Convention gives women an opportunity to meet other women sailors, discuss options for more cruising and day sailing, find out about existing women’s sailing organizations in their area as well as instructional programs available,” said Hine, the Convention’s Creator/Director. “We have something meaningful for everyone. One of our previous attendees enjoyed the program so much that said it was the best day of her life. We really try to make it that kind of experience for everyone.”


Sponsored by BoatUS and a host of other local businesses and marine-related companies, the daylong, ladies-only series of shore-and-boat-based workshops offer beginners to experts a welcoming environment to learn more about all topics sailing.
 

Attendees select a combination of workshops in areas that best fits their interest and ability. Course instructors are top women sailors, many of whom are U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Captains. Workshops include: Welcome Aboard for Beginners, Diesels, Going Up the Mast, Docking, Suddenly Singlehanded, Weather, Sail Trim, Basic Navigation, Electronic Navigation, Electrical Systems, DIY Canvas Projects, How to Heave a Line, Nighttime Navigation, Winch Workshop, Spinnaker Rigging, Offshore Cruising, How to Avoid Mistakes, the Art of Motorsailing, and Introduction to Sailing.
 

Capping the event, the dinner’s featured speaker will be Haley Lhamon, a member of the 2018 eight-member team of women who won the 2018 R2AK (Race to Alaska). Known as one of the most challenging on water races in America that takes place over 750-miles of cold, treacherous waters up the famed Inside Passage, R2AK participants may not use a motor and are literally on their own – no support along the way is permitted.


From Port Townsend, Washington to Ketchikan, Alaska, Lhamon’s “Sail Like a Girl” team planned well, practiced, and had plenty of moral support from families and friends to win with the first all-women team and first monohull, a Melges 32. Lhamon grew up in Texas in a big family and learned to sail at a young age, becoming a winning competitive youth sailor and later cruising distant waters in Europe, South America and New Zealand. A Stanford University graduate, Lhamon now resides in Washington State where she has been a strong promoter of youth sailing.
 

The early bird convention registration fee is $219, which increases $235 after Dec. 31. The fee includes workshops, breakfast, lunch, dinner, souvenirs and handouts. Prepaid-registrations are required as space is limited to approximately 240 attendees. To obtain a reservation form, email gail@sailingconventionforwomen or call 951-677-8121. Bookings can be made online on/after December 10, 2019 at SailingConventionforWomen.com.


###

 

This press release reprinted by permission of Scott Croft of BoatUS...click here

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "April 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

LITTLE JOHN'S MARINE AND FABRICATION

NOW OFFERING TRAILER REHAB AND CLEANUP

Boat trailers, Campers, RV's

 

If your trailer, whether it be a boat trailer or a camper was stranded in the flood water and the wheels have been submerged for any amount of time they are going to have muck, mud, and rust in them. If not attended to, they will be locked up in no time at all.

 

We will remove tires, drums, bearings and properly clean or replace as needed or as agreed upon.

 

Washing entire trailer and repairing wiring are also options.

 

 e-mail... LITTLEJOHNSINC@aol.com 

Phone or text to... 636 541 2962

Thank You,

LJ

 

Rehabbing a trailer that was underwater during the flood

Alex washing off the flood muck off & tear down for inspection.

One wheel on trailer was completely locked up and not rotating.

 

. The brake and backing plate assembly loaded with mud and muck

 

A new complete brake and backing plate assembly ready to go on.

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

31 October 2019

3rd Chute is still hiring Cooks good atmosphere great pay need people that will show up every day...wow is there anybody out there???

 

OPEN DAILY ALL YEAR
Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

$5.00 lunch specials

Mon - Fri from 11am till 2pm

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

 

Check out the Deli's

Lunch Specials..click here

Breakfast Specials... click here

 

Bloch Marine Service

Yacht Club of St. Louis Location......

 

Hello Everyone!
We are happy to announce that Bloch Marine Service is becoming Yacht Club Marine. As of October 1st, 2019, Bloch Marine Service will no longer be taking new work orders, and will cease operations by October 31st, 2019.
But to keep service seamless, Yacht Club Marine will be performing the same quality service that you have come to expect over the years at both the Yacht Club of St. Louis and at Harbor Point Marina.
With that said, the winterization season is just around the corner, and it's time to get on the schedule to have expert winterization performed on your boat to protect it from the ravages of winter freezing. And also, winter is the best time to have Yacht Club Marine perform that much needed maintenance or big project that you have been putting off.
If your winterization request is received before October 15th, 2019, you will receive a 10% discount on winterization labor.
There is also a 10% discount on labor performed during the winter months for those big or small projects that the boat may need.
Best regards, and we'll see you out there!
The Yacht Club Marine Crew.

 

Reprinted from Bloch Marine FaceBook.. click here

 

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

 

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

Open 7 Days a week

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

 

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 

Sun.. Oct 20..2pm.. 3 of a Perfect Pair


All Card games on when our team plays.

 

Last few weeks on Deck... Deck closing November 1st.

 

Open Thurs - Sun at 11AM

 

 Upcoming Events.. click here

 

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

 
 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

 

Closed Due to Flooding

Con Trios Yacht Club

 

 

Sat.. Oct 19.. Membership Drive.. Huebner Haven

                    click here for flyer

                     

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

New fall hours for the Duck Club:
Fri.....kitchen 4pm-9pm and bar 4pm-1:30am
Sat...kitchen 11am-9pm and bar 11am-1:30 am
Sun...kitchen 11am-8pm and bar 11-am-9pm

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

 

Smoked Pork Steaks

Sat - 2pm-til gone. 1 1/2 inch smoked pork steaks w/2 sides $11.49

 

CLOSED on Monday's

 

Every Friday throughout the year we serve whole catfish, catfish nuggets, Alaskan Pollock and salmon served with 2 sides and a soft drink for $8.99 from 11am until gone or 10pm

 

Fall Kitchen hours

Tu-Th 11am-8pm,  Sunday 12-8pm,  Friday & Saturday never change

 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Broom & Witch's Shoes Contest

click here for more info


Grafton Harbor has brand new Landau Pontoon Boats! Come rent a boat with us! We boat thru the Fall Season! Pack a picnic lunch and just enjoy the beauty and serenity of the Illinois River!. click here

 

 

Grafton Harbor Gift Shop & Winery is open 7 day a week

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

 

Call 618-786-7678 for reservations

 

1 hour cruises offered every Sat & Sun thru Nov.3

Click here for more info

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

Two Week Activity  Calendar

 

Look forward to seeing all you fellow witches this weekend! It gets more fun every year!

 

Click here and check out Grafton's

Event and Music Calendar ....    Oct 14 - Oct 27

 

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Broom & Witch's Shoes Contest

click here for more info


October 26th – Halloween Party

 

Open Tuesday - Sunday

11AM to 1AM

 

If your have not been yet...make sure to check out our sister restaurant @Abigail's Tap Room for BREAKFAST Sat & Sun mornings 8 a.m. ~ 11 a.m. LUNCH or DINNER Wed-Sun 11 a.m.~ 10 p.m. Located in the historic Ruebel Hotel on E. Main St.

 

 

2019 FESTIVAL & MUSIC SCHEDULE...  click here

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 



 

Hawg Pit BBQ

Grafton, IL

 

Kaskaskia River Run

Kaskaskia River

 

Brian Shackelford
July 27 at 10:25 AM ·

As the weather we have had this year with Heavy heart The event is going to be pushed till next year. 2020 The River levels we have had this year there is still no docks currently at New Athens, Water is still high on the Mississippi and the sandbar is still currently under water & still alot of floating logs in the Mississippi and Safety is a top priority. All Company's that have donated towards the event will remain the same. If anyone is interested in their Company joining for next year please reach out to me. All Tshirts sales will remain the same and Store will open up next year to purchase Tshirts. If you are interested in a Refund please always reach out if not your order will remain the same and your order will be sent out before the event next year. A date is not set in stone but will be set shortly. Possibly Labor day weekend have a tie up in party cove on Kaskaskia for people that will be staying local. Thank you Any thoughts please post below...Happy Boating
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

CLOSED FOR THE 2019 SEASON

 

Public Auction
Kinder’s Restaurant & Bar Equip. Auction
Tractor, Walk In Freezer & Coolers, Boat Docks,
& Stainless Steel Restaurant Equipment

When: Sat. Oct.12th, 2019 @ 10:00A.M.

 

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

 

We are auctioning off all the equipment, not the building. The plan is to tear down the old building and build a brand new Kinders!
Once everything is out of the old building, after the auction, we will be able to start tearing down and hopefully get started on the build of the new one. The plan, if everything goes smoothly, is to be open for next summer.

Amanda
 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

 

September 6 at 3:21 PM ·
Come fill up for the weekend!!!
The automatic gas system is running again at Lake Center Marina.
$3.40 for 93 octane .

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members!
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Mike's La Rosa at My River Home

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Closed For The Season

 

Port Charles Harbor

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

 

TowBoatUS St. Charles/St. Louis
August 8 at 9:14 PM ·

27/7 with 365 days a year coverage for only 85.00 per year
Can’t beat this deal! Call 636.250.2628 to enroll before the weekend!

 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

WE ARE OPEN

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

Happy Fall, Y’all!
Cozy up and don’t forget to stop in for salted caramel and green apple Crown!

 

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

INTRODUCING...Yamaha's 2020 boats are here...Check them out at yamahaboats.com.#2020yamahawatercraft #RunTheWater

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 

Sunday- Wednesday 9-4 and

Thursday-Saturday 9-6

 

Reprinted from Two Rivers Marina Facebook.... click here

 

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Woodland Marina is feeling excited.
August 2 at 10:10 AM ·
Marina Update: We are open with limited services! However, we are working off-site as we cannot occupy the office. Please feel free to email woodlandmarina1@gmail.com if you have any questions or need assistance. Woodland Marina’s main line, 636-250-3446, is being monitored. You can leave a message for rack storage at 636-250-4547, and most importantly, we are splashing boats!

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis Restaurant

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

 

08-23-19
Fuel dock is open, please use pump #1. Hope everyone has great weekend on the water!!

 

07-08-19

Plans for the club.....
The Clubhouse is insured with FEMA. The adjusters have been through the club and will hopefully be letting us know in the next coming weeks whether or not the building is repairable. We are on hold until that point.
The club got approximately 6 ft of water, covering all electric panels and all AC units. So clean up of building is taking longer while getting temp electric/water going.
I understand there is a lot of speculation, but there will be a club/pool at the harbor
We are doing the best we can and I will keep you informed as we hear.
Sorry, as I know this is not the season you were hoping for.

 

Reprinted from Yacht Club of St. Louis Facebook.. click here


 

Facebook Event Calender.. click here

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Open for the Season

Will close after Veterans Day on November 11th. We will be open on the 11th from 10am to 6pm  and we will be giving all Veterans free ferriage that day.!

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 
3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Open All Year
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Open
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Open
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open All Year
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Closed for the 2019 Season
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
LaRosa Cantina................................. Closed
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Closed

 

TUESDAY

15 Boatober 2019

 

Over 9.4 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Annual Fast Eddie's Run

by Boat

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

The Pictures of the Day..... were sent to us by Dale and Misti Hackman

 

Hi RiverBill,

 
We continued our tradition of a Fast Eddie's Run by Boat on Saturday.  This year marked our 15th year of the tradition.  It was a little chilly, but a great day!

 
Dale & Misti Hackmann
Lake Center Marina
 

 

 

RiverBills Sticker Sighting

Tashkent Uzbekistan

 

 Maureen and Maggie

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

A RiverBills Sticker Sighting.....  was sent to us by Maureen Weil.

 

Hi Bill,

Maggie Dankert and I went to Tashkent Uzbekistan for Webster University. Webster has a new campus there. On Saturday we were taken up to the mountains 60 miles from Tashkent. It was beautiful. We found a spot showing the lake and mountains. I took a Riverbills sticker with me for the perfect shot.

Enjoy

Maureen

 

RiverBills Sticker Sighting Page

Click here and check it out...

 

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

 

Uzbekistan

Google Maps

 

From Google:

Tashkent is the capital city of Uzbekistan. It’s known for its many museums and its mix of modern and Soviet-era architecture. The Amir Timur Museum houses manuscripts, weapons and other relics from the Timurid dynasty. Nearby, the huge State Museum of History of Uzbekistan has centuries-old Buddhist artifacts. The city’s skyline is distinguished by Tashkent Tower, which offers city views from its observation deck.

 

 Sat..Oct 26.. The Nightmare

An Alice Cooper Experience

click here for more info

 

Open Thursday through Sunday at 11AM

 

Website.. click here        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

 

Final Run 2008 Season

 Click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of YesterYear's On This Day in 2008.......... was sent in by Capt'n Gary Fitzmire, who hailed out of Lake Center Marina in a 2008 Mastercraft X-2


Bill,

We made our final run of the season last weekend. Our son Michael, undeterred by the cold water, tried some new tricks before hanging up his wakeboard for the winter. It was a very short season, but it ended with some spectacular weather and wonderful family time on the river.

Thanks for a great website,

Gary Fitzmire
2008 Mastercraft X-2
Lake Center Marina

.

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

FOR SALE

50' Steel Hull Cruiser

$15,000 or Make Offer

 

Click here for more info

 

Click here for website           Click here for Facebook

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Broom & Witch's Shoes Contest

 

October 26th – Halloween Party

 

Open Tuesday through Sunday 11AM to 1AM

 

GRAFTON OYSTER BAR FESTIVAL & MUSIC SCHEDULE...  click here

Menu..  click here   Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

Make sure to check out our sister restaurant @Abigail's Tap Room for BREAKFAST Sat & Sun mornings 8 a.m. ~ 11 a.m. LUNCH or DINNER Wed-Sun 11 a.m.~ 10 p.m. Located in the historic Ruebel Hotel on E. Main St.
 

 

River News !  

 

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED OCTOBER 09, 2019 

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Zone 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 109.9).

All towboats transiting between Mile 184.0 and 179.0, shall avoid carrying barges on the hip and have a minimum of 250 horsepower for each loaded barge. South-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours only and northbound tows shall have enough h.p., to maintain a minimum speed of 3 MPH on the approach to the St. Louis Harbor Bridges. Vessels are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed, based upon prevailing conditions, in order to minimize wake damage to personal property. It is recommended that all vessels avoid laying up on levees in this zone, asses bridge clearances in advance and fleets be attended by a towboat at all times. Mariners are requested to review anchoring requirements and pre-identify layup areas in the event of a river closure or barge breakaway. Mariners are encouraged to ensure that moored vessels and barges are adequately secured with the anticipation of an increase in water velocity and high water. Recreational traffic is discouraged within this zone. Drift and debris may present navigation obstructions and may drag buoys off station.

reakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following area is in the extreme high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex: Pool 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 109.9).

 Pool 3 (Mile 815.1 – Mile 796.9),

Pool 17 (Mile 475.1 – Mile 437.1),

Pool 18 (Mile 437.5 – Mile 410.0) and

Pool 20 (Mile 364.1 – Mile 343.2).

The following areas are in the high action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 15 (Mile 493.2 – Mile 482.9),

Pool 16 (Mile 482.8 – Mile 457.2),

Pool 21 (Mile 343.1 – Mile 324.9),

Pool 22 (Mile 324.4 – Mile 301.1),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4), Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

Pool 26 (Mile 241.3 – Mile 205.5).

High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize their wake, exercise caution and avoid laying up on levees. Recreational traffic is not recommended. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent breakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

MILE 332.9 - MILE 331.6 - DREDGE OPERATION
Continuing until further notice, the M/V LaSALLE is conducting dredging operations between approximate Miles 332.9 and 331.5. Work will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., 7-days a week. The M/V LaSALLE will monitor VHF-FM Channel 13, 14 or 16 and requests 30-minutes advance notice of passage, for passing arrangements. Mariners are urged to transit the area at their slowest safe speed to minimize their wake and proceed with caution

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following areas are in the high watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Peoria (Mile 187.0 – Mile 145.6),

Copperas Creek (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Havanna (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0),

Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and

 Grafton (Mile 9.9 – Mile 0.0).

High water and drift could be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. The laying up on levees is prohibited and recreational vessel traffic is not recommended. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid downstreaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website

 


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

 

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 5,298members as of 10-15-19....... Click here and check it out. 

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

River Events Near Grafton, Illinois

Fishing Tourney Cancelled By High Water....  Rendezvous Still On....

 

Thanks to high water along the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers, organizers have called off the King Kat Classic catfish tournament which was scheduled for Saturday, October 19th out of Grafton.

 

The Grafton Rendezvous, however, will go on as planned over the weekend of October 19 - 20th along the banks of the Illinois River. 

 

The annual family friendly event will bring pre-1840 history back to life with demonstrations of archery, black power firearms, tomahawk and knife throwing, wood, metal and leather working, children's activities and much more........

 

Click here to read this news report from thetelegraph.com

 

1 Mississippi

Projects to Restore Wetlands Habitat....

 

Reposted from 1 Mississippi Facebook.... click here

 

Hawg Pit BBQ Barn

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton, IL

Weekend Line-up.....

 

Check out the Hawg Pit on  Facebook... click here

 

Upcoming Event... Saturday, 19 October, 2019

Con Trios Yacht Club Membership Meeting

New Location........

 

Click here for more information

 

RiverBills Place

23 Harbor Drive

Woodland Marina

Next to Little John's Marine Service

Click here for Map

 

Road Closures Due to Flooding.......

 

•  Illinois Road & Ferry Closures...click here

 • Missouri Road Closures... click here

 • St. Charles County Road Closures... click here
 

Help Wanted

3rd Chute bar and Grill

Grafton, IL at Confluence of Illinois and Mississippi Rivers.......

 

Reposted from 3rd Chute Facebook... click here
 

The Hawg Pit

 

Upcoming Event.... Thursday, Oct 17, 2019

Grafton, IL at Confluence of Illinois and Mississippi Rivers

Hawg Pit Hosting Four Days Of Events........

 

On Thursday, October 17th, The Grafton Chamber of Commerce will be holding a ribbon cutting ceremony and Business After Hours from 6 to 8 pm at the Hawg Pit along Grafton's riverfront.  A cash bar is planned, and snacks will be provided.

 

The Hawg Pit is planning on hosting three days of concerts later in the week, including Isaiah Christian & the Rebel Saints on Friday, the Catfish Willie Band on Saturday and Jake Weber & The Lonesome Drifters is scheduled for 1 pm Sunday........

 

Click here to read this news tidbit from thetelegraph.com. 

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Illinois River Near Peoria, Illinois

Bow Hunting Business Targeting Asian Carp.........

 

A bow fishing business on the Illinois River has given the public an opportunity to hunt for Asian carp along the Illinois River with a bow and arrow.

 

The captain of Peoria Carp Hunters, Nathan Wallick, ferries his customers out on the river to hunt down the invasive carp  Clients sit toward the rear of the boat and shoot at the fish when they leap from the water.

 

Wallick says that people are increasingly becoming interested in bow fishing for carp.  He adds that there is a benefit to hunting the carp, as they grow quickly and outcompete native fish for food and habitat.........

 

Click here to read this news story from altondailynews.com.  With Photo and Audio

 

Marine Jobs

Surroundings Trade Only....

 

A few of the jobs listed include:

  • Dealers Wanted - BRIG USA
  • District Sales Manager Position - Suzuki
  • Successful Northeast Tri - State Area Marine Business For Sale

 

Check out the marine jobs on Trade Only Job Board... click here
 

 Pool 26 Halloween Parties

 

  Boathouse..........................................    Sat, Oct 26

  Froge's ...............................................   Sat, Nov 02

  Grafton Harbor....................................   Sat, Oct 19.. Witches on the Water

  Grafton Oyster Bar..............................    Sat, Oct 19..Witches on the Water

  Grafton Oyster Bar..............................   Sat, Oct 26

  Hawg Pit.............................................   Sat, Oct 26

  Kinders ..............................................    N/A

  Longshot Saloon................................    No Party This Year

 

  And ....There Will Be Lots of Halloween Parties All Around Grafton too

 

 

Look for updates as they become available

  

Fall Color Outlook

An Update On The Fall Color Peak........

 

The folks at SmokeyMountains.com recently updated their map showing when the fall colors will be at their best in each county in the nation.

 

Wes Melton, data scientist and fall color map creator says that the map helps travelers, leaf watchers and photographers determine the precise date that leaf colors will peak in each area of the Continental United States.

 

Each year, the map is different.  For 2019, everything north of Interstate 79 will peak sooner, meaning that the Great River Road will feature fall colors a bit sooner that the rest of the St. Louis Metro region.

 

Click here to read more from ksdk.com.  With Video and Map.

Lake Of The Ozarks

Nearly $360,000 Raised For Charity By Shootout........

 

This year was the 31st annual Lake of the Ozarks Shootout, which features boats trying to go as fast as possible on a solo course.  The event also raises money for local charities.

 

This year, the Shootout raised a record $357,000 in charitable donations, which were distributed to 32 charities and eight Lake area fire departments.  Last year's Shootout raised $300,000.

 

Since 2008, the event has raised $1.8 million for local organizations.  It has been seven years ago since the charitable donations rose over $100,000........

 

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

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "April 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

LITTLE JOHN'S MARINE AND FABRICATION

NOW OFFERING TRAILER REHAB AND CLEANUP

Boat trailers, Campers, RV's

 

If your trailer, whether it be a boat trailer or a camper was stranded in the flood water and the wheels have been submerged for any amount of time they are going to have muck, mud, and rust in them. If not attended to, they will be locked up in no time at all.

 

We will remove tires, drums, bearings and properly clean or replace as needed or as agreed upon.

 

Washing entire trailer and repairing wiring are also options.

 

 e-mail... LITTLEJOHNSINC@aol.com 

Phone or text to... 636 541 2962

Thank You,

LJ

 

Rehabbing a trailer that was underwater during the flood

Alex washing off the flood muck off & tear down for inspection.

One wheel on trailer was completely locked up and not rotating.

 

. The brake and backing plate assembly loaded with mud and muck

 

A new complete brake and backing plate assembly ready to go on.

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

31 October 2019

3rd Chute is still hiring Cooks good atmosphere great pay need people that will show up every day...wow is there anybody out there???

 

OPEN DAILY ALL YEAR
Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

$5.00 lunch specials

Mon - Fri from 11am till 2pm

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

 

Check out the Deli's

Lunch Specials..click here

Breakfast Specials... click here

 

Bloch Marine Service

Yacht Club of St. Louis Location......

 

Hello Everyone!
We are happy to announce that Bloch Marine Service is becoming Yacht Club Marine. As of October 1st, 2019, Bloch Marine Service will no longer be taking new work orders, and will cease operations by October 31st, 2019.
But to keep service seamless, Yacht Club Marine will be performing the same quality service that you have come to expect over the years at both the Yacht Club of St. Louis and at Harbor Point Marina.
With that said, the winterization season is just around the corner, and it's time to get on the schedule to have expert winterization performed on your boat to protect it from the ravages of winter freezing. And also, winter is the best time to have Yacht Club Marine perform that much needed maintenance or big project that you have been putting off.
If your winterization request is received before October 15th, 2019, you will receive a 10% discount on winterization labor.
There is also a 10% discount on labor performed during the winter months for those big or small projects that the boat may need.
Best regards, and we'll see you out there!
The Yacht Club Marine Crew.

 

Reprinted from Bloch Marine FaceBook.. click here

 

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

 

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

Open 7 Days a week

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

 

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 

 


All Card games on when our team plays.

 

Last few weeks on Deck... Deck closing November 1st.

 

Open Thurs - Sun at 11AM

 

 Upcoming Events.. click here

 

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

 
 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

 

Closed Due to Flooding

Con Trios Yacht Club

 

 

Sat.. Oct 19.. Membership Drive.. Huebner Haven

                    click here for flyer

                     

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

New fall hours for the Duck Club:
Fri.....kitchen 4pm-9pm and bar 4pm-1:30am
Sat...kitchen 11am-9pm and bar 11am-1:30 am
Sun...kitchen 11am-8pm and bar 11-am-9pm

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

 

Smoked Pork Steaks

Sat - 2pm-til gone. 1 1/2 inch smoked pork steaks w/2 sides $11.49

 

CLOSED on Monday's

 

Every Friday throughout the year we serve whole catfish, catfish nuggets, Alaskan Pollock and salmon served with 2 sides and a soft drink for $8.99 from 11am until gone or 10pm

 

Fall Kitchen hours

Tu-Th 11am-8pm,  Sunday 12-8pm,  Friday & Saturday never change

 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Broom & Witch's Shoes Contest

click here for more info


Grafton Harbor has brand new Landau Pontoon Boats! Come rent a boat with us! We boat thru the Fall Season! Pack a picnic lunch and just enjoy the beauty and serenity of the Illinois River!. click here

 

 

Grafton Harbor Gift Shop & Winery is open 7 day a week

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

 

Call 618-786-7678 for reservations

 

1 hour cruises offered every Sat & Sun thru Nov.3

Click here for more info

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

Two Week Activity  Calendar

 

Look forward to seeing all you fellow witches this weekend! It gets more fun every year!

 

Click here and check out Grafton's

Event and Music Calendar ....    Oct 14 - Oct 27

 

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Broom & Witch's Shoes Contest

click here for more info


October 26th – Halloween Party

 

Open Tuesday - Sunday

11AM to 1AM

 

If your have not been yet...make sure to check out our sister restaurant @Abigail's Tap Room for BREAKFAST Sat & Sun mornings 8 a.m. ~ 11 a.m. LUNCH or DINNER Wed-Sun 11 a.m.~ 10 p.m. Located in the historic Ruebel Hotel on E. Main St.

 

 

2019 FESTIVAL & MUSIC SCHEDULE...  click here

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 



 

Hawg Pit BBQ

Grafton, IL

 

Kaskaskia River Run

Kaskaskia River

 

Brian Shackelford
July 27 at 10:25 AM ·

As the weather we have had this year with Heavy heart The event is going to be pushed till next year. 2020 The River levels we have had this year there is still no docks currently at New Athens, Water is still high on the Mississippi and the sandbar is still currently under water & still alot of floating logs in the Mississippi and Safety is a top priority. All Company's that have donated towards the event will remain the same. If anyone is interested in their Company joining for next year please reach out to me. All Tshirts sales will remain the same and Store will open up next year to purchase Tshirts. If you are interested in a Refund please always reach out if not your order will remain the same and your order will be sent out before the event next year. A date is not set in stone but will be set shortly. Possibly Labor day weekend have a tie up in party cove on Kaskaskia for people that will be staying local. Thank you Any thoughts please post below...Happy Boating
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

CLOSED FOR THE 2019 SEASON

 

Public Auction
Kinder’s Restaurant & Bar Equip. Auction
Tractor, Walk In Freezer & Coolers, Boat Docks,
& Stainless Steel Restaurant Equipment

When: Sat. Oct.12th, 2019 @ 10:00A.M.

 

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

 

We are auctioning off all the equipment, not the building. The plan is to tear down the old building and build a brand new Kinders!
Once everything is out of the old building, after the auction, we will be able to start tearing down and hopefully get started on the build of the new one. The plan, if everything goes smoothly, is to be open for next summer.

Amanda
 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

 

September 6 at 3:21 PM ·
Come fill up for the weekend!!!
The automatic gas system is running again at Lake Center Marina.
$3.40 for 93 octane .

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members!
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Mike's La Rosa at My River Home

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Closed For The Season

 

Port Charles Harbor

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

 

TowBoatUS St. Charles/St. Louis
August 8 at 9:14 PM ·

27/7 with 365 days a year coverage for only 85.00 per year
Can’t beat this deal! Call 636.250.2628 to enroll before the weekend!

 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

WE ARE OPEN

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

Happy Fall, Y’all!
Cozy up and don’t forget to stop in for salted caramel and green apple Crown!

 

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

INTRODUCING...Yamaha's 2020 boats are here...Check them out at yamahaboats.com.#2020yamahawatercraft #RunTheWater

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 

Sunday- Wednesday 9-4 and

Thursday-Saturday 9-6

 

Reprinted from Two Rivers Marina Facebook.... click here

 

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Woodland Marina is feeling excited.
August 2 at 10:10 AM ·
Marina Update: We are open with limited services! However, we are working off-site as we cannot occupy the office. Please feel free to email woodlandmarina1@gmail.com if you have any questions or need assistance. Woodland Marina’s main line, 636-250-3446, is being monitored. You can leave a message for rack storage at 636-250-4547, and most importantly, we are splashing boats!

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis Restaurant

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

 

08-23-19
Fuel dock is open, please use pump #1. Hope everyone has great weekend on the water!!

 

07-08-19

Plans for the club.....
The Clubhouse is insured with FEMA. The adjusters have been through the club and will hopefully be letting us know in the next coming weeks whether or not the building is repairable. We are on hold until that point.
The club got approximately 6 ft of water, covering all electric panels and all AC units. So clean up of building is taking longer while getting temp electric/water going.
I understand there is a lot of speculation, but there will be a club/pool at the harbor
We are doing the best we can and I will keep you informed as we hear.
Sorry, as I know this is not the season you were hoping for.

 

Reprinted from Yacht Club of St. Louis Facebook.. click here


 

Facebook Event Calender.. click here

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Open for the Season

Will close after Veterans Day on November 11th. We will be open on the 11th from 10am to 6pm  and we will be giving all Veterans free ferriage that day.!

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 
3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Open All Year
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Open
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Open
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open All Year
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Closed for the 2019 Season
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
LaRosa Cantina................................. Closed
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Closed

 

MONDAY

14 Boatober 2019

COLUMBUS DAY

Columbus Day is a national holiday in many countries of the Americas and elsewhere which officially celebrates the anniversary of Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas on October 12, 1492

 

Over 9.4 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Grafton's Flag

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day..... was sent to us by Sharon Springer Stone

 

Taken from Grafton Harbor

onboard the Hakuna Matata

Sharon

 

 

 Sat..Oct 26.. The Nightmare

An Alice Cooper Experience

click here for more info

 

Open Thursday through Sunday at 11AM

 

Website.. click here        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

 

Our Lady of the Rivers

Mississippi River at Portage des Sioux

 Click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of YesterYear's On This Day in 2017..  was taken by John F Sullivan an administrator with the Mississippi River Paddlers Facebook group.

 

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

 

October 13, 1957 in River History

Our Lady of the Rivers Shrine was dedicated at Portage Des Sioux, Mo.

 

She was 62 years old yesterday... Sunday, Oct 13, 2019

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

FOR SALE

50' Steel Hull Cruiser

$15,000 or Make Offer

 

Click here for more info

 

Click here for website           Click here for Facebook

 

 

Open Tuesday through Sunday 11AM to 1AM

 

GRAFTON OYSTER BAR FESTIVAL & MUSIC SCHEDULE...  click here

Menu..  click here   Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

Make sure to check out our sister restaurant @Abigail's Tap Room for BREAKFAST Sat & Sun mornings 8 a.m. ~ 11 a.m. LUNCH or DINNER Wed-Sun 11 a.m.~ 10 p.m. Located in the historic Ruebel Hotel on E. Main St.
 

 

River News !  

 

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED OCTOBER 09, 2019 

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Zone 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 109.9).

All towboats transiting between Mile 184.0 and 179.0, shall avoid carrying barges on the hip and have a minimum of 250 horsepower for each loaded barge. South-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours only and northbound tows shall have enough h.p., to maintain a minimum speed of 3 MPH on the approach to the St. Louis Harbor Bridges. Vessels are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed, based upon prevailing conditions, in order to minimize wake damage to personal property. It is recommended that all vessels avoid laying up on levees in this zone, asses bridge clearances in advance and fleets be attended by a towboat at all times. Mariners are requested to review anchoring requirements and pre-identify layup areas in the event of a river closure or barge breakaway. Mariners are encouraged to ensure that moored vessels and barges are adequately secured with the anticipation of an increase in water velocity and high water. Recreational traffic is discouraged within this zone. Drift and debris may present navigation obstructions and may drag buoys off station.

reakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following area is in the extreme high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex: Pool 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 109.9).

 Pool 3 (Mile 815.1 – Mile 796.9),

Pool 17 (Mile 475.1 – Mile 437.1),

Pool 18 (Mile 437.5 – Mile 410.0) and

Pool 20 (Mile 364.1 – Mile 343.2).

The following areas are in the high action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 15 (Mile 493.2 – Mile 482.9),

Pool 16 (Mile 482.8 – Mile 457.2),

Pool 21 (Mile 343.1 – Mile 324.9),

Pool 22 (Mile 324.4 – Mile 301.1),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4), Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

Pool 26 (Mile 241.3 – Mile 205.5).

High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize their wake, exercise caution and avoid laying up on levees. Recreational traffic is not recommended. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent breakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

MILE 332.9 - MILE 331.6 - DREDGE OPERATION
Continuing until further notice, the M/V LaSALLE is conducting dredging operations between approximate Miles 332.9 and 331.5. Work will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., 7-days a week. The M/V LaSALLE will monitor VHF-FM Channel 13, 14 or 16 and requests 30-minutes advance notice of passage, for passing arrangements. Mariners are urged to transit the area at their slowest safe speed to minimize their wake and proceed with caution

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following areas are in the high watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Peoria (Mile 187.0 – Mile 145.6),

Copperas Creek (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Havanna (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0),

Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and

 Grafton (Mile 9.9 – Mile 0.0).

High water and drift could be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. The laying up on levees is prohibited and recreational vessel traffic is not recommended. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid downstreaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website

 


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

 

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 5,294members as of 10-14-19....... Click here and check it out. 

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

Riverbend Flooding

As The Mississippi River Falls, The Illinois Is Rising........

 

The National Weather Service reports that on Sunday, the Mississippi River crested at Alton and Grafton, however, the Illinois River is expected to continue to rise near Hardin this week.

 

At 5 am Sunday, the Mississippi River crested at 25.35 feet, and should drop below flood stage of 21 feet around 1 pm Thursday afternoon.  A 1 pm Sunday, the Mississippi River at Grafton crested at 22.67 feet.  Flood stage is 18 feet, and the river is expected to remain above that leve throughout the week.

 

The Illinois River at Hardin, Illinois was at 27.7 feet as of 1:30 pm.  Flood stage at Hardin is 25 feet.  The National Weather Service expects that the Illinois River will possibly rise slightly by next weekend........

 

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

 

Hawg Pit BBQ Barn

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton, IL

Weekend Line-up.....

 

Check out the Hawg Pit on  Facebook... click here

 

Upcoming Event... Saturday, 19 October, 2019

Con Trios Yacht Club Membership Meeting

New Location........

 

Click here for more information

 

RiverBills Place

23 Harbor Drive

Woodland Marina

Next to Little John's Marine Service

Click here for Map

 

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

Two Week Activity  Calendar

 

Look forward to seeing all you fellow witches this weekend! It gets more fun every year!

 

Click here and check out Grafton's

Event and Music Calendar ....    Oct 14 - Oct 27

 

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

St. Charles County

Road Closures .......

 

 Check out the St. Charles County Road Closures website... click here
 

Golden Eagle Ferry

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL.....

 

Reprinted from Calhoun Ferry Company Facebook.. click here

 

Flooding Aftermath

FEMA Buys Out Flood Prone Homes In Wealthier Areas........

 

A new study indicates that the Federal Emergency Management Agency purchases flood-prone homes in wealthier areas than poor, rural areas, even though the porrer areas tend to flood more often.

 

The reason why is that the wealthier governments have the resources to apply for and administer the buyout programs, which could keep those most in need of a buyout from getting one.

 

A look at publicly available FEMA data identified that there were 3,780 completed buyouts, where every building had been demolished and the land maintained as open space from 1989 to 2017.  It typically takes 5 - 7 years for an average buyout to be completed........

 

Click here to read this news report from thetelegraph.com.  With Photo.

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Boating And The Economy

Boating, Fishing Top List Of Outdoor Activities Americans Spend The Most Money On........

 

Last month, the Department of Commerce's Bureau of Economic Analysis released a report that reveals that Americans spend nearly $250 billion a year on outdoor recreation activities.  This figure represents 2.2% (247.2 billion) pf the U.S. Gross Domestic Product.

 

Boating and fishing were at the top of the list for the nation as a whole, with $20.9 billion in current dollar value.  This means that in terms of dollar value, boating and fishing surpasses RVing, motorcycling, hunting and snow activities in economic contributions.

 

The BEA report notes that at the state level, boating and fishing was the largest conventional activity in 29 states and the District of Columbia.  Florida led the way at $2.7 billion, followed by California at $1.8 billion.  The top five states where outdoor recreation made up the largest percentage of total U.S. GDP were California, Florida, Illinois, Texas and New York........

 

Click here to read this news report from lakeexpo.com.  With Photo

 

File Photo

 

Fall Colors Predictions......Missouri Department of Conservation foresters update "Fall Color" reports weekly from mid-September through early-November.  

 

 

St. Louis Region:
Some individual trees like dogwoods, hackberry, birch, walnut, sycamore, and cottonwood are displaying some color, but widespread color is still lacking across the region. Early defoliation on many trees is common because of fungal leaf diseases that infected the trees during the wet spring and summer as well as the drought conditions that currently prevail over much of the area. The cooler weather should start to kick-start more widespread color over the next week, so until that happens, continue to enjoy the late-season wildflowers.

(Updated Oct 10, 2019.)

Click here for the latest information about the "Fall Colors" forecast. 

 

The above partially re-printed from the Missouri Department of Conservation website

Boats On Film

A Hinckley Runabout Co-Stars In Will Smith Movie........

 

The recently released movie Gemini Man starring Will Smith features the actor portraying dual leads as well as a less-prominent costar in the form of a Hinckley Runabout 34.

 

Pete Saladino, chief marketing officer for Hinckley says that they have been working on the project for more than a year and they became involved after Jerry Bruckheimer Films reached out to them and were looking for a runabout to use in a chase scene.

 

Will Smith was given a few days worth of lessons on handling the Runabout 34, learning to execute high speed turns and using the JetStick3 for maneuvering in tight places........

 

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

 

 Pool 26 Halloween Parties

 

  Boathouse..........................................    Sat, Oct 26

  Froge's ...............................................   Sat, Nov 02

  Grafton Harbor....................................   Sat, Oct 19.. Witches on the Water

  Grafton Oyster Bar..............................    Sat, Oct 19..Witches on the Water

  Grafton Oyster Bar..............................   Sat, Oct 26

  Hawg Pit.............................................   Sat, Oct 26

  Kinders ..............................................    N/A

  Longshot Saloon................................    No Party This Year

 

  And ....There Will Be Lots of Halloween Parties All Around Grafton too

 

 

Look for updates as they become available

  

River History....

 

October 14, 2011 in River History

 

Tim Tighe & Dutch Haughe announced that Sharky's Restaurant was sold to Rich and Toni Luttrell.


The restaurant was renamed to "The Boathouse". Location UMR222.2

Lake Of The Ozarks

Guide To Fall Boating On The Lake........

 

This past weekend's Fall Harbor Hop marks the unofficial end to the Lake of the Ozarks boating season, however, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy beautiful boating weather along the Lake.  Lakeexpo.com has put together a list of what restaurants and bars that are still open on the water........

 

Click here to read more from lakeexpo.com.  With Photos

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "April 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

LITTLE JOHN'S MARINE AND FABRICATION

NOW OFFERING TRAILER REHAB AND CLEANUP

Boat trailers, Campers, RV's

 

If your trailer, whether it be a boat trailer or a camper was stranded in the flood water and the wheels have been submerged for any amount of time they are going to have muck, mud, and rust in them. If not attended to, they will be locked up in no time at all.

 

We will remove tires, drums, bearings and properly clean or replace as needed or as agreed upon.

 

Washing entire trailer and repairing wiring are also options.

 

 e-mail... LITTLEJOHNSINC@aol.com 

Phone or text to... 636 541 2962

Thank You,

LJ

 

Rehabbing a trailer that was underwater during the flood

Alex washing off the flood muck off & tear down for inspection.

One wheel on trailer was completely locked up and not rotating.

 

. The brake and backing plate assembly loaded with mud and muck

 

A new complete brake and backing plate assembly ready to go on.

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

Fri..Oct 11..DJ/Karaoke Circus..9pm-1am

Sat.. Oct 12..Baywolfw..9:30pm - 1:30am

 

OPEN DAILY ALL YEAR
Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

$5.00 lunch specials

Mon - Fri from 11am till 2pm

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

 

Check out the Deli's

Lunch Specials..click here

Breakfast Specials... click here

 

Bloch Marine Service

Yacht Club of St. Louis Location......

 

Hello Everyone!
We are happy to announce that Bloch Marine Service is becoming Yacht Club Marine. As of October 1st, 2019, Bloch Marine Service will no longer be taking new work orders, and will cease operations by October 31st, 2019.
But to keep service seamless, Yacht Club Marine will be performing the same quality service that you have come to expect over the years at both the Yacht Club of St. Louis and at Harbor Point Marina.
With that said, the winterization season is just around the corner, and it's time to get on the schedule to have expert winterization performed on your boat to protect it from the ravages of winter freezing. And also, winter is the best time to have Yacht Club Marine perform that much needed maintenance or big project that you have been putting off.
If your winterization request is received before October 15th, 2019, you will receive a 10% discount on winterization labor.
There is also a 10% discount on labor performed during the winter months for those big or small projects that the boat may need.
Best regards, and we'll see you out there!
The Yacht Club Marine Crew.

 

Reprinted from Bloch Marine FaceBook.. click here

 

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

 

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

Open 7 Days a week

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

 

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 

 


All Card games on when our team plays.

 

Last few weeks on Deck... Deck closing November 1st.

 

Open Thurs - Sun at 11AM

 

 Upcoming Events.. click here

 

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

 
 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

 

Closed Due to Flooding

Con Trios Yacht Club

 

 

Sat.. Oct 19.. Membership Drive.. Huebner Haven

                    click here for flyer

                     

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

New fall hours for the Duck Club:
Fri.....kitchen 4pm-9pm and bar 4pm-1:30am
Sat...kitchen 11am-9pm and bar 11am-1:30 am
Sun...kitchen 11am-8pm and bar 11-am-9pm

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

 

Smoked Pork Steaks

Sat - 2pm-til gone. 1 1/2 inch smoked pork steaks w/2 sides $11.49

 

CLOSED on Monday's

 

Every Friday throughout the year we serve whole catfish, catfish nuggets, Alaskan Pollock and salmon served with 2 sides and a soft drink for $8.99 from 11am until gone or 10pm

 

Fall Kitchen hours

Tu-Th 11am-8pm,  Sunday 12-8pm,  Friday & Saturday never change

 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Broom & Witch's Shoes Contest

click here for more info


Grafton Harbor has brand new Landau Pontoon Boats! Come rent a boat with us! We boat thru the Fall Season! Pack a picnic lunch and just enjoy the beauty and serenity of the Illinois River!. click here

 

 

Grafton Harbor Gift Shop & Winery is open 7 day a week

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

 

Call 618-786-7678 for reservations

 

1 hour cruises offered every Sat & Sun thru Nov.3

Click here for more info

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

Two Week Activity  Calendar

 

Look forward to seeing all you fellow witches this weekend! It gets more fun every year!

 

Click here and check out Grafton's

Event and Music Calendar ....    Oct 14 - Oct 27

 

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Broom & Witch's Shoes Contest

click here for more info


 

Open Tuesday - Sunday

11AM to 1AM

 

If your have not been yet...make sure to check out our sister restaurant @Abigail's Tap Room for BREAKFAST Sat & Sun mornings 8 a.m. ~ 11 a.m. LUNCH or DINNER Wed-Sun 11 a.m.~ 10 p.m. Located in the historic Ruebel Hotel on E. Main St.

 

 

2019 FESTIVAL & MUSIC SCHEDULE...  click here

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 



 

Hawg Pit BBQ

Grafton, IL

 

Kaskaskia River Run

Kaskaskia River

 

Brian Shackelford
July 27 at 10:25 AM ·

As the weather we have had this year with Heavy heart The event is going to be pushed till next year. 2020 The River levels we have had this year there is still no docks currently at New Athens, Water is still high on the Mississippi and the sandbar is still currently under water & still alot of floating logs in the Mississippi and Safety is a top priority. All Company's that have donated towards the event will remain the same. If anyone is interested in their Company joining for next year please reach out to me. All Tshirts sales will remain the same and Store will open up next year to purchase Tshirts. If you are interested in a Refund please always reach out if not your order will remain the same and your order will be sent out before the event next year. A date is not set in stone but will be set shortly. Possibly Labor day weekend have a tie up in party cove on Kaskaskia for people that will be staying local. Thank you Any thoughts please post below...Happy Boating
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

CLOSED FOR THE 2019 SEASON

 

Public Auction
Kinder’s Restaurant & Bar Equip. Auction
Tractor, Walk In Freezer & Coolers, Boat Docks,
& Stainless Steel Restaurant Equipment

When: Sat. Oct.12th, 2019 @ 10:00A.M.

 

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

 

We are auctioning off all the equipment, not the building. The plan is to tear down the old building and build a brand new Kinders!
Once everything is out of the old building, after the auction, we will be able to start tearing down and hopefully get started on the build of the new one. The plan, if everything goes smoothly, is to be open for next summer.

Amanda
 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

 

September 6 at 3:21 PM ·
Come fill up for the weekend!!!
The automatic gas system is running again at Lake Center Marina.
$3.40 for 93 octane .

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members!
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Mike's La Rosa at My River Home

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Closed For The Season

 

Port Charles Harbor

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

 

TowBoatUS St. Charles/St. Louis
August 8 at 9:14 PM ·

27/7 with 365 days a year coverage for only 85.00 per year
Can’t beat this deal! Call 636.250.2628 to enroll before the weekend!

 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

WE ARE OPEN

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

Cheers to the weekend!
Come grab your favorite wine or spirit!

 

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

INTRODUCING...Yamaha's 2020 boats are here...Check them out at yamahaboats.com.#2020yamahawatercraft #RunTheWater

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 

Sunday- Wednesday 9-4 and

Thursday-Saturday 9-6

 

Reprinted from Two Rivers Marina Facebook.... click here

 

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Woodland Marina is feeling excited.
August 2 at 10:10 AM ·
Marina Update: We are open with limited services! However, we are working off-site as we cannot occupy the office. Please feel free to email woodlandmarina1@gmail.com if you have any questions or need assistance. Woodland Marina’s main line, 636-250-3446, is being monitored. You can leave a message for rack storage at 636-250-4547, and most importantly, we are splashing boats!

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis Restaurant

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

 

08-23-19
Fuel dock is open, please use pump #1. Hope everyone has great weekend on the water!!

 

07-08-19

Plans for the club.....
The Clubhouse is insured with FEMA. The adjusters have been through the club and will hopefully be letting us know in the next coming weeks whether or not the building is repairable. We are on hold until that point.
The club got approximately 6 ft of water, covering all electric panels and all AC units. So clean up of building is taking longer while getting temp electric/water going.
I understand there is a lot of speculation, but there will be a club/pool at the harbor
We are doing the best we can and I will keep you informed as we hear.
Sorry, as I know this is not the season you were hoping for.

 

Reprinted from Yacht Club of St. Louis Facebook.. click here


 

Facebook Event Calender.. click here

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Open for the Season

Will close after Veterans Day on November 11th. We will be open on the 11th from 10am to 6pm  and we will be giving all Veterans free ferriage that day.!

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 
3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Open All Year
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Open
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Open
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open All Year
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Closed for the 2019 Season
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
LaRosa Cantina................................. Closed
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Closed

 

The WEEKEND

Sat, Sun...12, 13 Boatober 2019

 

 

Over 9.4 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Welcome New Advertiser !

 

 

From the Boardroom to the Ballroom,
every need catered.

​Combining fresh ingredients with creative preparation, expert coordination and gracious service; our mission is to exceed your expectations and deliver a deliciously memorable meal that is within your budget.
Whether you need drop-off service for ten or full service catering for hundreds,
we intend to provide uncompromised quality at every event

We would be delighted to offer you a quote for your next event.

 

 

 

 

click here for Facebook                      Click here for website

 

Catch of the Day

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Sun Pic

click pic to enlarge

 

The Catch of the Day.....

 

Cliff caught a bucket load of fish yesterday

Here is just a few of them

 

Catch of the Day Page

Click here and check it out

 

 Picture of the Day

Sat

 

My River Home

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 Click pic to enlarge

 

 

The Pictures of the Day.... were taken yesterday afternoon

 

The Mighty Mississippi has surrounded Mike's LaRosa bar at my River Home, but the weekend party is still on. Andy and his crew are moving it to higher ground !

 

Make sure you stop by ! 

 

Click here for more information

 

 

Friday.. Oct 11, 2019

10 ounce strip dinner , whipped potatoes , asparagus for $14.99

 

Sunday.. Oct 13, 2019

Dawn Turlington..2pm

Fried chicken dinner all day $12.99

 

Last few weeks on Deck... Deck closing November 1st.

 

 Sat..Oct 26.. The Nightmare

An Alice Cooper Experience

click here for more info

 

Open Thursday through Sunday at 11AM

 

Website.. click here        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Sat

 

A Two Branch Sunset

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 Click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of YesterYear's On This Day in 2018......

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

FOR SALE

50' Steel Hull Cruiser

$15,000 or Make Offer

 

Click here for more info

 

Click here for website           Click here for Facebook

 

CRAB & SHRIMP FESTIVAL

October 12 & 13

Click here for menu

 

Sat...Oct 12th – Outlaw Opry.. 7pm
Sun..Oct 13th – TBD

 

If your have not been yet...make sure to check out our sister restaurant @Abigail's Tap Room for BREAKFAST Sat & Sun mornings 8 a.m. ~ 11 a.m. LUNCH or DINNER Wed-Sun 11 a.m.~ 10 p.m. Located in the historic Ruebel Hotel on E. Main St.
 

 

Open Tuesday through Sunday 11AM to 1AM

 

GRAFTON OYSTER BAR FESTIVAL & MUSIC SCHEDULE...  click here

Menu..  click here   Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

Added Sunday

Boating Legislation

Senate Committee Approved Funding For Industry Needs........

 

The U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee recently approved several bills that offer funding for crucial recreational boating industry priorities.  The spending bills are now headed to the full Senate for consideration.

 

The legislation includes funding for Great Lakes and Everglades restoration, marine sanctuary projects and additional U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects.

 

The National Marine Manufacturers Association stated that getting funding for these projects has been a big priority, and they appreciate the committee's work in approving these crucial funding measures........

 

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

 

Added Sunday

Upcoming Event.... Friday, October 18, 2019

Mississippi River At Louisiana, Missouri

Old Champ Clark Bridge Demolition Beginning Soon........

 

At 9 am on Friday, October 18th, a big bang followed by a large splash will mark the beginning of the end of the Old Champ Clark Bridge spanning the Mississippi River at Louisiana, Missouri.

 

The Missouri Department of Transportation reports that truss spans two and three, which are both on the Missouri side of the river, will be dropped into the river simultaneously using explosives.

 

Around two weeks later, truss spans three and four on the Illinois side of the bridge will be dropped in another blast.  The demolition may be watched "live" on the MoDOT Northeast District's Facebook page........

 

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

 

Added Sunday

Mississippi River At Grafton, Illinois

Survival Of Grafton Following Flooding........

 

Cory Weimelt recently took over The Hawg Pitt, a barbecue eatery along the Grafton riverfront, and his newly acquired restaurant sat vacant for several months this simmer due to flooding.

 

The Mississippi River is on the way up once again, and Weimelt is keeping a close eye on the river levels.  While the river isn't as high as it was over the summer, Weimelt has lost some parking and outdoor seating.

 

The flooding ended around five months ago, but Grafton residents and businesses are still recovering.  Over 50 buildings were damaged, and some of the homes are still uninhabitable........

 

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

 

Added Sunday

Missouri River Destinations

Hop Aboard Hermann's Missouri Wine Trolley........

 

Wine aficionados head to the tiny town of Hermann along the Missouri River to visit the town's wineries, where they can take tours and of course, sample some wine. 

 

The Hermann Trolley Company offers visitors the chance to sample wines at several different wineries without having to worry about a designated driver. 

 

Each person in your group will pay $20 for a day on the trolley.  No reservations are required, but it is advisable to call ahead on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to see is the trolleys are running........

 

Click here to read more from onlyinyourstate.com.  With Photos.

 

Added Sunday

Mississippi River At Rock Island, Illinois

The River Is Expected To Crest Monday........

 

On Saturday, the Mississippi River at Lock and Dam No.15 at Rock Island, Illinois was over it's 15 foot flood stage for the 104th day of 2019.

 

The Mississippi River at Rock Island is expected to crest at 17.2 feet early Monday before beginning a slow fall.  The National Weather Service, Davenport reports that the river was at 16.97 feet as of 6 pm Saturday........

 

Click here to read this news tidbit from qctimes.com. 

 

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED OCTOBER 09, 2019 

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Zone 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 109.9).

All towboats transiting between Mile 184.0 and 179.0, shall avoid carrying barges on the hip and have a minimum of 250 horsepower for each loaded barge. South-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours only and northbound tows shall have enough h.p., to maintain a minimum speed of 3 MPH on the approach to the St. Louis Harbor Bridges. Vessels are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed, based upon prevailing conditions, in order to minimize wake damage to personal property. It is recommended that all vessels avoid laying up on levees in this zone, asses bridge clearances in advance and fleets be attended by a towboat at all times. Mariners are requested to review anchoring requirements and pre-identify layup areas in the event of a river closure or barge breakaway. Mariners are encouraged to ensure that moored vessels and barges are adequately secured with the anticipation of an increase in water velocity and high water. Recreational traffic is discouraged within this zone. Drift and debris may present navigation obstructions and may drag buoys off station.

reakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following area is in the extreme high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex: Pool 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 109.9).

 Pool 3 (Mile 815.1 – Mile 796.9),

Pool 17 (Mile 475.1 – Mile 437.1),

Pool 18 (Mile 437.5 – Mile 410.0) and

 Pool 20 (Mile 364.1 – Mile 343.2).

The following areas are in the high action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 15 (Mile 493.2 – Mile 482.9),

Pool 16 (Mile 482.8 – Mile 457.2),

Pool 21 (Mile 343.1 – Mile 324.9),

Pool 22 (Mile 324.4 – Mile 301.1),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4), Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

Pool 26 (Mile 241.3 – Mile 205.5).

High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize their wake, exercise caution and avoid laying up on levees. Recreational traffic is not recommended. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent breakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

MILE 332.9 - MILE 331.6 - DREDGE OPERATION
Continuing until further notice, the M/V LaSALLE is conducting dredging operations between approximate Miles 332.9 and 331.5. Work will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., 7-days a week. The M/V LaSALLE will monitor VHF-FM Channel 13, 14 or 16 and requests 30-minutes advance notice of passage, for passing arrangements. Mariners are urged to transit the area at their slowest safe speed to minimize their wake and proceed with caution

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following areas are in the high watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Peoria (Mile 187.0 – Mile 145.6),

Copperas Creek (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Havanna (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0),

Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and

 Grafton (Mile 9.9 – Mile 0.0).

High water and drift could be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. The laying up on levees is prohibited and recreational vessel traffic is not recommended. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid downstreaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website

 


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

 

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 5,284members as of 10-12-19....... Click here and check it out. 

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Sat, Sun.. Oct 12 & 13, 2019

Last Weekend For Mike's LaRosa Bar........

 

LAST WEEKEND FOR MIKE’S LAROSA FOR 2019. HOW DOES 1/2 OFF ALL BEER & COCKTAILS SOUND??? That’s your special all weekend long!! Didn’t get your 40th Anniversary Rat Run Shirts yet? We’ll have long sleeve & short sleeve t-shirts available this weekend!! And to the many patrons inquiring about our APPAREL ONLINE STORE, we are working on it for you and will post the link on MONDAY or come on out, join the fun and purchase it in person


SATURDAY CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY!!! To Our Awesome LAROSA Patrons, My River Home Customers and Our LONGSHOT Rat Runners, Join us this Saturday, October 12th 11am-2pm for Braden’s Famous Pulled Pork Sandwiches and BUD FAMILY BEER 🍺 FREE OF CHARGE THANKS for your continued support!! Followed by live music by Jonathan Baker 2pm-6pm
SUNDAY!!! One of our LAROSA FAVORITES, music by ROGERS & NIEHAUS 3pm-7pm!!!


The Mississippi River doesn’t want to get off our front river road so be sure to use our back entrance on LeClair Street. Be courteous of our neighbors reducing your speed to 10MPH. TO OUR BOATERS, closest courtesy dock to the LaRosa is OPEN. You may use any available slip on B, C, E & H dock or gas dock. Weather for the weekend is predicting to be sunny but chilly so dress warmly! Let’s have a blast wrapping up the Larosa’s 8th season where we’re Still Drinking with Mike!!!

 

Reprinted fron Longshot Saloom Facebook... click here

 

Rivers Pointe Fire Protection District

Flood Update........

 

Reprinted from Rivers Pointe Fire Protection District Facebook... click here

St. Charles County

Road Closures .......

 

 Check out the St. Charles County Road Closures website... click here
 

Golden Eagle Ferry

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL.....

 

Reprinted from Calhoun Ferry Company Facebook.. click here

 

Grafton Ferry

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River.....

 

Reprinted from Rick Eberlin-Mayor of Grafton.. click here

 

Kaskaskia River

Campgrounds & Ramps at the Costello Lock & Dam Closed........

 

Reprinted from Kaskaskia River Project Facebook... click here

Saturday, October 12, 2019

Hawg Pit BBQ Barn

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton, IL

Hawg Pit Great River Road Rally.....

 

Saturday at 11 AM – 5 PM

Hawg Pit Barbecue Barn, Inc

Benefit for HAVA

Honored American Veterans Afield
All wheels welcome!!!
We will go for a short cruise through town (Grafton) and The River Road towards Alton to honor our Veterans..

 

HAVA

Honored American Veterans Afield

https://www.honoredveterans.org/

As the number of injured men and women returning from the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan grew, members of the firearms industry initiated a non-profit partnership called HAVA to aid disabled soldiers as they transition to their lives back in the United States. The ultimate goal is to increase their confidence and hope for the future by reconnecting with their love of the outdoors and the American traditions of hunting and firearms.

 

The Hawg Pit Weekend Band Lineup

Sat..Oct 12.. Thirst'n Howl..1pm

Sat..Oct 12..Tye Dye Band..6pm

Sun..Oct 13..After Midnight Band..1pm
 

Illinois Flooding Aftermath

Disaster Loans Now Available For Flood Damage........

 

The U.S. Small Business Administration recently approved Illinois' request for assistance for the people and businesses of Madison County and Granite City after flash flooding from the August 12th storm system.

 

The SBA disaster declaration now makes low-interest loans available for businesses, homeowners and renters within Bond, Clinton, Macoupin, Madison, Jersey and St. Clair counties in Illinois, and St. Louis City and County, and St. Charles County in Missouri.

 

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker says that the disaster declaration is a lifeline for people in Madison County and the surrounding counties.  He adds that the low interest, long term loans will help residents and business owners get back on their feet........

 

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

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Boat Gas News

New Federal Push For E15........

 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced a new initiative for expanding the use of biofuels such as E15 across the nation.

 

The National Marine Manufacturers Association calls the effort short-sighted, and warns that additional E15 at the pumps could compound issues consumers face at their local gas stations.

 

The proposal would add some 15 billion gallons of ethanol into the nation's fuel supply starting next year.  One option to achieve this goal is to allow storing E15 and E10 in the same tanks........

 

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

 

 Pool 26 Halloween Parties

 

  Boathouse..........................................    Sat, Oct 26

  Froge's ...............................................   Sat, Nov 02

  Grafton Harbor....................................   Sat, Oct 19.. Witches on the Water

  Grafton Oyster Bar..............................    Sat, Oct 19..Witches on the Water

  Grafton Oyster Bar..............................   Sat, Oct 26

  Hawg Pit.............................................   Sat, Oct 26

  Kinders ..............................................    N/A

  Longshot Saloon................................    No Party This Year

 

  And ....There Will Be Lots of Halloween Parties All Around Grafton too

 

 

Look for updates as they become available

  

River History....

 

October 13, 2012 in River History

 

The American Queen Steamboat became stranded in Hannibal, Mo on its trip from St. Paul, Minnesota to St. Louis, Mo when there was trouble with down steam lock at Dam 25

Boat Manufacturer

3D Printed Boat Smashes 3 Guinness World Records........

 

The University of Maine's Advanced Structures and Composited Center recently revealed the largest boat ever constructed using additive manufacturing in Orono, Maine.

 

The world's largest 3D printer created a 25 foot boat, weighing in at 5,000 pounds.  It is constructed using material that is a blend of plastic and wood cellulose.

 

Senator Susan Collins smashed a bottle of champagne across the bow of the vessel, christening it 3Dirigo.  A representative of Guinness World Records was on hand to verify three records, the world's largest polymer 3D printer, the largest 3D printed boat and the largest solid 3D printed item........

 

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

 

Boating Legislation

Committee Approves Funding For Marine Industry Priorities.........

 

The U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee recently passed several pieces of legislation that would provide funding for several crucial recreational boating concerns.

 

The legislation includes programs that protect and promote boating access as well as the local economies that depend upon the recreational boating industry are now going to the full Senate for consideration. 

 

The spending bills include funding for Great Lakes and Everglades restoration, marine sanctuary projects and other U.S. Army Corps of Engineers programs.........

 

Click here to read more from boatingindustry.com. 

 

2019 Flooding Aftermath

BBB:  Beware Of Flood Damaged Cars........

 

The Better Business Bureau is advising the public to be on the lookout for flood damaged cars.  Across the Midwest, the obvious culprit would be the Flood of 2019, but there are also plenty of cars coming from the Southeast following Hurricane Dorian earlier in the year as well.

 

Don O'Brien, spokesman for the BBB says that it is imperative look over the car carefully, as well as asking the owner how they acquired the vehicle.  A prospective buyer should be able to test drive a vehicle and have it inspected by the mechanic of your choice........

 

Click here to read this news tidbit from altondailynews.com.  With Photo and Audio.

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "April 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

LITTLE JOHN'S MARINE AND FABRICATION

NOW OFFERING TRAILER REHAB AND CLEANUP

Boat trailers, Campers, RV's

 

If your trailer, whether it be a boat trailer or a camper was stranded in the flood water and the wheels have been submerged for any amount of time they are going to have muck, mud, and rust in them. If not attended to, they will be locked up in no time at all.

 

We will remove tires, drums, bearings and properly clean or replace as needed or as agreed upon.

 

Washing entire trailer and repairing wiring are also options.

 

 e-mail... LITTLEJOHNSINC@aol.com 

Phone or text to... 636 541 2962

Thank You,

LJ

 

Rehabbing a trailer that was underwater during the flood

Alex washing off the flood muck off & tear down for inspection.

One wheel on trailer was completely locked up and not rotating.

 

. The brake and backing plate assembly loaded with mud and muck

 

A new complete brake and backing plate assembly ready to go on.

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

Fri..Oct 11..DJ/Karaoke Circus..9pm-1am

Sat.. Oct 12..Baywolfw..9:30pm - 1:30am

 

OPEN DAILY ALL YEAR
Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

$5.00 lunch specials

Mon - Fri from 11am till 2pm

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

 

Check out the Deli's

Lunch Specials..click here

Breakfast Specials... click here

 

Bloch Marine Service

Yacht Club of St. Louis Location......

 

Hello Everyone!
We are happy to announce that Bloch Marine Service is becoming Yacht Club Marine. As of October 1st, 2019, Bloch Marine Service will no longer be taking new work orders, and will cease operations by October 31st, 2019.
But to keep service seamless, Yacht Club Marine will be performing the same quality service that you have come to expect over the years at both the Yacht Club of St. Louis and at Harbor Point Marina.
With that said, the winterization season is just around the corner, and it's time to get on the schedule to have expert winterization performed on your boat to protect it from the ravages of winter freezing. And also, winter is the best time to have Yacht Club Marine perform that much needed maintenance or big project that you have been putting off.
If your winterization request is received before October 15th, 2019, you will receive a 10% discount on winterization labor.
There is also a 10% discount on labor performed during the winter months for those big or small projects that the boat may need.
Best regards, and we'll see you out there!
The Yacht Club Marine Crew.

 

Reprinted from Bloch Marine FaceBook.. click here

 

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

Saturday Specials...
Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Dip,
Spinach and Artichokes mixed with a Cream Cheese Sauce topped with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheeses served with Toasted Pita Bread $9.99
Chipotle Chicken Club Wrap,
Grilled Chicken Breast, Applewood Smoked Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato and Monterey Jack Cheeses topped with Chipotle Mayo wrapped in a Spinach Flour Tortilla served with House Steak Fries $10.99
Black N Bleu Kansas City Strip,
12 oz Aged Angus Kansas City Strip Blackened and Chargrilled topped with House Bleu Cheese Sauce served with Flash Fried Spinach and Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes with choice of soup or salad $19.99
$5 OBB Oktoberfest Pints!
Come try our speciality $5 Strawberry Margaritas!.

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

Open 7 Days a week

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

 

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 

Friday.. Oct 11, 2019
10 ounce strip dinner , whipped potatoes , asparagus for $14.99

Sunday.. Oct 13, 2019
Dawn Turlington
Fried chicken dinner all day $12.99


All Card games on when our team plays.

 

Last few weeks on Deck... Deck closing November 1st.

 

Open Thurs - Sun at 11AM

 

 Upcoming Events.. click here

 

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

 
 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

 

Closed Due to Flooding

Con Trios Yacht Club

 

 

Sat.. Oct 19.. Membership Drive.. Huebner Haven

                    click here for flyer

                     

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

New fall hours for the Duck Club:
Fri.....kitchen 4pm-9pm and bar 4pm-1:30am
Sat...kitchen 11am-9pm and bar 11am-1:30 am
Sun...kitchen 11am-8pm and bar 11-am-9pm

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Fastjax

A Mom and Pop Grocery

One Stop Boat Shop

 

Get your boating supplies at Fastjax

Boat sandwiches, beer, wine, liquor !

 

3502 North Hwy 94, St. Charles, Mo

 

 

 

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

 

Smoked Pork Steaks

Sat - 2pm-til gone. 1 1/2 inch smoked pork steaks w/2 sides $11.49

 

CLOSED on Monday's

 

Every Friday throughout the year we serve whole catfish, catfish nuggets, Alaskan Pollock and salmon served with 2 sides and a soft drink for $8.99 from 11am until gone or 10pm

 

Fall Kitchen hours

Tu-Th 11am-8pm,  Sunday 12-8pm,  Friday & Saturday never change

 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Broom & Witch's Shoes Contest

click here for more info


Grafton Harbor has brand new Landau Pontoon Boats! Come rent a boat with us! We boat thru the Fall Season! Pack a picnic lunch and just enjoy the beauty and serenity of the Illinois River!. click here

 

 

Grafton Harbor Gift Shop & Winery is open 7 day a week

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

 

Fri..Oct 11..4:30 - 6:30pm

Mexican Fiesta Sunset Cruise!

 

Call 618-786-7678 for reservations

 

1 hour cruises offered every Sat & Sun thru Nov.3

Click here for more info

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

Two Week Activity  Calendar


 

 

Click here and check out Grafton's

Event and Music Calendar ....    Oct 11 - Oct 20

 

Menu for the Crab & Shrimp Fest at the Oyster Bar

10-12-19 - 10-13-19

Click here

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

Sat...Oct 12th – Outlaw Opry.. 7pm
Sun..Oct 13th – TBD

 

CRAB & SHRIMP FESTIVAL

October 12 & 13

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Broom & Witch's Shoes Contest

click here for more info


 

Open Tuesday - Sunday

11AM to 1AM

 

If your have not been yet...make sure to check out our sister restaurant @Abigail's Tap Room for BREAKFAST Sat & Sun mornings 8 a.m. ~ 11 a.m. LUNCH or DINNER Wed-Sun 11 a.m.~ 10 p.m. Located in the historic Ruebel Hotel on E. Main St.

 

 

2019 FESTIVAL & MUSIC SCHEDULE...  click here

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

September 29 at 11:10 PM ·
Northern Mo has had as much as 8” of rain this week end. Others had 5”. I love Northern Mo. But don’t want their rain results.

 

Hawg Pit BBQ

Grafton, IL

 

Saturday at 11AM – 5PM
Benefit for HAVA
Honored American Veterans Afield
All wheels welcome!!!
 

We will go for a short cruise through town (Grafton) and The River Road towards Alton to honor our Veterans..

Weekend Band Lineup
  Sat..Oct 12.. Thirst'n Howl..1pm
  Sat..Oct 12..Tye Dye Band..6pm
  Sun..Oct 13..After Midnight Band..1pm

Kaskaskia River Run

Kaskaskia River

 

Brian Shackelford
July 27 at 10:25 AM ·

As the weather we have had this year with Heavy heart The event is going to be pushed till next year. 2020 The River levels we have had this year there is still no docks currently at New Athens, Water is still high on the Mississippi and the sandbar is still currently under water & still alot of floating logs in the Mississippi and Safety is a top priority. All Company's that have donated towards the event will remain the same. If anyone is interested in their Company joining for next year please reach out to me. All Tshirts sales will remain the same and Store will open up next year to purchase Tshirts. If you are interested in a Refund please always reach out if not your order will remain the same and your order will be sent out before the event next year. A date is not set in stone but will be set shortly. Possibly Labor day weekend have a tie up in party cove on Kaskaskia for people that will be staying local. Thank you Any thoughts please post below...Happy Boating
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

CLOSED FOR THE 2019 SEASON

 

Public Auction
Kinder’s Restaurant & Bar Equip. Auction
Tractor, Walk In Freezer & Coolers, Boat Docks,
& Stainless Steel Restaurant Equipment

When: Sat. Oct.12th, 2019 @ 10:00A.M.

 

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

 

We are auctioning off all the equipment, not the building. The plan is to tear down the old building and build a brand new Kinders!
Once everything is out of the old building, after the auction, we will be able to start tearing down and hopefully get started on the build of the new one. The plan, if everything goes smoothly, is to be open for next summer.

Amanda
 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

 

September 6 at 3:21 PM ·
Come fill up for the weekend!!!
The automatic gas system is running again at Lake Center Marina.
$3.40 for 93 octane .

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members!
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Mike's La Rosa at My River Home

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Sat..Oct 12..Customer Appreciation Day

Sat .Oct 12.. Jonathan Baker.. 2-6pm


Sun.. Oct 13.. Rogers & Niehaus.. 3-7Pm
 

1/2 off all beer and cocktails all weekend long!

 

The LaRosa Bar is open Sat and Sun
 

Come by boat and dock with easy access to the bar.

If your driving....
Enter marina thru the upper entrance on LeClaire St....
Click here for map

 

Mike's LaRosa Bar..Music Schedule.. click here

Port Charles Harbor

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

 

TowBoatUS St. Charles/St. Louis
August 8 at 9:14 PM ·

27/7 with 365 days a year coverage for only 85.00 per year
Can’t beat this deal! Call 636.250.2628 to enroll before the weekend!

 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

WE ARE OPEN

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

Cheers to the weekend!
Come grab your favorite wine or spirit!

 

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

INTRODUCING...Yamaha's 2020 boats are here...Check them out at yamahaboats.com.#2020yamahawatercraft #RunTheWater

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 

Sunday- Wednesday 9-4 and

Thursday-Saturday 9-6

 

Reprinted from Two Rivers Marina Facebook.... click here

 

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Woodland Marina is feeling excited.
August 2 at 10:10 AM ·
Marina Update: We are open with limited services! However, we are working off-site as we cannot occupy the office. Please feel free to email woodlandmarina1@gmail.com if you have any questions or need assistance. Woodland Marina’s main line, 636-250-3446, is being monitored. You can leave a message for rack storage at 636-250-4547, and most importantly, we are splashing boats!

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis Restaurant

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

 

08-23-19
Fuel dock is open, please use pump #1. Hope everyone has great weekend on the water!!

 

07-08-19

Plans for the club.....
The Clubhouse is insured with FEMA. The adjusters have been through the club and will hopefully be letting us know in the next coming weeks whether or not the building is repairable. We are on hold until that point.
The club got approximately 6 ft of water, covering all electric panels and all AC units. So clean up of building is taking longer while getting temp electric/water going.
I understand there is a lot of speculation, but there will be a club/pool at the harbor
We are doing the best we can and I will keep you informed as we hear.
Sorry, as I know this is not the season you were hoping for.

 

Reprinted from Yacht Club of St. Louis Facebook.. click here


 

Facebook Event Calender.. click here

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Open for the Season

Will close after Veterans Day on November 11th. We will be open on the 11th from 10am to 6pm  and we will be giving all Veterans free ferriage that day.!

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 
3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Open All Year
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Open
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed Due To Flooding
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Open
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open All Year
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Closed for the 2019 Season
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
LaRosa Cantina................................. Open
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Closed Due To Flooding

 

FRIDAY

11 Boatober 2019

 

 

Over 9.4 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Welcome New Advertiser !

 

 

From the Boardroom to the Ballroom,
every need catered.

​Combining fresh ingredients with creative preparation, expert coordination and gracious service; our mission is to exceed your expectations and deliver a deliciously memorable meal that is within your budget.
Whether you need drop-off service for ten or full service catering for hundreds,
we intend to provide uncompromised quality at every event

We would be delighted to offer you a quote for your next event.

 

 

 

 

click here for Facebook                      Click here for website

 

 

 Picture of the Day

 

The Bluffs

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 Click pic to enlarge

 

 

The Pictures of the Day.... were sent to us by Capt'n Brad Maher

 

RiverBill,

Bluffs always look cool year round. Rivers still going up and it’s definitely not typical spring flooding in October. No more new or higher levees. It has to stop.

Brad Maher
Alton Motorboat Club

 

 

Friday.. Oct 11, 2019

10 ounce strip dinner , whipped potatoes , asparagus for $14.99

 

Sunday.. Oct 13, 2019

Dawn Turlington..2pm

Fried chicken dinner all day $12.99

 

Last few weeks on Deck... Deck closing November 1st.

 

 

 Sat..Oct 26.. The Nightmare

An Alice Cooper Experience

click here for more info

 

Open Thursday through Sunday at 11AM

 

 

Website.. click here        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

Yesteryear's Picture of the Day

Portage des Sioux

 

 

 Click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of YesterYear's On This Day in 2015...... were sent to us by Capt'n Mark Newlin who hails out of Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Heya Bill,


Beautiful day followed by beautiful sunset here in Portage DS. Gonna get out on the water Sunday.

Mark the Shark

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

FOR SALE

50' Steel Hull Cruiser

$15,000 or Make Offer

 

Click here for more info

 

Click here for website           Click here for Facebook

 

 

CRAB & SHRIMP FESTIVAL

October 12 & 13

Click here for menu

 

Sat...Oct 12th – Outlaw Opry.. 7pm
Sun..Oct 13th – TBD

 

If your have not been yet...make sure to check out our sister restaurant @Abigail's Tap Room for BREAKFAST Sat & Sun mornings 8 a.m. ~ 11 a.m. LUNCH or DINNER Wed-Sun 11 a.m.~ 10 p.m. Located in the historic Ruebel Hotel on E. Main St.
 

 

Open Tuesday through Sunday 11AM to 1AM

 

GRAFTON OYSTER BAR FESTIVAL & MUSIC SCHEDULE...  click here

Menu..  click here   Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

The Longshot Saloon... Sat, Sun.. Oct 12,13, 2019

Last Weekend For Mike's LaRosa Bar........

 

LAST WEEKEND FOR MIKE’S LAROSA FOR 2019. HOW DOES 1/2 OFF ALL BEER & COCKTAILS SOUND??? That’s your special all weekend long!! Didn’t get your 40th Anniversary Rat Run Shirts yet? We’ll have long sleeve & short sleeve t-shirts available this weekend!! And to the many patrons inquiring about our APPAREL ONLINE STORE, we are working on it for you and will post the link on MONDAY or come on out, join the fun and purchase it in person
SATURDAY CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY!!! To Our Awesome LAROSA Patrons, My River Home Customers and Our LONGSHOT Rat Runners, Join us this Saturday, October 12th 11am-2pm for Braden’s Famous Pulled Pork Sandwiches and BUD FAMILY BEER 🍺 FREE OF CHARGE THANKS for your continued support!! Followed by live music by Jonathan Baker 2pm-6pm
SUNDAY!!! One of our LAROSA FAVORITES, music by ROGERS & NIEHAUS 3pm-7pm!!!
The Mississippi River doesn’t want to get off our front river road so be sure to use our back entrance on LeClair Street. Be courteous of our neighbors reducing your speed to 10MPH. TO OUR BOATERS, closest courtesy dock to the Larosa is OPEN. You may use any available slip on B, C, E & H dock or gas dock. Weather for the weekend is predicting to be sunny ☀️ but chilly so dress warmly! Let’s have a blast wrapping up the Larosa’s 8th season where we’re Still Drinking with Mike!!!

 

Reprinted fron Longshot Saloom Facebook... click here

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED OCTOBER 09, 2019 

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Zone 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 109.9).

All towboats transiting between Mile 184.0 and 179.0, shall avoid carrying barges on the hip and have a minimum of 250 horsepower for each loaded barge. South-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours only and northbound tows shall have enough h.p., to maintain a minimum speed of 3 MPH on the approach to the St. Louis Harbor Bridges. Vessels are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed, based upon prevailing conditions, in order to minimize wake damage to personal property. It is recommended that all vessels avoid laying up on levees in this zone, asses bridge clearances in advance and fleets be attended by a towboat at all times. Mariners are requested to review anchoring requirements and pre-identify layup areas in the event of a river closure or barge breakaway. Mariners are encouraged to ensure that moored vessels and barges are adequately secured with the anticipation of an increase in water velocity and high water. Recreational traffic is discouraged within this zone. Drift and debris may present navigation obstructions and may drag buoys off station.

reakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following area is in the extreme high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex: Pool 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 109.9).

 Pool 3 (Mile 815.1 – Mile 796.9),

Pool 17 (Mile 475.1 – Mile 437.1),

Pool 18 (Mile 437.5 – Mile 410.0) and

 Pool 20 (Mile 364.1 – Mile 343.2).

The following areas are in the high action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 15 (Mile 493.2 – Mile 482.9),

Pool 16 (Mile 482.8 – Mile 457.2),

Pool 21 (Mile 343.1 – Mile 324.9),

Pool 22 (Mile 324.4 – Mile 301.1),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4), Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

Pool 26 (Mile 241.3 – Mile 205.5).

High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize their wake, exercise caution and avoid laying up on levees. Recreational traffic is not recommended. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent breakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

MILE 332.9 - MILE 331.6 - DREDGE OPERATION
Continuing until further notice, the M/V LaSALLE is conducting dredging operations between approximate Miles 332.9 and 331.5. Work will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., 7-days a week. The M/V LaSALLE will monitor VHF-FM Channel 13, 14 or 16 and requests 30-minutes advance notice of passage, for passing arrangements. Mariners are urged to transit the area at their slowest safe speed to minimize their wake and proceed with caution

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following areas are in the high watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Peoria (Mile 187.0 – Mile 145.6),

Copperas Creek (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Havanna (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0),

Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and

 Grafton (Mile 9.9 – Mile 0.0).

High water and drift could be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. The laying up on levees is prohibited and recreational vessel traffic is not recommended. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid downstreaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website

 


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

 

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 5,273members as of 10-11-19....... Click here and check it out. 

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Upcoming Event..... Tuesday, October 15, 2019

Mississippi River At West Alton, Missouri

Meeting Scheduled To Discuss Raising U.S. 67 Lower Lanes........

 

Since 2017, there has been plans for raising the lower lanes of U.S. 67 in West Alton, Missouri.  The project would lessen the effects of Mississippi River flooding.  That area is the first to flood when the river rises.

 

Next week, there is a meeting scheduled for Tuesday, October 15th, from 4 - 6 PM at the Audubon Center in West Alton.  The open house style meeting will not include formal presentations.

 

Work on the project is scheduled to begin in 2021........

 

Click here to read this news tidbit from altondailnews.com.  With Photo and Audio,.

 

Fast Jax Grocery Closing Doors

Hwy 94 North, St. Charles, Mo........

 

Fast Jax Grocery

 

Good morning folks, unfortunately we are unable to stay at this location any longer. As of Sunday it will be our last day to sell anything! Come visit and get 10% off your total!

Thanks

Fast Jax Grocery

 

Reprinted from Fastjax Facebook.. click here

Flood Impacts

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River Near Winfield, Mo.......

 

Current Prediction as of today 6:00am ... 29.9 foot crest on Oct 14, 2019

 

Stage               Impact
30 The Golden Eagle Ferry will likely close near this level.
29.3 The following roads in northern St. Charles County close near this level: Peruque Creek Road near Highway 79, Dalbow Road near Highway 79, and Firma Road.
29.2 Lakeview Road in northeastern St. Charles County is closed north of the railroad tracks. Also, Highway C between Highway B and Silvers Road will be closed near this height.
29 Route 96 at Mozier Landing closes.
28.5 Much of County Highways B and C in eastern St. Charles County are flooded.
28.3 Near this height, Lakeview Drive becomes impassable and Kampville Road begins flooding in northern St. Charles County
27.8 Near this height, Wilson Road just north of Washeon Road and Lehmond Island Road south of Sunset Drive in northern St. Charles County begin flooding.
27.5 At this stage, Lock and Dam 25 will stockpile 200 tons of sand, 12,000 sandbags, and 10,000 square feet of polyethylene plastic as a precaution.
26 Flood Stage. Highway B in eastern St. Charles County floods near the Dardenne Creek bridge

 

Reprinted from National Weather Service... click here

 

Flood Impacts

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River Near Grafton, IL.......

 

Current Prediction as of today at 6:00am... 23 foot crest on Oct 15, 2019

 

Stage               Impact
24 Roads within Chautauqua and Elsah begin flooding near this height
23.6 Missouri Route B from Highway 94 to New Town is closed near this height
23.4 Huster Road and South Shore Drive, both at the entrance to the South Shore subdivision in eastern St. Charles County, are closed near this level
22.5 East end of Main Street in Portage des Sioux begins flooding near this height
21.9 In northern St. Charles County, Missouri Route B from Lehmond Island Road to Kampville Drive, Wilson Road at Washeon Road, and Grafton Ferry Road and Sherwood Harbor Road north of Smartt Field are closed. West of Portage des Sioux, Sioux Drive is also closed at this height.
21.5 In Portage des Sioux, MO, Le Sieur Street leading to the Marina and to Our Lady of the River Statue is flooded.
21 Water begins flooding the floor at the Palisades Marina in Portage Des Sioux. Access to homes along North Shore Drive in eastern St. Charles County becomes cut off near this height
18 Flood Stage. Right bank begins to overflow... flooding farmland

 

Reprinted from National Weather Service... click here

 

Flood Impacts

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River Near Alton, IL

 

Current Prediction as of today at 6:00am... 26 foot crest on Oct 14, 2019

 

Stage               Impact
26.6 Within a foot of this height, outer road US 67 between Riverlands Way and the Lincoln Shields Access Road will close due to flooding.
26.5 Yachtview Drive begins flooding along the entrance to Harbor Point Yacht Club within a foot of this height.
25 Highway 94 and the east end of Harbor Point Road off of Highway 94 north of West Alton begin flooding within a foot or so of this height. Also, the access road to the Lincoln Shields area off Highway 67 just west of the Clark bridge begins flooding
24 Alta Villa Road off of Highway 94 north of West Alton is closed within a foot of this height.
23 Dresser Island Drive floods within a foot of this level.
21 Flood Stage. Minor flooding begins to occur at this level.

 

Reprinted from National Weather Service... click here

 

Two Branch Marina

Pool 26 of the Mississippi RIver........

 

Campers and Dry Storage Renters:

River levels predicting 29.9 by next Wednesday 10/16. That is the maximum level we can hold. Please keep your eyes on the chart so you can be prepared to be on the move. As always, feel free to call the office. 636-946-2628. I’m there all day today.
-Sarah

Reprinted from Two Branch marina Facebook... click here

 

Saturday, October 12, 2019

Hawg Pit BBQ Barn

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton, IL

Hawg Pit Great River Road Rally.....

 

Saturday at 11 AM – 5 PM

Hawg Pit Barbecue Barn, Inc

Benefit for HAVA

Honored American Veterans Afield
All wheels welcome!!!
We will go for a short cruise through town (Grafton) and The River Road towards Alton to honor our Veterans..

 

HAVA

Honored American Veterans Afield

https://www.honoredveterans.org/

As the number of injured men and women returning from the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan grew, members of the firearms industry initiated a non-profit partnership called HAVA to aid disabled soldiers as they transition to their lives back in the United States. The ultimate goal is to increase their confidence and hope for the future by reconnecting with their love of the outdoors and the American traditions of hunting and firearms.

 

The Hawg Pit Weekend Band Lineup

Sat..Oct 12.. Thirst'n Howl..1pm

Sat..Oct 12..Tye Dye Band..6pm

Sun..Oct 13..After Midnight Band..1pm
 

Mississippi River At Hannibal, Missouri

Crews Installing Two Floodgates Friday........

 

Hannibal Emergency Management Director John Hark reports that at 8 am Friday morning, crews will be installing two flood gates.

 

Hark says that the flood gates are being installed because the Mississippi River is forecasted to rise to 21.1 feet by Wednesday.

 

Hark noted that the flood gate installation should be considered to be a precaution as there is heavy rainfall in the forecast for the next 24 to 48 hours........

 

Click here to read this news tibit from khqa.com.  With Photo.  

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Mississippi River Near Ste. Genevieve, Missouri

Boys Found Message In A Bottle From Louisiana Sisters........

 

As floodwaters were receding in late July of 2019, two brothers in Ste. Genevieve County, Missouri found a message in a bottle.  The note inside was written by two sisters who live in Southern, Louisiana in October 2018.

 

9 year old Carson French and his 7 year old brother Warren were exploring the muddy Mississippi River bank when they found the message, which began with "Hi. My name is Kinslee. I am 10 years old. Aniston is my sister and she is six years old,"  The sisters live near Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

 

The girls got the idea of sending a message in a bottle from their grandmother.  They gave the message to a tug boat worker they knew, who took the message to Northern Illinois prior to releasing it.......

 

Click here to read this news story from kfvs12.com.  With Photo.

 

St. Charles County

Road Closures .......

 

 Check out the St. Charles County Road Closures website... click here
 

 Pool 26 Halloween Parties

 

  Boathouse..........................................    Sat, Oct 26

  Froge's ...............................................   Sat, Nov 02

  Grafton Harbor....................................   Sat, Oct 19.. Witches on the Water

  Grafton Oyster Bar..............................    Sat, Oct 19..Witches on the Water

  Grafton Oyster Bar..............................   Sat, Oct 26

  Hawg Pit.............................................   Sat, Oct 26

  Kinders ..............................................    N/A

  Longshot Saloon................................    No Party This Year

 

  And ....There Will Be Halloween Parties All Around Grafton too

 

 

Look for updates as they become available

  

Confluence of Mississippi River & Wood River At East Alton, Illinois

Demolition Of Shuttered Power Plant Begins........

 

Crews have begun demolishing the former Wood River Power Plant in East Alton, Illinois.  The 1950s era coal fired power plant was shut down by Dynegy Midwest Generation Inc. back in May, 2016.

 

Last month, Commercial Liability Partners purchased the property with the intention of remediating and redeveloping it.  Ron Froh, CEO and President of CLP said they are looking forward to working with the Illinois EPA and local officials to discuss remediation and redevelopment of the property.

 

CLP has not released detailed plans for the East Alton property located near the confluence of the Wood River and the Mississippi River.  Officials say that the site needs remediation, groundwater monitoring, abatement, decommissioning and demolition of the facility and adjacent coal ash ponds prior to marketing the property for redevelopment........

 

Click here to read this news report from thetelegraph.com.  With Photo.

 

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

Google Maps

 

Upcoming Events....November 5, 2019

Creation of a St. Charles County Port Authority Open House

St. Charles, Mo........

 

 

Reprinted from St. Charles County Port Authority Open House Facebook... click here

November 8, 2019

Great Loop Cruising Seminar

Chicago, IL........

 

Reprinted from Great Loop Cruising Facebook... click here

Mississippi River Near McClure, Illinois

Working To Restore Farmland Following The Flood........

 

While the floodwaters from the Flood of 2019 have receded, the aftereffects remain for many farmers.  According to farmer Sam Schneider of McClure, IL, a flood is harder to recover from than an actual full crop season.

 

Schneider says that debris, trash and trees are left behind by the floodwaters, and in an effort to recondition the soil, he has planted rye crops, or cover crops to help repair the damage.

 

Schneider adds that having a crop in the field will work organic material back into the soil.  This year's work will be completed with no gains, except for the preparation for next year's crops........

 

Click here to read this news article from kfvs12.com.  With Video

 

Hop On A Plane For A Mini-Vacation

 

News Release From BoatUS

No Experience Necessary: Affordable 3-Hour On Water Powerboat Training Courses, Oct. 26 & 2
Courses for beginners, women


FORT PIERCE, Fla., Oct. 10, 2019 – Want to learn the basics of powerboating or brush up on your skills? The nonprofit BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water together with Freedom Boat Club Fort Pierce offer a choice of two fun on-water powerboat training courses: Intro to Boating and Women Making Waves, Saturday, October 26, and Sunday, October 27, at Fort Pierce City Marina.
The Intro to Boating and Women Making Waves courses are three hours long and affordably priced at $149 per person. Both are offered Saturday and Sunday at 9:30 a.m.
Intro to Boating covers shifting and steering, basic docking, open-water handling and basic navigation. The ladies-only course, Women Making Waves, offers the same curriculum and is the perfect opportunity to spend half a day learning boat-handling techniques in a supportive environment.
Class size is limited to four students per vessel, ensuring each student gets sufficient time at the helm under the watchful eye of a U.S. Coast Guard-certified instructor.
The goal of the BoatUS Foundation and Freedom Boat Club Fort Pierce is to address the high costs typically associated with at-the-helm training, making hands-on boating education more accessible. The courses also offer area residents the chance to try out recreational boating and give boaters the opportunity to brush up on their boat-handling skills.
Space is limited. Must be 21 years or older. To sign up for a course or see other course locations, go to BoatUS.org/On-Water.
 

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This press release reprinted by permission of Scott Croft of BoatUS...click here

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "April 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

LITTLE JOHN'S MARINE AND FABRICATION

NOW OFFERING TRAILER REHAB AND CLEANUP

Boat trailers, Campers, RV's

 

If your trailer, whether it be a boat trailer or a camper was stranded in the flood water and the wheels have been submerged for any amount of time they are going to have muck, mud, and rust in them. If not attended to, they will be locked up in no time at all.

 

We will remove tires, drums, bearings and properly clean or replace as needed or as agreed upon.

 

Washing entire trailer and repairing wiring are also options.

 

 e-mail... LITTLEJOHNSINC@aol.com 

Phone or text to... 636 541 2962

Thank You,

LJ

 

Rehabbing a trailer that was underwater during the flood

Alex washing off the flood muck off & tear down for inspection.

One wheel on trailer was completely locked up and not rotating.

 

. The brake and backing plate assembly loaded with mud and muck

 

A new complete brake and backing plate assembly ready to go on.

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

Fri..Oct 11..DJ/Karaoke Circus..9pm-1am

Sat.. Oct 12..Baywolfw..9:30pm - 1:30am

 

OPEN DAILY ALL YEAR
Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

$5.00 lunch specials

Mon - Fri from 11am till 2pm

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

 

Check out the Deli's

Lunch Specials..click here

Breakfast Specials... click here

 

Bloch Marine Service

Yacht Club of St. Louis Location......

 

Hello Everyone!
We are happy to announce that Bloch Marine Service is becoming Yacht Club Marine. As of October 1st, 2019, Bloch Marine Service will no longer be taking new work orders, and will cease operations by October 31st, 2019.
But to keep service seamless, Yacht Club Marine will be performing the same quality service that you have come to expect over the years at both the Yacht Club of St. Louis and at Harbor Point Marina.
With that said, the winterization season is just around the corner, and it's time to get on the schedule to have expert winterization performed on your boat to protect it from the ravages of winter freezing. And also, winter is the best time to have Yacht Club Marine perform that much needed maintenance or big project that you have been putting off.
If your winterization request is received before October 15th, 2019, you will receive a 10% discount on winterization labor.
There is also a 10% discount on labor performed during the winter months for those big or small projects that the boat may need.
Best regards, and we'll see you out there!
The Yacht Club Marine Crew.

 

Reprinted from Bloch Marine FaceBook.. click here

 

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

Friday Specials...
Firecracker Shrimp Appetizer,
Eight Tiger Shrimp Hand Battered and Fried golden tossed in a Sriracha Sweet Chili Sauce topped with chives served with house ranch dressing $9.99
Taco Salad,
Fried Taco Shell filled with seasoned beef, lettuce, cheese, diced tomatoes and onions topped with pico de Gallo, sour cream, salsa and guacamole $9.99
Black N Bleu Kansas City Strip,
12 oz Aged Angus Kansas City Strip Blackened and Chargrilled topped with House Bleu Cheese Sauce served with Flash Fried Spinach and Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes with choice of soup or salad $19.99
$5 Cardinal Martini’s
$5 OBB Oktoberfest Pints.

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

Open 7 Days a week

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

 

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 

Friday.. Oct 11, 2019
10 ounce strip dinner , whipped potatoes , asparagus for $14.99

Sunday.. Oct 13, 2019
Dawn Turlington
Fried chicken dinner all day $12.99


All Card games on when our team plays.

 

Last few weeks on Deck... Deck closing November 1st.

 

Open Thurs - Sun at 11AM

 

 Upcoming Events.. click here

 

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

 
 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

 

Closed Due to Flooding

Con Trios Yacht Club

 

 

Sat.. Oct 19.. Membership Drive.. Huebner Haven

                    click here for flyer

                     

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

New fall hours for the Duck Club:
Fri.....kitchen 4pm-9pm and bar 4pm-1:30am
Sat...kitchen 11am-9pm and bar 11am-1:30 am
Sun...kitchen 11am-8pm and bar 11-am-9pm

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Fastjax

A Mom and Pop Grocery

One Stop Boat Shop

 

Get your boating supplies at Fastjax

Boat sandwiches, beer, wine, liquor !

 

3502 North Hwy 94, St. Charles, Mo

 

 

 

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

 

Smoked Pork Steaks

Sat - 2pm-til gone. 1 1/2 inch smoked pork steaks w/2 sides $11.49

 

CLOSED on Monday's

 

Every Friday throughout the year we serve whole catfish, catfish nuggets, Alaskan Pollock and salmon served with 2 sides and a soft drink for $8.99 from 11am until gone or 10pm

 

Fall Kitchen hours

Tu-Th 11am-8pm,  Sunday 12-8pm,  Friday & Saturday never change

 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Broom & Witch's Shoes Contest

click here for more info


Grafton Harbor has brand new Landau Pontoon Boats! Come rent a boat with us! We boat thru the Fall Season! Pack a picnic lunch and just enjoy the beauty and serenity of the Illinois River!. click here

 

 

Grafton Harbor Gift Shop & Winery is open 7 day a week

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

 

Fri..Oct 11..4:30 - 6:30pm

Mexican Fiesta Sunset Cruise!

 

Call 618-786-7678 for reservations

 

1 hour cruises offered every Sat & Sun thru Nov.3

Click here for more info

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

Two Week Activity  Calendar


 

 

Click here and check out Grafton's

Event and Music Calendar ....    Oct 11 - Oct 20

 

Menu for the Crab & Shrimp Fest at the Oyster Bar

10-12-19 - 10-13-19

Click here

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

Sat...Oct 12th – Outlaw Opry.. 7pm
Sun..Oct 13th – TBD

 

CRAB & SHRIMP FESTIVAL

October 12 & 13

 

Sat.. Oct 19, 2019

Witches on the Water

Witch's Broom & Witch's Shoes Contest

click here for more info


 

Open Tuesday - Sunday

11AM to 1AM

 

If your have not been yet...make sure to check out our sister restaurant @Abigail's Tap Room for BREAKFAST Sat & Sun mornings 8 a.m. ~ 11 a.m. LUNCH or DINNER Wed-Sun 11 a.m.~ 10 p.m. Located in the historic Ruebel Hotel on E. Main St.

 

 

2019 FESTIVAL & MUSIC SCHEDULE...  click here

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

September 29 at 11:10 PM ·
Northern Mo has had as much as 8” of rain this week end. Others had 5”. I love Northern Mo. But don’t want their rain results.

 

Hawg Pit BBQ

Grafton, IL

 

Saturday at 11AM – 5PM
Benefit for HAVA
Honored American Veterans Afield
All wheels welcome!!!
 

We will go for a short cruise through town (Grafton) and The River Road towards Alton to honor our Veterans..

Weekend Band Lineup
  Sat..Oct 12.. Thirst'n Howl..1pm
  Sat..Oct 12..Tye Dye Band..6pm
  Sun..Oct 13..After Midnight Band..1pm

Kaskaskia River Run

Kaskaskia River

 

Brian Shackelford
July 27 at 10:25 AM ·

As the weather we have had this year with Heavy heart The event is going to be pushed till next year. 2020 The River levels we have had this year there is still no docks currently at New Athens, Water is still high on the Mississippi and the sandbar is still currently under water & still alot of floating logs in the Mississippi and Safety is a top priority. All Company's that have donated towards the event will remain the same. If anyone is interested in their Company joining for next year please reach out to me. All Tshirts sales will remain the same and Store will open up next year to purchase Tshirts. If you are interested in a Refund please always reach out if not your order will remain the same and your order will be sent out before the event next year. A date is not set in stone but will be set shortly. Possibly Labor day weekend have a tie up in party cove on Kaskaskia for people that will be staying local. Thank you Any thoughts please post below...Happy Boating
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

CLOSED FOR THE 2019 SEASON

 

Public Auction
Kinder’s Restaurant & Bar Equip. Auction
Tractor, Walk In Freezer & Coolers, Boat Docks,
& Stainless Steel Restaurant Equipment

When: Sat. Oct.12th, 2019 @ 10:00A.M.

 

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

 

We are auctioning off all the equipment, not the building. The plan is to tear down the old building and build a brand new Kinders!
Once everything is out of the old building, after the auction, we will be able to start tearing down and hopefully get started on the build of the new one. The plan, if everything goes smoothly, is to be open for next summer.

Amanda
 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

 

September 6 at 3:21 PM ·
Come fill up for the weekend!!!
The automatic gas system is running again at Lake Center Marina.
$3.40 for 93 octane .

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members!
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Mike's La Rosa at My River Home

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Sat..Oct 12..Customer Appreciation Day

Sat .Oct 12.. Jonathan Baker.. 2-6pm


Sun.. Oct 13.. Rogers & Niehaus.. 3-7Pm
 

1/2 off all beer and cocktails all weekend long!

 

The LaRosa Bar is open Sat and Sun
 

Come by boat and dock with easy access to the bar.

If your driving....
Enter marina thru the upper entrance on LeClaire St....
Click here for map

 

Mike's LaRosa Bar..Music Schedule.. click here

Port Charles Harbor

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

 

TowBoatUS St. Charles/St. Louis
August 8 at 9:14 PM ·

27/7 with 365 days a year coverage for only 85.00 per year
Can’t beat this deal! Call 636.250.2628 to enroll before the weekend!

 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

WE ARE OPEN

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

Cheers to the weekend!
Come grab your favorite wine or spirit!

 

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

INTRODUCING...Yamaha's 2020 boats are here...Check them out at yamahaboats.com.#2020yamahawatercraft #RunTheWater

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 

Sunday- Wednesday 9-4 and

Thursday-Saturday 9-6

 

Reprinted from Two Rivers Marina Facebook.... click here

 

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Woodland Marina is feeling excited.
August 2 at 10:10 AM ·
Marina Update: We are open with limited services! However, we are working off-site as we cannot occupy the office. Please feel free to email woodlandmarina1@gmail.com if you have any questions or need assistance. Woodland Marina’s main line, 636-250-3446, is being monitored. You can leave a message for rack storage at 636-250-4547, and most importantly, we are splashing boats!

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis Restaurant

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

 

08-23-19
Fuel dock is open, please use pump #1. Hope everyone has great weekend on the water!!

 

07-08-19

Plans for the club.....
The Clubhouse is insured with FEMA. The adjusters have been through the club and will hopefully be letting us know in the next coming weeks whether or not the building is repairable. We are on hold until that point.
The club got approximately 6 ft of water, covering all electric panels and all AC units. So clean up of building is taking longer while getting temp electric/water going.
I understand there is a lot of speculation, but there will be a club/pool at the harbor
We are doing the best we can and I will keep you informed as we hear.
Sorry, as I know this is not the season you were hoping for.

 

Reprinted from Yacht Club of St. Louis Facebook.. click here


 

Facebook Event Calender.. click here

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Open for the Season

Will close after Veterans Day on November 11th. We will be open on the 11th from 10am to 6pm  and we will be giving all Veterans free ferriage that day.!

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 
3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Open All Year
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Open
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed Due To Flooding
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Open
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open All Year
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Closed for the 2019 Season
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
LaRosa Cantina................................. Open
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Closed Due To Flooding

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