~~~~~~ RiverBill's Archives~~~~~~
April 2020

04-01-2020 - 04-10-2020

 

A WEBSITE FOR THE  BOATING COMMUNITY 

OF THE 

MISSISSIPPI, ILLINOIS, MISSOURI, MERAMEC AND KASKASKIA RIVERS

 

FRIDAY

10 APRIL 2020

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

at Portage des Sioux, MO

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Picture of the Day..... was posted on RiverBills Boaters Group by Capt'n Mark Newlin

 

A Loon Taking To Flight

 

 

RiverBill says... Great picture Mark !

Thanks so much for letting us re-post it.

 

 The Boathouse is Re-opening May 1st

with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!

 

Menu coming soon

 
Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Phone: 636 250 3300

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

Grafton Harbor River Adventure Cruises

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar !

Every Saturday & Sunday  Beginning May 2, 2020

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

 

 

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 Pic of the Day

 

The Delta King

Sacramento River

Sacramento, California

 

 

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

YesterYear's Picture on this Day in 2019..... were sent to us by Capt'n Bobert Boteler

 

 

Delta King in Sacramento 2019

 

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

From Wikipedia:

Delta King is a 285-foot-long sternwheel steamboat (87 m) and the sister ship of Delta Queen, built in Scotland and California for the California Transportation Company's service between Sacramento and San Francisco, California. She entered service in 1927 and continued until 1940. After wartime service with the United States Navy, Delta King served as an accommodation ship at Kitimat, British Columbia in the 1950s and then returned to California for static use at Old Sacramento where she remains as a hotel, restaurant and venue. 

Click here to read more.

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

Get Away From It All

Practice Social Distancing in a BOAT

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

 

River News !  

 

 

 

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

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

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED APRIL 08, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 273.4/MILE 241.4 - LOCKAGE AND CREW CHANGE SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
 Due to concerns regarding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and effective immediately for L/D’s 24 and 25, in the vicinity of Mile 273.4 and 241.4: No industry personnel shall be allowed inside USACE lock control houses or other buildings during crew changes, except in the case of medical emergency. Crew changes will still be allowed, but industry personnel must go directly from the vehicle to the motor vessel. At both facilities (L/D’s 24/25) the crew van will be required to park outside of the exterior fenced area during the crew change. Also effective immediately Locks 24 and 25 will not accept incoming or outgoing boat mail. Industry personnel will be required to use their own facilities while navigating through the lock. Changes are effective immediately and until further notice. All navigation interest should be alert for, and abide by, any special instructions that may be issued by the lockmaster.

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

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

Pool 2 (Mile 847.5 – Mile 815.2),

 Pool 3 (Mile 815.1 – Mile 796.9),

Pool 6 (Mile 728.5 – Mile 714.3),

Pool 7 (Mile 714.2 – Mile 702.5),

Pool 8 (Mile 702.4 – Mile 679.2),

Pool 9 (Mile 679.1 – Mile 647.9),

Pool 10 (Mile 647.8 – Mile 615.1),

Pool 11 (Mile 615..0 – Mile 583.0),

Pool 13 (Mile 556.6 – Mile 522.4),

Pool 14 (Mile 522.3 – Mile 493.3),

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 324.8 – Mile 301.2),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

Pool 26 (Mile 241.1 – Mile 200.5).

Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Towboat operators should use caution, minimize wake where possible, and be experienced in high water operations. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris in the water and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations and be mindful of all charted bridge navigational clearances. Buoys may have been dragged off station so remain cautious while transiting.

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

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

Zone 6 Copperas (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0),

 Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and

Zone 1 Grafton (Mile 9.0 – Mile 0.0).

 High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Avoid laying up on saturated levees. 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 actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. 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 5,930 members as of 04-10-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Mississippi River Near Granite City, Illinois

Despite COVID-19, Traffic On The River Remains Steady........

 

The orders to stay at home in Missouri and Illinois certainly has kept the traffic on the roads and interstates light, however, the Mississippi River still has plenty of commercial traffic.

 

According to Jeremey Garzia, the lockmaster at the Mississippi River Lock and Dam No.27 at Granite City, the COVID-19 outbreak has not affected barge traffic along the river, but it has affected how his team operates.

 

Garzia said that they have to keep team members away from each other.  He adds that each team member has their own areas, and when shift change time arrives, they clean the station with a cleaning solution........

 

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

 

TowBoatUS St Charles / St. Louis

Emergency Response Team Open For Calls........

 

 

Reprinted from the TowBoatUS St Charles / St. Louis Facebook... click here

 

Flooding

Road Closures .......

 

It's that time of the year again. 

Just a few low lying roads in the St. Louis area are flooded at this time.  Check it out:

 

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

 • MODOT's Traveler information Map.... click here

 • Illinois Department of Transportation... 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

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

St Louis District, US Army Corps of Engineers

Help State of Missouri Expand Medical Capacity........

 

 

Reprinted from the St Louis District, US Army Corps of Engineers Facebook... click here

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Missouri Department Of Conservation

Properties Remain Open To The Public........

 

While some of the Missouri State Parks are closed due to the Coronavirus outbreak, the Missouri Department of Conservation's properties are still open.

 

According to Sara Turner, manager of the conservation Nature Center, the way to tell a MDC conservation property from a Mo. State Park is to look for the MDC triangle.  The Missouri Department of Natural Resources symbol is rectangular and has 4 different symbols in it.

 

Turner added that even though Missouri's State Park facilities are closed, their trails remain open........

 

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

 

Missouri Dept. of Conservation Logo

 

April 9 - 22, 2020 at 9PM

Missouri River Campfire Chats

Just Stay Home.......

 

Details

We miss our river community! Click the "DISCUSSION” tab, and let's chat over a "virtual" campfire! Post an update or reply to our event posts here. We want to stay connected. What have you been up to? Examples of topics here include: nature, cooking, trash mobs, music, books, artwork, home projects, gardening.

It's a difficult time for many, and we are saddened by the hardships others are experiencing, lives lost, jobs lost, shelter lost. We miss engaging with our volunteers, our partners, our families, we miss seeing every person who is reading this right now. We want to know… what’s keeping you balanced and healthy?

How is COVID-19 Affecting River Relief?

 

Reprinted from Missouri River Relief Facebook... click here

The Great Lakes

Additional Funding Allocated For Great Lakes Cleanups, Invasive Species........

 

On Thursday, federal officials announced that additional funding was allocated by Congress for environmental improvements in the Great Lakes, including the cleanup of toxic sites and increasing work on other longstanding pollution issues.

 

Last fall, legislators included $320 million in the 2020 budget for the Greta Lakes Restoration Initiative, which is a multi-year plan that focuses on some of the area's worst ecological problems.

 

That was an increase of $20 million over the amount allocated in years past for the program.  Andrew Wheeler, administrator for the EPA says that the additional $20 million will go towards some harder to sole issues such as invasive species and high nutrient loads........

 

Source: bnd.com. 

 

Boat Show News

LakeExpo Launched xBoats Virtual Boat Show........

 

Typically, Missouri, Kansas and Illinois boaters who are seriously shopping for a new boat or at least dreaming of a new boat, would hit a Lake of the Ozarks boat show in the Lake of the Ozarks, Kansas City or St. Louis areas.

 

The problem is that a pandemic hit this year instead, prompting the cancellation of the Lake of the Ozarks Spring In-Water Boat show, and quarantine measures has put a damper on future shows.

 

The LakeExpo crew has come to the rescue by putting together the xBoats Virtual Boat Show which features dozens of walkthroughs by dealers on all types of boats from pontoons to cruisers, with more added in the coming days........

 

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

 

     Note:  Links to the Lake of the Ozarks Virtual Boat Show are at the end of this article.

 

Photo Courtesy Wikipedia

The Pilgrim

 

 

Tall Ship News

Sunken Tall Ship To Be Demolished........

 

Officials report that a tall ship that sank at it's Dana Point, California dock will be demolished, as there is no safe way to raise the vessel and salvage it.

 

Over the weekend, the decision was made following extensive efforts to save the Pilgrim.  The vessel reportedly keeled over in it's slip on March 29, 2020, leaving only it's masts out of the water.

 

The 130foot long Pilgrim is a replica of the ship Richard Henry Dana, Jr. sailed from Boston in 1834 carrying New England goods to California, and returning with a load of cattle hides.  The journey was recounted in Dana's book Two Years Before The Mast........ 

 

Source: thetelegraph.com. 

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 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

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

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

 

 

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

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20

Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

04-08-20

As everyone is aware, Governor Pritzker has extended the order that all Bars & Restaurants must discontinue dine in services, effective 3/17/2020 through a minimum of 4/30/2020. At this time, Bluff City Grill will remain closed without curbside or delivery services. We have taken this down time to ensure all our staff members are taking the necessary precautions to help slow/stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this shut down, we have been working on many projects to reopen a stronger & more efficient establishment. We look forward to seeing everyone when the ban is lifted. If the ban continues further than 4/30/2020 (prayers we don't cross that bridge) we will revisit the idea of curbside services & keep everyone informed on that decision. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy! #healthiswealth

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


04-08-20

The Boathouse is Re-opening May 1st
with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu coming soon

 

03-24-20
The harbor is open and I have a few slips available for rent.
New customers receive 25% off for 2020 season.

 

 
On the river as always xoxo The Boathouse Crew

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

Sat, April 18

Counntry & Western Night

7:00 PM

 

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

 

Closed until further notice ....

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

03-24-20

The winery, gift shop, fuel dock and Grafton Oyster Bar are "Closed."

 

March 16, 2020
For the safety of our family, customers and employees, we at Grafton Harbor, have decided to close the gift shop and winery during this pandemic. We will keep you all in our love and prayers during this difficult time. Stay well everyone and thank you all so much for your support.

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

Every Saturday & Sunday

 Beginning May 2, 2020

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Closed Until Further Notice


 

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

03-24-20

Open For Business.. We will stay open until they tell us to close.
We are very careful about things.
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Longshot Saloon..Opening May 2, 2020

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
Reopening Longshot Saloon on May 2nd

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Opening May 21, 2020

 

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!


 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

REOPENING IN THE SPRING FOR THE 2020 SEASON.

KEEP YOUR ANCHOR RIGHT HERE FOR UPDATES.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

04-03-20

Happy Friday!
We are here for the weekend!
Call in ahead for food at 636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

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

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

Winter Hours

  Tue - Fri..9am - 5pm

  Sat - 9am - 2pm

  Sun & Mon..Closed

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

04-09-19

We have a full beer cooler..
Let us know what you want us to stock..we are trying our best to be competitive versus across the bridge..there are only few that I cant...so check us out..part of being competitive is counting on you...this will go for groceries as well...let us know what you need..

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Wood marina Spring Promotion

Attention - New Slip Customers

50% Off Any Available Slip

 

03-24-20

Open for business with limited services.
Gas pumps to open April 1, 2020

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

Currently we are open. Although things may change. My wife is in healthcare sales so I may be working from home more. Service guys are currently working when work can be done outside of shop. Hope this helps I will Let you know if things change more.

Andy

 

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

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  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

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 ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Reopening May 1st for Pickup Service & Possible delivery
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Closed
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Closed
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Opening May 2, 2020
LaRosa Cantina................................. Opening May 21, 2020
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

THURSDAY

09 APRIL 2020

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

 

Boathouse Sunset

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Picture of the Day..... was taken by Sheli Sutherland

 

 

RiverBill says.... Wow ! What A Great Photo !

 

 

Tuesday's Sunset

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Picture of the Day..... was sent to us by Capt'n Brad Maher

 

 

"Pink Moon"

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Pictures of the Day..... were sent to us by Capt'n Mike Stanczak

 

Hey Bill,

 

Took some pictures Tuesday night on the river. Have some with the full moon and the reflection in the water.

 

Mike

The Pirate

Has New Pets

 

 

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Pictures of the Day..... were sent to us by the most famous wench on Pool 26 of the Mississippi River....  Wench Martha.

 

 

Hey River Bill!

With all this time on his hands, Capt Tim decided to create some "pets" from a tree in our yard. Here are some pics of 'Corona" and her cubs!

Stay safe and healthy!

 

Wench Martha

 

RiverBill says.... One very talented person...  

 

Public Distancing

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Pictures of the Day..... were sent to us by Capt'n Shane Clark

 

Bill,

Public distancing Mississippi River style.  Beautiful day on the water!

 

Shane Clark

 

What A Day

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Pictures of the Day..... were sent to us by Capt'n Rick Skiles

 

Bill,

Got out and enjoyed the day. My lab, Harley, was hot when we pulled up to Hat Island (maybe future sight of a new tiki bar). What a beautiful day. I looked up at the sky & thanked the skipper for a great day.

 

Thanks for your sight.

 

Rick Skiles

 

 The Boathouse is Re-opening May 1st

with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!

 

Menu coming soon

 
Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Phone: 636 250 3300

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

Grafton Harbor River Adventure Cruises

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar !

Every Saturday & Sunday  Beginning May 2, 2020

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

 

 

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 Pic of the Day

 

The Boathouse Food & Deck

Flood of 2019

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

The Boathouse

 

Up Close

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

YesterYear's Picture on this Day in 2019..... were sent to us by Capt'n Carl Tiemann who hails out of Camp Carl on Wilson Road Slough in the boat... River Runner

 

Carl's River Travels

Flood of 2019

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

Get Away From It All

Practice Social Distancing in a BOAT

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

 

River News !  

 

 

 

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

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

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED APRIL 08, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 273.4/MILE 241.4 - LOCKAGE AND CREW CHANGE SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
 Due to concerns regarding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and effective immediately for L/D’s 24 and 25, in the vicinity of Mile 273.4 and 241.4: No industry personnel shall be allowed inside USACE lock control houses or other buildings during crew changes, except in the case of medical emergency. Crew changes will still be allowed, but industry personnel must go directly from the vehicle to the motor vessel. At both facilities (L/D’s 24/25) the crew van will be required to park outside of the exterior fenced area during the crew change. Also effective immediately Locks 24 and 25 will not accept incoming or outgoing boat mail. Industry personnel will be required to use their own facilities while navigating through the lock. Changes are effective immediately and until further notice. All navigation interest should be alert for, and abide by, any special instructions that may be issued by the lockmaster.

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

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

Pool 2 (Mile 847.5 – Mile 815.2),

 Pool 3 (Mile 815.1 – Mile 796.9),

Pool 6 (Mile 728.5 – Mile 714.3),

Pool 7 (Mile 714.2 – Mile 702.5),

Pool 8 (Mile 702.4 – Mile 679.2),

Pool 9 (Mile 679.1 – Mile 647.9),

Pool 10 (Mile 647.8 – Mile 615.1),

Pool 11 (Mile 615..0 – Mile 583.0),

Pool 13 (Mile 556.6 – Mile 522.4),

Pool 14 (Mile 522.3 – Mile 493.3),

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 324.8 – Mile 301.2),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

Pool 26 (Mile 241.1 – Mile 200.5).

Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Towboat operators should use caution, minimize wake where possible, and be experienced in high water operations. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris in the water and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations and be mindful of all charted bridge navigational clearances. Buoys may have been dragged off station so remain cautious while transiting.

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

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

Zone 6 Copperas (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0),

 Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and

Zone 1 Grafton (Mile 9.0 – Mile 0.0).

 High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Avoid laying up on saturated levees. 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 actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. 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 5,924 members as of 04-09-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Mississippi River At Lock and Dam 24 & 25

Lockage and Crew Change Special Requirement........

 

MILE 273.4/MILE 241.4 - LOCKAGE AND CREW CHANGE SPECIAL REQUIREMENT


Due to concerns regarding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and effective immediately for L/D’s 24 and 25, in the vicinity of Mile 273.4 and 241.4: No industry personnel shall be allowed inside USACE lock control houses or other buildings during crew changes, except in the case of medical emergency. Crew changes will still be allowed, but industry personnel must go directly from the vehicle to the motor vessel. At both facilities (L/D’s 24/25) the crew van will be required to park outside of the exterior fenced area during the crew change. Also effective immediately Locks 24 and 25 will not accept incoming or outgoing boat mail. Industry personnel will be required to use their own facilities while navigating through the lock. Changes are effective immediately and until further notice. All navigation interest should be alert for, and abide by, any special instructions that may be issued by the lockmaster.

 

Reprinted from "Local Notice To Mariners" report
on the Navigation Center Website... click here

 

Flooding

Road Closures .......

 

It's that time of the year again. 

Just a few low lying roads in the St. Louis area are flooded at this time.  Check it out:

 

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

 • MODOT's Traveler information Map.... click here

 • Illinois Department of Transportation... 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

 

 

April 2, 2020...So over the past few days we have been busy helping some new customers practice their “social distancing”. Couldn’t think of a better way to get your family out and about than on a new or preowned boat.
We currently have huge savings on all of our inventory. Visit our website at stcharlesboat.com for more information on our current inventory and our safety policies.
Stay safe!!

Bluff City Grill

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Alton, IL........

 

Reprinted from the Bluff City Grill Facebook... click here

 

Mississippi River At Wood River, Illinois

Wood River Looking To Mitigate Flooding........

 

The Wood River City Council recently approved purchasing 69 acres of land as part of a plan to prevent flooding.  The plot is commonly referred to as the 9th Street land.

 

Officials are hoping to reduce or even eliminate flooding within an area that includes the Eastwood Subdivision.  The project would involve the creation of a water retention area.

 

The Wood River City Manager Jim Schneider says that the land purchase is a solid first step towards their goal.  The land's cost is $350,000, and it is located east of the pumping station........

 

Click here to read this news tidbit from altondailynews.com.  With Audio. 

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

 

Mississippi River At Alton, Illinois

The Alton Amphitheater Is Still Scheduling Events........

 

The current COVID-19 pandemic has prompted the cancellation of events scheduled for the weeks and months ahead, however, the committee that schedules events for the Liberty Bank Alton Amphitheater is still hard at work.

 

Many of the popular events and festivals at the amphitheater are not scheduled for mid to late summer, so there is still some time for some semblance of narmality to return before the 2020 season starts.

 

Robert Stephan, the Amphitheater Committee Chairman says that they are waiting to make their first concert announcement for the season  At this time, the first event scheduled is the Fireworks on the Mississippi, which is scheduled for July 3rd.......

 

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

 

The amphitheater is just a short walk from Alton Marina

 

River History....

 

April 9, 1859 in River History

 

A Pilot's Certificate was issued to Samuel L. Clemens by the District of St. Louis inspectors

 

 

 

 

 

Pictured: Statue to Samuel Clemens in Hannibal, Mo which pays tribute to his career as a Mississippi steamboat pilot.
.

Mississippi River Near Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin

Communities In Wisconsin Preparing For Flooding........

 

This week, some western Wisconsin communities are experiencing some minor flooding.  On Tuesday, the Mississippi River crested at or near flood stage.

 

The Mississippi River at La Crosse rose to 12.6 feet on Tuesday, which is just above the 12 foot flood stage.  John Wetenkamp, service hydrologist for the National Weather Service in La Crosse says that the crest is lower than last year, when it crested at 14.58 feet on April 3rd.

 

Wetenkamp adds that the Mississippi River is not expected to remain as high as it did in 2019, when the flooding dragged on for months.  He believes that the river will remain above flood stage in many locations for a few weeks........

 

Click here to read this news report from wpr.org.  With Photo.

 

 

Mississippi River Cruising

Viking Preparing To Launch During the 2022 Season........

 

In August 2022, Viking intends to launch an all-inclusive, 386 passenger riverboat on the Mississippi River.  Their first riverboat, the Viking Mississippi, will cruise the length of the Mississippi River, from New Orleans to St. Paul, Minnesota.

 

The Viking Mississippi is currently under construction in Louisiana.  The vessel will feature a clean Scandinavian design with 193 all-outside staterooms, several restaurants and an infinity pool and several restaurants..

 

The cruises will include one complementary shore excursion at each port of call, all onboard meals, port charges and governmental taxes, beer and wine with lunch and dinner service, lectures, alternative dining at no extra expense, self service launderettes, 24 hour room service and free Wi-Fi........

 

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

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 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

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

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

 

 

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

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20

Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

04-08-20

As everyone is aware, Governor Pritzker has extended the order that all Bars & Restaurants must discontinue dine in services, effective 3/17/2020 through a minimum of 4/30/2020. At this time, Bluff City Grill will remain closed without curbside or delivery services. We have taken this down time to ensure all our staff members are taking the necessary precautions to help slow/stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this shut down, we have been working on many projects to reopen a stronger & more efficient establishment. We look forward to seeing everyone when the ban is lifted. If the ban continues further than 4/30/2020 (prayers we don't cross that bridge) we will revisit the idea of curbside services & keep everyone informed on that decision. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy! #healthiswealth

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


04-08-20

The Boathouse is Re-opening May 1st
with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu coming soon

 

03-24-20
The harbor is open and I have a few slips available for rent.
New customers receive 25% off for 2020 season.

 

 
On the river as always xoxo The Boathouse Crew

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

Sat, April 18

Counntry & Western Night

7:00 PM

 

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

 

Closed until further notice ....

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

03-24-20

The winery, gift shop, fuel dock and Grafton Oyster Bar are "Closed."

 

March 16, 2020
For the safety of our family, customers and employees, we at Grafton Harbor, have decided to close the gift shop and winery during this pandemic. We will keep you all in our love and prayers during this difficult time. Stay well everyone and thank you all so much for your support.

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

Every Saturday & Sunday

 Beginning May 2, 2020

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Closed Until Further Notice


 

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

03-24-20

Open For Business.. We will stay open until they tell us to close.
We are very careful about things.
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Longshot Saloon..Opening May 2, 2020

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
Reopening Longshot Saloon on May 2nd

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Opening May 21, 2020

 

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor
 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

REOPENING IN THE SPRING FOR THE 2020 SEASON.

KEEP YOUR ANCHOR RIGHT HERE FOR UPDATES.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

04-03-20

Happy Friday!
We are here for the weekend!
Call in ahead for food at 636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

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

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

Winter Hours

  Tue - Fri..9am - 5pm

  Sat - 9am - 2pm

  Sun & Mon..Closed

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

Mar 27 – Apr 4

Virtual Spring Inventory Destockage Sale

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Wood marina Spring Promotion

Attention - New Slip Customers

50% Off Any Available Slip

 

03-24-20

Open for business with limited services.
Gas pumps to open April 1, 2020

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

Currently we are open. Although things may change. My wife is in healthcare sales so I may be working from home more. Service guys are currently working when work can be done outside of shop. Hope this helps I will Let you know if things change more.

Andy

 

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

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  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

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 ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Reopening May 1st for Pickup Service & Possible delivery
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Closed
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Closed
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Opening May 2, 2020
LaRosa Cantina................................. Opening May 21, 2020
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

WEDNESDAY

08 APRIL 2020

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

 

Full "Pink Moon"

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Picture of the Day..... was sent to us by Capt'n Carl Tiemann.

 

The Full Pink Moon

Lake Center Marina

 

RiverBill says.... Good shot Carl

 

April Full Moon 2020: 'Super Pink Moon,' the biggest of the year, rises Tuesday. It will be the biggest "supermoon" of 2020. The full moon of April, called the Pink Moon, occurs Tuesday, April 7. It will be the biggest "supermoon" of the year!

Source:  www.space.com

 

Tuesday Evening

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Pictures of the Day..... were sent to us by Capt'n Todd Sutherland

 

Hi Bill,
Here’s a few pics from our ride Tuesday evening! Can’t wait for summer!!

Todd Sutherland

 

 

The Boathouse

New Paint

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Pictures of the Day..... 

 

A few pictures of the painting going on at the Boathouse.  A darked blue for the building this year.  "A work in Progress."

 

Check out Toni's post on the Boathouse Facebook... click here

 

 

 The Boathouse is Re-opening May 1st

with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!

 

Menu coming soon

 
 Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Phone: 636 250 3300

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

Grafton Harbor River Adventure Cruises

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar !

Every Saturday & Sunday  Beginning May 2, 2020

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

 

 

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 Pic of the Day

 

Clarksville Boat Club

Pool 25 of the Mississippi River

 

 Click pic to enlarge

 

 

YesterYear's Picture on this Day in 2019..... sent to us by Deb and Bey

 

Bill,

I shot this Sunday night. It is the Clarksville Boat Club bldg. I didn’t catch the peak level.

Deb and Bey

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

Get Away From It All

Practice Social Distancing in a BOAT

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

 

River News !  

 

 

 

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

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

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED APRIL01, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch 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 324.8 – Mile 301.2),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

Pool 26 (Mile 241.1 – Mile 200.5).

Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Towboat operators should use caution, minimize wake where possible, and be experienced in high water operations. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris in the water and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations and be mindful of all charted bridge navigational clearances. Buoys may have been dragged off station so remain cautious while transiting. Towing vessels are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed, based on prevailing conditions, to minimize wake damage to personal property. Within the St. Louis Harbor (Mile 184.0 – Mile 179.0), south-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, should limit transit to daylight hours only. Towing vessels should have a minimum of 250 h.p., for each loaded barge and 2,000 tons of cargo. Vessels are advised to avoid pushing in near Mile 354.0, RDB, as railroad tracks are in close proximity to the river edge, posing a risk of collisions with trains

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

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

Zone 6 Copperas (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

 Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0) and

Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0).

The following area is in the high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex: Zone 1 Grafton (Mile 9.0 – Mile 0.0).

High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Avoid laying up on saturated levees. 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 actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. 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 5,920 members as of 04-08-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Mississippi River At Grafton, Illinois

Flooding Worries Add To Pandemic Concerns........

 

Even in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, the Mayor of Grafton is keeping a wary eye on the Mississippi River.  Grafton was still in flood recovery mode from last year's flooding when the pandemic hit.  All but a few businesses have shut down.

 

Now, the potential for flooding has returned to the Riverbend.  Grafton Mayor Rick Eberlin says that he recently participated in a conference call with the Mississippi River Cities & Towns Initiative, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and FEMA. 

 

Eberlin said that their two week outlook has the Mississippi River at Grafton hovering around the 21 to 22 foot range for at least another week.  At these levels, there is little to no effect on Grafton........

 

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

 

St. Louis District, US Army Corps of Engineers

Life jacket Loaner Stations Closed........

 

Reprinted from the St louis District, US Army Corps of Engineers Facebook... click here

 

Flooding

Road Closures .......

 

It's that time of the year again. 

Just a few low lying roads in the St. Louis area are flooded at this time.  Check it out:

 

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

 • MODOT's Traveler information Map.... click here

 • Illinois Department of Transportation... 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

 

 

April 2, 2020...So over the past few days we have been busy helping some new customers practice their “social distancing”. Couldn’t think of a better way to get your family out and about than on a new or preowned boat.
We currently have huge savings on all of our inventory. Visit our website at stcharlesboat.com for more information on our current inventory and our safety policies.
Stay safe!!

The Boathouse Update

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River........

 

Reprinted from the Boathouse Facebook... click here

 

Mississippi River Near Dubuque, Iowa

Flood Crest Expected This Week........

 

The crest of the spring snowmelt flood is winding down the Mississippi River, and is expected to move through the northeastern portion of Iowa this week.

 

The Mississippi River at Guttenberg was expected to crest approximately a foot and a half over flood stage on Tuesday, with only minor flooding .  In Dubuque, the Mississippi River will crest about two and a half feet above flood stage Tuesday into Wednesday, affecting homes in East Dubuque.

 

The Mississippi River is expected to remain high in some areas for some time even after the crest has passed.  Officials will be watching for heavy rainfall, which could push the river up once again........

 

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

 

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

Graph as of 5:00AM this morning

.

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Mississippi River Near Levasy, Missouri

Spring Flooding Increases Concerns Over More Flooding........

 

Last spring, a breach of the Missouri River Levee system left nearby Levasay, Missouri  under about a foot of water.  This damaged levee is one of 144 levee systems that have yet to be repaired,

 

Missouri has 855 levee systems protecting at least half a million people and more than $92 billion iin property.  A recent analysis performed by USA Today Network found not only the 144 levees that have yet to be repaired, but only 231 show an inspection date.

 

Of those inspected, almost half were rated "unacceptable", which means that something could keep the levee from performing as designed, or a serious deficiency had not been corrected.  Only 3.5 % were found to be acceptable, while the remainder were found to be "minimally acceptable"........

 

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

 

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

Levasy, MO

Google maps

 

Mississippi River Near Davenport, Iowa & Rock Island, Illinois

Take A Look At The Early Flooding In The Quad Cities........

 

While Trolling The Internet....  We reeled in a photo gallery showing the early flooding along the Mississippi River at Davenport, Iowa and Rock Island, Illinois as of Tuesday, April 7th.... 

 

Click here to check out these photos from muscatinejournal.com.

 

River History....

 

April 8, 2001 in River History

 

Newly Constructed Melvin Price Lock opens for barge traffic

Boat Manufacturer

Anthem Marine Providing access To Federal Disaster Assistance........

 

Anthem Marine recently updated their website by setting up a page that focuses on federal disaster assistance resources for the recreational boating industry.

 

In order to assist manufacturers, suppliers, importers, retailers and others with finding the correct links and forms, Anthem has assembled an easy-to-navigate page with links to disaster aid.

 

Anthem's CEO Mark Overbye says that they are currently in the process of introducing a unique line of boats, however, they have temporarily turned their focus to helping the boating public access federal assistance programs........

 

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

 

Click here to visit the Anthem Marine website.

 

Boat Sales

March Boat Sales Down....  3-5 Year Outlook Remains Fairly Steady.,,,

 

The majority of dealers polled reported lower boat sales during March, resulting in them carrying too much inventory.  The thought was that after record first quarter, the second quarter would be robust as well.

 

Baird Research noted in the monthly Pulse Report that their checks revealed a massive slowdown in retail activity because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

The report also notes that they have updated their models to reflect a downturn scenario, however, these checks verify that the methods used to contain the pandemic will have severe economic consequences........

 

Click here to read more from tradeonlytoday.com.

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 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

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

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

 

 

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

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20

Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

03-31-20

As everyone is aware, Governor Pritzker has extended the order that all Bars & Restaurants must discontinue dine in services, effective 3/17/2020 through a minimum of 4/30/2020. At this time, Bluff City Grill will remain closed without curbside or delivery services. We have taken this down time to ensure all our staff members are taking the necessary precautions to help slow/stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this shut down, we have been working on many projects to reopen a stronger & more efficient establishment. We look forward to seeing everyone when the ban is lifted. If the ban continues further than 4/30/2020 (prayers we don't cross that bridge) we will revisit the idea of curbside services & keep everyone informed on that decision. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy!

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

Open 7 Days a week

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


04-08-20

The Boathouse is Re-opening May 1st
with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu coming soon

 

03-24-20
The harbor is open and I have a few slips available for rent.
New customers receive 25% off for 2020 season.

 

On the river as always xoxo The Boathouse Crew

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

Sat, April 18

Counntry & Western Night

7:00 PM

 

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

 

Closed until further notice ....

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

03-24-20

The winery, gift shop, fuel dock and Grafton Oyster Bar are "Closed."

 

March 16, 2020
For the safety of our family, customers and employees, we at Grafton Harbor, have decided to close the gift shop and winery during this pandemic. We will keep you all in our love and prayers during this difficult time. Stay well everyone and thank you all so much for your support.

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

Every Saturday & Sunday

 Beginning May 2, 2020

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Closed Until Further Notice


 

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

03-24-20

Open For Business.. We will stay open until they tell us to close.
We are very careful about things.
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Longshot Saloon..Opening May 2, 2020

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
Reopening Longshot Saloon on May 2nd

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Opening May 21, 2020

 

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor
 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

REOPENING IN THE SPRING FOR THE 2020 SEASON.

KEEP YOUR ANCHOR RIGHT HERE FOR UPDATES.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

04-03-20

Happy Friday!
We are here for the weekend!
Call in ahead for food at 636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

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

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

Winter Hours

  Tue - Fri..9am - 5pm

  Sat - 9am - 2pm

  Sun & Mon..Closed

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

Mar 27 – Apr 4

Virtual Spring Inventory Destockage Sale

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Wood marina Spring Promotion

Attention - New Slip Customers

50% Off Any Available Slip

 

03-24-20

Open for business with limited services.
Gas pumps to open April 1, 2020

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

Currently we are open. Although things may change. My wife is in healthcare sales so I may be working from home more. Service guys are currently working when work can be done outside of shop. Hope this helps I will Let you know if things change more.

Andy

 

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

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  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

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 ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Reopening May 1st for Pickup Service & Possible delivery
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Closed
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Closed
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Opening May 2, 2020
LaRosa Cantina................................. Opening May 21, 2020
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

TUESDAY

07 APRIL 2020

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

 

 

 Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Picture of the Day..... 

Be Safe

On and Off the Water

Sanitize

Social Distance

Stay Healthy !

 

 

 The Boathouse is Closed

Update Coming Soon

 
Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Phone: 636 250 3300

 

All Music Has Been Cancelled Due To The Covid19

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

Grafton Harbor River Adventure Cruises

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar !

Every Saturday & Sunday  Beginning May 2, 2020

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

 

 

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 Pic of the Day

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

at Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

 Click pic to enlarge

 

 

YesterYear's Picture on this Day in 2019..... was posted on RiverBills Facebook by Capt'n Mark Newlin who hails out of Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

A Saturday Morning Sun Rise 2019

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

Get Away From It All

Practice Social Distancing in a BOAT

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

 

River News !  

 

 

 

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

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

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED APRIL01, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch 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 324.8 – Mile 301.2),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

Pool 26 (Mile 241.1 – Mile 200.5).

Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Towboat operators should use caution, minimize wake where possible, and be experienced in high water operations. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris in the water and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations and be mindful of all charted bridge navigational clearances. Buoys may have been dragged off station so remain cautious while transiting. Towing vessels are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed, based on prevailing conditions, to minimize wake damage to personal property. Within the St. Louis Harbor (Mile 184.0 – Mile 179.0), south-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, should limit transit to daylight hours only. Towing vessels should have a minimum of 250 h.p., for each loaded barge and 2,000 tons of cargo. Vessels are advised to avoid pushing in near Mile 354.0, RDB, as railroad tracks are in close proximity to the river edge, posing a risk of collisions with trains

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

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

Zone 6 Copperas (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

 Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0) and

Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0).

The following area is in the high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex: Zone 1 Grafton (Mile 9.0 – Mile 0.0).

High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Avoid laying up on saturated levees. 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 actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. 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 5,918 members as of 04-07-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Boating Safety

Coast Guard:  Wear Your Life Vest........

 

The arrival of Spring also ushers in the start of the boating season.  It also is time for the U.S. Coast Guard to remind boaters that they are much safer in and around the water when they are wearing life jackets.

 

Federal law required that all recreational vessels must be equipped with one wearable lifejacket for each person aboard any boat 16 feet and longer and one throwable Type IV device.  The exceptions are canoes and kayaks.

 

The Coast Guard is calling on boaters to make the extra step of wearing their life jacket whenever the vessel is underway, as many accidents occur on clear, nice days, often without enough time to put on a lifejacket prior to entering the water........

 

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

 

 

Grafton Ferry Update

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River.......

 

The Grafton Ferry is closed and will open for the season when Stay At Home restrictions are lifted

 

Click here for current information.

 

"Be A Responsible Boater"

A Post From Kentucky Dam Marina

Good Information For All Boaters........

 

 

Reposted from Kentucky Dam Marina Facebook.. click here

 

Flooding

Road Closures .......

 

It's that time of the year again. 

Just a few low lying roads in the St. Louis area are flooded at this time.  Check it out:

 

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

 • MODOT's Traveler information Map.... click here

 • Illinois Department of Transportation... 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

 

 

April 2, 2020...So over the past few days we have been busy helping some new customers practice their “social distancing”. Couldn’t think of a better way to get your family out and about than on a new or preowned boat.
We currently have huge savings on all of our inventory. Visit our website at stcharlesboat.com for more information on our current inventory and our safety policies.
Stay safe!!

Waterways Journal

Upper Miss Towns Prepare For "Two Front Fight".......

 

Reprinted from Waterways Journal Facebook... click here

 

Lake Center Marina

#renewthelou

Helping our Community's Restaurants, Cafes& Eateries.......

 

Reprinted from Lake Center Marina Facebook... click here

 

Missouri River Relief

Missouri River Academy.......

 

Reprinted from Missouri River Academy Facebook... click here

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Wednesday, April, 8, 2020

US Army Corps of Engineers, Headquarters Webinars

Update on Agency Readiness to Respond To Flooding........

 

 

Reposted from US Army Corps of Engineers, Headquarters Facebook.. click here

 

Mississippi River Near LaPlace, Louisiana

NTSB Released Report On M/V St. Rita Collision........

 

On March 16th, the National Transportation Safety Board released their Marine Accident Brief on the March 2019 collision involving the M/V St. Rita and some moored barges along the Mississippi River near LaPlace, Louisiana.

 

The St. Rita sank following the collision.  All five crew members were able to safely escape to a barge.  The sinking occurred at around 2:30 pm on March 7, 2019 near Mile Marker 132.

 

While maneuvering the St. Rita, the captain lost control, causing the river current to push the vessel's starboard side into a barge.  The current caused the St. Rita to list and eventually capsize........

 

Click here to read this news report from waterwaysjournal.net.

 

Chicago, Illinois

The Shedd Aquarium In Chicago, Illinois

The Aquarium Offering Free Livestreaming Of Their Fish Tank........

 

While the COVID-19 pandemic rages on, the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Illinois is providing free livestreaming of their fish tank, which is full of colorful ocean fish.

 

The Shedd Aquarium has been in operation since 1930 and feature angelfish, yellow tangs, clownfish and many other varieties of saltwater fish.

 

In order to check out the livestream, head over the the Shedd Aquarium website, sheddaquarium.org

 

Click here to read more from onlyinyourstate.com.

 

The St. Louis Aquarium

Three Kittens Do A Little "Fishing" At The Aquarium........

 

While Trolling The Internet....  We reeled in a short video showing three kittens doing a little "fishing" while spending some time at the St. Louis Aquarium in Union Station....

 

Click here to watch this video from stltoday.com. 

 

 

River History....

 

April 7, 1682 in River History
 

French Explorer René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle and his party reached the mouth of the Mississippi River on April 7, 1682.
The party started by dragging their canoes on sleds down the frozen Chicago River and then the Illinois River to Creve Couer ( modern day Peroia). From there they canoed down the rest of the Illinois River and the Mississippi River to it''s mouth.. LaSalle took possession of this country, which he called Louisiana, "with all its seas, harbors ..


Source.... Internet Achive

Marine Jobs

Surroundings Trade Only....

 

A few of the jobs listed this week include:

~ Boat Brokerage Business for Sale - Lake of the Ozarks, MO
~ Sales Reps & Dealers Wanted - Montara Boats
~ District Sales Manager TX, LA District - Suzuki
 

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

 

Boat Retailer

OneWater Marine Founders Give Up Paychecks........

 

Austin Singleton and Anthony Aisquith, the co-founders of OneWater Marine recently announced that they were giving up 100 percent of their salaries for the next two months in an effort to reduce costs during the coronavirus pandemic.

 

Jack Ezzell, OneWater's chief financial officer and other senior managers have agreed to take a 20 percent cut in base salary, and the remaining managers and salaried employees have agreed to a 10 percent reduction in pay.

 

Singleton says that they are taking quick action to protect their business and improve the company's financial flexibility by reducing costs across the board........

 

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

 

 

 

OneWater Marine Inc., based in Buford, GA, is one of the largest and fastest-growing premium recreational boat dealers in the United States.

We acquire and operate leading marine dealerships across North America, which offer new and pre- owned boats, repair and maintenance services, parts and accessories, and finance and insurance products. Our diverse inventory and product selections combined with our experienced sales and management teams make us customers’ dealer of choice.

We have various acquisition models that offer attractive opportunities for existing boat dealership owners, operators and principals to seamlessly transition out of their day-to-day operations while securing a future income

Click here for website

 

Boat Manufacturer

Yamaha Taking Further Action Amid Pandemic........

 

The subsidiaries that are part of Yamaha Motor Corp's U.S. Based Manufacturing company have released a production update as each entity works to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

 

The actions that the companies are taking include furloughs, staff reductions and in some cases a limited return to production which supports essential businesses.

 

Yamaha's U.S. based subsidiaries had announced a production stoppage last month in response to the COVID-19 epidemic.  Bob Starr, corporate communications manager for Yamaha Motor Corp USA says that they are monitoring the situation each day in an effort to protect the health and safety of all team members and local communities........

 

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 "October 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

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

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

 

 

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

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20

Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

03-31-20

As everyone is aware, Governor Pritzker has extended the order that all Bars & Restaurants must discontinue dine in services, effective 3/17/2020 through a minimum of 4/30/2020. At this time, Bluff City Grill will remain closed without curbside or delivery services. We have taken this down time to ensure all our staff members are taking the necessary precautions to help slow/stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this shut down, we have been working on many projects to reopen a stronger & more efficient establishment. We look forward to seeing everyone when the ban is lifted. If the ban continues further than 4/30/2020 (prayers we don't cross that bridge) we will revisit the idea of curbside services & keep everyone informed on that decision. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy!

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

Open 7 Days a week

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 


03-24-20
The harbor is open and I have a few slips available for rent.
New customers receive 25% off for 2020 season.
We will be opening the Boathouse for carryout and delivery soon, but we do not have the details worked out yet.

 

On the river as always xoxo The Boathouse Crew

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

Sat, April 18

Counntry & Western Night

7:00 PM

 

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


It is with heavy heart I have to post the following:
Starting Friday morning, we can only serve carry out "FOOD" and/or "DRINK" the dining area will be closed until further notice!
  HOURS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
    Monday-CLOSED
    Sun 12pm-8pm
    Tue, Wed & Th 11am-8pm
    Fri & Sat 11am-10pm

 

 

Sat, May 2
Customer Appreciation DAY
Froge's Bar and Grill · Portage Des Sioux

 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

03-24-20

The winery, gift shop, fuel dock and Grafton Oyster Bar are "Closed."

 

March 16, 2020
For the safety of our family, customers and employees, we at Grafton Harbor, have decided to close the gift shop and winery during this pandemic. We will keep you all in our love and prayers during this difficult time. Stay well everyone and thank you all so much for your support.

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

Every Saturday & Sunday

 Beginning May 2, 2020

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Closed Until Further Notice


 

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

03-24-20

Open For Business.. We will stay open until they tell us to close.
We are very careful about things.
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Longshot Saloon..Opening May 2, 2020

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
Reopening Longshot Saloon on May 2nd

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Opening May 21, 2020

 

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor
 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

REOPENING IN THE SPRING FOR THE 2020 SEASON.

KEEP YOUR ANCHOR RIGHT HERE FOR UPDATES.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

04-03-20

Happy Friday!
We are here for the weekend!
Call in ahead for food at 636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

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

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

Winter Hours

  Tue - Fri..9am - 5pm

  Sat - 9am - 2pm

  Sun & Mon..Closed

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

Mar 27 – Apr 4

Virtual Spring Inventory Destockage Sale

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Wood marina Spring Promotion

Attention - New Slip Customers

50% Off Any Available Slip

 

03-24-20

Open for business with limited services.
Gas pumps to open April 1, 2020

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

Currently we are open. Although things may change. My wife is in healthcare sales so I may be working from home more. Service guys are currently working when work can be done outside of shop. Hope this helps I will Let you know if things change more.

Andy

 

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

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  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

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 ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed for the Season
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed for the Season
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Closed March 2 through Thursday April 2
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open All Year
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Closed
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Opening May 2, 2020
LaRosa Cantina................................. Opening May 21, 2020
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

MONDAY, MONDAY

06 APRIL 2020

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

RiverBills Stuff Sighting

Some Picnic Table At The River

 

 Click pic to enlarge

 

 

A RiverBills.com Sighting.....  was sent to us by MBPT

 

 

RiverBills.com sighting —YEP we got to OUT for lunch. Street tacos at the river

MBPT

 

 

RiverBills Sticker Sighting Page

Click here and check it out...

 The Boathouse is Closed

Update Coming Soon

 
Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Phone: 636 250 3300

 

All Music Has Been Cancelled Due To The Covid19

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

Grafton Harbor River Adventure Cruises

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar !

Every Saturday & Sunday  Beginning May 2, 2020

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

 

 

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 Pic of the Day

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis

 

 Click pic to enlarge

 

 

YesterYear's Picture on this Day in 2019..... was sent to us by Capt'n Tom Marstall who hails out of the Yacht Club of St. Louis

 

Bill,
My Nephew Tim took this picture of the Yacht Club Wednesday 4-3-19 on a plane ride, it's going to be a long spring...


Tom

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

Get Away From It All

Practice Social Distancing in a BOAT

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

 

River News !  

 

 

 

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

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

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED APRIL01, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch 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 324.8 – Mile 301.2),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

Pool 26 (Mile 241.1 – Mile 200.5).

Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Towboat operators should use caution, minimize wake where possible, and be experienced in high water operations. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris in the water and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations and be mindful of all charted bridge navigational clearances. Buoys may have been dragged off station so remain cautious while transiting. Towing vessels are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed, based on prevailing conditions, to minimize wake damage to personal property. Within the St. Louis Harbor (Mile 184.0 – Mile 179.0), south-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, should limit transit to daylight hours only. Towing vessels should have a minimum of 250 h.p., for each loaded barge and 2,000 tons of cargo. Vessels are advised to avoid pushing in near Mile 354.0, RDB, as railroad tracks are in close proximity to the river edge, posing a risk of collisions with trains

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

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

Zone 6 Copperas (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

 Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0) and

Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0).

The following area is in the high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex: Zone 1 Grafton (Mile 9.0 – Mile 0.0).

High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Avoid laying up on saturated levees. 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 actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. 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 5,917 members as of 04-06-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

 

Mississippi River Near New Orleans, Louisiana

The Corps Has Opened The Bonnet Carre Spillway........

 

On Friday, crews opened several of the Bonnet Carre Spillway's bays to relieve some of the pressure from the Mississippi River.

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reports that the Mississippi River is running high, requiring the spillway be opened to protect the levees in the New Orleans area.

 

This is the fifth time this decade that the spillway has been opened.  Officials report that the spillway is expected to remain open for approximately one month........

 

Click here to read this news tidbit from wdsu.com.  With Video.  

 

Flooding

Road Closures .......

 

It's that time of the year again. 

Just a few low lying roads in the St. Louis area are flooded at this time.  Check it out:

 

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

 • MODOT's Traveler information Map.... click here

 • Illinois Department of Transportation... 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

 

 

April 2, 2020...So over the past few days we have been busy helping some new customers practice their “social distancing”. Couldn’t think of a better way to get your family out and about than on a new or preowned boat.
We currently have huge savings on all of our inventory. Visit our website at stcharlesboat.com for more information on our current inventory and our safety policies.
Stay safe!!

Alton Motor Boat Club

April Newsletter With New Clubhouse Update........

 

Reprinted from Alton Motor Boat Club Facebook... click here

 

Grafton Harbor

Online Shopping

Free Shipping.....

Reprinted from Grafton Harbor FAcebook... click here

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Stream Teams United

Great Rivers State Photo Contest.....

Reprinted from Stream Teams United... click here

 

Living Lands and Waters

Home Schooling ?

Plastic Pollution Classes.....

Reprinted from Living Lands and Waters Facebook... click here

 

Tennessee River Near Savannah, Tennessee

Breakaway Barges Struck House Along The River........

 

The U.S. Coast Guard is investigating an incident where 14 barges broke free from a towing vessel and struck a house along the Tennessee River near Savannah, Tennessee, causing significant damage to the structure.

 

On March 26th, the tow containing empty dry cargo barges were headed upstream from the Pickwick Dam, when the barges broke free.  The U.S. Coast Guard was notified of the incident around 4 pm.

 

While the breakaway barges were drifting towards the U.S. 64 bridge spanning the Tennessee River in Savannah, none struck the bridge,,,,,,,,

 

Click here to read this news article from waterwaysjournal.net.  With Photos.

 

MarineMax

Retracting Fiscal 2020 Guidance Due To Coronavirus........

 

Boat retailer MarineMax recently announced that they were retracting their fiscal guidance, an EPS target of $1.82 - $1.92 in response to the quickly changing market uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

MarineMax also announced plans for maintaining their near-term liquidity.  The majority of MarineMax's 59 locations are fully or semi-operational, but the company is prepared to furlough employees as a way to preserve capitol.

 

The company is also attempting to extract capitol from their "debt-free, sizable real estate holdings", which had a net book value of $123 million last September, and an estimated fair value that is considerably higher........

 

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

 

 

River History....

 

April 5, 2007 in River History
 

St. Charles Boat and Motor announced that they were expanding their building at 3080 N. Hwy 94 by adding a 10,000 square foot glass front showroom…

Lake Of The Ozarks

Some Weathering Pandemic At The Lake........

 

For many decades now, the Lake of the Ozarks has been a favored getaway from the hustle and bustle of their everyday lives, as the miles of shorelines and scenery are a perfect backdrop for relaxation.

 

With the recent order to self-isolate to protect oneself from the COVID-19 pandemic, it would seem natural that some people would choose to do so at their lake houses.

 

Mark and Betty Cratofil had just that idea when they set out from their Prairie Village, Kansas home and headed to the lake.  Betty says that they love spending time at the lake during the winter, so if they were going to be stuck at home, they'd rather be where they can look out on the water and enjoy the scenery.........

 

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

 

Ohio River At Cave-In-Rock, Illinois

The Cave-In-Rock Ferry Has Re-Opened........

 

As of 6 am April 1st, the floodwaters along the Ohio River had fallen enough for the Cave-In-Rock Ferry to resume operations.  It had been shut down since 7 pm on March 28th, when floodwaters closed KY. 91 near the landing.

 

Ferry operator Lonnie Lewis and his crew used the closure an an opportunity to take care of some maintenance on the ferry boat, which normally would have been taken care of during the overnight hours.

 

The Cave-In-Rock Ferry connects KY.91 in Crittenden County with Illinois 1 in Hardin County at the 881.0 Mile Marker along the Ohio River........

 

Click here to read this news report from waterwaysjournal.net.

 

Google Maps

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "September 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

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

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

 

 

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

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20

Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

03-31-20

As everyone is aware, Governor Pritzker has extended the order that all Bars & Restaurants must discontinue dine in services, effective 3/17/2020 through a minimum of 4/30/2020. At this time, Bluff City Grill will remain closed without curbside or delivery services. We have taken this down time to ensure all our staff members are taking the necessary precautions to help slow/stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this shut down, we have been working on many projects to reopen a stronger & more efficient establishment. We look forward to seeing everyone when the ban is lifted. If the ban continues further than 4/30/2020 (prayers we don't cross that bridge) we will revisit the idea of curbside services & keep everyone informed on that decision. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy!

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

Open 7 Days a week

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 


03-24-20
The harbor is open and I have a few slips available for rent.
New customers receive 25% off for 2020 season.
We will be opening the Boathouse for carryout and delivery soon, but we do not have the details worked out yet.

 

On the river as always xoxo The Boathouse Crew

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

Sat, April 18

Counntry & Western Night

7:00 PM

 

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


It is with heavy heart I have to post the following:
Starting Friday morning, we can only serve carry out "FOOD" and/or "DRINK" the dining area will be closed until further notice!
  HOURS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
    Monday-CLOSED
    Sun 12pm-8pm
    Tue, Wed & Th 11am-8pm
    Fri & Sat 11am-10pm

 

 

Sat, May 2
Customer Appreciation DAY
Froge's Bar and Grill · Portage Des Sioux

 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

03-24-20

The winery, gift shop, fuel dock and Grafton Oyster Bar are "Closed."

 

March 16, 2020
For the safety of our family, customers and employees, we at Grafton Harbor, have decided to close the gift shop and winery during this pandemic. We will keep you all in our love and prayers during this difficult time. Stay well everyone and thank you all so much for your support.

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

Every Saturday & Sunday

 Beginning May 2, 2020

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Closed Until Further Notice


 

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

03-24-20

Open For Business.. We will stay open until they tell us to close.
We are very careful about things.
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Longshot Saloon..Opening May 2, 2020

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
Reopening Longshot Saloon on May 2nd

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Opening May 21, 2020

 

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor
 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

REOPENING IN THE SPRING FOR THE 2020 SEASON.

KEEP YOUR ANCHOR RIGHT HERE FOR UPDATES.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

04-03-20

Happy Friday!
We are here for the weekend!
Call in ahead for food at 636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

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

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

Winter Hours

  Tue - Fri..9am - 5pm

  Sat - 9am - 2pm

  Sun & Mon..Closed

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

Mar 27 – Apr 4

Virtual Spring Inventory Destockage Sale

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Wood marina Spring Promotion

Attention - New Slip Customers

50% Off Any Available Slip

 

03-24-20

Open for business with limited services.
Gas pumps to open April 1, 2020

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

Currently we are open. Although things may change. My wife is in healthcare sales so I may be working from home more. Service guys are currently working when work can be done outside of shop. Hope this helps I will Let you know if things change more.

Andy

 

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

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  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

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 ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed for the Season
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed for the Season
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Closed March 2 through Thursday April 2
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open All Year
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Closed
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Opening May 2, 2020
LaRosa Cantina................................. Opening May 21, 2020
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

THE WEEKEND

Sat, Sun... 04, 05 APRIL 2020

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

  Welcome New Advertiser !

PERFORMANCE PROPELLERS

Prop Sales and Service

Located at 15 Droste Square in St. Charles, Mo.

Open 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Give them a call at 636- 949-3121

Check out their Facebook Page...click here

 

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Sun Pic

 

 click pic to enlarge

 


The Picture of the Day .....was sent to us by Capt'n Mike Stanczak.

 

 

BLURSDAY SUNSET

(Thursday)

 

 

Social Distancing

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Sat Pic

 

 click pic to enlarge

 


The Picture of the Day .....was sent to us by Capt'n Alan Deutschmann who hails out of the Duck Club Yacht Club in the cruiser.... Sound of Pleasure

 

 

Capt Bill

I just took this picture............. in front of the Duck Club.

 

Alan

 

 The Boathouse is Closed

Update Coming Soon

 
Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Phone: 636 250 3300

 

All Music Has Been Cancelled Due To The Covid19

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

Grafton Harbor River Adventure Cruises

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar !

Every Saturday & Sunday  Beginning May 2, 2020

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

 

 

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 Pic of the Day

 

Sunrise Yesterday Morning

 (04-03-19)

From Palisades

 

 Click pic to enlarge

 

 

YesterYear's Picture on this Day in 2019..... was sent to us by Becky Dallwitz of My River Home

 

Our Lady of the Rivers watching over the flood

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

Get Away From It All

Practice Social Distancing in a BOAT

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

 

River News !  

 

 

Added Sunday

Mississippi River At Grafton, Illinois

Will Grafton Weather The Coronavirus?

 

The City of Grafton, Illinois is a resilient little town that takes all of the flooding that Mother Nature can throw at it and keep on thriving.

 

Grafton residents and businesses alike are now battling the COVID-19 outbreak and questions arise as to whether the "Little Town That Could", which relies on tourism dollars, can survive an epidemic that requires the quarantine of victims.

 

Jeff Lorton, owner of one of the largest employers in Grafton, Aeries winery, says that he had to lay off some 140 people because of the COVID-19 restrictions. Lorton is confident that the City of Grafton will survive because Grafton residents stick together........

 

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

 

Added Sunday

Looking Up-River

Alton, Il to St. Paul, MN.......

 

The Mississippi River if forecasted to continue to fall from Alton, IL to Canton, Il as of 4:00AM this morning as shown below:

 

As of 4:00AM this morning

 

As of 4:00AM this morning

 

 

The river is forecasted to rise from Keokuk, IA all the way to Red Wing, MN as shown below:

 

As of 4:00AM this morning

 

As of 4:00AM this morning

 

Hastings and St. Paul, MN are forecasted to crest next week - mid to late week as shown below:

As of 4:00AM this morning

 

Mississippi River Gauges

Check out RiverBills River Gages Page...

Alton, IL  to  St. Paul, MN ....  click here

 

Added Sunday

Did You Know

Flood Category Definition ...........

 

Flood Categories
Terms defined for each forecast point which describe or categorize the severity of flood impacts in the corres­ponding river/stream reach. Each flood category is bounded by an upper and lower stage (see Example 1). The severity of flooding at a given stage is not necessarily the same at all locations along a river reach due to varying channel/bank characteristics or presence of levees on portions of the reach. Therefore, the upper and lower stages for a given flood category are usually associated with water levels corresponding to the most significant flood impacts some­where in the reach. The flood categories used in the NWS are:

 

*Minor Flooding* - minimal or no property damage, but possibly some public threat.

 

*Moderate Flooding* - some inundation of structures and roads near stream. Some evacuations of people and/or transfer of property to higher elevations.

 

*Major Flooding* - extensive inundation of structures and roads. Significant evacuations of people and/or transfer of property to higher elevations.

 

*Record Flooding* - flooding which equals or exceeds the highest stage or discharge at a given site during the period of record keeping.

 

Note: all three of the lower flood categories (minor, moderate, major) do not necessarily exist for a given forecast point. For example, at the level where a river reaches flood stage, it may be considered moderate flooding. However, at least one of these three flood categories must start at flood stage.

Source: Natoinal Weather Service, click here

Added Sunday

LOTO Boaters Practicing Social Distancing On The Water........

 

While summer is still several months away, the owners of marinas at the Lake of the Ozarks report they wouldn't know it as sunny days and social distancing have created the perfect conditions for boating.

 

Kyle Kelly, owner of Kelly's Port Marina, states that there is no better social distancing activity than boating with our family.  Kelly adds that gas sales at the fuel dock has been doing quite well.

 

Kelly notes that his staff has stepped up their cleaning efforts and are practicing social distancing as well.  He quipped that he has two gernophobes in his employ who are happy being in charge of sanitizing

 

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

 

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 APRIL01, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch 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 324.8 – Mile 301.2),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

Pool 26 (Mile 241.1 – Mile 200.5).

Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Towboat operators should use caution, minimize wake where possible, and be experienced in high water operations. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris in the water and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations and be mindful of all charted bridge navigational clearances. Buoys may have been dragged off station so remain cautious while transiting. Towing vessels are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed, based on prevailing conditions, to minimize wake damage to personal property. Within the St. Louis Harbor (Mile 184.0 – Mile 179.0), south-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, should limit transit to daylight hours only. Towing vessels should have a minimum of 250 h.p., for each loaded barge and 2,000 tons of cargo. Vessels are advised to avoid pushing in near Mile 354.0, RDB, as railroad tracks are in close proximity to the river edge, posing a risk of collisions with trains

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

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

Zone 6 Copperas (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

 Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0) and

Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0).

The following area is in the high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex: Zone 1 Grafton (Mile 9.0 – Mile 0.0).

High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Avoid laying up on saturated levees. 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 actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. 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 5,913 members as of 04-04-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Mississippi River At St. Louis, Missouri

Fair St. Louis Has Been Cancelled Due To Coronavirus........

 

Officials have announced that Fair St. Louis and America's Birthday Parade have been canceled this year due to the coronavirus outbreak.

 

Fair St. Louis was scheduled to take place on July 2nd through July 4th at the Gateway Arch Grounds along the St. Louis Riverfront.

 

David Estes, Chairman of Fair St. Louis said that they are saddened to have called off two of the region's most popular Fourth of July events, the community's safety is more important........

 

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

 

Flooding

Road Closures .......

 

It's that time of the year again. 

Just a few low lying roads in the St. Louis area are flooded at this time.  Check it out:

 

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

 • MODOT's Traveler information Map.... click here

 • Illinois Department of Transportation... click here

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Lake Center Marina

Making Sure Ready For Boating Season ........

 

Reprinted from Lake Center Marina Facebook... click here

 

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

04-03-20

Happy Friday!
We are here for the weekend!
Call in ahead for food at 636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

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

Missouri River Relief

Financial Aid ........

 

Reprinted from Missouri River Relief Facebook... click here

 

 

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

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

 

Missouri Dept. of Conservation

Online Discover Nature Schools.....

Reprinted from Missouri Dept of Conservationl ... click here

The Waterways Journal

New Viking Cruise Boat......

Reprinted from The Waterways Journal Facebook... click here

Missouri River At Washington, Missouri

Rennick Riverfront Park Closed To Vehicular Traffic........

 

The Washington Parks and Recreation Department closed down Rennick Riverfront Park to vehicular traffic on Friday, April 3, 2020.

 

According to Parks and Recreation Director, Wayne Dunker, the decision to close the park was due to increased traffic at the park and the local people were not abiding by the social distancing guidelines.

 

Dunker reports barricades were placed at the entrance to the park in an effort to eliminate vehicular traffic, while allowing pedestrians to enter the park........

 

Click here to read this news story from emissourian.com.  With Photos.

 

Boating Lifestyles

300 Percent Increase In Sea Tow Weekend Calls........

 

Many families are taking to the water as a way to deal with the environmental sameness of being stuck in quarantine due to the Corona virus outbreak.

 

According to Sea Tow International president Kristen Frohnhoefer, they have been busy.  She added that they have seen their callouts increase by around 300 percent during the past two weekends compared tot he same weekends last year.

 

Sea Tow is calling on boaters to practice social distancing in order to avoid a boat ramp shutdowns.  Frohnhoefer says that people see boating as the great escape, so she wants boaters to act responsibly........

 

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

 

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

 

Sameness.... Yes, it's a real word meaning...

     noun
     noun: sameness
     lack of variety; uniformity or monotony.
   

 

 

River History....

 

April 4, 1998 in River History
 

About 7:50 pm on April 4, 1998, a tow of the M/V Anne Holly, comprising 12 loaded and 2 empty barges, which was traveling northbound on the Mississippi River through the St. Louis Harbor, struck the Missouri-side pier of the center span of the Eads Bridge. Eight barges broke away from the tow and drifted back through the Missouri span. Three of these barges drifted toward the Admiral. The drifting barges struck the Admiral, causing 8 of its 10 mooring lines to break. The Admiral then rotated clockwise downriver, away from the Missouri riverbank. The captain of the Anne Holly disengaged his vessel from the six remaining barges in the tow and placed the Anne Holly’s bow against the Admiral’s bow to hold it against the bank. About the time the Anne Holly began pushing against the Admiral, the Admiral’s next-to-last mooring line parted. The Anne Holly and the single mooring wire that remained attached to the Admiral’s stern anchor held the Admiral near the Missouri bank. No deaths resulted from the accident; 50 people were examined for minor injuries. Of those examined, 16 were sent to local hospitals for further treatment. Damages were estimated at $11 million.

Source: Wikipedia Encyclopedia

The Waterways Journal

2020 Inland Marine Expo Cancelled......

Reprinted from The Waterways Journal Facebook... click here

Mississippi River At New Orleans, Louisiana

Tribute To Jazz Legend, Ellis Marsalis, Played On Riverboat Calliope........

 

On Friday, the sounds of a riverboat calliope carried the melodies of hymns and gospel tunes over New Orleans' French Quarter as a tribute to the late jazz pianist and educator Ellis Marsalis.

 

Marsalis, who had taught generations of jazz musicians, including four of his six sons, died Wednesday of pneumonia caused by the COVID-19 outbreak.

 

Friday's 15 minute medley included How Great Thou Art, I'll Fly Away, When the Saints Go Marching In and climaxed with the Ode to Joy from Beethoven's Ninth Symphony........

 

Source: whig.com.  With Photos.

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "September 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

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

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

 

 

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

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20

Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

03-31-20

As everyone is aware, Governor Pritzker has extended the order that all Bars & Restaurants must discontinue dine in services, effective 3/17/2020 through a minimum of 4/30/2020. At this time, Bluff City Grill will remain closed without curbside or delivery services. We have taken this down time to ensure all our staff members are taking the necessary precautions to help slow/stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this shut down, we have been working on many projects to reopen a stronger & more efficient establishment. We look forward to seeing everyone when the ban is lifted. If the ban continues further than 4/30/2020 (prayers we don't cross that bridge) we will revisit the idea of curbside services & keep everyone informed on that decision. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy!

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

Open 7 Days a week

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 


03-24-20
The harbor is open and I have a few slips available for rent.
New customers receive 25% off for 2020 season.
We will be opening the Boathouse for carryout and delivery soon, but we do not have the details worked out yet.

 

On the river as always xoxo The Boathouse Crew

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

Sat, April 18

Counntry & Western Night

7:00 PM

 

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


It is with heavy heart I have to post the following:
Starting Friday morning, we can only serve carry out "FOOD" and/or "DRINK" the dining area will be closed until further notice!
  HOURS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
    Monday-CLOSED
    Sun 12pm-8pm
    Tue, Wed & Th 11am-8pm
    Fri & Sat 11am-10pm

 

 

Sat, May 2
Customer Appreciation DAY
Froge's Bar and Grill · Portage Des Sioux

 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

03-24-20

The winery, gift shop, fuel dock and Grafton Oyster Bar are "Closed."

 

March 16, 2020
For the safety of our family, customers and employees, we at Grafton Harbor, have decided to close the gift shop and winery during this pandemic. We will keep you all in our love and prayers during this difficult time. Stay well everyone and thank you all so much for your support.

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

Every Saturday & Sunday

 Beginning May 2, 2020

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Closed Until Further Notice


 

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

03-24-20

Open For Business.. We will stay open until they tell us to close.
We are very careful about things.
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Longshot Saloon..Opening May 2, 2020

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
Reopening Longshot Saloon on May 2nd

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Opening May 21, 2020

 

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor
 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

REOPENING IN THE SPRING FOR THE 2020 SEASON.

KEEP YOUR ANCHOR RIGHT HERE FOR UPDATES.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

04-03-20

Happy Friday!
We are here for the weekend!
Call in ahead for food at 636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

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

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

Winter Hours

  Tue - Fri..9am - 5pm

  Sat - 9am - 2pm

  Sun & Mon..Closed

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

Mar 27 – Apr 4

Virtual Spring Inventory Destockage Sale

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Wood marina Spring Promotion

Attention - New Slip Customers

50% Off Any Available Slip

 

03-24-20

Open for business with limited services.
Gas pumps to open April 1, 2020

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

Currently we are open. Although things may change. My wife is in healthcare sales so I may be working from home more. Service guys are currently working when work can be done outside of shop. Hope this helps I will Let you know if things change more.

Andy

 

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

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  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

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 ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed for the Season
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed for the Season
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Closed March 2 through Thursday April 2
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open All Year
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Closed
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Opening May 2, 2020
LaRosa Cantina................................. Opening May 21, 2020
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

FRiDAY

03 APRIL 2020

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

  Welcome New Advertiser !

PERFORMANCE PROPELLERS

Prop Sales and Service

Located at 15 Droste Square in St. Charles, Mo.

Open 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Give them a call at 636- 949-3121

Check out their Facebook Page...click here

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 click pic to enlarge

 


The Picture of the Day .....was sent to us by Capt'n Brad Maher

 

Thursday Sunset

 

RiverBill says....  Brad didn't say who the people in the pontoon boat were.   

 The Boathouse is Closed

Update Coming Soon

 
Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Phone: 636 250 3300

 

All Music Has Been Cancelled Due To The Covid19

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

Grafton Harbor River Adventure Cruises

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar !

Every Saturday & Sunday  Beginning May 2, 2020

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

 

 

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 Pic of the Day

 

A Little Flood Satire

Flood of 2019

 Click pic to enlarge

 

 

YesterYear's Picture on this Day in 2019..... was sent to us by Toni Luttrell of the Boathouse

 

Finding the Fun

At

Northshore Island

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

Get Away From It All

Practice Social Distancing in a BOAT

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

 

River News !  

 

 

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 APRIL01, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch 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 324.8 – Mile 301.2),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

Pool 26 (Mile 241.1 – Mile 200.5).

Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Towboat operators should use caution, minimize wake where possible, and be experienced in high water operations. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris in the water and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations and be mindful of all charted bridge navigational clearances. Buoys may have been dragged off station so remain cautious while transiting. Towing vessels are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed, based on prevailing conditions, to minimize wake damage to personal property. Within the St. Louis Harbor (Mile 184.0 – Mile 179.0), south-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, should limit transit to daylight hours only. Towing vessels should have a minimum of 250 h.p., for each loaded barge and 2,000 tons of cargo. Vessels are advised to avoid pushing in near Mile 354.0, RDB, as railroad tracks are in close proximity to the river edge, posing a risk of collisions with trains

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

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

Zone 6 Copperas (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

 Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0) and

Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0).

The following area is in the high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex: Zone 1 Grafton (Mile 9.0 – Mile 0.0).

High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Avoid laying up on saturated levees. 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 actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. 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 5,909 members as of 04-03-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Mississippi River Near New Orleans, Louisiana

The Bonnet Carre Spillway Opening For A Fifth Time Friday........

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has announced that they will be opening the Bonnet Carre Spillway for the fifth time in five years in order to reduce pressure on the river levees in the New Orleans region.

 

Crews will start by opening 20 bays on Friday morning.  Corps officials say that as many as 105 of the Bonnet Carre Spillway's 350 bays will be opened to keep the Mississippi River below it's official flood stage of 17 feet.

 

This opening of the spillway also marks the sixth time the spillway has been opened over the past decade because of spring and summer floodwaters.  Prior to 2011, the spillway had only been opened an average of once per decade since it's completion in 1935........

 

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

 

Flooding

Road Closures .......

 

It's that time of the year again. 

Just a few low lying roads in the St. Louis area are flooded at this time.  Check it out:

 

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

 • MODOT's Traveler information Map.... click here

 • Illinois Department of Transportation... click here

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

COVID-19: Cleaning and Storing Your Life Jacket

U S Coast Guard Auxiliary ........

 

Reprinted from US Coast Guard Auxiliary Facebook... click here

 

Boat Manufacturer

Tige Boats Join Coronavirus Fight........

 

Tige Boats Inc. recently announced that they would be starting production of Personal Protective Equipment to help fight the spread of COVID-19.

 

The company will be producing and donating 500 face shields per day at their Abiene, Texas facility.  They will also be producing other high-demand items such as face shields.

 

Charlie Pigeon, founder, owner and CEO of Tige Boats, Inc says that their goal is to use the talent of their crews to fight the coronavirus and get back to normal life as soon as possible........

 

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

 

 

 

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

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

 

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

04-02-20
Good Morning
P & P Boat Wash will be back in business again this spring/summer! We are so excited for the warmer weather ahead.
Ps..
Quarantine doesn’t have to be boring! Get your boat washed soon so you can enjoy the warmer weather in style!
Message Paige or Preston for more details!!
Paige: 636-236-3529
Preston: 636-448-3778

 

Reprinted from Port Charles Harbor Facebook... click here click here

The Hawg Pit Barbecue Barn

Curbside Food and Package Liquor

Illinois River at Grafton, IL......

Reprinted from Hawg Pit Barbecue Barn Facebook... click here

Mel's Illinois RiverDock Restaurant

Carryouts

Illinois River at Hardin......

Reprinted from Mel's Illinois Riverdock Restuarant Facebook... click here

US Coast Guard Heartland Safe Boating

Recreational Boating Season Has Started Early

Boat Parades in Texas.......

Reprinted from US Coast Guard Heartland Safe Boating Facebook... click here

Living Lands and Waters

National Geographic / Honda Article........

 

Reprinted from Living lands and Waters Facebook... click here

 

River History....

 

April 3 & 4, 2016 in River History

 

Eureka, Mo residents celebrated businesses reopening in the Old Town portion city following massive efforts to clean up thedamage from the record-setting flood of late December, 2016.

The Old Town portion of Eureka was inundated by the overflowing Meramec River and the flood waters reached three feet higher than ever recorded there..

Source ksdk.com

 

Boat Sales

NMMA Released January Boat Registration Data..........

 

The National Marina Manufacturers Association's 2020 January New Powerboat Registrations Report shows that the sales of new powerboats were up 5 percent on a rolling 3 month, year-over-year basis, but down 1 percent on a rolling 12 month year-over-year basis to 275,600 vessels through January.

 

Vicky Yu, director of business intelligence for the NMMA says that the momentum at the beginning of the year was positive, with gains ranging from 4-25 percent in eight boat categories.  She adds that they are anticipating that the COVID-19 outbreak will affect sales during 2020.

 

Yu said that they will be monitoring projections as the recreational marine industry navigates uncharted waters, and will make updates as the data becomes available........

 

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

 

Boat Show News

Northwest Sportshow Introduces Virtual Show........

 

Immediately after the cancellation of this year's Progressive Insurance Northwest Sportshowl the NMMA Show Team joined up with TRMG, the NMMA's show guide producer to launch a Virtual Sportshow.

 

The Virtual Sportshow offers customers many of the same resources, discounts and show specials that would have been available at a real sportshow.

 

Thursday, which would have been the opening day of the Show, saw the Virtual Sportshow go live at 2 pm.  The Virtual Sportshow is free and can be found at NorthwestSportshow.com........

 

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

Click here to check out the virtual boat show.

 

Boat Propulsion Manufacturer

Suzuki Building New Technical Center In The U.S.........

 

Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. recently announced tat they will be constructing their future Suzuki Marine Technical Center USA on a 20 acres of waterfront property in Panama City, Florida.

 

The official starting date for this project has yet to be determined, the company is currently wrapping up renovations on existing buildings on the site

 

Max Yamamoto, President of Suzuki Motor of America, Inc, said that the company is planning on a state of the art Suzuki Marine Technical Center that will help in the development of outboard engines........

 

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

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "September 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

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

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

 

 

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

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20

Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

03-31-20

As everyone is aware, Governor Pritzker has extended the order that all Bars & Restaurants must discontinue dine in services, effective 3/17/2020 through a minimum of 4/30/2020. At this time, Bluff City Grill will remain closed without curbside or delivery services. We have taken this down time to ensure all our staff members are taking the necessary precautions to help slow/stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this shut down, we have been working on many projects to reopen a stronger & more efficient establishment. We look forward to seeing everyone when the ban is lifted. If the ban continues further than 4/30/2020 (prayers we don't cross that bridge) we will revisit the idea of curbside services & keep everyone informed on that decision. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy!

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

Open 7 Days a week

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 


03-24-20
The harbor is open and I have a few slips available for rent.
New customers receive 25% off for 2020 season.
We will be opening the Boathouse for carryout and delivery soon, but we do not have the details worked out yet.

 

On the river as always xoxo The Boathouse Crew

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

Sat, April 18

Counntry & Western Night

7:00 PM

 

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


It is with heavy heart I have to post the following:
Starting Friday morning, we can only serve carry out "FOOD" and/or "DRINK" the dining area will be closed until further notice!
  HOURS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
    Monday-CLOSED
    Sun 12pm-8pm
    Tue, Wed & Th 11am-8pm
    Fri & Sat 11am-10pm

 

 

Sat, May 2
Customer Appreciation DAY
Froge's Bar and Grill · Portage Des Sioux

 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

03-24-20

The winery, gift shop, fuel dock and Grafton Oyster Bar are "Closed."

 

March 16, 2020
For the safety of our family, customers and employees, we at Grafton Harbor, have decided to close the gift shop and winery during this pandemic. We will keep you all in our love and prayers during this difficult time. Stay well everyone and thank you all so much for your support.

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

Every Saturday & Sunday

 Beginning May 2, 2020

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Closed Until Further Notice


 

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

03-24-20

Open For Business.. We will stay open until they tell us to close.
We are very careful about things.
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Longshot Saloon..Opening May 2, 2020

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
Reopening Longshot Saloon on May 2nd

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Opening May 21, 2020

 

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor
 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

REOPENING IN THE SPRING FOR THE 2020 SEASON.

KEEP YOUR ANCHOR RIGHT HERE FOR UPDATES.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

03-24-20

As a family and small business, we are here to support our community!
Riviera Too will be offering a sack lunch for children under the age of 18, accompanied by a parent, between 11am-12pm Monday through Friday. The lunch includes a turkey or ham sandwich, a bag of chips, and a cookie.
Thanks, RT
 

 

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

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

Winter Hours

  Tue - Fri..9am - 5pm

  Sat - 9am - 2pm

  Sun & Mon..Closed

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

Mar 27 – Apr 4

Virtual Spring Inventory Destockage Sale

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Wood marina Spring Promotion

Attention - New Slip Customers

50% Off Any Available Slip

 

03-24-20

Open for business with limited services.
Gas pumps to open April 1, 2020

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

Currently we are open. Although things may change. My wife is in healthcare sales so I may be working from home more. Service guys are currently working when work can be done outside of shop. Hope this helps I will Let you know if things change more.

Andy

 

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

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  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

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 ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed for the Season
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed for the Season
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Closed March 2 through Thursday April 2
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open All Year
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Closed
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Opening May 2, 2020
LaRosa Cantina................................. Opening May 21, 2020
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

THURSDAY

02 APRIL 2020

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

  Welcome New Advertiser !

PERFORMANCE PROPELLERS

Prop Sales and Service

Located at 15 Droste Square in St. Charles, Mo.

Open 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Give them a call at 636- 949-3121

Check out their Facebook Page...click here

 

Search For Serenity

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 


The Pictures of the Day .....were sent to us by Dorothy Miller

 

Hey Bill,

Thought I'd share some brightness during these gloomy times. A reminder to enjoy a peaceful moment! A fresh air ride a long the Mississippi is perfect. These are some photos from my 18 days of #stayinghomesavinglives! Just a reminder that while maintaining physical separation, a sunset ride can refresh the mind and soul. Stay safe. Save Lives.

Dorothy Miller
Portage Des Sioux

 

River Bill says.... WOW

Great Pictures Dorothy !

 The Boathouse is Closed

Update Coming Soon

 
Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Phone: 636 250 3300

 

All Music Has Been Cancelled Due To The Covid19

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

Grafton Harbor River Adventure Cruises

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar !

Every Saturday & Sunday  Beginning May 2, 2020

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

 

 

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 Pic of the Day

 

Lighthouse at the

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

 Click pic to enlarge

 

 

YesterYear's Picture on this Day in 2016..... A shot of the lighthouse at the entrance to the Duck Club Yacht Club Harbor.

 

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

Get Away From It All

Practice Social Distancing in a BOAT

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

 

River News !  

 

 

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

 

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

 

Reprinted from St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook... click here

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED APRIL01, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch 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 324.8 – Mile 301.2),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

Pool 26 (Mile 241.1 – Mile 200.5).

Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Towboat operators should use caution, minimize wake where possible, and be experienced in high water operations. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris in the water and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations and be mindful of all charted bridge navigational clearances. Buoys may have been dragged off station so remain cautious while transiting. Towing vessels are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed, based on prevailing conditions, to minimize wake damage to personal property. Within the St. Louis Harbor (Mile 184.0 – Mile 179.0), south-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, should limit transit to daylight hours only. Towing vessels should have a minimum of 250 h.p., for each loaded barge and 2,000 tons of cargo. Vessels are advised to avoid pushing in near Mile 354.0, RDB, as railroad tracks are in close proximity to the river edge, posing a risk of collisions with trains

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

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

Zone 6 Copperas (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

 Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0) and

Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0).

The following area is in the high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex: Zone 1 Grafton (Mile 9.0 – Mile 0.0).

High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Avoid laying up on saturated levees. 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 actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. 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 5,906 members as of 04-02-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Missouri River Levees

Corps To Prioritize Levee Repairs.......

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas City District recently announced that they are continuing to prioritize levee repairs on levees damaged by the historic flooding last year.

 

Over the winter, higher flows along the Missouri River, coupled with adverse weather conditions conspired to delay crews from making full evaluations of the damaged levee systems.

 

The Corps revealed that crews are ready to start work with 13 contracts awarded and nine contractors having received Notice to Proceed........

 

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

 

Flooding

Road Closures .......

 

It's that time of the year again. 

Just a few low lying roads in the St. Louis area are flooded at this time.  Check it out:

 

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

 • MODOT's Traveler information Map.... click here

 • Illinois Department of Transportation... click here

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Riverside Landing Park

Dardenne Slough of the Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

St. Charles County, Mo........

 

Hi Bill!

 

The boat ramp at Riverside Landing is open for now. The rising Mississippi River could change that soon, so please check the Parks Rainout Line app on our website at stccparks.org or call 636-707-0011 before heading out. The Rainout Line provides guests with up-to-date information about park closures.

 

Thanks and be well

St. Charles County Parks

 

St. Charles County Parks & Recreation.. click here

 

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

 

Grafton, IL

City Getting Medical Clinic........

 

04-01-20

Good Evening Grafton,


It is with great excitement that I can announce that after almost two years in the making that Jersey Community Hospital has teamed up with the City of Grafton in establishing a medical clinic in Grafton. The location will be 113 East Main Street formerly the Coldwell Banker Brown Reators office. The JCH/Grafton Clinic will tentativelyl be open M-W-F from 1-5 pm and will accept patients by appointment and walk-in. Final touches are being done to the facility now with hopes of seeing patients as early as Friday.
Thanks to Kevin Goss and the JCH administration,along with the board of directors for helping make this dream become a reality. Thanks also to Joe Soer and GTEC for their help in advancing this cause. It is greatly appreciated!


More details to follow

Rick Eberlin-Mayor of Grafton

 

Reprinted from Rick Eberlin - Mayor of Grafton Facebook.. click here

 

 

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

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

 

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

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.
 


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

Reprinted from Port Charles Harbor Facebook... click here click here

Bid Muddy Speaker Series

April Program Changes.......

Reprinted from Big Muddy Speaker Series Facebook... click here

Upper Mississippi River

Corps Planning On Building Dozens Of Islands........

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is planning on constructing dozens of islands along the Upper Mississippi River over the next several years as a way to restore aquatic vegetation and habitats.. 

 

The plan will start with the construction of seven new islands in Pig's Eye Lake, a 638 acre backwater of the Mississippi River near downtown St. Paul, Minnesota.  If all goes to plan, that phase of the project will be finished by the end of 2021.

 

The next phase would begin in 2022, approximately 45 miles downstream at the head of Lake Pepin near Bay City, Wisconsin.  The details for this project have yet to be finalized, but four islands are being considered.......

 

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

 

Mississippi River Cruising

Viking Setting Out To Conquer The Mississippi River........

 

On Tuesday, the fastest growing cruise company Viking, announced that they intend to begin offering cruises along the Mississippi River beginning in August of 2022.

 

Viking will be launching a custom built five deck vessel called the Viking Mississippi.  It will be able to accommodate 386 passengers and will feature the streamlined Scandinavian design found on current Viking vessels.

 

This announcement has been widely anticipated for many years. Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking says that their guests are curious travelers, and they say that the Mississippi River is the river they most want to sail with us........

 

Click here to read this news story from thepointsguy.com.  With Photos.

 

State of Maryland Bans Recreational Boating

Chesapeake Magazine........

 

Reprinted from Chesapeake Bay Magazine... click here

Mississippi River Cruising

Viking To Start Cruising In 2022........

 

On Monday, Viking announced that they would begin accepting bookings for their Mississippi River cruises on April 15th aboard their Viking Mississippi vessel, which will debut in August 2022.

 

The vessel will be joining American Cruise Lines and the American Queen Steamboat Co in cruising the Upper Mississippi River.

 

On Monday, Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen announced that their five deck riverboats will feature 193 staterooms, which are capable of carrying 286 passengers........

 

Click here to read more from thetelegraph.com

 

Boat Show News

The Spring In-Water Boat Show Has Been Cancelled........

 

On Wednesday, the Lake of the Ozarks Marine Dealers Association announced that they have voted to cancel the April-In-Water boat show due to the Center for Disease Control guidelines warning against large gatherings in an effort to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus.

 

The show, which was originally scheduled for April 17 - 19, traditionally helped kick off the boating season at te Lake of the Ozarks and provides area dealers the opportunity to show off the latest boat models.

 

The LOMDA board of directors stated that they made the decision to cancel the boat show because of their concern for the safety and well being of their customers and potential show attendees........

 

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

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "September 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

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

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

 

 

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

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20

Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

03-31-20

As everyone is aware, Governor Pritzker has extended the order that all Bars & Restaurants must discontinue dine in services, effective 3/17/2020 through a minimum of 4/30/2020. At this time, Bluff City Grill will remain closed without curbside or delivery services. We have taken this down time to ensure all our staff members are taking the necessary precautions to help slow/stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this shut down, we have been working on many projects to reopen a stronger & more efficient establishment. We look forward to seeing everyone when the ban is lifted. If the ban continues further than 4/30/2020 (prayers we don't cross that bridge) we will revisit the idea of curbside services & keep everyone informed on that decision. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy!

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

Open 7 Days a week

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 


03-24-20
The harbor is open and I have a few slips available for rent.
New customers receive 25% off for 2020 season.
We will be opening the Boathouse for carryout and delivery soon, but we do not have the details worked out yet.

 

On the river as always xoxo The Boathouse Crew

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

Sat, April 18

Counntry & Western Night

7:00 PM

 

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


It is with heavy heart I have to post the following:
Starting Friday morning, we can only serve carry out "FOOD" and/or "DRINK" the dining area will be closed until further notice!
  HOURS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
    Monday-CLOSED
    Sun 12pm-8pm
    Tue, Wed & Th 11am-8pm
    Fri & Sat 11am-10pm

 

 

Sat, May 2
Customer Appreciation DAY
Froge's Bar and Grill · Portage Des Sioux

 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

03-24-20

The winery, gift shop, fuel dock and Grafton Oyster Bar are "Closed."

 

March 16, 2020
For the safety of our family, customers and employees, we at Grafton Harbor, have decided to close the gift shop and winery during this pandemic. We will keep you all in our love and prayers during this difficult time. Stay well everyone and thank you all so much for your support.

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

Every Saturday & Sunday

 Beginning May 2, 2020

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Closed Until Further Notice


 

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

03-24-20

Open For Business.. We will stay open until they tell us to close.
We are very careful about things.
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Longshot Saloon..Opening May 2, 2020

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
Reopening Longshot Saloon on May 2nd

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Opening May 21, 2020

 

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor
 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

REOPENING IN THE SPRING FOR THE 2020 SEASON.

KEEP YOUR ANCHOR RIGHT HERE FOR UPDATES.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

03-24-20

As a family and small business, we are here to support our community!
Riviera Too will be offering a sack lunch for children under the age of 18, accompanied by a parent, between 11am-12pm Monday through Friday. The lunch includes a turkey or ham sandwich, a bag of chips, and a cookie.
Thanks, RT
 

 

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

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

Winter Hours

  Tue - Fri..9am - 5pm

  Sat - 9am - 2pm

  Sun & Mon..Closed

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

Mar 27 – Apr 4

Virtual Spring Inventory Destockage Sale

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Wood marina Spring Promotion

Attention - New Slip Customers

50% Off Any Available Slip

 

03-24-20

Open for business with limited services.
Gas pumps to open April 1, 2020

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

Currently we are open. Although things may change. My wife is in healthcare sales so I may be working from home more. Service guys are currently working when work can be done outside of shop. Hope this helps I will Let you know if things change more.

Andy

 

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

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  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

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 ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed for the Season
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed for the Season
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Closed March 2 through Thursday April 2
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open All Year
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Closed
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Opening May 2, 2020
LaRosa Cantina................................. Opening May 21, 2020
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

WEDNESDAY

01 APRIL 2020

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

  Welcome New Advertiser !

PERFORMANCE PROPELLERS

Prop Sales and Service

Located at 15 Droste Square in St. Charles, Mo.

Open 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Give them a call at 636- 949-3121

Check out their Facebook Page...click here

 

Clouds & Reflections

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River on Dardenne Slough UMR 222.2

 

click pic to enlarge

 


The Picture of the Day ..... is from the The Boathouse Food and Deck WebCam

 

Go to www.RiverWebCams.com for the last 10 pictures from the camera!

 

 

 The Boathouse

Update Coming Soon

 
Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Phone: 636 250 3300

 

All Music Has Been Cancelled Due To The Covid19

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

Grafton Harbor River Adventure Cruises

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar !

Every Saturday & Sunday  Beginning May 2, 2020

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

 

 

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 Pic of the Day

 

 Click pic to enlarge

 

 

YesterYear's Picture on this Day in 2019..... was sent to us by Capt'n Tom Hawkins

 

Hobo's mascot high and dry.

Check out Hobo's Restaurant.. click here

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

Get Away From It All

Practice Social Distancing in a BOAT

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

 

River News !  

 

 

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

 

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

 

Reprinted from St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook... click here

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED APRIL01, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch 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 324.8 – Mile 301.2),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

Pool 26 (Mile 241.1 – Mile 200.5).

Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Towboat operators should use caution, minimize wake where possible, and be experienced in high water operations. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris in the water and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations and be mindful of all charted bridge navigational clearances. Buoys may have been dragged off station so remain cautious while transiting. Towing vessels are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed, based on prevailing conditions, to minimize wake damage to personal property. Within the St. Louis Harbor (Mile 184.0 – Mile 179.0), south-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, should limit transit to daylight hours only. Towing vessels should have a minimum of 250 h.p., for each loaded barge and 2,000 tons of cargo. Vessels are advised to avoid pushing in near Mile 354.0, RDB, as railroad tracks are in close proximity to the river edge, posing a risk of collisions with trains

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

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

Zone 6 Copperas (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

 Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0) and

Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0).

The following area is in the high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex: Zone 1 Grafton (Mile 9.0 – Mile 0.0).

High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Avoid laying up on saturated levees. 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 actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. 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 5,898 members as of 04-01-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Lock and Dam 25 at Winfield, MO

 

Lock and Dam 24 and 25 on the Mississippi River

Scheduled to Re-open Yesterday........

 

Lock and Dam 24 Clarksville, Mo and Lock and Dam 25 at Winfield, Mo were closed all winter for maintenance and were scheduled to re-open yesterday, March 31, 2020.

 

We should see some tows moving up and down the river now !

 

 

Mississippi River

Winfield, Grafton, Alton and Further Up-River........

 

Good News.... The Mississippi River is cresting at Winfield, Mo and Grafton, IL. Alton has already crested and headed down.

 

The Mississippi River is forecasted to crest and continue to fall from Alton, IL to Keithsburg, IL.  The river levels further north of Keithsburg, IL all the way to St. Paul, MN are forecasted to start rising again

 

 

 

 

Check out the Mississippi River forecasts from

Alton, IL  to  St. Paul, MN ....  click here

Mississippi Valley Division (US Army Corps of Engineers)

Significant River Flood Outlook Apr 01 - Apr 06 2020.......

 

Reprinted from the Mississippi Valley Division ( US Arm Corps Engineers) Facebook... click here

 

Flooding

Road Closures .......

 

It's that time of the year again. 

Just a few low lying roads in the St. Louis area are flooded at this time.  Check it out:

 

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

 • MODOT's Traveler information Map.... click here

 • Illinois Department of Transportation... click here

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Bluff City Grill

424 E Broadway, Alton, IL........

 

As everyone is aware, Governor Pritzker has extended the order that all Bars & Restaurants must discontinue dine in services, effective 3/17/2020 through a minimum of 4/30/2020. At this time, Bluff City Grill will remain closed without curbside or delivery services. We have taken this down time to ensure all our staff members are taking the necessary precautions to help slow/stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this shut down, we have been working on many projects to reopen a stronger & more efficient establishment. We look forward to seeing everyone when the ban is lifted. If the ban continues further than 4/30/2020 (prayers we don't cross that bridge) we will revisit the idea of curbside services & keep everyone informed on that decision. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy!

 

Reprinted from Bluff City Grill Facebook... click here

Grafton Chamber of Commerce

Gift Certificate Promotion......

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe!

 

 

Glenna's River Forecast

John's Boat Harbor......

 

03-31-20

Well Good news, seems we have crested as of today (03-31-20) at Winfield. Not much water on Hw C at all. Great. Now if all cooperates maybe we can get back to normal. (The question is, what is normal?)

Everyone have a great day, wash the hands, keep safe. The office is at 326 Hw C. so stop by if you need anything. Hopefully Nancy can go back to the end of the road soon.

Glenna

 

Reprinted from John's Boat Harbor Facrbook... click here.

 

 

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

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

 

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

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.
 


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

Reprinted from Port Charles Harbor Facebook... click here click here

Missouri And Kansas River Levees

Corps Says Some Levees Damaged Last Year Still Vulnerable........

 

Concerns are high about possible flooding across the Midwest, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is warning that some of the levees along the Missouri and Kansas Rivers damaged during last year's flooding are still vulnerable.

 

The National Weather Service states that the Lower Missouri River Basin is facing an above average chance for flooding this spring, mainly due to soil saturation.

 

Last year's flooding  along the Missouri and Kansas Rivers damaged some of those levees, and with higher river flows and challenging weather conditions this winter, assessments of the damaged levees has been delayed........

 

Source: thetelegraph.com

 

Boating Gear Maintenance

Decontaminating Personal Floatation Devies........

 

With all of the excitement about the coronavirus, concerns have been raised about decontaminating personal floatation devices.

 

The U.S. Coast Guard has posted recreational life jacket Decontamination Guidance of their website, www.uscgboating.org. 

 

The COVID-19 virus is able to survive for three days on or in clothing.  It can survive longer on porous surfaces.  The current pandemic is a new challenge, and it is not fully understood how all materials and the virus will interact........

 

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

 

 

River History....


01 April 2009 in River History

 The historic Delta Queen opened as a floating hotel at Coolidge Landing in Chattanooga, Tennessee after she lost her congressional pardon to carry overnight passengers on our country's riverways.
 

Mississippi River Cruising

Viking To Start Cruising In 2022........

 

On Monday, Viking announced that they would begin accepting bookings for their Mississippi River cruises on April 15th aboard their Viking Mississippi vessel, which will debut in August 2022.

 

The vessel will be joining American Cruise Lines and the American Queen Steamboat Co in cruising the Upper Mississippi River.

 

On Monday, Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen announced that their five deck riverboats will feature 193 staterooms, which are capable of carrying 286 passengers........

 

Click here to read more from thetelegraph.com

 

Marine Industry News

NMMA Hosting Webinar On Stimulus Package, Boating........

 

On Friday, the National Marine Manufacturers Association will be hosting a webinar that will discuss how the $2 trillion stimulus bill recently signed into law will affect marine businesses during the unprecedented coronavirus outbreak.

 

The webinar will include presentations by Nicole Casilaros, senior vice president of government and legal affairs for the NMMA and George Cooper, partner at Forbes-Tate Partners, followed by a Q&A session........

 

Click here to read more from boatingindustry.com.

 

Mississippi River Near New Orleans, Louisiana

Corps Considering Opening Spillway....  Again....

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is keeping a wary eye on the Mississippi River, as forecasts indicate that the river will rise above flood stage, prompting the opening of the Bonnet Carre' Spillway.

 

The National Weather Service reports that as of 1 pm Tuesday, the Mississippi River was at 15.86 feet at New Orleans' Carrollton Gauge.

 

The NWS' forecast shows the Mississippi River rising to 17.3 feet by April 12th.  Minor flood stage is at 17 feet.  Based upon the forecast and the expected flow, the New Orleans Levee District is weighing the operation of the Bonnet Carre' Spillway........

 

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

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "September 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

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

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

 

 

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

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20

Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

03-31-20

As everyone is aware, Governor Pritzker has extended the order that all Bars & Restaurants must discontinue dine in services, effective 3/17/2020 through a minimum of 4/30/2020. At this time, Bluff City Grill will remain closed without curbside or delivery services. We have taken this down time to ensure all our staff members are taking the necessary precautions to help slow/stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this shut down, we have been working on many projects to reopen a stronger & more efficient establishment. We look forward to seeing everyone when the ban is lifted. If the ban continues further than 4/30/2020 (prayers we don't cross that bridge) we will revisit the idea of curbside services & keep everyone informed on that decision. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy!

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

Open 7 Days a week

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 


03-24-20
The harbor is open and I have a few slips available for rent.
New customers receive 25% off for 2020 season.
We will be opening the Boathouse for carryout and delivery soon, but we do not have the details worked out yet.

 

On the river as always xoxo The Boathouse Crew

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

Sat, April 18

Counntry & Western Night

7:00 PM

 

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


It is with heavy heart I have to post the following:
Starting Friday morning, we can only serve carry out "FOOD" and/or "DRINK" the dining area will be closed until further notice!
  HOURS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
    Monday-CLOSED
    Sun 12pm-8pm
    Tue, Wed & Th 11am-8pm
    Fri & Sat 11am-10pm

 

 

Sat, May 2
Customer Appreciation DAY
Froge's Bar and Grill · Portage Des Sioux

 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

03-24-20

The winery, gift shop, fuel dock and Grafton Oyster Bar are "Closed."

 

March 16, 2020
For the safety of our family, customers and employees, we at Grafton Harbor, have decided to close the gift shop and winery during this pandemic. We will keep you all in our love and prayers during this difficult time. Stay well everyone and thank you all so much for your support.

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

Every Saturday & Sunday

 Beginning May 2, 2020

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Closed Until Further Notice


 

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

03-24-20

Open For Business.. We will stay open until they tell us to close.
We are very careful about things.
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Longshot Saloon..Opening May 2, 2020

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
Reopening Longshot Saloon on May 2nd

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Opening May 21, 2020

 

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor
 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

REOPENING IN THE SPRING FOR THE 2020 SEASON.

KEEP YOUR ANCHOR RIGHT HERE FOR UPDATES.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

03-24-20

As a family and small business, we are here to support our community!
Riviera Too will be offering a sack lunch for children under the age of 18, accompanied by a parent, between 11am-12pm Monday through Friday. The lunch includes a turkey or ham sandwich, a bag of chips, and a cookie.
Thanks, RT
 

 

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

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

Winter Hours

  Tue - Fri..9am - 5pm

  Sat - 9am - 2pm

  Sun & Mon..Closed

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

Mar 27 – Apr 4

Virtual Spring Inventory Destockage Sale

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Wood marina Spring Promotion

Attention - New Slip Customers

50% Off Any Available Slip

 

03-24-20

Open for business with limited services.
Gas pumps to open April 1, 2020

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

Currently we are open. Although things may change. My wife is in healthcare sales so I may be working from home more. Service guys are currently working when work can be done outside of shop. Hope this helps I will Let you know if things change more.

Andy

 

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

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  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

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 ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed for the Season
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed for the Season
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Closed March 2 through Thursday April 2
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open All Year
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Closed
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Opening May 2, 2020
LaRosa Cantina................................. Opening May 21, 2020
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

If you are shown on any picture published on RiveverBills.com and don't want this, email riverbill@prodigy.net and we will remove the picture.
 

Click here for more past edition's of RiverBill's.com

or

Go to "RiverBill's Archives" 



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