MONDAY
20 APRIL 2020
Over 10.5 Million Boater
Visits
Since Sept
12, 2004
To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com
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Fine Day on the
River
Pool 26 of the
Mississippi River
Hey Look ... A 2007 Jamaica Daze
Cooler Cup
Yah Mon
Click pic to enlarge
Pictures of the Day..... were
taken by Capt'n Jeff House
Fine day in
the river with my buddy Al
RiverBill says... Thanks Jeff for letting us re-post your
photos
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The
Boathouse is Reopening Friday, May 1st
with
"Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu
coming soon
Website..
N/A
Facebook..
click here
Events..
click here
Phone: 636 250 3300
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Grafton Harbor
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
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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
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Yesteryears
Pic of
the Day
Pool 26 of the Mississippi River
click pic to enlarge
Yesteryears Picture On This Day in 2019 .....
was sent to us by Rhone Gillis who hails out of the
Alton MotorBoat Club
"River Road
Mirror Finish”
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Get Away From It All
Practice Social
Distancing in a BOAT
www.RiverBills.com
Featured Classifieds
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More Boats
on RiverBills.com
"All
Classifieds Page"
click here
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River News
!
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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.
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Some Highlights of This
Week's
LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS
District 8 MRS
UPDATED APRIL
15, 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 5A (Mile
738.0 – Mile 728.6),
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 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),
Pool 28 (Mile
185.4 – Mile 160.1) and
Pool 29 (Mile
160.0 – Mile 109.9).
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.
UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL
CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The
following areas are in the high water action phase IAW the
Western Rivers WAP Annex:
Zone 15 (Mile
493.2 – Mile 482.9),
Zone 16 (Mile
482.8 – Mile 457.2),
Zone 17 (Mile
457.1 – Mile 437.1),
Zone 18 (Mile
437.0 – Mile 410.5) and
Zone 20 (Mile
364.1 – Mile 343.2).
In St.
Louis Harbor, south-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length,
excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours.
North-bound tows have enough horsepower to maintain a minimum of
3 MPH, on approach to the St. Louis Harbor Bridges. It is
recommended that all towing vessels have a pilot onboard with
recent high water experience with similar size tows, through St.
Louis Harbor Bridges. All towing vessels should have a minimum
of 250 h.p., for every 2,000 tons of cargo. Barges should not be
carried on the hip. 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.
Mariners are advised to favor the center of the channel and
proceed at their slowest safe operating speed based upon the
prevailing conditions to minimize wake damage. Vessels should
avoid laying up on levees or pushing in where railroad tracks
are charted near the bank, assess bridge clearances in advance
and ensure fleets are tendered at all times. Mariners should
review anchoring requirements and pre-identify layup areas in
the event of a river closure or barge breakaway. Mariners should
ensure that moored vessels and barges are adequately secured
with the anticipation of increased velocity and high water.
Drift and debris may be a hazard to navigation and drag buoys
off station
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 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
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No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
Click here
to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for
"all" incident reports
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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
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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 5,958 members as of
04-19-20.......
Click here
and check it
out.
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Asian Carp Update
New Carp Fishing Method Tested In
Kentucky........
A commercial fisherman in Kentucky recently
tried out a different method for catching invasive Asian carp
and ended up netting nearly 60,000 pounds of carp from one bay
within a 48 hour period.
The technique, often called haul or beach
seining, involves running a net out into the bay and scooping
the fish to the bank, reeling in the net by winch and hand.
Wade Robbins, owner of Robbins Fishery,
tested the method out in Pisgah Bay on Kentucky Lake from the
afternoon of March 19 to the morning of March 21. He said that
the century old technique may be new to Kentucky, but the
commercial anglers in Browning, Illinois perfected the technique
for use against Asian carp........
Click here to
read this news story from waterwaysjournal.net. With
Photo.
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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
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Website..click
here Facebook Page..click
here
Lewis Boat
Inventory..
click here
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Missouri River Management
Corps Offering Video Replacements For
Public Meetings........
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Missouri
River Water Management Division recently released four video
presentations covering material that would typically be provided
at public meetings held throughout the Missouri River Basin.
The Corps usually holds public meetings each
spring and fall throughout the basin. Fall meetings offer
updates on the current year's runoff and reservoir operations
and plans for the next year's runoff season.
The spring public meetings provide the status
of mountain snowpack, the forecasted runoff for the year and
discuss how operations for the year will meet the authorized
purposes for the Missouri River Mainstem System.
The spring public meetings originally
scheduled for April had been cancelled in order to reduce
potential exposure to the COVID-19 virus. The Corps will
instead host virtual question and answer sessions later this
month........
Click here to
read more from waterwaysjournal.net.
Click here to
visit the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers public meeting website
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Land of Lincoln Power Squadron
On-Line Boating ABC's Class.......
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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!
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Did You Know ?
Maritime Signal Flag Lima
Ship is Under Quarantine....
The yellow flag with black boxes in the upper right and lower left
quadrants – Signal Flag Lima – that is used to signify that the ship
is under quarantine.
Source:
Your First Port of Call
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Looking Up the Mississippi River
Alton, IL to St. Paul, MN....
The Mississippi River is forecasted to "fall" (as of 4:00am this morning)
over the next week from Alton, IL to St. Paul Mn.
Check out RiverBills River Gages
Page...
Alton, IL to St. Paul,
MN ....
click here
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Missouri River Management
Reductions Made In Runoff Forecast....
Still Above Normal....
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reports that
the wet soils in the majority of the Upper Missouri River Basin
are increasing the odds of above-average runoff.
According to the Corps' April report, the
possibility for flooding remains, especially in the Lower
Missouri River Valley due to the continual high river stages
along many of the uncontrolled tributaries downstream of the
Missouri River Mainstem Reservoir System.
During March, the runoff into the Missouri
River above Sioux City, Iowa was 5.5 million acre feet, which is
close to two times the average. The higher amount of runoff was
attributed to plains snow melting over heavily saturated
soil........
Click here to
read this news report from billingsgazette.com.
With Photo and Graphs.
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River
History....
April 20, 2013 in River History
114 barges that were docked in south St. Louis County broke free in the
Mississippi River over the weekend. Four of them hit the Jefferson Barracks
Bridge and 11 sank. The Mississippi RIver had risen 25 feet over 25 days. |
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Mississippi River Cruising
Viking Has Sold Out One Of Six
Cruises........
Some two years before shoving off, Viking has
already sold out one of the six cruises scheduled for the Upper
Mississippi River during the company's inaugural season in 2022.
Viking began taking reservations for their
new vessel, the Viking Mississippi, which is scheduled to
debut in August 2022 with cruises between New Orleans and St.
Paul.
According to Viking's website, a 15 day
October 2022 cruise has already sold out and sales are going
strong for the remaining five excursions in 2022........
Click here to
read this news tidbit from thetelegraph.com.
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Ohio River Near Warsaw, Kentucky
Recovery Effort On For Barge Worker
That Fell Into The Ohio River........
According to the Gallatin County Sheriff Josh
Neale, recovery efforts are underway for a barge worker that
fell into the Ohio River near the Markland Dam.
Sheriff Neale reports that they received
reports that a worker had fallen off of a barge around 10:30 am
Thursday morning. The barge had just locked through the
Markland Dam.
Reportedly, the barge worker was helping to
straighten out ropes as the barge moved upriver when he fell.
The barge operators immediately responded with their rescue
boat, but did not find the man........
Click here to
read this news report from knoe.com.
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Google Maps
The Markland Locks and Dam is a
concrete dam bridge and locks spanning the Ohio River, linking
Gallatin County, Kentucky and Switzerland County, Indiana.
Click here to read more from Wikipedia online encyclopedia
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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
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What's Going On This Week |
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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
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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
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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
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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.
Website...... N/A
On the river as always xoxo The
Boathouse Crew
Upcoming Events..
click here
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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
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Cedar Hill Resort
Mississippi River
1 mile below
Winfield Dam
Closed and
For Sale
Contact Jay at 618 772 5766
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Con Trios Yacht Club
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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
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
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Froge's Bar and Grill
Portage des Sioux, MO
Closed until further notice ....
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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.
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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 |
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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
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Grafton Oyster Bar
Grafton
Harbor
Closed Until Further Notice
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John's Boat Harbor
Mississippi River at UMR 231.8
04-11-20 Our office
will move back to the river on Monday morning. The office door
will be locked, you are welcome to come into the office one at a
time. We will try and disinfectant after each person, as we do
not want to make anyone ill, or nor do we want to get ill. Hope
you realize why we are taking these precautions. If everyone
works together, this may get over pretty soon. No one needs this
to stretch out any longer than necessary. We need warm weather,
sunshine and more boating. So wave at us at the end of the
road..
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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
Photo Gallery of tear down..
click here
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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
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Lewis
Boats
Marine Sales and Service
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Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook...
click here.
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Longshot
Marina
Longshot
Saloon at Longshot Marina
Mississippi River at
Portage des Sioux, Mo
04-18-20
Longshot Saloon..Closed
03-24-20
Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
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Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina
Mississippi River at
Portage des Sioux, Mo
Opening May 2, 2020
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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
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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!
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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
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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
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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
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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. |
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Woodland Marina
UMR
222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River
04-08-20
When you look across the harbor and can see the green peeking
through on the tree line, you know summer is right around the
corner!
Due to the recent events, we are doing our part in maintaining
social distance. Harbor members can call ahead to get a fuel
appointment, and splashing boats will be on a case by case
basis.
We can’t prevent anyone from gathering, but we can avoid being a
part of the problem by keeping VERY limited services.
We hope everyone is staying safe, and we look forward to seeing
the river crowded with boaters when this calms down!!
Happy boating!
Wood marina Spring Promotion
Attention - New Slip Customers
50% Off Any Available Slip |
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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 !
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More Things Going On This Week
click here
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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
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Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....
Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills
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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................................ |
Closed |
LaRosa
Cantina................................. |
Opening May 2, 2020 |
Yacht Club of
St. Louis..................... |
Being rebuilt in new
location |
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The WEEKEND
Sat, Sun... 18, 19 APRIL 2020
Over 10.5 Million Boater
Visits
Since Sept
12, 2004
To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com
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Longshot Marina
Update
Longshot Saloon
Pics
Pool 26 of the
Mississippi River at Portage des Sioux
Sun Pic
The New Bar At
the Longshot Saloon
New Showers
Click pic to enlarge
Pictures of the Day..... were sent to us by
Andy Dallwitz, owner of Longshot Marina
Longshot Saloon Update:
Putting in three private bathrooms with showers, a laundry room
and convienience store for slip holders and RV Park guests in
the back one third of the Longshots Saloon
Docks and RV Park :
Focused on
setting docks and making all the docks connect. Putting in
an RV Park at Palasades.
Mike's LaRosa Bar:
We plan on
opening the LaRossa on May 2nd instead of the Longshot
Saloon.
Longshot Marina website
Longshot
Saloon
Facebook
Mike's LaRosa Bar
Facebook
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Pool 26 of the
Mississippi River
Sun Pic
Click pic to enlarge
Picture of the Day..... was sent to us by Capt'n
Brad Maher
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Bald Eagles in
the Nest
Pool 26 of the
Mississippi River
Sat Pic
Click pic to enlarge
Pictures of the Day..... were
sent to us by Capt'n Glen Whittaker
Bill,
Here's a few more bird pictures from the lock and dam near
Alton. Look closely, there are three young eaglets in the nest.
Glen
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The Rock River
Dixon, IL
Click pic to enlarge
Picture of the Day..... was
sent to us by Capt'n Roy McKnight owner of
Dixon Prop Shop in Dixon, IL.
Meanwhile
260 miles North of St. Louis
RiverBill says.... Great
photo Roy, but hate to hear that you got snow yesterday
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The
Rock River is tributary of the Mississippi River with its
confluence at Moline, IL.
Google maps
Dixon, IL
Boyhood home of Ronald
Regan |
|
The
Boathouse is Reopening Friday, May 1st
with
"Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu
coming soon
Website...N/A
Facebook..
click here
Events..
click here
Phone: 636 250 3300
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Grafton Harbor
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
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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
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Yesteryears
Pic of
the Day
Illinois River
Two Towboats
Passing Grafton Harbor
click pic to enlarge
Yesteryears Picture On This Day in 2018 .....
was sent to us by Jan DeSherlia of Grafton Harbor
Aren't towboat captains amazing!
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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
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River News
!
|
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Added Sunday
U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
Corps Recognized For Flood Fight
Efforts.........
ENR Midwest, a major engineering industry
magazine, recently named the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers their
"owner of the year" for the agency's handling of the 2019
flooding, their promotion of resilience projects and maintaining
and improving the infrastructure the manage across the upper
Midwest.
While the Corps is recognized for their work
across the Upper Midwest, ENR Midwest singled out the Corps'
Omaha District for their unique role in the flood fighting along
the Missouri River, where several levee systems were breached
and overrun.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is made up
from 37,000 civilian and military personnel. The Corps is the
world's largest public engineering, design and construction
management agency. Their main goal is the management of the
system of dams, canals, reservoirs and flood control structures
across the nation........
Click here
to read this news report from waterwaysjournal.net.
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Added Sunday
Mississippi River At Grafton, Illinois
Take A Zip Line Tour Along The
Mississippi River Bluffs........
Even though the state of Illinois is still
under the statewide stay-at-home order, the end is in sight, and
people are beginning to plan their adventures for later this
summer. In the Riverbend region, adventure is easily found at
the Grafton Zip Line.
The Grafton Zip Line is located high above
the Mississippi River Bluffs at Aeries Resort, which features a
winery, restaurant, hotel, sky gondola tours in addition to the
zip line.
The zip line runs participants over the trees
and offers spectacular views of the confluence of the
Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. Zip line tours typically last
around 2.5 hours........
Click here
to read more from onlyinyourstate.com.
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Added Sunday
Two Rivers Marina
Pool 24 of the Mississippi River at
Louisiana, Mo
Reprinted from
Missouri River Relief Facebook...
click here
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Added Sunday
Lake Of The Ozarks
Boat Catches Fire With Two
Aboard........
On Saturday, April 18, a 20 foot boat caught
fire and sank at the 2 Mile Marker of the Glaize Arm of the Lake
of the Ozarks. Lake Ozark Firefighters responded to the scene
by boat and extinguished the fire.
Witnesses report that the 20 foot open bow
boat caught fire and burned to the waterline. The fire's cause
was not immediately known.
There were two people aboard the vessel when
the fire broke out, however, no injuries were reported. The
boat was towed to shore by Lake Tow........
Click here
to read this news tidbit from lakeexpo.com.
With Photo.
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Website..click
here Facebook Page..click
here
Lewis Boat
Inventory..
click here
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Some Highlights of This
Week's
LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS
District 8 MRS
UPDATED APRIL
15, 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 5A (Mile
738.0 – Mile 728.6),
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 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),
Pool 28 (Mile
185.4 – Mile 160.1) and
Pool 29 (Mile
160.0 – Mile 109.9).
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.
UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL
CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The
following areas are in the high water action phase IAW the
Western Rivers WAP Annex:
Zone 15 (Mile
493.2 – Mile 482.9),
Zone 16 (Mile
482.8 – Mile 457.2),
Zone 17 (Mile
457.1 – Mile 437.1),
Zone 18 (Mile
437.0 – Mile 410.5) and
Zone 20 (Mile
364.1 – Mile 343.2).
In St.
Louis Harbor, south-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length,
excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours.
North-bound tows have enough horsepower to maintain a minimum of
3 MPH, on approach to the St. Louis Harbor Bridges. It is
recommended that all towing vessels have a pilot onboard with
recent high water experience with similar size tows, through St.
Louis Harbor Bridges. All towing vessels should have a minimum
of 250 h.p., for every 2,000 tons of cargo. Barges should not be
carried on the hip. 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.
Mariners are advised to favor the center of the channel and
proceed at their slowest safe operating speed based upon the
prevailing conditions to minimize wake damage. Vessels should
avoid laying up on levees or pushing in where railroad tracks
are charted near the bank, assess bridge clearances in advance
and ensure fleets are tendered at all times. Mariners should
review anchoring requirements and pre-identify layup areas in
the event of a river closure or barge breakaway. Mariners should
ensure that moored vessels and barges are adequately secured
with the anticipation of increased velocity and high water.
Drift and debris may be a hazard to navigation and drag buoys
off station
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 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
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No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
Click here
to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for
"all" incident reports
|
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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
|
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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 5,954 members as of
04-18-20.......
Click here
and check it
out.
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Mississippi River Near Aledo, Illinois
April Snow Raises Flooding
Concerns........
Flooding is once again threatening farmers in
the river region, and Thursday night's snow accumulation of a
few inches is raising those concerns.
According to farmer Kate Danner, who's farm
is some 15 miles east of the Mississippi River, it seems that an
inch of snow is worse than a half inch of rain because the cold
temperatures change the dynamic.
The National Weather Service had placed that
region in the significant river flooding category prior to the
snow storm. Danner says that flooding typically doesn't reach
her fields, however, it does affect her marketing plans as river
terminals become less reliable........
Click here
to read this news report from brownfieldagnews.com
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Boater Safety
Coast Guard: Beware Of Cold Water
Drowning........
The U.S. Coast Guard is reminding
recreational boaters and paddlers of the dangers surrounding
cold water drownings. The air temperatures may be warming up,
but the temperatures of the water can still be significantly
colder than the ambient temperature.
The Coast Guard recommends to always wear a
life jacket while out on the water, as there is no time to put
one on when as accident or emergency occurs. The best life
jacket is the one that is worn.
Captain Nathan Coulter, chief of incident
management for the 13th Coast Guard District says that
hypothermia is a real concern, the true cause of most drownings
this time of year is the quick loss of one's ability to swim or
tread water due to cold water immersion........
Click here
to read this news article from coastguardnews.com.
With Photo
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Longshot Marina Update
Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Portage des Sioux, Mo .......
The steel to set the docks at Longshot Marina was delivered on
Friday.
Andy and crew are going to set all the docks next week.
Check out the Longshot Marina
Website...
click here |
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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
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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!
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River Shipping
Despite Disruptions, Ports Are Open For
Business........
In just a few short months, the COVID-19
outbreak has made it quite clear that the interconnectedness of
the global economy and the supply chains that drive it, as well
as the resiliency of the ports and terminals that move the
cargo.
Following a month or so of social distancing
measures across the nation, ports and terminals are remaining
for the most part fully functional.
Aaron Ellis, public affairs director for the
American Association of Port Authorities says that in general,
most North American ports are functional for cargo business, but
have closed or restricted operations for passenger vessels,
particularly cruise ships.........
Click here
to read this news story from waterwaysjournal.com
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Land of Lincoln Power Squadron
On-Line Boating ABC's Class.......
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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.
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Mississippi River Management
Trump Administration Reviving Yazoo
Flood Project........
The Trump administration has resurrected a
World War II era flood control project that Mississippi
politicians claim was unfairly smothered by the Environmental
Protection Agency over a decade ago.
The Yazoo Pumps Project was conceived in 1941
by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and killed by the George W.
Bush administration in 2008.
The $440 million project would place a huge
pumping station in the 1,550 square mile Yazoo Backwater Area to
move floodwater from the semi-drained uplands into the
Mississippi River during peak flood events.......
Click here to read this news article from eenews.net.
With Photo and Map.
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US Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul District
Equipment and Crew Headed to Illinois Waterway
Upcoming Lock Maintenance Projects .......
Reprinted from the US Army Corps of Engineers
St. Paul District Facebook...
click here
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Mississippi River At Quincy, Illinois
The Quincy Memorial Bridge Ranked As
One Of The Worst In The Region........
Officials with the American Road and
Transportation Builders Association has released their annual
report on bridges, and they are hoping that that is will
encourage discussion about the need for infrastructure projects
amid the federal government's COVID-19 response.
Alison Black, the ARBTA's chief economist
says that they know that transportation investment is one of the
best ways to stimulate the economy, which will come in two
waves.
Black says that the first wave involves
contractors purchasing the raw materials necessary for the
project in the local region. The second, and longer run, comes
as the infrastructure is improved, and local businesses are
more productive because the costs of transportation are lower,
as is the costs for employees commuting........
Click here
to read this news report from whig.com.
With Photo.
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Wednesday, April 22, 2020
Missouri River Relief
Digital Symposium ..Water
Reprinted from
Missouri River Relief Facebook...
click here
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1 Mississippi
Mini Series... Mississippi River Delta........
Be sure to add this mini-series to your upcoming watch list.
5 free mini episodes on the
#MississippiRiver Delta.
Thanks Smithsonian Channel!
#LastCallForTheBayou
"The Mississippi River Delta is essential to the U.S. economy.
It allows the passage of goods worldwide, and it's home to a
$2.4 billion fishing industry.
It's also rapidly disappearing; every 100 minutes, wetland the
size of a football field is lost to open water, presenting a
huge environmental threat to America and to the coastal
residents who call the area home.
Follow the stories of individuals who are experiencing this
calamity firsthand and see how they're fighting to keep their
cultures, livelihoods, and homes from washing away."
https://watch.smithsonianchannel.com/…/last-call-for-the-ba…
Reprinted from Wittmond Hotel Facebook Facebook...
click here
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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
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What's Going On This Week |
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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
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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
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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
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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.
Website...N/A
On the river as always xoxo The
Boathouse Crew
Upcoming Events..
click here
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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
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Cedar Hill Resort
Mississippi River
1 mile below
Winfield Dam
Closed and
For Sale
Contact Jay at 618 772 5766
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Con Trios Yacht Club
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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
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
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Froge's Bar and Grill
Portage des Sioux, MO
Closed until further notice ....
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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.
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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 |
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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
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Grafton Oyster Bar
Grafton
Harbor
Closed Until Further Notice
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John's Boat Harbor
Mississippi River at UMR 231.8
04-11-20 Our office
will move back to the river on Monday morning. The office door
will be locked, you are welcome to come into the office one at a
time. We will try and disinfectant after each person, as we do
not want to make anyone ill, or nor do we want to get ill. Hope
you realize why we are taking these precautions. If everyone
works together, this may get over pretty soon. No one needs this
to stretch out any longer than necessary. We need warm weather,
sunshine and more boating. So wave at us at the end of the
road..
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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
Photo Gallery of tear down..
click here
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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
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Lewis
Boats
Marine Sales and Service
|
Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook...
click here.
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Longshot
Marina
Longshot
Saloon at Longshot Marina
Mississippi River at
Portage des Sioux, Mo
04-18-20
Longshot Saloon..Closed
03-24-20
Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
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Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina
Mississippi River at
Portage des Sioux, Mo
Opening May 2, 2020
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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
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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!
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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
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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
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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
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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. |
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Woodland Marina
UMR
222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River
04-08-20
When you look across the harbor and can see the green peeking
through on the tree line, you know summer is right around the
corner!
Due to the recent events, we are doing our part in maintaining
social distance. Harbor members can call ahead to get a fuel
appointment, and splashing boats will be on a case by case
basis.
We can’t prevent anyone from gathering, but we can avoid being a
part of the problem by keeping VERY limited services.
We hope everyone is staying safe, and we look forward to seeing
the river crowded with boaters when this calms down!!
Happy boating!
Wood marina Spring Promotion
Attention - New Slip Customers
50% Off Any Available Slip |
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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 !
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More Things Going On This Week
click here
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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
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Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....
Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills
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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................................ |
Closed |
LaRosa
Cantina................................. |
Opening May 2, 2020 |
Yacht Club of
St. Louis..................... |
Being rebuilt in new
location |
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FRIDAY
17 APRIL 2020
Over 10.5 Million Boater
Visits
Since Sept
12, 2004
To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com
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Pelicans on the
River
Pool 26 of the
Mississippi River
Click pic to enlarge
Pictures of the Day..... were
sent to us by Capt'n Glen Whittaker
Hey Bill,
Last week, I found this pelican on the river near the Melvin
Price Locks and Dam at Alton. I think this bird has learned how
to water ski without a boat.
Glen
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The
Boathouse is Reopening Friday, May 1st
with
"Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu
coming soon
Website.. N/A
Facebook..
click here
Events..
click here
Phone: 636 250 3300
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|
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
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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
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Yesteryears
Pic of
the Day
Kinders
Restaurant 2018
On And
Sometimes In The Mississippi
click pic to enlarge
Yesteryears Picture On This Day in 2018 .....
was taken
at Kinder's Restaurant at Golden Eagle, IL
It
was
Opening Day 2018
Bar Side enjoying the food and
drink
(L/R)
Phyllis, Carl, Mary and Pat
The Kinder Girls behind the Bar
(L/R) Jeni, Amanda, Jill and
Carol
That's Jill's
son, Landon, in the back row doing the photo bomb
RiverBills said: I
miss Kinder's... Big Time !
Photo actually from 4-16-18...
just had to post it today
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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
|
|
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River News
!
|
Website..click
here Facebook Page..click
here
Lewis Boat
Inventory..
click here
|
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Some Highlights of This
Week's
LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS
District 8 MRS
UPDATED APRIL
15, 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 5A (Mile
738.0 – Mile 728.6),
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 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),
Pool 28 (Mile
185.4 – Mile 160.1) and
Pool 29 (Mile
160.0 – Mile 109.9).
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.
UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL
CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The
following areas are in the high water action phase IAW the
Western Rivers WAP Annex:
Zone 15 (Mile
493.2 – Mile 482.9),
Zone 16 (Mile
482.8 – Mile 457.2),
Zone 17 (Mile
457.1 – Mile 437.1),
Zone 18 (Mile
437.0 – Mile 410.5) and
Zone 20 (Mile
364.1 – Mile 343.2).
In St.
Louis Harbor, south-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length,
excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours.
North-bound tows have enough horsepower to maintain a minimum of
3 MPH, on approach to the St. Louis Harbor Bridges. It is
recommended that all towing vessels have a pilot onboard with
recent high water experience with similar size tows, through St.
Louis Harbor Bridges. All towing vessels should have a minimum
of 250 h.p., for every 2,000 tons of cargo. Barges should not be
carried on the hip. 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.
Mariners are advised to favor the center of the channel and
proceed at their slowest safe operating speed based upon the
prevailing conditions to minimize wake damage. Vessels should
avoid laying up on levees or pushing in where railroad tracks
are charted near the bank, assess bridge clearances in advance
and ensure fleets are tendered at all times. Mariners should
review anchoring requirements and pre-identify layup areas in
the event of a river closure or barge breakaway. Mariners should
ensure that moored vessels and barges are adequately secured
with the anticipation of increased velocity and high water.
Drift and debris may be a hazard to navigation and drag buoys
off station
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 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
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No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
Click here
to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for
"all" incident reports
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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
|
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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 5,949 members as of
04-17-20.......
Click here
and check it
out.
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Levees In St. Charles, Missouri
City Set To Raise Levees Higher........
The City of St. Charles, Missouri recently
announced plans for substantially raising two levees in order to
reduce flood related costs for residents and property owners and
to draw in developers.
The city engineers intend to raise the
Frenchtown and Elm Point Levees to protect against 500 year
floods, or floods that have a 1 in 500 chance in occurring
during any given year. Currently, the Frenchtown and Elm Point
Levees can protect against floods that have a between a 4 - 5
percent chance of occurring in a year.
Local environmentalists have long opposed
raising levees, which serves to constrict rivers, worsening
flooding, however, Brad Temme, the St. Charles director if
engineering says that raising the levees is necessary to protect
property and reduce insurance costs.......
Click here
to read this news report from stlpublicradio.org.
With Photo.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Map courtesy stcharlescitymo.gov
Click map to enlarge
Map courtesy stcharlescitymo.gov
Click map to enlarge
More information available at the City of St. Charles website...
click here
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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
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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!
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Quimby's Cruising Guide
Virtual Town Tour Part 5: Alton, Illinois.......
Reprinted from Quimby's Cruising Guide ...
click here
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Mississippi River Cruising News
Viking Accepting Reservations For
Mississippi River Cruises........
On Thursday, Viking announced that they have
begun accepting reservations for their new Mississippi River
cruises, which will commence during the summer of 2022.
The company's first custom cruise ship, the
Viking Mississippi will debut in August of 2022, and is
slated to cruise along the Mississippi River between St. Paul,
Minnesota and New Orleans, Louisiana.
The currently scheduled ports of call for
Viking's Mississippi River cruise include New Orleans, St.
Francisville and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Natches and Vicksburg,
Mississippi, Memphis, Tennessee, St. Louis and Hannibal,
Missouri, Burlington, Dubuque and Davenport, Iowa, La Crosse,
Wisconsin and Red Wing and St. Paul, Minnesota........
Click here
to read this news story from cruiseindustrynews.com.
With Photo
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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.
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St. Louis District, US Army Corps of Engineers
We're Hiring ! .......
The St. Louis District has an exciting new job posting! The
announcement is currently open and closes April 28, 2020. Please
note: there are two vacancies. To apply visit
https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/565698300
Mississippi Valley Division (US Army Corps of Engineers)
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Headquarters
Reprinted from the
St. Louis District, US Army Corps of Engineers Facebook...
click here
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The Hawg Pitt Barbecue Barn
Grafton, Illinois........
16 April 2020
Fresh Pork Steaks, Ribs, Pulled Pork and Chicken, Hawg Dawgs,
Homewreckers. Homemade Baked Beans, Cole Slaw and Potato Salad.
Pork and Chicken by the pound!!! Curbside Service and Drivethru
around back
Reprinted from Hawg Pit Barbeque Barn Facebook...
click here
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The Wittmond Hotel
Brussel, Illinois........
Good morning! Hope you are all staying safe and healthy.
Wittmond's will be serving a 3-course carryout meal for 2
starting tomorrow! (04-17-20).
This weekend's special: Dinner Salad, Fried Chicken with choice
of potato and dessert for $20. Stay well!
Reprinted from Wittmond Hotel Facebook Facebook...
click here
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River
History....
April 17, 2014 in River History
The Lewis and Clark statue was removed from the St. Louis Riverfront and
moved to the Tyson Research Center for restoration after a six month dry-out
period.
The statue will be relocated approximately 200 yards to the south of it's
prior location and about 17 feet higher on Leonor K. Sullivan Boulevard. .
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Mississippi River-Gulf Outlet News
Officials Want To Lower MR-GO Dam By 18
Feet........
Pm Wednesday, officials in the St. Bernard
Parish Council voted to authorize the emergency removal of the
top of the rock dam that closes of the Mississippi River-Gulf
Outlet navigation channel.
The move is intended to allow sea water from
Lake Borgne to enter the wetlands once again. The council
claims that the repeated opening of the Bonnet Carre' Spillway
has damaged water quality in the channel and wetlands.
Parrish officials had submitted permit
requests with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Louisiana
State Department of Natural Resources in February, but amended
their state request into an emergency action this week........
Click here
to read this news article from nola.com.
With Photos.
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Boating Legislation
New Website Launched By Boating United,
BoatPAC........
The recreational boating community, headed up
by the National Marine Manufacturers Association and the Marine
Retailers Association of the Americas recently announced that
the Boating United grassroots advocacy website has been updated
to be more effective in it's virtual advocacy efforts.
According to Nicole Vasilaros, NMMA senior
vice president of government and legal affairs, the enhanced
Boating United website will make the community's digital
advocacy efforts considerably more effective. The new website
allows for the integration of Boating United and BoatPAC as
well.
Matt Gruhn, MRAA president says that the
recreational boating community faces a variety of challenges at
every level of government each day, and thanks to the new
Boating United tool, they are better equipped to educate and
mobilize supporters to achieve advocacy victories for the
boating community........
Click here
to read this news article from boatignindustry.com |
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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
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What's Going On This Week |
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Cedar Hill Resort
Mississippi River
1 mile below
Winfield Dam
Closed and
For Sale
Contact Jay at 618 772 5766
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Con Trios Yacht Club
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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
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
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Froge's Bar and Grill
Portage des Sioux, MO
Closed until further notice ....
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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.
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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 |
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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
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Grafton Oyster Bar
Grafton
Harbor
Closed Until Further Notice
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John's Boat Harbor
Mississippi River at UMR 231.8
04-11-20 Our office
will move back to the river on Monday morning. The office door
will be locked, you are welcome to come into the office one at a
time. We will try and disinfectant after each person, as we do
not want to make anyone ill, or nor do we want to get ill. Hope
you realize why we are taking these precautions. If everyone
works together, this may get over pretty soon. No one needs this
to stretch out any longer than necessary. We need warm weather,
sunshine and more boating. So wave at us at the end of the
road..
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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
Photo Gallery of tear down..
click here
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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
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Lewis
Boats
Marine Sales and Service
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Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook...
click here.
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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
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Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina
Mississippi River at
Portage des Sioux, Mo
Opening May 21, 2020
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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
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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!
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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
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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
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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
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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. |
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Woodland Marina
UMR
222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River
04-08-20
When you look across the harbor and can see the green peeking
through on the tree line, you know summer is right around the
corner!
Due to the recent events, we are doing our part in maintaining
social distance. Harbor members can call ahead to get a fuel
appointment, and splashing boats will be on a case by case
basis.
We can’t prevent anyone from gathering, but we can avoid being a
part of the problem by keeping VERY limited services.
We hope everyone is staying safe, and we look forward to seeing
the river crowded with boaters when this calms down!!
Happy boating!
Wood marina Spring Promotion
Attention - New Slip Customers
50% Off Any Available Slip |
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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 !
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More Things Going On This Week
click here
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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
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Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....
Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills
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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 |
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THURSDAY
16 APRIL 2020
Over 10.5 Million Boater
Visits
Since Sept
12, 2004
To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com
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Tuesday Ride
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,
Went out on the water Tuesday. Got some pictures Enterprise
Island and Snake Chute.
Mike
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The
Boathouse is Reopening Friday, May 1st
with
"Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu
coming soon
Website... N/A
Facebook..
click here
Events..
click here
Phone: 636 250 3300
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|
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
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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
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Yesteryears
Pic of
the Day
When Rafting-Up Was The Thing To
Do
click pic to enlarge
Yesteryears picture on this day in 2014 .....
was sent to us by Desmonclub
Flip flops,
shorts!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Coming soon, swimsuits and the Mississippi River.
Another YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Have a good spring
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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
|
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River News
!
|
Website..click
here Facebook Page..click
here
Lewis Boat
Inventory..
click here
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Some Highlights of This
Week's
LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS
District 8 MRS
UPDATED APRIL
15, 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 5A (Mile
738.0 – Mile 728.6),
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 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),
Pool 28 (Mile
185.4 – Mile 160.1) and
Pool 29 (Mile
160.0 – Mile 109.9).
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.
UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL
CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The
following areas are in the high water action phase IAW the
Western Rivers WAP Annex:
Zone 15 (Mile
493.2 – Mile 482.9),
Zone 16 (Mile
482.8 – Mile 457.2),
Zone 17 (Mile
457.1 – Mile 437.1),
Zone 18 (Mile
437.0 – Mile 410.5) and
Zone 20 (Mile
364.1 – Mile 343.2).
In St.
Louis Harbor, south-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length,
excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours.
North-bound tows have enough horsepower to maintain a minimum of
3 MPH, on approach to the St. Louis Harbor Bridges. It is
recommended that all towing vessels have a pilot onboard with
recent high water experience with similar size tows, through St.
Louis Harbor Bridges. All towing vessels should have a minimum
of 250 h.p., for every 2,000 tons of cargo. Barges should not be
carried on the hip. 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.
Mariners are advised to favor the center of the channel and
proceed at their slowest safe operating speed based upon the
prevailing conditions to minimize wake damage. Vessels should
avoid laying up on levees or pushing in where railroad tracks
are charted near the bank, assess bridge clearances in advance
and ensure fleets are tendered at all times. Mariners should
review anchoring requirements and pre-identify layup areas in
the event of a river closure or barge breakaway. Mariners should
ensure that moored vessels and barges are adequately secured
with the anticipation of increased velocity and high water.
Drift and debris may be a hazard to navigation and drag buoys
off station
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 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
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No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
Click here
to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for
"all" incident reports
|
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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 5,947 members as of
04-16-20.......
Click here
and check it
out.
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Mississippi River At St. Louis,
Missouri
KMOX Looking For Sweethearts Caught On
Film.........
KMOX photographer Kevin Killeen was recently
on the St. Louis riverfront taking photos for a story on
Mississippi River conditions.
After taking a photo of the Eads Bridge and
the Mississippi River, he realized that he had photographed a
couple skipping rocks into the river as well.
As Killeen snapped the camera's shutter, the
couple embraced. Now, KMOX is looking for the couple, as they
would like to talk with them........
Click here
to read this news story from kmox.com.
With Photos.
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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
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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!
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News
Release From BoatUS
Shall
We Say Goodbye to ‘Small Craft Advisory’ and Hello to ‘Small
Craft Warning’?
BoatUS supports proposal to simplify critical warning messages;
NWS invites boaters to weigh in
SPRINGFIELD, Va., April 15, 2020 -- In a move that could
simplify and potentially reduce misunderstanding
of urgent weather messages used by recreational boaters to make
critical boating safety decisions, the National Weather Service
(NWS) has proposed renaming “Small Craft Advisory” to “Small
Craft Warning” and is asking for boaters’ feedback. Boat Owners
Association of The United States (BoatUS) urges boaters to speak
up now by taking a NWS survey for recreational boaters at
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VZGX6BF. The survey closes May
24, 2020.
“Every day they go boating, boat owners check the weather and
then make the decision to either head out or not,” said BoatUS
Government Affairs Manager David Kennedy. “We think the name
change will help clarify what this means, leading to a better
understanding of the severity of a marine weather forecast, and
help give recreational boaters the information they need to make
smart choices about boating safely.”
For decades, NWS has used the Watch, Warning, and Advisory (WWA)
system to alert users about forecasted hazards, but it has
recognized this can be confusing. The proposal to rename a
“Small Craft Advisory” to a “Small Craft Warning” is part of a
larger effort to reduce the messages to just two flagship
headline terms: Watch and Warning. NOAA also says the name
change would better align with all other marine warnings – Gale,
Storm, and Hurricane Force Wind – leading to greater
understanding by recreational boaters.
Changing from an “advisory” to “warning” would not change the
term’s definition or meaning. While there is no precise
definition of a "small craft," today a “Small Craft Advisory” is
issued when sustained wind speeds or frequent gusts have reached
20 to 33 knots and/or seas or waves 4 feet and greater and/or
waves or seas are potentially hazardous. The requirements vary
slightly by region, and local conditions may also dictate
issuing a Small Craft Advisory.
###
This press
release reprinted by permission of Scott Croft of BoatUS...click
here
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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.
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Mississippi River At Alton, Illinois
Alton Calls For Fed Help With Riverview
Drive Project........
The repair and restoration of the collapsed
retaining wall along Alton's Riverview Drive was recently
submitted to a new Public Assistance Alternative Procedures
pilot program, which will allow bidders to make offers on the
project.
Bob Barnhart, the Alton Public Works Director
says that the project is moving forward, however, it is not
completely "sealed and done".
In order to receive the lowest cost offered
to governments, officials are planning to register Alton as a
member of the U.S. General Services Administration........
Click here
to read this news report from thetelegraph.com.
With Photo.
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US Coast Guard Auxiliary
Paddling Course........
Reprinted from US Coast Guard Auxiliary Facebook...
click here
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Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary
Almost Least Tern Nesting Season.......
Reprinted from RiverNands Migratory Bird Sanctuary Facebook...
click here
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The Waterways Journan
Free To A Good Home: 1938 Wicket Dam
Maneuvering Boat........
Reprinted from US Coast Guard Auxiliary Facebook...
click here
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River
History....
April 16, 2015 in River History
Riverside Bar and Grill at Palisades Yacht Club opened it's doors for
business under the management of Jamie Larrison and Gary Strickland |
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Boater Education
In-Command Seamanship Training Shifts
To The Internet.........
Captain David Fetherston, president and CEO
of In-Command Seamanship Training says that they, along with
Wickford Boat Rentals, are preparing for the summer season with
educational courses being offered via the internet.
Captain Fetherston said that the In-Command
Seamanship Training has become the symbol of excellence for many
classroom and on-water training programs.
He adds that they are pleased to introduce
the new In-Command Virtual Classroom, which will be available
over the internet using ZOOM........
Click here
to read this news article from boatingindustry.com.
Click here
to visit the In-Command website. |
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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
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What's Going On This Week |
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Cedar Hill Resort
Mississippi River
1 mile below
Winfield Dam
Closed and
For Sale
Contact Jay at 618 772 5766
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Con Trios Yacht Club
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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
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
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Froge's Bar and Grill
Portage des Sioux, MO
Closed until further notice ....
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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.
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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 |
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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
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Grafton Oyster Bar
Grafton
Harbor
Closed Until Further Notice
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John's Boat Harbor
Mississippi River at UMR 231.8
04-11-20 Our office
will move back to the river on Monday morning. The office door
will be locked, you are welcome to come into the office one at a
time. We will try and disinfectant after each person, as we do
not want to make anyone ill, or nor do we want to get ill. Hope
you realize why we are taking these precautions. If everyone
works together, this may get over pretty soon. No one needs this
to stretch out any longer than necessary. We need warm weather,
sunshine and more boating. So wave at us at the end of the
road..
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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
Photo Gallery of tear down..
click here
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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
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Lewis
Boats
Marine Sales and Service
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Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook...
click here.
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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
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Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina
Mississippi River at
Portage des Sioux, Mo
Opening May 21, 2020
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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
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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!
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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
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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
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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
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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. |
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Woodland Marina
UMR
222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River
04-08-20
When you look across the harbor and can see the green peeking
through on the tree line, you know summer is right around the
corner!
Due to the recent events, we are doing our part in maintaining
social distance. Harbor members can call ahead to get a fuel
appointment, and splashing boats will be on a case by case
basis.
We can’t prevent anyone from gathering, but we can avoid being a
part of the problem by keeping VERY limited services.
We hope everyone is staying safe, and we look forward to seeing
the river crowded with boaters when this calms down!!
Happy boating!
Wood marina Spring Promotion
Attention - New Slip Customers
50% Off Any Available Slip |
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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 !
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More Things Going On This Week
click here
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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
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Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....
Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills
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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 |
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WEDNESDAY
15 APRIL 2020
Over 10.5 Million Boater
Visits
Since Sept
12, 2004
To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com
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Shimmering Cross
Pool 26 of the
Mississippi River
Click pic to enlarge
Pictures of the Day..... were
sent to us by Dorothy Miller....
Bill,
Felt like last night's sunset appeared to be giving us all a
Blessing. A shining Cross glimmered through the trees for a
least a minute! As if to say... God Bless America and All her
people. Maybe a sign we will all be together soon waving,
singing and dancing at the Boathouse.
And of course the final sunset!
Stay safe
Dorothy Miller
Staying home in
Portage Des Sioux
RiverBill says.... What
a wonderful photo of the cross !
Thanks for sharing it
with us Dorothy |
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The
Boathouse is Reopening Friday, May 1st
with
"Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu
coming soon
Website..N/A
Facebook..
click here
Events..
click here
Phone: 636 250 3300
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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
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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
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Yesteryears
Pic of
the Day
The Band Rail
Click pic to enlarge
Yesteryears Picture of the Day in 2007....
Opening night of Captain Jacks in 2007
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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
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River News
!
|
Website..click
here Facebook Page..click
here
Lewis Boat
Inventory..
click here
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Some Highlights of This
Week's
LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS
District 8 MRS
UPDATED APRIL
15, 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 5A (Mile
738.0 – Mile 728.6),
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 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),
Pool 28 (Mile
185.4 – Mile 160.1) and
Pool 29 (Mile
160.0 – Mile 109.9).
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.
UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL
CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The
following areas are in the high water action phase IAW the
Western Rivers WAP Annex:
Zone 15 (Mile
493.2 – Mile 482.9),
Zone 16 (Mile
482.8 – Mile 457.2),
Zone 17 (Mile
457.1 – Mile 437.1),
Zone 18 (Mile
437.0 – Mile 410.5) and
Zone 20 (Mile
364.1 – Mile 343.2).
In St.
Louis Harbor, south-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length,
excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours.
North-bound tows have enough horsepower to maintain a minimum of
3 MPH, on approach to the St. Louis Harbor Bridges. It is
recommended that all towing vessels have a pilot onboard with
recent high water experience with similar size tows, through St.
Louis Harbor Bridges. All towing vessels should have a minimum
of 250 h.p., for every 2,000 tons of cargo. Barges should not be
carried on the hip. 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.
Mariners are advised to favor the center of the channel and
proceed at their slowest safe operating speed based upon the
prevailing conditions to minimize wake damage. Vessels should
avoid laying up on levees or pushing in where railroad tracks
are charted near the bank, assess bridge clearances in advance
and ensure fleets are tendered at all times. Mariners should
review anchoring requirements and pre-identify layup areas in
the event of a river closure or barge breakaway. Mariners should
ensure that moored vessels and barges are adequately secured
with the anticipation of increased velocity and high water.
Drift and debris may be a hazard to navigation and drag buoys
off station
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 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
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|
No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
Click here
to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for
"all" incident reports
|
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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 5,943 members as of
04-15-20.......
Click here
and check it
out.
|
|
Mississippi River Cruising News
Viking Cruise Line Will Be Stopping In
Missouri........
Viking Cruise Lines intends to begin offering
cruises along the Mississippi River starting in 2022. The
cruise is a 15 night, 1,100 plus mile cruise from New Orleans,
Louisiana to St. Paul, Minnesota.
Viking's 386 passenger vessel, the Viking
Mississippi will feature 193 staterooms on five decks and
will offer amenities such as an infinity pool and programs and
activities linked to regions along the river.
The itinerary will include stops in seven
Mississippi River States:
○ Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Darrow, New
Orleans and St. Francisville
○ Mississippi - Natchez and Vicksburg
○ Tennessee - Memphis
○ Missouri - Hannibal and St. Louis
○ Iowa - Burlington, Dubuque and Davenport
○ Wisconsin - La Crosse
○ Minnesota - Red Wing, St. Paul
Click here
to read this news story from kmov.com.
With Photo.
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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
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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!
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Mississippi And Missouri Rivers
Mississippi, Missouri Rivers Are "Most
Endangered" U.S. Rivers........
On Tuesday, a new report was released that
named the Upper Mississippi River and the Lower Missouri River
as the most endangered waterways in the United States.
The Washington D.C.-based conservation
organization, American Rivers, released their list of the 10
most endangered rivers in the U.S., naming the Upper Mississippi
River in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois and Missouri as
number 1.
The Lower Missouri River in Kansas, Nebraska,
Iowa and Missouri took the number two spot. American Rivers
cites poor river management combined with severe flooding driven
by changing climate conditions along both rivers........
Click here
to read this news article from ksdk.com.
With Photo.
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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.
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St Charles County Parks
Hideaway Harbor........
Reprinted from St Charles County Parks Facebook...
click here
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Mississippi River At Vicksburg,
Mississippi
Barge Struck Mississippi River Bridge
........
Officials report that around 5 am Tuesday
morning, an allision occurred between a barge and the Interstate
20 Mississippi River Bridge at Vicksburg, Mississippi.
Following the allision, both of the westbound
Interstate 20 lanes were closed to allow crews to inspect the
span for damage. The bridge was reopened, but one lane remained
closed for routing maintenance........
Click here
to read this news tidbit from wapt.com.
With Video.
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Big Muddy Adventures
Quarantine Island........
Reprinted from Big Muddy Adventure Facebook...
click here
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Upper Mississippi River
Corps Accepting Comments On Lake Pepin
Plan........
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul
District has proposed the construction of a habitat
rehabilitation project at the head of Lake Pepin along the
Mississippi River using dredged material from the river.
Last week, the Corps released their draft
Environmental Assessment foe the project, and they are accepting
public comments on the plan through May 11.
Instead of hosting a public meeting amid the
COVID-19 pandemic, the Corps will release a presentation on the
proposed project on their public notice website on April 22 at
noon........
Click here
to read more from dredgingtoday.com. With
Photo.
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River
History....
April 15, 2009 in River History
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Louis, MO District has informed the
proprietors of the Sherwood Marina in St. Charles County, MO, on the
Mississippi River, that their lease was being revoked effective 15 April.
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Photo Courtesy Wikipedia
April 14, 1912
in Maritime History
RMS Titanic Strikes Iceberg....
Late on the night of April 14, 1912, the
"unsinkable" passenger vessel, the RMS Titanic struck an
iceberg. The vessel was on her maiden voyage from Southampton
to New York.
The Titanic sank several hours later,
at around 2:30 am on April 15, 1912. Out of the 2,224 people
aboard the vessel, 1,514 were claimed by the sea.
In the years since, strides have been made in
design and construction methods, resulting in better built
ships. Modern vessels also boast more lifeboat capacity than
passengers aboard as well as improved communication and threat
detection systems........
Click here
to read this news article from marinelink.com.
With Photo.
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Boat Manufacturer
Polaris Altering Boat Building
Strategy........
Polaris Inc. has announced that they have
made the strategic decision to focus their marine investment and
growth efforts on their flagship brands.
This change in strategy means that Polaris
will stop the manufacture of the Rinker, Striper and Larson FX
boat brands at the company's Syracuse, Indiana facility in June.
The company will continue production on their
Bennington, Godfrey and Hurricane boat brands at the two
manufacturing facilities located in Elkhart, Indiana........
Click here
to read this news report from boatingindustry.com.
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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
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What's Going On This Week |
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Cedar Hill Resort
Mississippi River
1 mile below
Winfield Dam
Closed and
For Sale
Contact Jay at 618 772 5766
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Con Trios Yacht Club
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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
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
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Froge's Bar and Grill
Portage des Sioux, MO
Closed until further notice ....
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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.
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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 |
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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
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Grafton Oyster Bar
Grafton
Harbor
Closed Until Further Notice
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John's Boat Harbor
Mississippi River at UMR 231.8
04-11-20 Our office
will move back to the river on Monday morning. The office door
will be locked, you are welcome to come into the office one at a
time. We will try and disinfectant after each person, as we do
not want to make anyone ill, or nor do we want to get ill. Hope
you realize why we are taking these precautions. If everyone
works together, this may get over pretty soon. No one needs this
to stretch out any longer than necessary. We need warm weather,
sunshine and more boating. So wave at us at the end of the
road..
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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
Photo Gallery of tear down..
click here
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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
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Lewis
Boats
Marine Sales and Service
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Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook...
click here.
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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
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Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina
Mississippi River at
Portage des Sioux, Mo
Opening May 21, 2020
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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
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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!
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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
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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
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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
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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. |
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Woodland Marina
UMR
222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River
04-08-20
When you look across the harbor and can see the green peeking
through on the tree line, you know summer is right around the
corner!
Due to the recent events, we are doing our part in maintaining
social distance. Harbor members can call ahead to get a fuel
appointment, and splashing boats will be on a case by case
basis.
We can’t prevent anyone from gathering, but we can avoid being a
part of the problem by keeping VERY limited services.
We hope everyone is staying safe, and we look forward to seeing
the river crowded with boaters when this calms down!!
Happy boating!
Wood marina Spring Promotion
Attention - New Slip Customers
50% Off Any Available Slip |
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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 !
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More Things Going On This Week
click here
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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
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Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....
Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills
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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 |
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TUESDAY
14 APRIL 2020
Over 10.5 Million Boater
Visits
Since Sept
12, 2004
To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com
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The Road To Lake
Center Marina
Pool 26 of the
Mississippi River
Click pic to enlarge
Picture of the Day..... was
taken yesterday afternoon
The entrance to Lake Center Marina
Trees all in a row
Looking all nice and green
Check them out...
click here
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The Boathouse is Reopening Friday, May 1st
with
"Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu
coming soon
Website..N/A
Facebook..
click here
Events..
click here
Phone: 636 250 3300
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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
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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
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Yesteryears
Pic of
the Day
Deserados at
Hoppies Marina
Headed Back To
Harbor Point Yacht Club
Click pic to enlarge
Yesteryears Picture of the Day in 2018.... was sent to us by Captain
Scott Hawkins
Made it to Hoppies Marina (from Florida). Will be back
Friday to Harbor Point for the summer.
Captain Scott Hawkins
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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
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River News
!
|
Website..click
here Facebook Page..click
here
Lewis Boat
Inventory..
click here
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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
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No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
Click here
to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for
"all" incident reports
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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
|
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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 5,939 members as of
04-14-20.......
Click here
and check it
out.
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Pool 26 of Mississippi River At
Grafton, Illinois
City Affected By Last Year's Flood
Struggling To Deal With COVID-19........
Communities along the Mississippi River that
are still feeling the effects of the prolonged flooding of 2019
are now feeling additional financial strain due to the COVID-19
pandemic.
Grafton, Illinois and other river communities
are in debt from spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on
sandbags, raising levees and other flood-fighting efforts.
Grafton Mayor Rick Eberlin says that they are still waiting for
the Federal Emergency Management Agency to reimburse the city
for last year's flood fighting costs.
Eberlin says that the effects of last year's
flooding was bad, but the coronavirus outbreak and what it has
done to the community is like "we were down and had been stomped
and kicked and kicked some more"........
Click here
to read this news report from bnd.com.
With Video.
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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
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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!
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Mississippi River Near New Orleans.
Louisiana
Corps Closed Some Bonnet Carre'
Spillway Bays........
On Monday, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
began closing some of the bays in the Bonnet Carre' Spillway,
slightly reducing the amount of freshwater flowing into Lake
Pontchartrain.
The closure comes only 10 days after crews
opened the structure. The volume of water flowing along the
Mississippi River at New Orleans has begun to ease.
As of Friday, officials had opened 90 of the
spillway's 350 bays, allowing 80,000 cfs of freshwater to flow
into the lake. This is just a little more than 6 percent of the
river's flow........
Click here
to read this news report from nola.com.
With Photo.
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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.
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Missouri River At St. Charles, Missouri
Officials Cancel Fourth Of July
Celebration / Riverfest........
The City of St. Charles, Missouri has
announced that they have cancelled their Fourth of July parade
and Riverfest celebration later this summer due to health
concerns.
The Riverfest Celebration had been scheduled
for July 3rd and 4th.
Officials say that they have cancelled the
events out of an abundance of caution, as well as the
uncertainty about where things will end up. Officials say that
planning the event at this point would be too difficult, and it
is best to make the decision now........
Click here
to read this news article from kmov.com.
With Video.
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Missouri Fishing News
MDC Has Extended Facility Closures, Trout
Tag Waivers
Free Fishing Permit Waiver Ends
Tomorrow.........
The Missouri Department of Conservation has
announced that their facility closures, as well as the
cancellations of public events have been extended through April
30th.
The MDC has also announced that the daily
trout tag waiver has been extended at trout parks until further
notice. The free fishing permit waiver, however, will be ending
on April 15.
The MDC is extending the temporary closures
of their facilities and cancelled public events and programs
until April 30th in accordance with state and federal
guidelines........
Click here
to read this news article from lakenewsonline.com.
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Today at 7:00PM
Virtual Big Muddy Speaker Series
Hosted on zoom and live-streamed on facebook.......
Reprinted from Big Muddy Speaker Series Facebook...
click here |
|
Missouri River Relief
Hands On Interactive Lessons.......
Reprinted from Missouri River Relief Facebook...
click here |
|
Missouri River Relief
The Missouri River Habits & Eccentricities.......
Reprinted from Missouri River Relief Facebook...
click here |
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Lake Of The
Ozarks
COVID-19 May Torpedo Party Cove-Like
Gatherings........
The coronavirus outbreak could spell the end
of the Lake of the Ozarks' Party Cove, the party spot once
described by the St. Louis Post Dispatch as the "giant petri
dish of debauchery".
The Missouri State Highway Patrol had stated
that recreational boating is allowed under the Stay and Home
Order, however, all social gathering and distancing rules are
still in effect.
Captain John Hotz, spokesman for the Missouri
State Highway Patrol says that social gatherings with wore than
10 people are in violation of Governor Mike Parson's
stay-at-home order........
Click here
to read this news story from stltoday.com.
With Photo.
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Columbia River Near Kalama, Washington
Ship Wake Caused $1 Million Damage To
Marina........
Early Monday morning, a large vessel
travelling along the Columbia River at Kalama, Washington caused
an estimated $1 million in damages to the boats and docks at the
Port of Kalama.
the marina is sheltered from the river by a
breakwater jetty, but the passing vessel created a swell and
suction of the water, which affected the marina between a 4 and
5 am.
Some of the boats in the marina were tossed
up onto docks. The port owner and insurance providers are
working to assess the damage. The marina had recently spent $4.5
million on renovations........
Click here
to read this news article from tdn.com.
With Photos
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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
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What's Going On This Week |
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Cedar Hill Resort
Mississippi River
1 mile below
Winfield Dam
Closed and
For Sale
Contact Jay at 618 772 5766
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Con Trios Yacht Club
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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
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
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Froge's Bar and Grill
Portage des Sioux, MO
Closed until further notice ....
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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.
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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 |
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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
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Grafton Oyster Bar
Grafton
Harbor
Closed Until Further Notice
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John's Boat Harbor
Mississippi River at UMR 231.8
04-11-20 Our office
will move back to the river on Monday morning. The office door
will be locked, you are welcome to come into the office one at a
time. We will try and disinfectant after each person, as we do
not want to make anyone ill, or nor do we want to get ill. Hope
you realize why we are taking these precautions. If everyone
works together, this may get over pretty soon. No one needs this
to stretch out any longer than necessary. We need warm weather,
sunshine and more boating. So wave at us at the end of the
road..
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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
Photo Gallery of tear down..
click here
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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
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Lewis
Boats
Marine Sales and Service
|
Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook...
click here.
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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
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Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina
Mississippi River at
Portage des Sioux, Mo
Opening May 21, 2020
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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
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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!
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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
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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
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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
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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. |
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Woodland Marina
UMR
222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River
04-08-20
When you look across the harbor and can see the green peeking
through on the tree line, you know summer is right around the
corner!
Due to the recent events, we are doing our part in maintaining
social distance. Harbor members can call ahead to get a fuel
appointment, and splashing boats will be on a case by case
basis.
We can’t prevent anyone from gathering, but we can avoid being a
part of the problem by keeping VERY limited services.
We hope everyone is staying safe, and we look forward to seeing
the river crowded with boaters when this calms down!!
Happy boating!
Wood marina Spring Promotion
Attention - New Slip Customers
50% Off Any Available Slip |
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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 !
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More Things Going On This Week
click here
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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
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Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....
Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills
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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 |
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MONDAY
13 APRIL 2020
Over 10.5 Million Boater
Visits
Since Sept
12, 2004
To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com
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Pool 26 of the
Mississippi River
River Side of Cross
Back Side of Cross
Click pic to enlarge
Pictures of the Day..... were
sent to us by Christie Mary Jo
A must see in
Godfrey/Grafton!
This is
located at the top of the bluff (hiked up) on the River Road.
Amazing!!!
RiverBill says....
What a View !
Thanks for letting us
re-post your photos Christie.
The cross is located on
the grounds of Immaculate Heart of Mary Oblate Fathers Novitiate
on the bluffs of Pool 26 high above the Great River Road
overlooking Mississippi River.
The first picture is
looking up-river and I think the island lined up with the cross
is Piasa Island.
click here for Google map
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The Boathouse is Reopening Friday, May 1st
with
"Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu
coming soon
Website...N/A
Facebook..
click here
Events..
click here
Phone: 636 250 3300
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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
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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
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Yesteryears
Pic of
the Day
Pool 26 of the
Mississippi River
At Portage des
Sioux, Mo
Click pic to enlarge
Yesteryears Picture of the Day in 2019..... was posted on
RiverBills Boaters Group by Capt'n Mark
Newlin
Sun Set In The
Rain
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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
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River News
!
|
Website..click
here Facebook Page..click
here
Lewis Boat
Inventory..
click here
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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
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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 5,938 members as of
04-13-20.......
Click here
and check it
out.
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Sad News
Kenneth M. Walker.......
Reprinted from RiverBills Facebook.
click here
for Obituary
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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
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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!
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Inland Waterway Infrastructure
Lock And Dam Projects Could Help Revive
Economy........
Inland marine industry advocates have long
claimed that maintaining, refurbishing and where needed, the
replacing of America's aging lock and dam infrastructure with
modern efficient structures is a necessity.
In this time of social distancing, lockdowns
and other measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus,
Congress still has to do their jobs.
The House Transportation and Infrastructure
Committee and Senate Environment and Public Works Committee are
working on this year's Water Resources Development Act, which
can create plenty of construction jobs........
Click here
to read this op/ed piece from waterwaysjournal.net.
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Tuesday, April 14, 2020
Virtual Big Muddy Speaker Series
Hosted on zoom and live-streamed on facebook.......
Reprinted from Big Muddy Speaker Series Facebook...
click here |
|
click pic to
enlarge
We offer full fiberglass
repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer
rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts
department, an accessories department, as well as many other
services to suit everyone's boating needs.
We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest,
Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers
St. Charles Boat & Motor
website St. Charles Boat &
Motor
Facebook
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.
|
|
Monday April 13, 2020
Missouri Flood Recovery
Flood Recovery Advisory Meeting Will Be
Online........
The Flood Recovery Advisory Working Group in
Jefferson City, Mo has announced that they will be hosting a
meeting at 1 pm on Monday, April 13th.
Due to concerns over the spread of COVID-19,
this meeting will be open to the public only online. The public
will be able to make comments during the meeting.
The meeting will be broadcast live online and
recorded for later viewing. The FRAWG will announce a call-in
number during the public comment portion of the meeting........
Click here
to read this news article from kfvs12.com.
With Photo.
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Mississippi River History
Steamboat Brought Epidemic To Quincy In
1833........
In early 1833, General Winfield Scott and 22
federal and volunteer troops returned to Quincy, Illinois aboard
a barge being towed by the steamboat Warrior after the
conclusion of the short lived Black Hawk War.
Apparently, there was another passenger
aboard the barge, a bacterium that kick off the cholera epidemic
of 1833. Eventually, it would become evident that the nation's
waterways were the method of transport for the disease.
The town became aware of the disease when it
claimed its first victim, Mrs. Sarah Stamper of Quincy. She was
the sister of Dr. Joseph Ralston and Judge James Harvey Ralston,
who were early Quincy settlers and prominent citizens in the
town........
Click here
to read this news story from whig.com.
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Mississippi River At Memphis, Tennessee
Corps Starting Design Phase For New
Drydock........
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has started
the process for the construction of a new drydock that will be
used for the inspection and repair of Corps and Coast Guard
vessels.
The design contract was awarded to Bristol
Harbor Group of Bristol, R.I. for the design of a new 1,600 to
2,000 to drydock which will replace the aging 400 ton drydock
1015 at the Ensley Engineer Yard in Memphis, Tennessee.
According to Tim Marshall, the infrastructure
and safety program manager for the operations division of the
Corps' Memphis Engineer District, the drydocks are all over 50
years old, and the replacement will have updated modern
controls, as well as a new docking system that will increase
efficiency........
Click here
to read this news article from waterwaysjournal.net.
With Photo. |
|
River
History....
April 13, 2011 in River History
Terry Carver, master of the towboat involved in a collision with a tanker on
the Mississippi River in New Orleans, was sentenced for “creating a
hazardous condition” onboard the towboat Mel Oliver in violation of the
Ports and Waterways Safety Act.
Carver had left the vessel three days prior to the accident to drive 13
hours to confront his girlfriend. There were no other properly licensed
employees left onboard to operate the Mel Oliver at the time Carver left the
towboat.
Carver received a three years probation sentence.
The accident spilled 280,000 gallons of oil into the river. The Mel Oliver
was pushing a barge loaded with fuel oil when it suddenly changed course and
veered into the path of the ship Tintomara.
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Mississippi River Near Dorena, Missouri
The Dorena-Hickman Ferry Has
Reopened........
Sunday morning, the Dorena-Hickman Ferry
resumed service after the Mississippi River floodwaters
retreated from the Kentucky Landing in Hickman Harbor.
The Dorena-Hickman Ferry had been closed
since March 18th. The ferry typically has to close when the
Mississippi River reaches 44 feet on the Cairo gauge.
The Dorena-Hickman Ferry links Missouri Route
A and Route 77 near Dorena, Missouri with Kentucky 1354 at
Hickman, Kentucky........
Click here
to read this news story from kfvs12.com.
With Photo
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Lake Of The Ozarks
Some LOTO Waterfront Restaurants Open
For Dockside Pickup........
The Coronavirus outbreak has people working
from home, kids schooling at home, inadvertently bringing about
an early start to the boating season at the Lake of the Ozarks.
Be it locals working from home feeling the
urge to get out on the water or second homeowners riding out the
COVID-19 outbreak at the Lake, the Lake is been quite busy for
an early April.
Plenty of these boaters spending a beautiful
day on the water are looking for a place to get a bite to eat.
Some of the LOTO waterfront restaurant/bars have delayed opening
due to the COVID-19 outbreaks, however, some establishments are
open and offering dockside/to go service........
Click here
to read more from lakeexpo.com. With
Photo. |
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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
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What's Going On This Week |
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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
|
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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
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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.
Website...N/A
On the river as always xoxo The
Boathouse Crew
Upcoming Events..
click here
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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
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Cedar Hill Resort
Mississippi River
1 mile below
Winfield Dam
Closed and
For Sale
Contact Jay at 618 772 5766
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Con Trios Yacht Club
|
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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
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
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Froge's Bar and Grill
Portage des Sioux, MO
Closed until further notice ....
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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.
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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 |
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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
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Grafton Oyster Bar
Grafton
Harbor
Closed Until Further Notice
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John's Boat Harbor
Mississippi River at UMR 231.8
04-11-20 Our office
will move back to the river on Monday morning. The office door
will be locked, you are welcome to come into the office one at a
time. We will try and disinfectant after each person, as we do
not want to make anyone ill, or nor do we want to get ill. Hope
you realize why we are taking these precautions. If everyone
works together, this may get over pretty soon. No one needs this
to stretch out any longer than necessary. We need warm weather,
sunshine and more boating. So wave at us at the end of the
road..
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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
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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
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Lewis
Boats
Marine Sales and Service
|
Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook...
click here.
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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
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Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina
Mississippi River at
Portage des Sioux, Mo
Opening May 21, 2020
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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
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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!
|
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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
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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
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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
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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. |
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Woodland Marina
UMR
222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River
04-08-20
When you look across the harbor and can see the green peeking
through on the tree line, you know summer is right around the
corner!
Due to the recent events, we are doing our part in maintaining
social distance. Harbor members can call ahead to get a fuel
appointment, and splashing boats will be on a case by case
basis.
We can’t prevent anyone from gathering, but we can avoid being a
part of the problem by keeping VERY limited services.
We hope everyone is staying safe, and we look forward to seeing
the river crowded with boaters when this calms down!!
Happy boating!
Wood marina Spring Promotion
Attention - New Slip Customers
50% Off Any Available Slip |
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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 !
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More Things Going On This Week
click here
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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
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Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....
Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills
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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 |
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THE WEEKEND
SAT, SUN...11, 12 APRIL 2020
Easter Weekend
Over 10.5 Million Boater
Visits
Since Sept
12, 2004
To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com
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Social
Distancing River Style
Pool 26 of the
Mississippi River
Sun Pic
Click pic to enlarge
Pictures of the Day..... were
sent to us by Capt'n Craig Jungels
Had to check if 521 is still there and break out of the house.
Yep sure was but very few out... So great to get toes in the
sand..! Stay safe our river peeps.
Craig
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JET SKI TRAILER
STOLEN
Sat Pic
Pool 26 of the
Mississippi River
at
Two Branch
Marina
My trailer was stolen from Two Branch marina sometime between
Tuesday night & Wednesday morning. It was the trailer
only....2015 Triton aluminum double jet ski trailer with
aluminum storage box.
PLEASE SHARE THIS & HELP ME FIND IT
Mike Potter
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The Boathouse is Reopening Friday, May 1st
with
"Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu
coming soon
Website..N/A
Facebook..
click here
Events..
click here
Phone: 636 250 3300
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|
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
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First Mate is a boat
brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.
We sell boats and will find
you the perfect boat!
Click
here
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for
Website
Browse Our Boats
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Yesteryears
Pic of
the Day
Sat Pic
Paddling From the Gulf of Mexico to the Arctic Ocean
Click pic to enlarge
Yesteryears Picture of the Day in 2015.....
Were sent to us by Dave McMahan
Bill
and friends of pool 26,
We met these 6 young men who are paddling
from the Gulf to the Arctic Ocean. They stopped at Sherwood
Harbor, had some beers and good times.
Jarred,
Adam, Luke, Winchell, Dan, and John.
Great young men that work helping
troubled youths and took time off to go up the great Mississippi
River. They are pulling out tomorrow morning.
Thanks,
Dave, Sue, Jim, Dorothy, and Tommy
RiveBill says....
The guys continued paddling north up the Mississippi River
and various other rivers and lakes of the United State and
Canada finally arriving on the shores of the Arctic Ocean in
September 2015. They paddled 5200 miles, 244
days.
Check it out.....
http://www.rediscoverna.com/
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Get Away From It All
Practice Social
Distancing in a BOAT
www.RiverBills.com
Featured Classifieds
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More Boats
on RiverBills.com
"All
Classifieds Page"
click here
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River News
!
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Added Sunday
Hide-a-way Harbor Update
Reader Commentary / Update........
Reprinted from RiverBills Boaters Group Facebook...
click here
RIverBIll says....
Thanks for the update Mark ! |
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Added Sunday
Johns Boat Harbor
Office Moving Back To The River........
Reprinted from John's Boat harbor Facebook...
click here |
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Added Sunday
Upcoming Events.... Tuesday, April 14, 2020
Virtual Big Muddy Speaker Series
Hosted on zoom and live-streamed on facebook.......
Reprinted from Big Muddy Speaker Series Facebook...
click here |
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Added Sunday
Upper Mississippi River
Locks 16 and 17 Temporarily
Closed........
Officials have closed down Locks 16 and 17
along the Upper Mississippi River due to the crest of floodwater
moving downstream. Lock and Dam No.16 is located near
Muscatine, Iowa and Lock and Dam No.17 is located near New
Boston, Illinois.
Lock No.16 was taken out of service on April
8th. It is scheduled to remain closed until 7 am on April
15th. Lock No.17 was scheduled to close on April 10, but it's
reopening date had not been determined.
Unless heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt
occurs, the Upper Mississippi River is expected to drop below
flood stage after this crest passes through........
Click here
to read this news report from waterwaysjournal.net.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
As of 4:00AM Sunday morning
As of 4:00AM Sunday morning
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Added Sunday
Mississippi River At Rock Island, Illinois
The Mississippi River Was Cresting
Saturday
Rainfall Could Push River Higher....
According to meteorologist Andy Ervin with
the National Weather Service, Davenport, the Mississippi River
at Lock and Dam No.15, Rock Island was at 17.95 feet, but was
forecasted to reach 18 feet due to local rainfall.
Ervin said that as of 6:30 pm Saturday, the
crest was moving through the Quad Cities, but with the rainfall
expected throughout the weekend, there is a chance that the
Mississippi River at Lock and Dam No.15 could reach the major
flood stage of 18 feet.
Ervin added that if the Mississippi River
does hit 18 feet, it will be because of local runoff and not
because of anything heading in from upstream. He says that the
Mississippi River is expected to fall to 17 feet by
Thursday........
Click here
to read this news story from qctimes.com.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
As of 4:00AM Sunday morning
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Added Sunday
Mississippi River Near New Orleans,
Louisiana
More Bays Opened On The Bonnet Carre'
Spillway........
Last week, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,
New Orleans District continued opening bays at the Bonnet Carre'
Spillway. This move has held the level of the Mississippi River
at New Orleans' Carrollton Gauge at 16.5 feet as of April 9th.
On April 9th, the Corps had opened 50 of the
Spillway's 350 bays, allowing 50,000 cubic feet per second to
flow into the Spillway. The Bonnet Care Spillway was designed
and constructed to prevent the Mississippi River from exceeding
a flow of 1.25 million cfs past New Orleans. This flow rate
typically corresponds to about 17 feet on the Carrollton Gauge.
On April 3rd, the Corps had begun to slowly
open the Bonnet Carre' Spillway. At that time, Corps officials
had expected to have the spillway operating for about a month.
This is the fourth time i three years that the Corps has opened
the spillway, which diverts Mississippi River into Lake
Pontchartrain and on into the Gulf of Mexico........
Click here
to read this news story from waterwaysjournal.net.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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Added Sunday
A Bit of Missouri River History
Missouri River At Washington, Missouri
A Look Back At The Old Highway 47 Bridge
Demolition........
One year ago, thousands of onlookers packed
the Washington, Missouri riverfront, rooftops and even backyards
for the best possible vantage point for the demolition of the
Old Highway 47 Bridge.
Thursday, April 11, 2019 was the last day
that the 83 year old steel bridge across the Missouri River at
Washington, Missouri was standing. The span had long been an
icon representing Washington, having been depicted on logos,
signs and artwork all across town.
It took just 145 pounds of explosives formed
into 750 linear charges to drop the span into the river below.
According to Jeremy Frye, project manager for Marschel Wrecking,
the blast went off without a hitch........
Click here
to read this news article from emissourian.com.
With Photo.
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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!
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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
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No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
Click here
to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for
"all" incident reports
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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
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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 5,933 members as of
04-11-20.......
Click here
and check it
out.
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Missouri State Highway Patrol
Recreational Boating........
Reprinted from Missouri State Highway Patrol Facebook...
click here
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Reader Commentary
New Boat Registration........
RiverBill says... Thanks
for the info Mark ! |
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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
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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.
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Asian Carp Update
Grass Carp Discovered
In Lake Huron Tributary........
On Friday, Michigan
officials announced the discovery of an invasive grass carp that
is capable of reproducing in a tributary of Lake Huron.
According to the
Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the fish was
discovered on March 17th during a routine survey of the
Tittabawassee River below the Dow Dam. The river flows into
Saginaw Bay.
The Michigan DNR
reports that this is the first documented catch of an Asian carp
that was capable of reproducing. Crews searched the area, but
found o more grass carp.........
Click here
to read this news report from bnd.com.
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Website..click
here Facebook Page..click
here
Lewis Boat
Inventory..
click here
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Woodland Marina
Doing Our Part In Maintaining Social
Distance........
Reprinted from Woodland Marina Facebook...
click here |
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Missouri River Relief
Virtual River Time.......
Reprinted from Missouri River Relief ...
click here
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River
History....
April 11, 2011 in River History
In the wee hours of Monday morning, the Alton Fire Department was called out
to the Alton Marina to battle a boat fire at the end of I dock. It seems
that the fire was started when lightning struck the 30 foot tall sailboat
mast. The vessel was burned nearly to the water line. Luckily, the 34 foot
Seafarer was in the second to last slip on I dock, which kept the potential
damages to a minimum. There were no injuries reported........
Source: thetelegraph.com. |
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US Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District
Closures Extended Through May 31.......
Reprinted from the US Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island
District Facebook...
click here
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Upcoming Events.... June 19 -22, 2020
Illinois Free Fishing Days........
Reprinted from I Fish Illinois Facebook...
click here
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Drag Boat Racing
Wheatland Inaugural Drag Boat Spring
Nationals Postponed........
Reprinted from the Kentucky Drag Boat Association Facebook...
click here
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Boat Manufacturer
Brunswick Companies
Step Up Against COVID-19........
Brunswick Corporation
and several of it's subsidiaries are stepping up to help the
people on the front lines of the COVID-19 fight.
David Foulkes,
Brunswick Corporation chief executive officer says that during
this difficult time, it is important to look for ways to assist
employees, customers and the communities where we live and work.
The Brunswick Boat
Group is donating 15,000 masks to first responders in the
communities surrounding their boat manufacturing facilities.
Mercury Marine
donated over 11,000 masks to local hospitals and emergency
responders near their Find Du Lac, Wisconsin
headquarters.........
Click here
to read more from boatingindustry.com.
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Boat Manufacturer
Correct Craft
Stepping Up During Pandemic........
The Correct Craft
group has joined in the fight against the COVID-19 outbreak.
The company and it's subsidiaries are working to help fill the
need for personal protective equipment in local communities
across the nation.
○ Centurion &
Supreme Boats have donated much needed PPE to supply Memorial
Hospital and Doctor’s Hospital in Modesto, Calif.
○ Centurion & Supreme is also making approximately 1,000 face
shields to donate to their local health care community.
○ The Nautique team is making an impact by sewing face masks
for local health care facilities. Their upholstery department
team offered up home sewing machines and fabrics to be used as
part of this process. Nautique also purchased additional sewing
machines and fabric to produce the masks.
○ Orlando Health reached out to Nautique because they had
special medical fabric but no capacity in their supply chain to
convert them into masks. Nautique is converting the fabric into
masks for the hospital.
○ Watershed Innovation and Nautique partnered together to
produce medical quality face shields. Coca-Cola Florida donated
plastic in rolls of 1,700 pounds but needed a facility and
machinery that could maneuver these rolls. These plastic rolls
are being laser cut into manageable sections in Correct Craft
facilities.
○ Parker Boats has donated N95 certified face masks and
protective suits to healthcare facilities in Beaufort, N.C.
Click here
to read more from boatingindustry.com.
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Boat Show News
Palm Beach Boat
Show Postpones Rescheduling........
The 35th annual Palm
Beach International Boat Show was scheduled for May 14 - 17,
2020 along Flagler Drive in Downtown West Palm Beach. The show
has been postponed until further notice.
The postponement was
decided upon following Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' executive
order that instituted a statewide stay at home mandate through
at least April 30th.
Andrew Doole,
President of Informa Markets U.S. Boat Shows and George Gentile,
President of the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach
County released a joint statement stating that they will be
monitoring the situation and will announce an update on the
show's statue on April 17th........
Click here
to read this news article from boatingindustry.com.
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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
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What's Going On This Week |
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Cedar Hill Resort
Mississippi River
1 mile below
Winfield Dam
Closed and
For Sale
Contact Jay at 618 772 5766
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Con Trios Yacht Club
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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
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Froge's Bar and Grill
Portage des Sioux, MO
Closed until further notice ....
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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.
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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 |
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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
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Grafton Oyster Bar
Grafton
Harbor
Closed Until Further Notice
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John's Boat Harbor
Mississippi River at UMR 231.8
04-11-20 Our office
will move back to the river on Monday morning. The office door
will be locked, you are welcome to come into the office one at a
time. We will try and disinfectant after each person, as we do
not want to make anyone ill, or nor do we want to get ill. Hope
you realize why we are taking these precautions. If everyone
works together, this may get over pretty soon. No one needs this
to stretch out any longer than necessary. We need warm weather,
sunshine and more boating. So wave at us at the end of the
road..
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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
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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
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Lewis
Boats
Marine Sales and Service
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Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook...
click here.
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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
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Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina
Mississippi River at
Portage des Sioux, Mo
Opening May 21, 2020
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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
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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!
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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
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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
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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
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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. |
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Woodland Marina
UMR
222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River
04-08-20
When you look across the harbor and can see the green peeking
through on the tree line, you know summer is right around the
corner!
Due to the recent events, we are doing our part in maintaining
social distance. Harbor members can call ahead to get a fuel
appointment, and splashing boats will be on a case by case
basis.
We can’t prevent anyone from gathering, but we can avoid being a
part of the problem by keeping VERY limited services.
We hope everyone is staying safe, and we look forward to seeing
the river crowded with boaters when this calms down!!
Happy boating!
Wood marina Spring Promotion
Attention - New Slip Customers
50% Off Any Available Slip |
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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 !
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More Things Going On This Week
click here
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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
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Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....
Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills
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Restaurants
Who's Open.. Who's Closed
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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 |
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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. |