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~~~~~~ RiverBill's Archives~~~~~~
September 2020

09-21-2020 - 09-30-2020

 

A WEBSITE FOR THE  BOATING COMMUNITY 

OF THE 

MISSISSIPPI, ILLINOIS, MISSOURI, MERAMEC AND KASKASKIA RIVERS

 

WEDNESDAY

30 SEPTEMBER 2020

 

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

The Pictures of the Day....  were sent to us by Capt'n Brad Maher who hails out of the Alton Motor Boat Club on Piasa Creek of the Mississippi River

 

Tuesday Sunset

 

 

Open Fri, Sat & Sun

 

Sat...Oct 3...The Samuri Five...2pm

Sun...Oct 4...Big In Japan the One Man band...2pm


HALLOWEEN PARTY SATURDAY OCTOBER 24
Get ready it’s gonna be another big one.. Riverstyle ..details coming soon.
 

Last weekend open October 29
 

You Can Now Order Your Favorite Food and Drinks Through Our Online Ordering.

https://www.restaurantlogin.com/api/fb/z0q_xp


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

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

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryear's Picture on this Day

 

Grafton's Flag

 

click pic to enlarge

 

YesterYears Picture on this Day in 2019...... were sent to us by Capt. Tim Crawford

 

 

Hello Bill,
Some images of the dedication of the Grafton Flag. 40'x80' largest American flag flying over the Mississippi River. A sight to behold.


Capt. Tim Crawford

 

 

Click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

October 3rd & 4th– Octoberfest 12pm
 

October 3rd – Worth the Fight 7pm
October 4th – Steve Mellas

 

 Halloween Party... Sat...Oct 31

 

Open Tue - Thurs 11am-9pm and Fri & Sat 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

Sad News

Al Meinershagen Passed Away........

 

In Loving Memory of
Alan P. Meinershagen
1949 - 2020

 

Alan P. Meinershagen, age 71, passed away September 24, 2020. Dear son of the late Earl E. Meinershagen and the late Thelma M. (nee Kessler) Meinershagen. Loving father of Lance and Ashley Meinershagen. Proud grandfather of Kaleb Rankin. Dear brother of Gary (Judy) Meinershagen and Diane Braatz. Dearest uncle, cousin and friend of many.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of Alan.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Newcomer Funeral Home, 837 Mid Rivers Mall Drive, St. Peters, MO 63376, on Friday, October 2, 2020 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Please share memories with the family at the link above.

 

Visitation:
Friday, October 2, 2020 from 4:00pm to 8:00pm
Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions
837 Mid Rivers Mall Dr, St Peters, MO 63376...636-875-1200    Directions & Map

 

Reprinted from NewcomerSTLouis.com

Click here to go to NewcomerSTLouis for Obituary, Guestbook, Share Memories, Print Obituary

WWW.LONGSHOTMARINA.COM

 

 

Rat Run Weekend

Sat...Oct 3...Bullseye Band ...2-6pm

Sun...Oct 4...The Vault..........12-4pm

 

Mike's LaRosa Cantina Bar Facebook..click here

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED September 23 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 309.9 - BRIDGE MAINTENANCE
Hannibal Railroad Drawbridge; Due to replacement of rail ties on the drawbridge, the drawbridge will be maintained in the closed to navigation position beginning from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m., daily from September 21-25, 2020. A drawbridge opening is scheduled to occur around 3:00 p.m., daily, or there about, to clear navigation.

MILE 200.5 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until November 9, 2020, the Mel Price L/D 26 (auxiliary chamber) in the vicinity of Mile 200.5, is closed to navigation for repair. The main chamber is available to pass traffic, during this closure. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 200.5 - L/D RESTRICTION
The bullnose protection armor, for the lower long wall of the Mel Price L/D (main chamber) is experiencing deterioration. Continuing until further notice, all tows transiting the main lock are requested to stay off the lower long wall bullnose. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 194.0 - DREDGE OPERATION
Continuing until further notice, the USACE contract vessel M/V GRAND TOWER is conducting dredging operations in the vicinity of Mile 194.0, Upper Chain of Rocks Canal Entrance. Work will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., each day. The M/V GRAND TOWER will monitor VHF-FM Channel 13 and requests 30-minutes advance notice of passage. No channel closures are expected with this operation. Mariners are requested to transit the area at their slowest safe speed to minimize their wake and proceed with caution after passing arrangements have been made.

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.

ILLINOIS RIVER

MILE 271.5 - TEMPORARY L/D CLOSURES
Continuing until October 4, 2020, from 7:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., each day, the Dresden Island L/D in the vicinity of Mile 271.5, will be closed for maintenance. In addition, a 70-foot width restriction and no ability to pull unpowered barges, is in place.
MILE 244.6 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Marseilles L/D in the vicinity of Mile 244.6, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 231.0 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Starved Rock L/D in the vicinity of Mile 231.0, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 157.7 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 1, 2020, the Peoria L/D in the vicinity of Mile 157.7, will be closed for maintenance..
MILE 80.2 - L/D CLOSURE
 Continuing until October 13, 2020, the LaGrange L/D in the vicinity of Mile 80.2, will be closed for maintenance.

 

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

 on the Navigation Center Website

 

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

 


 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

 

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

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

 

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 7,338 members as of 09-30-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Missouri River Levees

Corps Awards Contract To Granite City Company........

 

U.S. Representative Mike Bost (R-Illinois) recently announced that the U.S> Army Corps of Engineers has awarded a $14 million contract to Supplied Industrial Solutions, based in Granite City, Illinois.

 

SIS will be working to provide structural stability and make electrical and mechanical modifications to seven pump stations along the Amourdale Levee Unit in Kansas City, Kansas.

 

Bost says that the contract announcement is welcome news amid the shutdown brought about by the COVID-19 outbreak.  He adds that with this contract, SIS will be able to secure jobs in the Metro East while helping to protect other communities from flooding........

 

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

 

 

Website..click here       Facebook Page..click here

 

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

Check out Grafton's Event and Music

Calendar for Sep 30 thru Oct 13.... click here

 

 

 

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Harbor Point Yacht Club

Facebook Page........

 

 

Check out

Harbor Point Yacht Club's  Facebook Page...click here

 

 

Map..... click here

U.S. Coast Guard Heartland Safe Boating

Open Air Carbon Monoxide Poisoning........

 

Reprinted from the U.S. Coast Guard Heartland Safe Boating Facebook... click here

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Mississippi River At Cape Girardeau, Missouri

Work Beginning on Floodwall Mural Lighting Project........

 

Thanks to the efforts of Old Town Cape and others, lights will be illuminating the Mississippi River Floodwall Murals in downtown Cape Girardeau, Missouri.  Over the next several weeks, there will be one light fixture installed for each mural panel for a total of 24.

 

Danny Essner, president of the Old Town Cape Board says that they will also be cleaning the wall from one end to the other. He adds that the will look different after being cleaned, but will really look different at night with the lights.

 

When the murals were originally unveiled in 2005, they were lit from fixtures on the ground. Between vandalism and being damaged by lawn mowing equipment........

 

Click here to read thsi news story from semissourian.com.  With Photo.

 

 

 

River History....

 

September 30, 2013 in River History

 

The Mayor of Chattanooga, Andy Berke, put into motion a plan to have the Delta Queen removed from its mooring in as he considered it an "obstruction". A deadline of September 30, 2013 was given. This dispute seemed to rest on the Delta Queen having not paid its rent

 Pool 26 Halloween Parties

 

  Boathouse...............................................  Sat, Oct 24

  Grafton Oyster Bar..................................   Sat, Oct 31

 

 

 

 

Look for updates as they become available

  

News Release From BoatUS


SPRINGFIELD, Va., Sept. 29, 2020 – The boating season is drawing to a close, but the cold weather buying season will heat up soon. On snowy nights, potential boat buyers will hunch over computers and cellphones looking at boats for sale, dreaming of sugarplums and their first boat, while current owners with two-footitis seek a larger boat and look to sell. Nearly all boat buying and selling scams involve emails and they often contain clues to alert you. Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) offers these common email warning signs to help prevent you from being scammed.

Warning signs for boat buyers:

1. The boat is priced well under value. Despite lots of pictures and a good description (likely swiped from a real ad), the boat doesn't exist. If a boat you're seriously interested in is an out-of-state vessel, send a local accredited marine surveyor or someone you trust to verify there really is a boat and that the seller has the actual title and registration. Bottom line: If it seems too good to be true, it likely is.
2. Cobbled-together email addresses. Scammers constantly change their email addresses to avoid detection, and they may have to get ones with fairly normal-looking names but lots of numbers.
3. No phone contact. Scammers will go to great lengths not to talk to you and give reasons ranging from being out of the country to being in the military.
4. Demands to use a specific business (escrow or shipper) and won't accept an alternate. If you chose to use an escrow service to settle the transaction, suggest your own after visiting the BBB site and verifying it's a legitimate one.
5. The buyer wishes to pay a different amount from the selling price. If any mention is made of paying you anything more than the agreed price (and then typically asking for you to refund the overage or send the money to a third party), walk away.
6. Showing no concern over title/documents. If there's no interest in discussing titling the vessel or in verifying the registration information or hull-identification number, the person has no real interest in the transaction.
 

Warning signs for boat sellers:

1. No reference to what is being sold. Scammers create a generic email to send to thousands of people, so they tend to use general language that could apply to anything such as "item," "merchandise," or "what you are selling.”
2. Poor grammar, spelling, punctuation, and language use. Internet scams usually originate from outside the country. A couple of errors shouldn't worry you because no one is perfect, but a dozen is a red flag.
3. Changing names and locations in emails. It can be difficult to keep all the details straight when scammers are working multiple scams. If the person doesn’t remember who or where he is supposed to be, or exactly what he’s selling, you’re being scammed.
4. No interest in seeing the boat or haggling over the price. Whether buying or selling, scammers are amazingly unconcerned about the price of the boat. Who wouldn't negotiate? And if buying, they'll often say they accept the boat "as-is," won't mention a survey or inspection, and won't hold you responsible for its condition. Anyone willing to buy a boat sight unseen after a few emails should be regarded with suspicion — and if they're also not concerned about price, it's a good bet you're being scammed.
 

For more information on buying or selling a boat, visit BoatUS.com/Buying-And-Selling-Advice.


###

 

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

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "March 2021" 

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

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

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

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

 

What's Going On This Week

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

 

09-29-20

Don't forget 3rd Chute still has to 50 Cent peel and eat shrimp Cajun and regular 7 days a week dine-in only we also have the two piece catfish dinner served 7 days a week both locations

 

 

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

The Alton Marina is currently open for business but we are limited on our amenities. We are selling fuel and doing pump outs every Thursday to Sunday from the hours of 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.

We will have take out service in our Deli/Ship's Store starting June 13th. The Deli hours are Friday 3:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M....Saturday 9:00 A.M. until 6:00 P.M......Sunday 9:00 until 1:00 P.M.

We hope as the next few weeks progress we will be adding more and more of the everyday services we usually offer!

 

Please watch our website as we will post what is new each week.

Please be safe and God Bless All Of Us!!

KAREN AND THE CREW
 

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

Dining, Curbside & CARRYOUT
CONTACT FREE Order Online Curbside Pickup
OPEN For LUNCH & DINNER WED- SUN!
https://bluffcitygrill.e-tab.com/bluffcitygrill#!/order-type
Easy as 1, 2, 3!!
 1. Click the link
 2. Order your food how you want it, pay online
 3. Park in Curbside & Call Restaurant when you arrive

 

Kitchen Hours

Wed & Thurs...11-9pm

Fri & Sat.........11-10pm

Sun.................11-9pm

 

Check out our Daily Drink & Food Specials

Call (618) 433-8288 for Reservation

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 

Sat...Oct 3...

     The Samuri Five...2pm

Sun...Oct 4...

     Big In Japan the One Man band...2pm

 

 

HALLOWEEN PARTY SAT OCT 24
 

Last weekend Open October 29
 

Open  Fri, Sat... 11am - 11pm,   Sun...11am-10pm

 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

Website.... N/A
Email...... Boathouseontheriver@gmail.com
 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Update 06/06/2020

The Golden Eagle Ferry is open with regular operating hours of Monday-Thursday 5am to 9pm, Friday -Saturday 5am to 2am and Sunday 8am to 9pm.

The Grafton Ferry just opened at 10am today, 06/06/2020 The river levels have not been kind to us lately but today the river level is down just enough to get open.

The Golden Eagle Ferry, Grafton Ferry, Brussels State Ferry and the Kampsville State Ferry are all open so come aboard for a very beautiful and scenic ride on the river.

Thank You and Take Care,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

 

 

About
Social Yacht Club centered around the Alton Pool (Pool 26) of the Mississippi River, website is www.contriosyachtclub.org

Founding Date
1966

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

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

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

$1.50 can beers during all televised St. Louis Blues games!!


LET'S GO CARDS!!!
$1.50 can beers during all televised games!!

 

07-13-20

We will now have kitchen open until 10pm on Sundays until Further notice

 

1530 Highway J
Portage Des Sioux, Missouri 63373
(636) 899-1139

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi & Illinois Rivers

 

 

We have pontoon boat rentals available
2 hours: $195
4 hours: $295
8 hours: $488
Includes gas and tax!!
Call: 618-786-7678

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 


ARRR Ye Mateys! Set sail for a 2-hour cruise while enjoying some of our most popular rum drinks


We have Covid guidelines in place.
Please arrive 30 minutes early for all cruises.
23 passengers will be allowed on the lower level and 26 passengers will be allowed on the upper level. Temperatures will be taken and questions will be asked before everyone enters the boat. Social distancing guidelines will incur.

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

Check out Grafton's Event and Music

Calendar for Sep 30 thru Oct 13.... click here

 

 

 

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

October 3rd & 4th– Octoberfest 12pm
 

Sat..Oct 3rd – Worth the Fight 7pm
Sun..Oct 4th – Steve Mellas

 

Halloween Party... Sat...Oct 31

 

Open:

Tuesday - Thursday 11am-9pm

Friday and Saturday 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

08-22-20

Foundation work started

 

"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

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

 

Gated Entry and Video Security

Where the fish are bitin’ and the bugs aren’t!

Weekly Mosquito Control

 

 

Need to fill up for your weekend water activities? Stop by for 24/7 pump outs & fuel docks

 

Marina, Boat Service, Fuel

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

Welcome to Lewis Boats! We are a family owned and operated company that was established in 1993. Our focus is on building relationships by providing the best in products and services.


We have a CSI Award-winning service and parts department with over 175 years of combined experience in the marine industry to take care of all of your parts and service needs. We service Mercury, Mercruiser, Yamaha, Volvo Penta, and Honda Outboards.
We offer Barletta Boats, Sylvan Marine, Cypress Cay, and Crestliner pontoon boats, Phoenix bass boats, Crestliner aluminum fishing boats, Monterey sport boats, and Mercury, Mercruiser, and Yamaha outboard and sterndrives.


Whether you are looking for an aluminum fishing boat, performance pontoon, tournament ready fiberglass bass boat, or a crossover ski boat/ bowrider, our sales consultants will help you find the perfect boat for your family’s wants and needs.


It's no wonder we have been regarded as one of the largest and most trusted dealers in Missouri for more than 20 years. Come meet our dedicated boating staff and allow them to find the right boat or service for your family's needs.


We are conveniently located in between the Missouri Riverfront and Lake Saint Louis. Family owned and operated since 1993. Come in today and check us out!
As we like to say, you are not just buying a boat or getting service but becoming a member of the Lewis Boats Family!

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Rat Run Weekend
Fri, Sat, Sun..Oct 2,3,4

Click here for flyer


 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Rat Run Weekend
Sat...Oct 3...Bullseye Band ...2-6pm
Sun...Oct 4...The Vault..........12-4pm

 

Sat... Oct 10... Customer Appreciation

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 


Port Charles Harbor, A Full Service Marina Located On The Beautiful Mississippi River! 60 Ton Marine Travel Lift. 636.250.BOAT www.portcharlesharbor.com

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

RT Pregame Patio

Fri...Oct 2... Kenny Lee Hall...6pm

Sat..Oct 3...Michael Feldman..6pm

Sun..Oct 4..Rat Run..11am...Live Music...Kevin Gruen

 

Patio Open Thu - Sat.. 5-10pm

 

Store Hours: Sun..10-9, M-Th..10-10, Fri Sat..10-11

Order On-line

Click here for website and menus

 

Sat, Sept 26 at 4-8pm....

Classic Saturday Car Show.. click here

 

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

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

The 2021 Yamaha Boats are here with 14 new models. There’s an all-new 25-platform, new 25-foot wake boats, new 25-foot FSH center console boats, four new 21-foot boats, the expansion of our award-winning Drive Technology across the line, and tons more.

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 


 

 

Check out Fatboys Restaurant Facebook page.... click here

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

OUR FUEL DOCK IS OPEN & we now have 93 OCTANE with ValvTect!Diesel is also available.

THE SHOWERS& BATHROOMS in the BACK of the Rack Room are also open!!!

We hope to see all of you soon! Call 636.250.4547 to schedule your splash!!

Be safe & happy boating!

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

 

 

Yacht Club was tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on hgher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

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

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

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

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645 

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Open
Alton Marina Deli Open
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Open
Bluff City Grill ........................................ Open
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ Longshot Marina Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Open
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed for remodling
Mike's LaRosa@ Longshot Marina Open
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

TUESDAY

29 SEPTEMBER 2020

 

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

 

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day....  was sent to us by Capt'n Brad Maher who hails out of the Alton Motor Boat Club on Piasa Creek of the Mississippi River

 

Monday Sunset

 

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Larger view not available

 

The Picture of the Day....  was sent to us by Capt'n Patrick Wrischnik

 

 

Open Fri, Sat & Sun


HALLOWEEN PARTY SATURDAY OCTOBER 24
Get ready it’s gonna be another big one.. Riverstyle ..details coming soon.
 

Last weekend October 29
 

You Can Now Order Your Favorite Food and Drinks Through Our Online Ordering.

https://www.restaurantlogin.com/api/fb/z0q_xp


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

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

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryear's Picture on this Day

 

Lewis & Clark Replica Boat

 

click pic to enlarge

 

YesterYears Picture on this Day in 2015...... was of the Lewis and Clark replica keel boat as it returned from Canada and was being backed into it's storage / display spot in the Lewis & Clark Boathouse and Nature Center.

 

 

 

Click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

 

Open Tue - Thurs 11am-9pm and Fri & Sat 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

Sad News

Al Meinershagen Passed Away........

 

In Loving Memory of
Alan P. Meinershagen
1949 - 2020

 

Alan P. Meinershagen, age 71, passed away September 24, 2020. Dear son of the late Earl E. Meinershagen and the late Thelma M. (nee Kessler) Meinershagen. Loving father of Lance and Ashley Meinershagen. Proud grandfather of Kaleb Rankin. Dear brother of Gary (Judy) Meinershagen and Diane Braatz. Dearest uncle, cousin and friend of many.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of Alan.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Newcomer Funeral Home, 837 Mid Rivers Mall Drive, St. Peters, MO 63376, on Friday, October 2, 2020 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Please share memories with the family at the link above.

 

Visitation:
Friday, October 2, 2020 from 4:00pm to 8:00pm
Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions
837 Mid Rivers Mall Dr, St Peters, MO 63376...636-875-1200    Directions & Map

 

Reprinted from NewcomerSTLouis.com

Click here to go to NewcomerSTLouis for Obituary, Guestbook, Share Memories, Print Obituary

WWW.LONGSHOTMARINA.COM

 

 

Rat Run Weekend

Sat...Oct 3...Bullseye Band ...2-6pm

Sun...Oct 4...The Vault..........12-4pm

 

Mike's LaRosa Cantina Bar Facebook..click here

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED September 23 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 309.9 - BRIDGE MAINTENANCE
Hannibal Railroad Drawbridge; Due to replacement of rail ties on the drawbridge, the drawbridge will be maintained in the closed to navigation position beginning from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m., daily from September 21-25, 2020. A drawbridge opening is scheduled to occur around 3:00 p.m., daily, or there about, to clear navigation.

MILE 200.5 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until November 9, 2020, the Mel Price L/D 26 (auxiliary chamber) in the vicinity of Mile 200.5, is closed to navigation for repair. The main chamber is available to pass traffic, during this closure. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 200.5 - L/D RESTRICTION
The bullnose protection armor, for the lower long wall of the Mel Price L/D (main chamber) is experiencing deterioration. Continuing until further notice, all tows transiting the main lock are requested to stay off the lower long wall bullnose. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 194.0 - DREDGE OPERATION
Continuing until further notice, the USACE contract vessel M/V GRAND TOWER is conducting dredging operations in the vicinity of Mile 194.0, Upper Chain of Rocks Canal Entrance. Work will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., each day. The M/V GRAND TOWER will monitor VHF-FM Channel 13 and requests 30-minutes advance notice of passage. No channel closures are expected with this operation. Mariners are requested to transit the area at their slowest safe speed to minimize their wake and proceed with caution after passing arrangements have been made.

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.

ILLINOIS RIVER

MILE 271.5 - TEMPORARY L/D CLOSURES
Continuing until October 4, 2020, from 7:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., each day, the Dresden Island L/D in the vicinity of Mile 271.5, will be closed for maintenance. In addition, a 70-foot width restriction and no ability to pull unpowered barges, is in place.
MILE 244.6 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Marseilles L/D in the vicinity of Mile 244.6, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 231.0 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Starved Rock L/D in the vicinity of Mile 231.0, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 157.7 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 1, 2020, the Peoria L/D in the vicinity of Mile 157.7, will be closed for maintenance..
MILE 80.2 - L/D CLOSURE
 Continuing until October 13, 2020, the LaGrange L/D in the vicinity of Mile 80.2, will be closed for maintenance.

 

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

 on the Navigation Center Website

 

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

 


 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

 

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

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

 

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 7,334 members as of 09-29-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

RV Fire

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at the Boathouse........

 

 

Reprinted from the Boathouse Facebook.... click here

Boat Show News

2021 Southern Illinois Boating, Fishing Show Cancelled........

 

Officials have announced that the Southern Illinois Boat and Fishing Show for 2021 has been cancelled.  Organizers say that they made the decision to suspend the show until 2022 because of the nature of the event as well as the current restrictions in place.

 

The show is usually held during February........

 

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

 

 

Website..click here       Facebook Page..click here

 

Saturday, October 10, 2020

In Water Oil Change Day

Two Rivers Marina

Pool 24 of the Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo........

 

 

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

Missouri River Shipping

Some Crops May See Shipping Delays Along The Missouri River........

 

Damaged Levees may cause shipping delays for some key crops this harvest season.  Currently, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is still making repairs to levees damaged by severe flooding three years ago.

 

The Corps has several teams working to repair the critical areas first, while other teams are helping large barges navigate through shallow waters.  Officials are pushing to get the infrastructure back to capacity as farms work through the harvest.

 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Colonel William Hannah says that international demand for products grown in the Heartland drives the need to keep barge traffic moving along the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers........

 

Click here to read this news report from rfdtv.com. With Video

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Boat Sales

Retail, Wholesale Growth Continues........

 

For the third consecutive month, the effects of the pandemic were reflected in new boat sales and wholesale shipment data.  The National Marine Manufacturers Association reports that wholesale shipments doubled during July from June as boat construction grew n all segments.

 

NMMA business intelligence director Vicky Yu says that boat manufacturing has slowly ramped back up, with production at around 92 percent of where it was last year as manufacturers continued filling back orders to cover the surge in demand for new boats.

 

New powerboat sales also increased, rising some 22 percent on a seasonally adjusted basis as compared to July of last year.  The sales growth was driven by personal watercraft, outboard boats and jetboats in both wholesale and retail, reflecting the high consumer demand from new boat buyers........

 

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

 

 

 

 

River History....

 

October 29 , 2008 in River History

Delta Queen Celebrated Its Final Cruise as she docked in Memphis, Tennessee where it dropped off its last overnight passengers who rode the riverboat there from Cincinnati. A celebration followed.

On the next morning the Delta Queen headed down the Mississippi River to New Orleans. On Nov 1, 2008 the Delta Queen lost its license to carry overnight passengers. It had cruised the Mississippi River for over 80 years.

The Delta Queen then operated as hotel at Coolidge Landing. Chattanooga, Tennessee for a while, but now is moored in a ship yard in Houma, Louisiana awaiting repairs and upgrades.

 Pool 26 Halloween Parties

 

  Boathouse...............................................  Sat, Oct 24

 

 

 

 

Look for updates as they become available

  

Boat Manufacturer

Beneteau Dayboat Headed For The U.S. Market.........

 

Beneteau recently announced that their Flyer 7 dayboat will soon be available to U.S. boat buyers.  The Flyer 7 will be offered in a Sundeck or Spacedeck configuration.

 

The Sundeck will feature a lounge on he foredeck and a small cabin, while the Spacedeck has a center console layout, with more space on deck and bow seating.

 

Beneteau America marketing manager Aurore Bordage says that with the instant popularity of these dayboats saw in Europe, they knew pretty quickly that they had to release them in the U.S. as well........

 

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

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "March 2021" 

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

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

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

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

 

What's Going On This Week

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

 

Serving Wayne's Famous Kettle Chili

 

 

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

The Alton Marina is currently open for business but we are limited on our amenities. We are selling fuel and doing pump outs every Thursday to Sunday from the hours of 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.

We will have take out service in our Deli/Ship's Store starting June 13th. The Deli hours are Friday 3:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M....Saturday 9:00 A.M. until 6:00 P.M......Sunday 9:00 until 1:00 P.M.

We hope as the next few weeks progress we will be adding more and more of the everyday services we usually offer!

 

Please watch our website as we will post what is new each week.

Please be safe and God Bless All Of Us!!

KAREN AND THE CREW
 

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

Now Open For Lunch and Dinner

Wed - Sun

Closed Mon & Tue (Temporarily Through Sept)

 

Kitchen Hours

Wed & Thurs...11-9pm

Fri & Sat.........11-10pm

Sun.................11-9pm

 

We offer indoor / Outdoor Dinning, Carryout

Contact Free Curbside & Online Ordering

 

Check out our Daily Drink & Food Specials

Call (618) 433-8288 for Reservation

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 

HALLOWEEN PARTY SATURDAY OCTOBER 24
Get ready it’s gonna be another big one..Riverstyle ..details coming soon.
 

Last weekend October 29

 

Open  Fri, Sat... 11am - 11pm,   Sun...11am-10pm

 

Fuel Dock and Ramp Now Open

 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

Website.... N/A
Email...... Boathouseontheriver@gmail.com
 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Update 06/06/2020

The Golden Eagle Ferry is open with regular operating hours of Monday-Thursday 5am to 9pm, Friday -Saturday 5am to 2am and Sunday 8am to 9pm.

The Grafton Ferry just opened at 10am today, 06/06/2020 The river levels have not been kind to us lately but today the river level is down just enough to get open.

The Golden Eagle Ferry, Grafton Ferry, Brussels State Ferry and the Kampsville State Ferry are all open so come aboard for a very beautiful and scenic ride on the river.

Thank You and Take Care,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

 

 

About
Social Yacht Club centered around the Alton Pool (Pool 26) of the Mississippi River, website is www.contriosyachtclub.org

Founding Date
1966

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

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

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

$1.50 can beers during all televised St. Louis Blues games!!


LET'S GO CARDS!!!
$1.50 can beers during all televised games!!

 

07-13-20

We will now have kitchen open until 10pm on Sundays until Further notice

 

1530 Highway J
Portage Des Sioux, Missouri 63373
(636) 899-1139

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi & Illinois Rivers

 

 

We have pontoon boat rentals available
2 hours: $195
4 hours: $295
8 hours: $488
Includes gas and tax!!
Call: 618-786-7678

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 


ARRR Ye Mateys! Set sail for a 2-hour cruise while enjoying some of our most popular rum drinks


We have Covid guidelines in place.
Please arrive 30 minutes early for all cruises.
23 passengers will be allowed on the lower level and 26 passengers will be allowed on the upper level. Temperatures will be taken and questions will be asked before everyone enters the boat. Social distancing guidelines will incur.

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

Check out Grafton's Event and Music

Calendar for Sep 22 thru Oct 6.... click here

 

 

 

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Open:

Tuesday - Thursday 11am-9pm

Friday and Saturday 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

08-22-20

Foundation work started

 

"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

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

 

Gated Entry and Video Security

Where the fish are bitin’ and the bugs aren’t!

Weekly Mosquito Control

 

 

Need to fill up for your weekend water activities? Stop by for 24/7 pump outs & fuel docks

 

Marina, Boat Service, Fuel

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

Welcome to Lewis Boats! We are a family owned and operated company that was established in 1993. Our focus is on building relationships by providing the best in products and services.


We have a CSI Award-winning service and parts department with over 175 years of combined experience in the marine industry to take care of all of your parts and service needs. We service Mercury, Mercruiser, Yamaha, Volvo Penta, and Honda Outboards.
We offer Barletta Boats, Sylvan Marine, Cypress Cay, and Crestliner pontoon boats, Phoenix bass boats, Crestliner aluminum fishing boats, Monterey sport boats, and Mercury, Mercruiser, and Yamaha outboard and sterndrives.


Whether you are looking for an aluminum fishing boat, performance pontoon, tournament ready fiberglass bass boat, or a crossover ski boat/ bowrider, our sales consultants will help you find the perfect boat for your family’s wants and needs.


It's no wonder we have been regarded as one of the largest and most trusted dealers in Missouri for more than 20 years. Come meet our dedicated boating staff and allow them to find the right boat or service for your family's needs.


We are conveniently located in between the Missouri Riverfront and Lake Saint Louis. Family owned and operated since 1993. Come in today and check us out!
As we like to say, you are not just buying a boat or getting service but becoming a member of the Lewis Boats Family!

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Rat Run Weekend
Fri, Sat, Sun..Oct 2,3,4

Click here for flyer


 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Sat..Sep 27..David Caputo..3-7pm

Sun..Sep 28..Jonathon Baker Duo..3-7pm

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 


Port Charles Harbor, A Full Service Marina Located On The Beautiful Mississippi River! 60 Ton Marine Travel Lift. 636.250.BOAT www.portcharlesharbor.com

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

 

Patio Open Thu - Sat.. 5-10pm

 

Store Hours: Sun..10-9, M-Th..10-10, Fri Sat..10-11

Order On-line

Click here for website and menus

 

Sat, Sept 26 at 4-8pm....

Classic Saturday Car Show.. click here

 

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

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

The 2021 Yamaha Boats are here with 14 new models. There’s an all-new 25-platform, new 25-foot wake boats, new 25-foot FSH center console boats, four new 21-foot boats, the expansion of our award-winning Drive Technology across the line, and tons more.

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 


 

 

Check out Fatboys Restaurant Facebook page.... click here

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

OUR FUEL DOCK IS OPEN & we now have 93 OCTANE with ValvTect!Diesel is also available.

THE SHOWERS& BATHROOMS in the BACK of the Rack Room are also open!!!

We hope to see all of you soon! Call 636.250.4547 to schedule your splash!!

Be safe & happy boating!

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

 

 

Yacht Club was tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on hgher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

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

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

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

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645 

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Open
Alton Marina Deli Open
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Open
Bluff City Grill ........................................ Open
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ Longshot Marina Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Open
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed for remodling
Mike's LaRosa@ Longshot Marina Open
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

MONDAY

28 SEPTEMBER 2020


September 28th is National Drink Beer Day
 .

While many boaters celebrate Beer Day almost every day, today is the day to go national and celebrate it with all the boaters in the US. This could well be one of the biggest parties in the nation.

Calling all captains and sailors, first mates and deck hands..... Grab Some Brews and headon out to your boat and celebrate the day in style all across this great country of ours ! IT's NATIONAL DRINK A BEER DAY

Of course it goes without saying - drink responsibly.

 Note..Not to be confused with INTERNATIONAL Beer Day, which is held on August 5th

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day....  was sent to us by Mel

 

HopeOnTheRiver.com

passing thru Pool 26

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day....  was sent to us by Capt'n Brad Maher who hails out of the Alton Motor Boat Club on Piasa Creek of the Mississippi River

 

Had a blast on the GTX Saturday.

A lot of people out enjoying Pool 26

Brad 

 

Just Never Know

Who You Will Run Into On the River

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day.... 

 

It's Barak Cook

from Louisiana, Mo

at RiverBills place at Woodland Marina on Sunday.

 

Barak was here to look at the rubber dingy pictured on the right hand side of this photo and stopped to say hello.

 

Open Fri, Sat & Sun


HALLOWEEN PARTY SATURDAY OCTOBER 24
Get ready it’s gonna be another big one.. Riverstyle ..details coming soon.
 

Last weekend October 29

 

Fuel Dock and Ramp Are Open

 

You Can Now Order Your Favorite Food and Drinks Through Our Online Ordering.

https://www.restaurantlogin.com/api/fb/z0q_xp


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

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

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryear's Picture on this Day

 

Boater's Boats

1954 Raveau 16ft race boat.

 

click pic to enlarge

 

YesterYears Picture on this Day in 2019... was sent t0 us by Capt'n Dan Ebbing
 

My son Brady, pictured with his 1954 Raveau 16ft race boat. Powered by a 1957 35hp Johnson. We just bought the boat Labor Day weekend. This will be a father/son restoration project over the winter.

Dan Ebbing

 

 

 

Click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

 

Open Tue - Thurs 11am-9pm and Fri & Sat 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

Sad News

Al Meinershagen Passed Away........

 

In Loving Memory of
Alan P. Meinershagen
1949 - 2020

 

Alan P. Meinershagen, age 71, passed away September 24, 2020. Dear son of the late Earl E. Meinershagen and the late Thelma M. (nee Kessler) Meinershagen. Loving father of Lance and Ashley Meinershagen. Proud grandfather of Kaleb Rankin. Dear brother of Gary (Judy) Meinershagen and Diane Braatz. Dearest uncle, cousin and friend of many.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of Alan.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Newcomer Funeral Home, 837 Mid Rivers Mall Drive, St. Peters, MO 63376, on Friday, October 2, 2020 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Please share memories with the family at the link above.

 

Visitation:
Friday, October 2, 2020 from 4:00pm to 8:00pm
Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions
837 Mid Rivers Mall Dr, St Peters, MO 63376...636-875-1200    Directions & Map

 

Reprinted from NewcomerSTLouis.com

Click here to go to NewcomerSTLouis for Obituary, Guestbook, Share Memories, Print Obituary

WWW.LONGSHOTMARINA.COM

 

 

Mike's LaRosa Cantina Bar Facebook..click here

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED September 23 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 309.9 - BRIDGE MAINTENANCE
Hannibal Railroad Drawbridge; Due to replacement of rail ties on the drawbridge, the drawbridge will be maintained in the closed to navigation position beginning from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m., daily from September 21-25, 2020. A drawbridge opening is scheduled to occur around 3:00 p.m., daily, or there about, to clear navigation.

MILE 200.5 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until November 9, 2020, the Mel Price L/D 26 (auxiliary chamber) in the vicinity of Mile 200.5, is closed to navigation for repair. The main chamber is available to pass traffic, during this closure. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 200.5 - L/D RESTRICTION
The bullnose protection armor, for the lower long wall of the Mel Price L/D (main chamber) is experiencing deterioration. Continuing until further notice, all tows transiting the main lock are requested to stay off the lower long wall bullnose. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 194.0 - DREDGE OPERATION
Continuing until further notice, the USACE contract vessel M/V GRAND TOWER is conducting dredging operations in the vicinity of Mile 194.0, Upper Chain of Rocks Canal Entrance. Work will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., each day. The M/V GRAND TOWER will monitor VHF-FM Channel 13 and requests 30-minutes advance notice of passage. No channel closures are expected with this operation. Mariners are requested to transit the area at their slowest safe speed to minimize their wake and proceed with caution after passing arrangements have been made.

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.

ILLINOIS RIVER

MILE 271.5 - TEMPORARY L/D CLOSURES
Continuing until October 4, 2020, from 7:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., each day, the Dresden Island L/D in the vicinity of Mile 271.5, will be closed for maintenance. In addition, a 70-foot width restriction and no ability to pull unpowered barges, is in place.
MILE 244.6 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Marseilles L/D in the vicinity of Mile 244.6, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 231.0 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Starved Rock L/D in the vicinity of Mile 231.0, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 157.7 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 1, 2020, the Peoria L/D in the vicinity of Mile 157.7, will be closed for maintenance..
MILE 80.2 - L/D CLOSURE
 Continuing until October 13, 2020, the LaGrange L/D in the vicinity of Mile 80.2, will be closed for maintenance.

 

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

 on the Navigation Center Website

 

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

 


 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

 

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

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

 

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 7,328 members as of 09-28-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

 

Mississippi River At West Alton, Missouri

Lincoln Shields Recreation Area Temporarily Closing........

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rivers Project Office has announced that they will be closing the Lincoln Shields Recreation Area in West Alton, Missouri temporarily to allow crews to perform some road work.

 

The closure will be to all vehicles, pedestrians and fishermen, and will run from September 28th through October 2, 2020 until further notice.........

 

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

 

 

Website..click here       Facebook Page..click here

 

 

Mississippi River At St. Louis, Missouri

Riverboats At The Gateway Arch Hosting Fall Concert Series.........

 

The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch will be hosting a series of concerts on Sundays this fall, called Rock the Dock presented by 4 Hands Brewing Company and 1220 Spirits.

 

Rock the Dock is a celebration of St. Louis, and is a unique way to enjoy some of St. Louis' most popular bands with a backdrop of downtown St. Louis, the Gateway Arch and the Mississippi River from the riverboat dock.

 

Concert attendees will be seated at reserved, socially distanced tables, where they will be able to enjoy a curated barbeque menu and a selection of drinks from 4 Hands Brewery and 1220 Spirits,  The bands will be performing from an elevated space adjacent to the dock........

 

Click here to read more from riverbender.com.  With Photo and Audio.

 

Check out Gateway Arch website... click here

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Mississippi River Near La Crosse, Wisconsin

Volunteers In Canoes Clean Up The River........

 

Two volunteers from the Rotary Club of La Crosse helped with cleaning up the Mississippi River is areas inaccessible by foot in a canoe on Saturday.  Catherine Kolkmeier and Cindy Ericksen cleaned up beer cans, discarded fishing line and boat buckets that washed up on island shores.

 

The friends live near each other and often go on walks together.  They decided to be a bit more adventurous when it comes to their volunteering.  Ericksen says that when people are out boating and having fun they may not notice something fall off the boat, or on an island drop something and think it insignificant.  Ericksen adds that it ends up accumulating and looking trashy.

 

Kolkmeier says that the trash and pollution goes beyond looking trashy, it can kill.  She adds that that plastic and other trash gets into the river and interferes with wildlife, causing them to not be able to eat or causing illness........

 

Click here to read this news story from wxow.com.  With Photos and Video.

 Pool 26 Halloween Parties

 

  Boathouse...............................................  Sat, Oct24

 

 

 

 

Look for updates as they become available

  

Boat Gear Manufacturer

Dometic Marine Introduced Electric Power Steering........

 

Dometic Marine recently introduced their Electric Power Assist , which is a power steering system designed for a variety of boats, from pontoons and runabouts to RIBs and center console models.

 

Building on the company's Optimus Outboard Electric Steering Actuator, Dometic developed a more affordable system intended for lower price-point boats, as more newcomers begin boating.

 

Dometic president Eric Fetchko says that the Optimus is a premium product, and the company's engineers have worked hard to make sure their entry level power steering system can make a small boat drive like a car........

 

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

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "March 2021" 

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

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

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

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

 

What's Going On This Week

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

 

Serving Wayne's Famous Kettle Chili

 

 

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

The Alton Marina is currently open for business but we are limited on our amenities. We are selling fuel and doing pump outs every Thursday to Sunday from the hours of 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.

We will have take out service in our Deli/Ship's Store starting June 13th. The Deli hours are Friday 3:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M....Saturday 9:00 A.M. until 6:00 P.M......Sunday 9:00 until 1:00 P.M.

We hope as the next few weeks progress we will be adding more and more of the everyday services we usually offer!

 

Please watch our website as we will post what is new each week.

Please be safe and God Bless All Of Us!!

KAREN AND THE CREW
 

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

Now Open For Lunch and Dinner

Wed - Sun

Closed Mon & Tue (Temporarily Through Sept)

 

Kitchen Hours

Wed & Thurs...11-9pm

Fri & Sat.........11-10pm

Sun.................11-9pm

 

We offer indoor / Outdoor Dinning, Carryout

Contact Free Curbside & Online Ordering

 

Check out our Daily Drink & Food Specials

Call (618) 433-8288 for Reservation

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 

HALLOWEEN PARTY SATURDAY OCTOBER 24
Get ready it’s gonna be another big one..Riverstyle ..details coming soon.
 

Last weekend October 29

 

Open  Fri, Sat... 11am - 11pm,   Sun...11am-10pm

 

Fuel Dock and Ramp Now Open

 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

Website.... N/A
Email...... Boathouseontheriver@gmail.com
 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Update 06/06/2020

The Golden Eagle Ferry is open with regular operating hours of Monday-Thursday 5am to 9pm, Friday -Saturday 5am to 2am and Sunday 8am to 9pm.

The Grafton Ferry just opened at 10am today, 06/06/2020 The river levels have not been kind to us lately but today the river level is down just enough to get open.

The Golden Eagle Ferry, Grafton Ferry, Brussels State Ferry and the Kampsville State Ferry are all open so come aboard for a very beautiful and scenic ride on the river.

Thank You and Take Care,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

 

 

About
Social Yacht Club centered around the Alton Pool (Pool 26) of the Mississippi River, website is www.contriosyachtclub.org

Founding Date
1966

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

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

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

$1.50 can beers during all televised St. Louis Blues games!!


LET'S GO CARDS!!!
$1.50 can beers during all televised games!!

 

07-13-20

We will now have kitchen open until 10pm on Sundays until Further notice

 

1530 Highway J
Portage Des Sioux, Missouri 63373
(636) 899-1139

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi & Illinois Rivers

 

 

We have pontoon boat rentals available
2 hours: $195
4 hours: $295
8 hours: $488
Includes gas and tax!!
Call: 618-786-7678

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 


ARRR Ye Mateys! Set sail for a 2-hour cruise while enjoying some of our most popular rum drinks


We have Covid guidelines in place.
Please arrive 30 minutes early for all cruises.
23 passengers will be allowed on the lower level and 26 passengers will be allowed on the upper level. Temperatures will be taken and questions will be asked before everyone enters the boat. Social distancing guidelines will incur.

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

Check out Grafton's Event and Music

Calendar for Sep 22 thru Oct 6.... click here

 

 

 

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Open:

Tuesday - Thursday 11am-9pm

Friday and Saturday 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

08-22-20

Foundation work started

 

"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

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

 

Gated Entry and Video Security

Where the fish are bitin’ and the bugs aren’t!

Weekly Mosquito Control

 

 

Need to fill up for your weekend water activities? Stop by for 24/7 pump outs & fuel docks

 

Marina, Boat Service, Fuel

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

Welcome to Lewis Boats! We are a family owned and operated company that was established in 1993. Our focus is on building relationships by providing the best in products and services.


We have a CSI Award-winning service and parts department with over 175 years of combined experience in the marine industry to take care of all of your parts and service needs. We service Mercury, Mercruiser, Yamaha, Volvo Penta, and Honda Outboards.
We offer Barletta Boats, Sylvan Marine, Cypress Cay, and Crestliner pontoon boats, Phoenix bass boats, Crestliner aluminum fishing boats, Monterey sport boats, and Mercury, Mercruiser, and Yamaha outboard and sterndrives.


Whether you are looking for an aluminum fishing boat, performance pontoon, tournament ready fiberglass bass boat, or a crossover ski boat/ bowrider, our sales consultants will help you find the perfect boat for your family’s wants and needs.


It's no wonder we have been regarded as one of the largest and most trusted dealers in Missouri for more than 20 years. Come meet our dedicated boating staff and allow them to find the right boat or service for your family's needs.


We are conveniently located in between the Missouri Riverfront and Lake Saint Louis. Family owned and operated since 1993. Come in today and check us out!
As we like to say, you are not just buying a boat or getting service but becoming a member of the Lewis Boats Family!

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Rat Run Weekend
Fri, Sat, Sun..Oct 2,3,4

Click here for flyer


 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Sat..Sep 27..David Caputo..3-7pm

Sun..Sep 28..Jonathon Baker Duo..3-7pm

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 


Port Charles Harbor, A Full Service Marina Located On The Beautiful Mississippi River! 60 Ton Marine Travel Lift. 636.250.BOAT www.portcharlesharbor.com

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

 

Patio Open Thu - Sat.. 5-10pm

 

Store Hours: Sun..10-9, M-Th..10-10, Fri Sat..10-11

Order On-line

Click here for website and menus

 

Sat, Sept 26 at 4-8pm....

Classic Saturday Car Show.. click here

 

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

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

The 2021 Yamaha Boats are here with 14 new models. There’s an all-new 25-platform, new 25-foot wake boats, new 25-foot FSH center console boats, four new 21-foot boats, the expansion of our award-winning Drive Technology across the line, and tons more.

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 


 

 

Check out Fatboys Restaurant Facebook page.... click here

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

OUR FUEL DOCK IS OPEN & we now have 93 OCTANE with ValvTect!Diesel is also available.

THE SHOWERS& BATHROOMS in the BACK of the Rack Room are also open!!!

We hope to see all of you soon! Call 636.250.4547 to schedule your splash!!

Be safe & happy boating!

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

 

 

Yacht Club was tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on hgher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

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

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

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

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645 

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Open
Alton Marina Deli Open
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Open
Bluff City Grill ........................................ Open
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ Longshot Marina Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Open
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed for remodling
Mike's LaRosa@ Longshot Marina Open
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

THE WEEKEND

SAT, SUN...26, 27 SEPTEMBER 2020

 

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Sun Pic

 

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

The Pictures of the Day....  were sent to us by Captain Ryan Kolb

 

 A Good night on H dock, Grafton Harbor

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Sun Pic

 

 

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

The Pictures of the Day....  were sent to us by Andy Dallwitz of Longshot Marina

 

Building Ramps all over !

What's Cole going to jump ?

 

Find out next Sunday at 6pm

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Sun Pic

 

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

The Pictures of the Day....  were sent to us by Captain Brad Maher

 

Friday Sunset

 

Mississippi River at Cape Girardeau

Sat Pic

 

 

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

The Pictures of the Day....  by Captain Mark Adams, retired president of the St. Louis Boat and Sportshow

 

Captain Bill, 
 

My brother Jim and I launched Robin Tuff at the MDC ramp in Cape Girardeau and motored upstream 25 miles to Grand Tower aka Tower Rock.  Along the way we saw a big double pipeline suspension bridge and about 300 pelicans.  The Mississippi is a different river down there, don’t take your eye off it.  It’s really big, fast and wild!  What a day what a ride! 
 
 
Best,
 
Captain Mark Adams
Robin Tuff

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

It's Rick and his wife

 

Wayne and his dog

Click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day....  were taken Friday evening from the point at Woodland Marina

 

Heading In

 

Open Thu, Fri, Sat & Sun

 

 

Our last Thursday of the season

Blursday for our River family” Enterprise Island we have a surprise waiting 

Friday Teddy and Paul on the deck 6-9

Saturday OGs Band fet: Stacy Collins

Sunday Mr Pat Liston @2

HALLOWEEN PARTY SATURDAY OCTOBER 24
Get ready it’s gonna be another big one.. Riverstyle ..details coming soon.

Last weekend October 29

Preview of 2021 season You know Pool Side.
 

 

 

Fuel Dock and Ramp Are Open

 

You Can Now Order Your Favorite Food and Drinks Through Our Online Ordering.

https://www.restaurantlogin.com/api/fb/z0q_xp


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

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

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryear's Picture on this Day

 

The Band RAIL @ Woodland Stock 2010

click pic to enlarge

 

YesterYears Picture on this Day in 2010... was a photo of the River Rock n Roll Band.... RAIL on stage entertaining the crowd at the Woodland Stock Party .
 

Lots of food, great music, bon fire and river friends !

 

Alton Marina

 

Click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Sat...Sept 26th –– Hookie.. 7pm
Sun...Sept 27th – Graham Band.. 2pm

 

Open Tue - Thurs 11am-9pm and Fri & Sat 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

Added Sunday

Mississippi River Journeys

Father And Son Duo Complete Source To Sea Canoe Trip........

 

Donnie Jokinen and his father, Don recently completed their journey down the Mississippi River, paddling the length of the river, from source to sea in 113 days.  Taking on a trip like this is difficult enough, but completing it with disabilities makes it more difficult.

 

Donnie suffered combat injuries while deployed in Sadr City, Iraq in 2007 and 2008 while serving with the 1138th Engineer Company, a National Guard unit from Farmington, Missouri.

 

Donnie created his Facebook page, 22 Stay Alive, which references the 22 Veterans that take their own lives each day.  He wanted to use the trip for both mental and physical therapy, and is now raising funds to kick off a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to assist other Veterans........

 

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

Added Sunday

Ohio River At Louisville, Kentucky

Officials Closing Ohio River For Bridge Repair........

 

Officials have announced that the repairs scheduled for the Louisville and Indiana Railroad drawbridge in Louisville, Kentucky will require two closures of the Ohio River.

 

The Ohio River will be closed at the bridge at Ohio River Mile Marker 604.4 from October 15th through the 20th.  It will also be closed from November 4th through November 9th.  The closures will only be for the area surrounding the bridge.

 

According to Eric Washburn, U.S. Coast Guard Eighth District bridge branch supervisor, the closures are required as crews will be replacing the drawbridge's lifting cables and associated equipment, including sheaves and brakes........

 

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

 

Added Sunday

Mississippi River Cruising

Viking Announces Special Graceland Shore Excursions........

 

This week, Viking announced their plans for new sailings along the Mississippi River that will feature a special treat for Elvis Presley fans:  A private, after-hours tour of Graceland.

 

The seven night Mississippi Holiday Season sailings are scheduled for December 2022.  The special complementary shore excursion will provide an evening of special access to the King of Rock and Roll's Memphis Mansion and Elvis themed museum and entertainment complex behind the mansion.

 

The cruises will be aboard the new 386 passenger Viking Mississippi, which the company is building for Mississippi River cruises.  These excursions will be one-way trips between Memphis and New Orleans that include three days and two nights in Memphis, with day stops in Vicksburg and Natchez, Mississippi and Baton Rouge, Louisiana........

 

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

 

Sad News

Al Meinershagen Passed Away........

 

 

In Loving Memory of
Alan P. Meinershagen
1949 - 2020

 

Alan P. Meinershagen, age 71, passed away September 24, 2020. Dear son of the late Earl E. Meinershagen and the late Thelma M. (nee Kessler) Meinershagen. Loving father of Lance and Ashley Meinershagen. Proud grandfather of Kaleb Rankin. Dear brother of Gary (Judy) Meinershagen and Diane Braatz. Dearest uncle, cousin and friend of many.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of Alan.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Newcomer Funeral Home, 837 Mid Rivers Mall Drive, St. Peters, MO 63376, on Friday, October 2, 2020 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Please share memories with the family at the link above.

 

Visitation:
Friday, October 2, 2020 from 4:00pm to 8:00pm
Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions
837 Mid Rivers Mall Dr
St Peters, MO 63376
636-875-1200
Directions & Map

 

Reprinted from NewcomerSTLouis.com

Click here to go to NewcomerSTLouis for Obituary, Guestbook, Share Memories, Print Obituary

 

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

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

 

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

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED September 23 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 309.9 - BRIDGE MAINTENANCE
Hannibal Railroad Drawbridge; Due to replacement of rail ties on the drawbridge, the drawbridge will be maintained in the closed to navigation position beginning from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m., daily from September 21-25, 2020. A drawbridge opening is scheduled to occur around 3:00 p.m., daily, or there about, to clear navigation.

MILE 200.5 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until November 9, 2020, the Mel Price L/D 26 (auxiliary chamber) in the vicinity of Mile 200.5, is closed to navigation for repair. The main chamber is available to pass traffic, during this closure. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 200.5 - L/D RESTRICTION
The bullnose protection armor, for the lower long wall of the Mel Price L/D (main chamber) is experiencing deterioration. Continuing until further notice, all tows transiting the main lock are requested to stay off the lower long wall bullnose. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 194.0 - DREDGE OPERATION
Continuing until further notice, the USACE contract vessel M/V GRAND TOWER is conducting dredging operations in the vicinity of Mile 194.0, Upper Chain of Rocks Canal Entrance. Work will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., each day. The M/V GRAND TOWER will monitor VHF-FM Channel 13 and requests 30-minutes advance notice of passage. No channel closures are expected with this operation. Mariners are requested to transit the area at their slowest safe speed to minimize their wake and proceed with caution after passing arrangements have been made.

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.

ILLINOIS RIVER

MILE 271.5 - TEMPORARY L/D CLOSURES
Continuing until October 4, 2020, from 7:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., each day, the Dresden Island L/D in the vicinity of Mile 271.5, will be closed for maintenance. In addition, a 70-foot width restriction and no ability to pull unpowered barges, is in place.
MILE 244.6 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Marseilles L/D in the vicinity of Mile 244.6, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 231.0 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Starved Rock L/D in the vicinity of Mile 231.0, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 157.7 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 1, 2020, the Peoria L/D in the vicinity of Mile 157.7, will be closed for maintenance..
MILE 80.2 - L/D CLOSURE
 Continuing until October 13, 2020, the LaGrange L/D in the vicinity of Mile 80.2, will be closed for maintenance.

 

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

 on the Navigation Center Website

 

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

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

 


 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

 

 

Website..click here       Facebook Page..click here

 

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 7,315 members as of 09-26-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Nighttime Boating Safety

Brush Up On Missouri's Rules For Boating After Dark........

 

The weather is cooling off and the days are getting shorter, meaning the boating season is winding down.  There will still be plenty of opportunities to head out in the boat, as the weather will still be mild, but darkness may arrive before you can get back to the dock.

 

The Missouri State Highway Patrol notes that displaying the proper lights after dark is an important way to prevent accidents on the water. The light requirements are designed so boaters are able to see one another and can determine which way they are traveling.  The required navigation lights will vary based upon the type and size of your boat.  Their use is required between sunset and sunrise.

 

Missouri has a nighttime speed limit of 30 MPH, which goes into effect a half hour after sunset, and remains in effect until an hour before sunrise.  Dependent upon visibility, it may be wise to travel considerably slower than the 30 MPH speed limit........

 

Click here to read this article originally posted on lakeexpo.com. on May 25, 2018.  With Photos.

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Missouri Fishing News

Change To Rules Affect Live Bait Usage........

 

The Missouri Department of Conservation has announced that a definition for "invasive fish" has been added to the Wildlife Code of Missouri, and affects the types of fish that are allowed to be used as live bait. 

 

This definition includes bighead, silver, grass and common carp.  MDC Fisheries Programs Specialist Andrew Branson says that invasive fish are not native to Missouri and are getting to a level where they are affecting overall fish populations.

 

The invasive carp were imported to the United States for a variety of reasons and due to releases and escapes caused by flooding, they have spread to many lakes and rivers, where they eat native species' food.........

 

Click here to read this news report from hannibal.net.  With Photo

 

WWW.LONGSHOTMARINA.COM

 

Sat..Sept 27..David Caputo..3-7pm

Sun..Sept 28..Jonathon Baker Duo..3-7pm

 

Mike's LaRosa Cantina Bar Facebook..click here

 

River Journeys

Author Is Paddling The Rivers Across America........

 

Author Neil Moore says that he is on a trip of a lifetime, as he is traveling the length of 22 rivers in 22 states, from Astoria, Oregon to New York City in a canoe.  CNN and the Mark Twain Museum both labeled him as a modern day Huck Finn, however, Moore is traveling considerably farther than Huck Finn did.

 

Moore launched his canoe into the frigid waters of the Columbia River on February 9th, and aims to travel some 7,500 miles to arrive in the Upper Bay of the Hudson River around New Year's Day, 2022.

 

This week, Moore paddled his way across Missouri, ending up in St. Charles County.  Moore will be paddling down the Mississippi River with the goal of reaching New Orleans by Christmas. From there, he will skirt the Gulf of Mexico to Mobile, Alabama, where he will pick up the Tombigbee, Tennessee, Dix, Kentucky, Ohio and Allegheny Rivers.  He plans to arrive at Lake Erie prior to turning east along the Hudson River.........

 

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

River History....

 

26 September, 1916 in River History


Spark from a train passing underneath the Old St. Charles Bridge set it on fire, destroying the deck from the main spans. The Old St. Charles Bridge spans the Missouri River connecting St. Charles, Mo to St. Louis County, Mo

Boating Safety

Beware Of Open Air Carbon Monoxide Poisoning.........

 

Back in June, Cassi Free lost her young son following a day aboard their boat on Oklahoma's Lake Eufala to what ended up being open air carbon monoxide poisoning. 

 

9 year old Andy was the youngest of three boys who loved the lake.  After launching the boat on that fateful day, all of the kids took turns tubing, and six hours later, it was time to head home.  The adults were packing up, and the kids were soaking up the last moments aboard the boat.  Andy collapsed.

 

Paramedics performed CPR during the half hour ride to the hospital.  The boy was pronounced dead at the hospital.  Free's other boys began complaining about dizziness and fatigue.  It was suggested that perhaps carbon monoxide poisoning may have been the culprit.  Two tests and a medical examiner's report quickly revealed that all three boys were victims of open air carbon monoxide poisoning........

 

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

 

Boat Gear Manufacturer

Garmin Supplying Fusion Audio Systems To Manitou Pontoons........

 

Garmin recently announced that they will be supplying Fusion Entertainment audio systems for Manitou's 2021 model year.  The pontoon boat manufacturer offers Garmin ECHOMAPUHD 73sv and GPSMAPplotters across their entire lineup. 

 

For the 2021 model year, select models, including the Aurora LE, Oasis and Encore lines will feature factory-installed Fusion packages, with premium upgrades available on the Oasis and Encore models.

 

A major feature for consumers will be Fusion-Link, which will allow users to navigate music and source selections, volume and other controls using a smartphone........

 

Click here to read thsi news article from tradeonlytoday.com.  With Photos.

Missouri River Management

Legislators Call For Navigation Dredging........

 

This week, legislators along the Lower Missouri River penned a letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers calling for more dredging for navigation along the southern reaches of the Missouri River.

 

Missouri senators and congressmen, as well as senators from Iowa, Kansas and Nebraska wrote the Corps stating that the navigation situation along the Lower Missouri River has become dire, as serious barge accidents have occurred, and navigation has almost come to a halt as harvest season nears.

 

The legislators say that the current conditions and challenges affecting the navigation channel are mostly due to the previously constructed shallow water habitat chute projects and dike notches.  Combine that with the prior three years worth of flooding, which has left behind sediment that keeps the navigation structures from working properly........

 

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

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "March 2021" 

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

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

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

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

 

What's Going On This Week

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

 

Serving Wayne's Famous Kettle Chili

 

 

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

The Alton Marina is currently open for business but we are limited on our amenities. We are selling fuel and doing pump outs every Thursday to Sunday from the hours of 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.

We will have take out service in our Deli/Ship's Store starting June 13th. The Deli hours are Friday 3:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M....Saturday 9:00 A.M. until 6:00 P.M......Sunday 9:00 until 1:00 P.M.

We hope as the next few weeks progress we will be adding more and more of the everyday services we usually offer!

 

Please watch our website as we will post what is new each week.

Please be safe and God Bless All Of Us!!

KAREN AND THE CREW
 

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

Now Open For Lunch and Dinner

Wed - Sun

Closed Mon & Tue (Temporarily Through Sept)

 

Kitchen Hours

Wed & Thurs...11-9pm

Fri & Sat.........11-10pm

Sun.................11-9pm

 

We offer indoor / Outdoor Dinning, Carryout

Contact Free Curbside & Online Ordering

 

Check out our Daily Drink & Food Specials

Call (618) 433-8288 for Reservation

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 

Our last Thursday of the season

Blursday for our River family” Enterprise Island we have a surprise waiting

Friday Teddy and Paul on the deck 6-9

Saturday OGs Band fet: Stacy Collins

Sunday Mr Pat Liston @2

HALLOWEEN PARTY SATURDAY OCTOBER 24
Get ready it’s gonna be another big one..Riverstyle ..details coming soon.
Last weekend October 29

Preview of 2021 season You know Pool Side

 

Open Thur, Fri, Sat... 11am - 11pm,   Sun...11am-10pm

 

Fuel Dock and Ramp Now Open

 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

Website.... N/A
Email...... Boathouseontheriver@gmail.com
 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Update 06/06/2020

The Golden Eagle Ferry is open with regular operating hours of Monday-Thursday 5am to 9pm, Friday -Saturday 5am to 2am and Sunday 8am to 9pm.

The Grafton Ferry just opened at 10am today, 06/06/2020 The river levels have not been kind to us lately but today the river level is down just enough to get open.

The Golden Eagle Ferry, Grafton Ferry, Brussels State Ferry and the Kampsville State Ferry are all open so come aboard for a very beautiful and scenic ride on the river.

Thank You and Take Care,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

 

 

About
Social Yacht Club centered around the Alton Pool (Pool 26) of the Mississippi River, website is www.contriosyachtclub.org

Founding Date
1966

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

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

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

Sat.. Sept 26...

Car Show..11am-10pm.. click here

 

$1.50 can beers during all televised St. Louis Blues games!!


LET'S GO CARDS!!!
$1.50 can beers during all televised games!!

 

07-13-20

We will now have kitchen open until 10pm on Sundays until Further notice

 

1530 Highway J
Portage Des Sioux, Missouri 63373
(636) 899-1139

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi & Illinois Rivers

 

 

We have pontoon boat rentals available
2 hours: $195
4 hours: $295
8 hours: $488
Includes gas and tax!!
Call: 618-786-7678

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 


ARRR Ye Mateys! Set sail for a 2-hour cruise while enjoying some of our most popular rum drinks


We have Covid guidelines in place.
Please arrive 30 minutes early for all cruises.
23 passengers will be allowed on the lower level and 26 passengers will be allowed on the upper level. Temperatures will be taken and questions will be asked before everyone enters the boat. Social distancing guidelines will incur.

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

Check out Grafton's Event and Music

Calendar for Sep 22 thru Oct 6.... click here

 

 

Fall has arrived and our first weekend of Fall sees the return of the Riverside Flea Market at the Loading Dock, the 1 Year Anniversary of Riverbank Gifts and most importantly the Dedication Ceremony of the Turtle, Catfish & Frog Sculpture at Lighthouse Park on Sunday Sept. 27 at 3pm. Bring your chair and welcome Grafton's newest additions to the riverfront.

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

Sat...Sept 26th –– Hookie.. 7pm
Sun...Sept 27th – Graham Band.. 2pm

 

Open:

Tuesday - Thursday 11am-9pm

Friday and Saturday 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

08-22-20

Foundation work started

 

"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

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

 

Gated Entry and Video Security

Where the fish are bitin’ and the bugs aren’t!

Weekly Mosquito Control

 

 

Need to fill up for your weekend water activities? Stop by for 24/7 pump outs & fuel docks

 

Marina, Boat Service, Fuel

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

Welcome to Lewis Boats! We are a family owned and operated company that was established in 1993. Our focus is on building relationships by providing the best in products and services.


We have a CSI Award-winning service and parts department with over 175 years of combined experience in the marine industry to take care of all of your parts and service needs. We service Mercury, Mercruiser, Yamaha, Volvo Penta, and Honda Outboards.
We offer Barletta Boats, Sylvan Marine, Cypress Cay, and Crestliner pontoon boats, Phoenix bass boats, Crestliner aluminum fishing boats, Monterey sport boats, and Mercury, Mercruiser, and Yamaha outboard and sterndrives.


Whether you are looking for an aluminum fishing boat, performance pontoon, tournament ready fiberglass bass boat, or a crossover ski boat/ bowrider, our sales consultants will help you find the perfect boat for your family’s wants and needs.


It's no wonder we have been regarded as one of the largest and most trusted dealers in Missouri for more than 20 years. Come meet our dedicated boating staff and allow them to find the right boat or service for your family's needs.


We are conveniently located in between the Missouri Riverfront and Lake Saint Louis. Family owned and operated since 1993. Come in today and check us out!
As we like to say, you are not just buying a boat or getting service but becoming a member of the Lewis Boats Family!

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Rat Run Weekend
Fri, Sat, Sun..Oct 2,3,4

Click here for flyer


 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Sat..Sep 27..David Caputo..3-7pm

Sun..Sep 28..Jonathon Baker Duo..3-7pm

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 


Port Charles Harbor, A Full Service Marina Located On The Beautiful Mississippi River! 60 Ton Marine Travel Lift. 636.250.BOAT www.portcharlesharbor.com

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

 

Patio Open Thu - Sat.. 5-10pm

 

Store Hours: Sun..10-9, M-Th..10-10, Fri Sat..10-11

Order On-line

Click here for website and menus

 

Sat, Sept 26 at 4-8pm....

Classic Saturday Car Show.. click here

 

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

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

The 2021 Yamaha Boats are here with 14 new models. There’s an all-new 25-platform, new 25-foot wake boats, new 25-foot FSH center console boats, four new 21-foot boats, the expansion of our award-winning Drive Technology across the line, and tons more.

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 


 

 

Check out Fatboys Restaurant Facebook page.... click here

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

OUR FUEL DOCK IS OPEN & we now have 93 OCTANE with ValvTect!Diesel is also available.

THE SHOWERS& BATHROOMS in the BACK of the Rack Room are also open!!!

We hope to see all of you soon! Call 636.250.4547 to schedule your splash!!

Be safe & happy boating!

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

 

 

Yacht Club was tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on hgher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

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

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

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

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645 

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Open
Alton Marina Deli Open
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Open
Bluff City Grill ........................................ Open
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ Longshot Marina Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Open
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed for remodling
Mike's LaRosa@ Longshot Marina Open
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

FRIDAY

25 SEPTEMBER 2020

 

It's National Lobster Day
 A couple of favorite lobster recipes include Lobster Newberg and Lobster Thermidor. It is also the main ingredient in soup, bisque, lobster rolls and salads.

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Click pic to enlarge to full photo

 

The Picture of the Day....  by Capt'n Scott Tiemann

 

The ride home

from the Blursday Party

 

 

 

Open Thu, Fri, Sat & Sun

 

 

Our last Thursday of the season

Blursday for our River family” Enterprise Island we have a surprise waiting 

Friday Teddy and Paul on the deck 6-9

Saturday OGs Band fet: Stacy Collins

Sunday Mr Pat Liston @2

HALLOWEEN PARTY SATURDAY OCTOBER 24
Get ready it’s gonna be another big one.. Riverstyle ..details coming soon.

Last weekend October 29

Preview of 2021 season You know Pool Side.
 

 

 

Fuel Dock and Ramp Are Open

 

You Can Now Order Your Favorite Food and Drinks Through Our Online Ordering.

https://www.restaurantlogin.com/api/fb/z0q_xp


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

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

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryear's Picture on this Day

 

Spirit of Peoria Riverboat

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

YesterYears Picture on this Day in 2019.... were sent to us by Capt'n Brad Maher

 


RiverBill,
Spirit of Peoria headed into auxiliary chamber at Melvin Price on Tuesday.
Brad Maher
Alton Motorboat Club

 

Alton Marina

 

Click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Sat...Sept 26th –– Hookie.. 7pm
Sun...Sept 27th – Graham Band.. 2pm

 

Open Tue - Thurs 11am-9pm and Fri & Sat 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

Sad News

A Meinershagen Passed Away........

 

 

My brother, Al Meinershagen, passed away this morning, Thursday, September 24, 2020.  He was a river rat for 71 years. Thursday.

 

His son Lance and daughter Ashley were at his side when he passed.

 

Gary Meinershgen

 

 

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

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

 

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

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED September 23 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 309.9 - BRIDGE MAINTENANCE
Hannibal Railroad Drawbridge; Due to replacement of rail ties on the drawbridge, the drawbridge will be maintained in the closed to navigation position beginning from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m., daily from September 21-25, 2020. A drawbridge opening is scheduled to occur around 3:00 p.m., daily, or there about, to clear navigation.

MILE 200.5 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until November 9, 2020, the Mel Price L/D 26 (auxiliary chamber) in the vicinity of Mile 200.5, is closed to navigation for repair. The main chamber is available to pass traffic, during this closure. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 200.5 - L/D RESTRICTION
The bullnose protection armor, for the lower long wall of the Mel Price L/D (main chamber) is experiencing deterioration. Continuing until further notice, all tows transiting the main lock are requested to stay off the lower long wall bullnose. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 194.0 - DREDGE OPERATION
Continuing until further notice, the USACE contract vessel M/V GRAND TOWER is conducting dredging operations in the vicinity of Mile 194.0, Upper Chain of Rocks Canal Entrance. Work will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., each day. The M/V GRAND TOWER will monitor VHF-FM Channel 13 and requests 30-minutes advance notice of passage. No channel closures are expected with this operation. Mariners are requested to transit the area at their slowest safe speed to minimize their wake and proceed with caution after passing arrangements have been made.

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.

ILLINOIS RIVER

MILE 271.5 - TEMPORARY L/D CLOSURES
Continuing until October 4, 2020, from 7:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., each day, the Dresden Island L/D in the vicinity of Mile 271.5, will be closed for maintenance. In addition, a 70-foot width restriction and no ability to pull unpowered barges, is in place.
MILE 244.6 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Marseilles L/D in the vicinity of Mile 244.6, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 231.0 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Starved Rock L/D in the vicinity of Mile 231.0, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 157.7 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 1, 2020, the Peoria L/D in the vicinity of Mile 157.7, will be closed for maintenance..
MILE 80.2 - L/D CLOSURE
 Continuing until October 13, 2020, the LaGrange L/D in the vicinity of Mile 80.2, will be closed for maintenance.

 

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

 on the Navigation Center Website

 

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

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

 


 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

 

 

Website..click here       Facebook Page..click here

 

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 7,308 members as of 09-25-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Neal Moore Is In Pool 26

In the middle of a 2.5 yr, 7000+ mile journey across the country

From the Oregon Coast to NYC........

 

 

Reposted from RiverBills Boaters Group.. click here

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Mississippi River Near Hannibal, Missouri

Developers Considering Port Near Hannibal, Missouri........

 

A study is currently underway that will help establish a Marion and Ralls County, Missouri port authority.  Officials with the Hannibal Regional Economic Development Council say that they are asking for consulting services to help determine where a port would go if the counties were to establish a shared port authority.

 

The consultants would also propose a marketing plan for the planned port.  The results of that study are expected by mid-October.  Corey Mehaffy, the Hannibal Regional Economic Development Council Executive Director says that the study is intended to help planners avoid making mistakes in the planning process.

 

Mehaffy says that the ultimate goal for this port is to be part of the larger port statistical area around the Tri-State region.  Officials and business leaders from Missouri, Illinois and Iowa state that a network of ports would be a powerful economic driver for the region........

 

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

 

WWW.LONGSHOTMARINA.COM

 

Sat..Sept 27..David Caputo..3-7pm

Sun..Sept 28..Jonathon Baker Duo..3-7pm

 

Mike's LaRosa Cantina Bar Facebook..click here

 

Longshot Marina

Setting up for the Rat Run

October 2, 3 & 4

 

 

 

Click pic to enlarge

New stage and bar for the Rat Run 

 

 

RiverBill says... Thanks for the update Andy !

Longshot Marina

Setting up for the Rat Run

October 2, 3 & 4

Reprinted from RiverBills Boaters Group... click here

 

RiverBill says... Thanks for the update Mark !

Grafton Rendezvous 2020 Layout

October 17-18, 2020........

 

Reprinted from Grafton Rendezvous Facebook... click here

 

Mississippi River At Natchez, Mississippi

Bridge Inspector Rescued A Dog Stranded On The Bridge........

 

On Sunday, a bridge inspector was inspecting the U.S. 84 Westbound Bridge spanning the Mississippi River between Natchez, Mississippi and Vidalia, Louisiana, when he spotted a dog on the adjacent bridge, below the bridge deck - over 120 feet above the river.

 

Ryan Nataluk, the lead climber and rescue technician for the Stantec team called Police for assistance, and then climbed out to the distressed dog.  Nataluk assed the dog for injuries, fashioned it a harness out of rope, and then the mutt was pulled to safety.

 

An officer with the Natchez Police Department took the dog in for evaluation.  The officers on duty over the weekend were responsible for taking the dog in........

 

Click here to read this news story from wlox.com.  With Photo and Video.

 

Lower Mississippi River

Corps Calls For Comments On $2 Billion Levee Project........

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has announced 2 virtual public meetings to discuss their environmental assessment of a $2 billion plan for raising levees and building stronger flood walls along the Mississippi River, from Missouri to the Gulf of Mexico.  The majority of the projects are planned near New Orleans and Baton Rouge.

 

The proposed upgrades have been included in a draft supplemental environmental impact statement,  This draft amends a 1976 environmental statement issued supporting improvements to the Corps' Mississippi River and Tributaries project.

 

The new project, which is still in the planning phase, is divided into 143 projects in seven states.  92 of the projects, at a cost of 1.6 billion are in Louisiana, and include raising over 140 miles of levees up to three feet and replacing nearly 8 miles of floodwalls with taller and stronger walls........

 

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

 

Boating News

Sea Tow Reports Increase In Boaters On The Water........

 

With this year's COVID-19 outbreak, social distancing has become priority number one, and as a result, many people are taking a natural approach and hitting the water aboard their boats.

 

The boating industry reported record numbers throughout the summer season, from sales and on-water traffic to call for assistance on the water.  Sea Tow International reports that between Memorial Day Week through Labor Day weekend, calls for assistance increased 34 percent compared to 2019.

 

The top five services Sea Tow provided included:

○  Towing (58%)
○  Ungroundings (9%)
○  Jump starts (8%)
○  Fuel Delivery (8%)
○  Dock-to-dock tows (8%)

 

Click here to read more from boatingindustry.com.

 

Boat Manufacturer

Hinckley Introducing New Outboard-Powered 35........

 

Hinckley has announced that they are adding a 35 foot outboard powered boat to their lineup.  The new boat is slated to debut next summer.  The company called on Michael Peters Yacht Design to create a special hull designed specifically for the twin Mercury or Yamaha 300 HP outboards.

 

Scott Bryant, head of Hinckley's sales and marketing says that the 35 represents a new chapter in the company's extraordinary history.  The new boat's design and construction offers new levels of speed, safety and strength.

 

Outside of the Sport Boat line, this is the first outboard powered Hinckley.  The boat is reminiscent of the Picnic Boat, however, it falls into it's own category........

 

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

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "March 2021" 

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

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

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

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

 

What's Going On This Week

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

 

Serving Wayne's Famous Kettle Chili

 

 

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

The Alton Marina is currently open for business but we are limited on our amenities. We are selling fuel and doing pump outs every Thursday to Sunday from the hours of 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.

We will have take out service in our Deli/Ship's Store starting June 13th. The Deli hours are Friday 3:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M....Saturday 9:00 A.M. until 6:00 P.M......Sunday 9:00 until 1:00 P.M.

We hope as the next few weeks progress we will be adding more and more of the everyday services we usually offer!

 

Please watch our website as we will post what is new each week.

Please be safe and God Bless All Of Us!!

KAREN AND THE CREW
 

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

Now Open For Lunch and Dinner

Wed - Sun

Closed Mon & Tue (Temporarily Through Sept)

 

Kitchen Hours

Wed & Thurs...11-9pm

Fri & Sat.........11-10pm

Sun.................11-9pm

 

We offer indoor / Outdoor Dinning, Carryout

Contact Free Curbside & Online Ordering

 

Check out our Daily Drink & Food Specials

Call (618) 433-8288 for Reservation

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 

Our last Thursday of the season

Blursday for our River family” Enterprise Island we have a surprise waiting

Friday Teddy and Paul on the deck 6-9

Saturday OGs Band fet: Stacy Collins

Sunday Mr Pat Liston @2

HALLOWEEN PARTY SATURDAY OCTOBER 24
Get ready it’s gonna be another big one..Riverstyle ..details coming soon.
Last weekend October 29

Preview of 2021 season You know Pool Side

 

Open Thur, Fri, Sat... 11am - 11pm,   Sun...11am-10pm

 

Fuel Dock and Ramp Now Open

 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

Website.... N/A
Email...... Boathouseontheriver@gmail.com
 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Update 06/06/2020

The Golden Eagle Ferry is open with regular operating hours of Monday-Thursday 5am to 9pm, Friday -Saturday 5am to 2am and Sunday 8am to 9pm.

The Grafton Ferry just opened at 10am today, 06/06/2020 The river levels have not been kind to us lately but today the river level is down just enough to get open.

The Golden Eagle Ferry, Grafton Ferry, Brussels State Ferry and the Kampsville State Ferry are all open so come aboard for a very beautiful and scenic ride on the river.

Thank You and Take Care,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

 

 

About
Social Yacht Club centered around the Alton Pool (Pool 26) of the Mississippi River, website is www.contriosyachtclub.org

Founding Date
1966

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

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

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

Sat.. Sept 26...

Car Show..11am-10pm.. click here

 

$1.50 can beers during all televised St. Louis Blues games!!


LET'S GO CARDS!!!
$1.50 can beers during all televised games!!

 

07-13-20

We will now have kitchen open until 10pm on Sundays until Further notice

 

1530 Highway J
Portage Des Sioux, Missouri 63373
(636) 899-1139

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi & Illinois Rivers

 

 

We have pontoon boat rentals available
2 hours: $195
4 hours: $295
8 hours: $488
Includes gas and tax!!
Call: 618-786-7678

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 


ARRR Ye Mateys! Set sail for a 2-hour cruise while enjoying some of our most popular rum drinks


We have Covid guidelines in place.
Please arrive 30 minutes early for all cruises.
23 passengers will be allowed on the lower level and 26 passengers will be allowed on the upper level. Temperatures will be taken and questions will be asked before everyone enters the boat. Social distancing guidelines will incur.

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

Check out Grafton's Event and Music

Calendar for Sep 22 thru Oct 6.... click here

 

 

Fall has arrived and our first weekend of Fall sees the return of the Riverside Flea Market at the Loading Dock, the 1 Year Anniversary of Riverbank Gifts and most importantly the Dedication Ceremony of the Turtle, Catfish & Frog Sculpture at Lighthouse Park on Sunday Sept. 27 at 3pm. Bring your chair and welcome Grafton's newest additions to the riverfront.

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

Sat...Sept 26th –– Hookie.. 7pm
Sun...Sept 27th – Graham Band.. 2pm

 

Open:

Tuesday - Thursday 11am-9pm

Friday and Saturday 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

08-22-20

Foundation work started

 

"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

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

 

Gated Entry and Video Security

Where the fish are bitin’ and the bugs aren’t!

Weekly Mosquito Control

 

 

Need to fill up for your weekend water activities? Stop by for 24/7 pump outs & fuel docks

 

Marina, Boat Service, Fuel

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

Welcome to Lewis Boats! We are a family owned and operated company that was established in 1993. Our focus is on building relationships by providing the best in products and services.


We have a CSI Award-winning service and parts department with over 175 years of combined experience in the marine industry to take care of all of your parts and service needs. We service Mercury, Mercruiser, Yamaha, Volvo Penta, and Honda Outboards.
We offer Barletta Boats, Sylvan Marine, Cypress Cay, and Crestliner pontoon boats, Phoenix bass boats, Crestliner aluminum fishing boats, Monterey sport boats, and Mercury, Mercruiser, and Yamaha outboard and sterndrives.


Whether you are looking for an aluminum fishing boat, performance pontoon, tournament ready fiberglass bass boat, or a crossover ski boat/ bowrider, our sales consultants will help you find the perfect boat for your family’s wants and needs.


It's no wonder we have been regarded as one of the largest and most trusted dealers in Missouri for more than 20 years. Come meet our dedicated boating staff and allow them to find the right boat or service for your family's needs.


We are conveniently located in between the Missouri Riverfront and Lake Saint Louis. Family owned and operated since 1993. Come in today and check us out!
As we like to say, you are not just buying a boat or getting service but becoming a member of the Lewis Boats Family!

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Rat Run Weekend
Fri, Sat, Sun..Oct 2,3,4

Click here for flyer


 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Sat..Sep 27..David Caputo..3-7pm

Sun..Sep 28..Jonathon Baker Duo..3-7pm

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 


Port Charles Harbor, A Full Service Marina Located On The Beautiful Mississippi River! 60 Ton Marine Travel Lift. 636.250.BOAT www.portcharlesharbor.com

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

 

Patio Open Thu - Sat.. 5-10pm

 

Store Hours: Sun..10-9, M-Th..10-10, Fri Sat..10-11

Order On-line

Click here for website and menus

 

Sat, Sept 26 at 4-8pm....

Classic Saturday Car Show.. click here

 

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

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

The 2021 Yamaha Boats are here with 14 new models. There’s an all-new 25-platform, new 25-foot wake boats, new 25-foot FSH center console boats, four new 21-foot boats, the expansion of our award-winning Drive Technology across the line, and tons more.

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 


 

 

Check out Fatboys Restaurant Facebook page.... click here

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

OUR FUEL DOCK IS OPEN & we now have 93 OCTANE with ValvTect!Diesel is also available.

THE SHOWERS& BATHROOMS in the BACK of the Rack Room are also open!!!

We hope to see all of you soon! Call 636.250.4547 to schedule your splash!!

Be safe & happy boating!

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

 

 

Yacht Club was tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on hgher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

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

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

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

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645 

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Open
Alton Marina Deli Open
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Open
Bluff City Grill ........................................ Open
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ Longshot Marina Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Open
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed for remodling
Mike's LaRosa@ Longshot Marina Open
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

THURSDAY

24 SEPTEMBER 2020

 

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

 

The Picture of the Day....  by Mart McKay

 

Setting sun in Alton, Illinois tonight (09-23-20)

 

 

RiverBill says... What a great photo Marty !

Thanks for letting us re-post it.

 

Check out more of Marty's work on her Facebook page ... click here

 

Open Thu, Fri, Sat & Sun

 

 

Our last Thursday of the season

Blursday for our River family” Enterprise Island we have a surprise waiting 

Friday Teddy and Paul on the deck 6-9

Saturday OGs Band fet: Stacy Collins

Sunday Mr Pat Liston @2

HALLOWEEN PARTY SATURDAY OCTOBER 24
Get ready it’s gonna be another big one.. Riverstyle ..details coming soon.

Last weekend October 29

Preview of 2021 season You know Pool Side.
 

 

 

Fuel Dock and Ramp Are Open

 

You Can Now Order Your Favorite Food and Drinks Through Our Online Ordering.

https://www.restaurantlogin.com/api/fb/z0q_xp


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

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

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryear's Picture on this Day

 

Hoppies Marina

Mississippi River at Kimmswick, Mo

click pic to enlarge

 

YesterYears Picture on this Day in 2019.... was sent to us by Claudia Burris who hails out of Hoppies Marina in Kimmswick, Mo....

 

Hi Bill,

These “Loopers” began their journey on Mother’s Day and are now headed home to Tennessee.

 

It was just another beautiful day on the river!
Claudia Burris
Hoppies Marina Correspondent

Alton Marina

 

Click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Sat...Sept 26th –– Hookie.. 7pm
Sun...Sept 27th – Graham Band.. 2pm

 

Open Tue - Thurs 11am-9pm and Fri & Sat 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

Sad News

A Meinershagen Passed Away........

 

 

My brother, Al Meinershagen, passed away this morning, Thursday, September 24, 2020.  He was a river rat for 71 years. Thursday.

 

His son Lance and daughter Ashley were at his side when he passed.

 

Gary Meinershgen

 

 

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

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

 

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

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED September 23 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 309.9 - BRIDGE MAINTENANCE
Hannibal Railroad Drawbridge; Due to replacement of rail ties on the drawbridge, the drawbridge will be maintained in the closed to navigation position beginning from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m., daily from September 21-25, 2020. A drawbridge opening is scheduled to occur around 3:00 p.m., daily, or there about, to clear navigation.

MILE 200.5 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until November 9, 2020, the Mel Price L/D 26 (auxiliary chamber) in the vicinity of Mile 200.5, is closed to navigation for repair. The main chamber is available to pass traffic, during this closure. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 200.5 - L/D RESTRICTION
The bullnose protection armor, for the lower long wall of the Mel Price L/D (main chamber) is experiencing deterioration. Continuing until further notice, all tows transiting the main lock are requested to stay off the lower long wall bullnose. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 194.0 - DREDGE OPERATION
Continuing until further notice, the USACE contract vessel M/V GRAND TOWER is conducting dredging operations in the vicinity of Mile 194.0, Upper Chain of Rocks Canal Entrance. Work will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., each day. The M/V GRAND TOWER will monitor VHF-FM Channel 13 and requests 30-minutes advance notice of passage. No channel closures are expected with this operation. Mariners are requested to transit the area at their slowest safe speed to minimize their wake and proceed with caution after passing arrangements have been made.

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.

ILLINOIS RIVER

MILE 271.5 - TEMPORARY L/D CLOSURES
Continuing until October 4, 2020, from 7:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., each day, the Dresden Island L/D in the vicinity of Mile 271.5, will be closed for maintenance. In addition, a 70-foot width restriction and no ability to pull unpowered barges, is in place.
MILE 244.6 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Marseilles L/D in the vicinity of Mile 244.6, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 231.0 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Starved Rock L/D in the vicinity of Mile 231.0, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 157.7 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 1, 2020, the Peoria L/D in the vicinity of Mile 157.7, will be closed for maintenance..
MILE 80.2 - L/D CLOSURE
 Continuing until October 13, 2020, the LaGrange L/D in the vicinity of Mile 80.2, will be closed for maintenance.

 

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

 on the Navigation Center Website

 

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

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

 


 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

 

 

Website..click here       Facebook Page..click here

 

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 7,306 members as of 09-23-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

 

Mississippi River At Grafton, Illinois

Grafton Dedicating Riverfront Sculptures Sunday........

 

At 3 pm Sunday, September 27, 2020, the Grafton Park Committee will be hosting an event to dedicate the newest residents of the Grafton riverfront, the sculptures of a Turtle, a frog and two catfish.

 

The concrete sculptures were created by Kurt Knickmeyer, Bobbie Heinemann and Rick Fortner, who are known for their work in the City Museum in St. Louis, as well as at the small turtle park across from the St. Louis Zoo.

 

This event will coincide with the first Riverside Flea Market of the year in Grafton.  The popular event had not been held this year due to COVID-19 concerns.  The Flea Market will be returning from 9 am to 5 pm at The Loading Dock in Grafton........

 

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

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Mississippi River At Hannibal, Missouri

Down By The River Returning On Friday.........

 

On Friday, live music will be returning to the Hannibal riverfront as the annual tradition of the Y'Men's Club Down By the River event is held to support the Hannibal YMCA. 

 

David Vance, the Down By the River chairman said that the event was originally scheduled for May, but was postponed by the COVID-19 outbreak.  It was put off again after a pop-up rainstorm flooded the Y'Men's Pavilion and damaged some of the sound equipment.

 

The weather forecast for Friday, September 25th looks promising, and at 5 PM, Dr. Zhivegas is set to perform at the Y'Men's Pavilion.  This year is the seventh year for the event........

 

Click here to read this news tidbit from hannibal.net.  With Photo.

 

WWW.LONGSHOTMARINA.COM

 

Sat..Sept 27..David Caputo..3-7pm

Sun..Sept 28..Jonathon Baker Duo..3-7pm

 

Mike's LaRosa Cantina Bar Facebook..click here

 

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

Check out Grafton's Event and Music

Calendar for Sep 22 thru Oct 6.... click here

 

Fall has arrived and our first weekend of Fall sees the return of the Riverside Flea Market at the Loading Dock, the 1 Year Anniversary of Riverbank Gifts and most importantly the Dedication Ceremony of the Turtle, Catfish & Frog Sculpture at Lighthouse Park on Sunday Sept. 27 at 3pm. Bring your chair and welcome Grafton's newest additions to the riverfront.

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Missouri Department of Conservation

Regulation Change......

 


Reprinted from the Missouri Department of Conservation.... click here

 

Water Temperature Is Cooling Down

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

 

Graph courtesy US Army Corps of Engineers

 

 

August 25, 2020...........83 Degrees

September 23, 2020.....71 Degrees

 

Hannibal Marina Update

Pool 22 of Mississippi River

 

Some docks have made the haul back on site.
Alan Bowen

 

 

Reprinted from Hannibal marina Facebook... click here

Upcoming Event....Saturday, October 17, 2020

Con Trios Yacht Club

Membership Meeting

Our Lady of the Rivers....

 

Reprinted from Con Trios Yacht Club Facebook... click here

 

River History....

24 September 2009 in River History

 

The Illinois Department of Transportation received a $1.76 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation for a new push boat and vehicle barge for the Brussels Ferry to replace 12-vehicale car barge that was built in 1979.


The new push boat was named "Liberty Belle".

Boat Propulsion Manufacturer

Sportsman To Offer Mercury Outboards On Select Models........

 

Mercury Marine recently announced that Sportsman will be offering high horsepower Mercury outboard engines, including the 350 and 400 Verados, for the first time on nine models beginning on November 1.

 

Mercury Marine has been increasing their presence in key saltwater markets, and customers around the nation have been requesting higher horsepower and asking for Mercury outboards.

 

Not only Sportsman and their dealers, but many other key saltwater OEM's are now beginning to offer their customers the chance to experience the power and reliability of Mercury outboards........

 

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

 

Click here to visit the Sportsman Boats website

Click here to visit the Mercury Marine website.

 

U.S. Cruise News

Cruise Lines To Test Passengers Prior To Boarding........

 

Once they resume sailing, United States cruise lines report that they will test all passengers for COVID-19 before being allowed to board the ship.  Cruise lines will also require passengers and crew to wear masks while onboard whenever physical distancing can't be maintained.

 

This new safety policy will allow for limited shore excursions with masks on, but passengers that do not comply will not be allowed to board the ship again.

 

At this time, no dates have been set for the resumption of cruising in the U.S., the Caribbean and Mexico. The CDC has a "no sail order" in effect for U.S. waters running through the end of September........

 

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

 

Lake Of The Ozarks

LOMDA In-Water Boat Sow This Weekend.........

 

This weekend, Captain Ron's Bar & Grill will be hosting the Lake of the Ozarks Fall In-Water Boat Show and Clearance Sale.  Boaters will be able to shop more than 100 boats including cruisers, performance boats, personal watercraft and runabouts. There is a good selection of pre-owned boats as well.

 

The Fall In-Water Boat Show features year-end clearance pricing as well as the chance to enjoy boat shopping in fall weather..  The show will run:

 

○  Friday, Sept. 25: 1pm – 7pm
○  Saturday, Sept. 26: 10am – 7pm
○  Sunday, Sept. 27: 10am – 4pm

 

Click here to read more from lakeexpo.com.

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "March 2021" 

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

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

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

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

 

What's Going On This Week

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

 

Serving Wayne's Famous Kettle Chili

 

 

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

The Alton Marina is currently open for business but we are limited on our amenities. We are selling fuel and doing pump outs every Thursday to Sunday from the hours of 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.

We will have take out service in our Deli/Ship's Store starting June 13th. The Deli hours are Friday 3:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M....Saturday 9:00 A.M. until 6:00 P.M......Sunday 9:00 until 1:00 P.M.

We hope as the next few weeks progress we will be adding more and more of the everyday services we usually offer!

 

Please watch our website as we will post what is new each week.

Please be safe and God Bless All Of Us!!

KAREN AND THE CREW
 

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

Now Open For Lunch and Dinner

Wed - Sun

Closed Mon & Tue (Temporarily Through Sept)

 

Kitchen Hours

Wed & Thurs...11-9pm

Fri & Sat.........11-10pm

Sun.................11-9pm

 

We offer indoor / Outdoor Dinning, Carryout

Contact Free Curbside & Online Ordering

 

Check out our Daily Drink & Food Specials

Call (618) 433-8288 for Reservation

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 

Our last Thursday of the season

Blursday for our River family” Enterprise Island we have a surprise waiting

Friday Teddy and Paul on the deck 6-9

Saturday OGs Band fet: Stacy Collins

Sunday Mr Pat Liston @2

HALLOWEEN PARTY SATURDAY OCTOBER 24
Get ready it’s gonna be another big one..Riverstyle ..details coming soon.
Last weekend October 29

Preview of 2021 season You know Pool Side

 

Open Thur, Fri, Sat... 11am - 11pm,   Sun...11am-10pm

 

Fuel Dock and Ramp Now Open

 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

Website.... N/A
Email...... Boathouseontheriver@gmail.com
 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Update 06/06/2020

The Golden Eagle Ferry is open with regular operating hours of Monday-Thursday 5am to 9pm, Friday -Saturday 5am to 2am and Sunday 8am to 9pm.

The Grafton Ferry just opened at 10am today, 06/06/2020 The river levels have not been kind to us lately but today the river level is down just enough to get open.

The Golden Eagle Ferry, Grafton Ferry, Brussels State Ferry and the Kampsville State Ferry are all open so come aboard for a very beautiful and scenic ride on the river.

Thank You and Take Care,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

 

 

About
Social Yacht Club centered around the Alton Pool (Pool 26) of the Mississippi River, website is www.contriosyachtclub.org

Founding Date
1966

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

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

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

Sat.. Sept 26...

Car Show..11am-10pm.. click here

 

$1.50 can beers during all televised St. Louis Blues games!!


LET'S GO CARDS!!!
$1.50 can beers during all televised games!!

 

07-13-20

We will now have kitchen open until 10pm on Sundays until Further notice

 

1530 Highway J
Portage Des Sioux, Missouri 63373
(636) 899-1139

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi & Illinois Rivers

 

 

We have pontoon boat rentals available
2 hours: $195
4 hours: $295
8 hours: $488
Includes gas and tax!!
Call: 618-786-7678

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 


ARRR Ye Mateys! Set sail for a 2-hour cruise while enjoying some of our most popular rum drinks


We have Covid guidelines in place.
Please arrive 30 minutes early for all cruises.
23 passengers will be allowed on the lower level and 26 passengers will be allowed on the upper level. Temperatures will be taken and questions will be asked before everyone enters the boat. Social distancing guidelines will incur.

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

Check out Grafton's Event and Music

Calendar for Sep 22 thru Oct 6.... click here

 

 

Fall has arrived and our first weekend of Fall sees the return of the Riverside Flea Market at the Loading Dock, the 1 Year Anniversary of Riverbank Gifts and most importantly the Dedication Ceremony of the Turtle, Catfish & Frog Sculpture at Lighthouse Park on Sunday Sept. 27 at 3pm. Bring your chair and welcome Grafton's newest additions to the riverfront.

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

Sat...Sept 26th –– Hookie.. 7pm
Sun...Sept 27th – Graham Band.. 2pm

 

Open:

Tuesday - Thursday 11am-9pm

Friday and Saturday 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

08-22-20

Foundation work started

 

"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

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

 

Gated Entry and Video Security

Where the fish are bitin’ and the bugs aren’t!

Weekly Mosquito Control

 

 

Need to fill up for your weekend water activities? Stop by for 24/7 pump outs & fuel docks

 

Marina, Boat Service, Fuel

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

Welcome to Lewis Boats! We are a family owned and operated company that was established in 1993. Our focus is on building relationships by providing the best in products and services.


We have a CSI Award-winning service and parts department with over 175 years of combined experience in the marine industry to take care of all of your parts and service needs. We service Mercury, Mercruiser, Yamaha, Volvo Penta, and Honda Outboards.
We offer Barletta Boats, Sylvan Marine, Cypress Cay, and Crestliner pontoon boats, Phoenix bass boats, Crestliner aluminum fishing boats, Monterey sport boats, and Mercury, Mercruiser, and Yamaha outboard and sterndrives.


Whether you are looking for an aluminum fishing boat, performance pontoon, tournament ready fiberglass bass boat, or a crossover ski boat/ bowrider, our sales consultants will help you find the perfect boat for your family’s wants and needs.


It's no wonder we have been regarded as one of the largest and most trusted dealers in Missouri for more than 20 years. Come meet our dedicated boating staff and allow them to find the right boat or service for your family's needs.


We are conveniently located in between the Missouri Riverfront and Lake Saint Louis. Family owned and operated since 1993. Come in today and check us out!
As we like to say, you are not just buying a boat or getting service but becoming a member of the Lewis Boats Family!

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Rat Run Weekend
Fri, Sat, Sun..Oct 2,3,4

Click here for flyer


 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Sat..Sep 27..David Caputo..3-7pm

Sun..Sep 28..Jonathon Baker Duo..3-7pm

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 


Port Charles Harbor, A Full Service Marina Located On The Beautiful Mississippi River! 60 Ton Marine Travel Lift. 636.250.BOAT www.portcharlesharbor.com

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

 

Patio Open Thu - Sat.. 5-10pm

 

Store Hours: Sun..10-9, M-Th..10-10, Fri Sat..10-11

Order On-line

Click here for website and menus

 

Sat, Sept 26 at 4-8pm....

Classic Saturday Car Show.. click here

 

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

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

The 2021 Yamaha Boats are here with 14 new models. There’s an all-new 25-platform, new 25-foot wake boats, new 25-foot FSH center console boats, four new 21-foot boats, the expansion of our award-winning Drive Technology across the line, and tons more.

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 


 

 

Check out Fatboys Restaurant Facebook page.... click here

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

OUR FUEL DOCK IS OPEN & we now have 93 OCTANE with ValvTect!Diesel is also available.

THE SHOWERS& BATHROOMS in the BACK of the Rack Room are also open!!!

We hope to see all of you soon! Call 636.250.4547 to schedule your splash!!

Be safe & happy boating!

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

 

 

Yacht Club was tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on hgher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

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

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

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

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645 

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Open
Alton Marina Deli Open
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Open
Bluff City Grill ........................................ Open
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ Longshot Marina Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Open
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed for remodling
Mike's LaRosa@ Longshot Marina Open
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

WEDNESDAY

23 SEPTEMBER 2020

 

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Near Woodland Marina

 

 

 

The Picture of the Day....  Was sent to us by Robyn McPherson

 

My Happy Place, being on the river.

There's nothing else like it.

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

At Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

 

 

The Picture of the Day....  Was posted by Mark Newlin

 

What a peaceful sunrise. Sat by ramp drinking coffee watching.

 

RiverBill says... Great shot Mark. Thanks for letting us repost it

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

At Mike's LaRosa Cantina

 

 

 

The Picture of the Day....  Was sent to us by Becky Dallwitz of Mikes LaRosa Cantina at Longshot Marina.

 

Pirate Parade last Saturday

 

Open Thu, Fri, Sat & Sun

 

Fuel Dock and Ramp Are Open

 

You Can Now Order Your Favorite Food and Drinks Through Our Online Ordering.

https://www.restaurantlogin.com/api/fb/z0q_xp


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

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

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryear's Picture on this Day

 

Hoppies Marina

Mississippi River at Kimmswick, Mo

 

click pic to enlarge

 

YesterYears Picture on this Day in 2019.... was sent to us by Claudia Burris who hails out of Hoppies Marina in Kimmswick, Mo....

 

Hi Bill,


Ray from Hoppies Marina assists Dave and Kate from New Bern, North Carolina, who are doing the Great Loop on their 32-foot Nordic Tug.


See you on the river!


Claudia Burris
Hoppies Marina Correspondent

 

Alton Marina

 

Click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Sat...Sept 26th –– Hookie.. 7pm
Sun...Sept 27th – Graham Band.. 2pm

 

Open Tue - Thurs 11am-9pm and Fri & Sat 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

 

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

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

 

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

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED September 16, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 309.9 - BRIDGE MAINTENANCE
Hannibal Railroad Drawbridge; Due to replacement of rail ties on the drawbridge, the drawbridge will be maintained in the closed to navigation position beginning from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m., daily from September 21-25, 2020. A drawbridge opening is scheduled to occur around 3:00 p.m., daily, or there about, to clear navigation.

MILE 200.5 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until November 9, 2020, the Mel Price L/D 26 (auxiliary chamber) in the vicinity of Mile 200.5, is closed to navigation for repair. The main chamber is available to pass traffic, during this closure. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 200.5 - L/D RESTRICTION
The bullnose protection armor, for the lower long wall of the Mel Price L/D (main chamber) is experiencing deterioration. Continuing until further
notice, all tows transiting the main lock are requested to stay off the lower long wall bullnose. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special
instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 194.0 - DREDGE OPERATION
Continuing until further notice, the USACE contract vessel M/V GRAND TOWER is conducting dredging operations in the vicinity of Mile 194.0, Upper Chain of Rocks Canal Entrance. Work will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., each day. The M/V GRAND TOWER will monitor VHF-FM Channel 13 and requests 30-minutes advance notice of passage. No channel closures are expected with this operation. Mariners are requested to transit the area at their slowest safe speed to minimize their wake and proceed with caution after passing arrangements have been made.

MILE 185.5 - L/D CLOSURE
On September 18, 2020, from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., L/D 27 (main and auxiliary chambers) in the vicinity of Mile 185.5, will be closed for maintenance. All navigation interests 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.

ILLINOIS RIVER

MILE 271.5 - TEMPORARY L/D CLOSURES
Continuing until October 4, 2020, from 7:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., each day, the Dresden Island L/D in the vicinity of Mile 271.5, will be closed for maintenance. In addition, a 70-foot width restriction and no ability to pull unpowered barges, is in place.
MILE 244.6 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Marseilles L/D in the vicinity of Mile 244.6, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 231.0 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Starved Rock L/D in the vicinity of Mile 231.0, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 157.7 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 1, 2020, the Peoria L/D in the vicinity of Mile 157.7, will be closed for maintenance..
MILE 80.2 - L/D CLOSURE
 Continuing until October 13, 2020, the LaGrange L/D in the vicinity of Mile 80.2, will be closed for maintenance.

 

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

 on the Navigation Center Website

 

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

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

 


 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

 

 

Website..click here       Facebook Page..click here

 

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 7,303 members as of 09-23-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Metro East Levees

Levee District's Cat Program On Hold........

 

A miscommunication between Madison County, the Wood River Drainage and Levee District and the Metro East Humane Society has put a stop to a proposed plan for using cats to control burrowing rodent populations along the levees.

 

A news release was issued last week announcing that the cat program would be returning, however, the head of the Humane Society stated that this is not true. 

 

The previous program to use feral cats to control burrowing rodent populations was disbanded back in January when new leadership took over the Wood River Levee District.  It was believed that the cat program would be resumed, however, Metro East Humane Society Executive Director Anne Schmidt says no........

 

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

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Boating Legislation

Senate Passed Boating And Fishing Conservation Measure........

 

The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed the America's Conservation Enhancement Act, which will reauthorize or establish several crucial wildlife conservation programs.

 

The legislation, which is supported by the recreational boating and fishing community, will now head to the U.S. House of Representatives for consideration.  the NMMA is calling on legislators to approve the measure.

 

The ACE Act helps conserve wildlife via the reauthorization of the North American Wetlands Conservation Act and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Establishment Act, as well as addressing emerging wildlife diseases such as chronic wasting disease........

 

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

 

WWW.LONGSHOTMARINA.COM

 

Sat..Sept 27..David Caputo..3-7pm

Sun..Sept 28..Jonathon Baker Duo..3-7pm

 

Mike's LaRosa Cantina Bar Facebook..click here

 

Longshot Marina

New Rat Run Bar...

 

 

 

The new bar for the upcoming Rat Run on Oct 2, 3 & 4 is getting set up at Longshot Marina !

 

Becky Dallwitz

Yacht Club of St. Louis

dardenne Slough of Pool 26 of the Mississippi River...

 

 

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

 

Upcoming Event....Saturday, October 17, 2020

Two Rivers Marina

Pool 24 of the Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo...

 

 

 

Reprinted from Two Rivers Marina Facebook... click here

 

Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center

Up the Illinois River past Grafton, IL...

 

 

 

Reprinted from Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center Facebook... click here

 

 

 

 

River History....

 

September 23, 1993 in River History
 

The USS Inaugural sank.
The World War II Navy minesweeper was a floating attraction on the St. Louis riverfront from 1968 to 1993 sank on this day after it was pulled from its mooring during the 1993 flood. The ship was rescued and tied temporarily to a barge south of downtown St. Louis when it suddenly rolled and sank on Sept. 23, 1993

Marine Jobs

Surroundings Trade Only....

 

A few of the jobs listed this week include:

~ Marine District Sales Manager- Suzuki
~ Florida Sales & Technical Representatives- Propspeed
~ General Manager opportunity in San Diego-West Marine

 

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

 

Boating News

Coast Guard Seeking Input On Shallow Draft Waterways.........

 

The U.S. Coast Guard has announced that they will be conducting a Waterways Analysis and Management System Study on the Shallow Draft System, which applies to waterways less than 12 feet deep.

 

The survey will allow the Coast Guard to update their policies and to make the navigable waterways of the United States safer and more efficient.  The survey will remain open through November 1st and the NMMA is calling on recreational boaters to participate.

 

The nation's waterways have become more congested and complex, and to address those changes, the Coast Guard will consider feedback from local maritime partners and stakeholders that operate on the affected waterways........

 

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

 

River Lifestyles

Four Generations Of Burnetts Have Been Rivermen........

 

When Ancel Burnett climbed aboard the Federal Barge Line Str. Illinois at Boonville, Missouri, he had no idea that he was starting a family tradition that would last for four generations so far.

 

Ancel's son, Dan was fascinated by his father's work and grew up riding the boats, listening to the river stories and steering the boat when he got the chance. After graduating high school, Dan joined the family business, eventually starting his own tow company. 

 

Dan's son Bill followed in his father's footsteps, eventually working as a harbor pilot in St. Louis prior to leaving the river for a lucrative career in insurance.  Fast forward 20-odd years, and Bill's stepson, Lafayette became a river cook aboard the Blake Denton, making him the fourth generation of the Burnett family to become rivermen.........

 

Click here to read this news story from waterwaysjournal.net.  With Photo.

 

Mississippi River Education

Upper Mississippi River Conference Has Shifted To On-Line Format........

 

River Action Inc.'s annual in-person Upper Mississippi River Conference has been cancelled due to the COVID-19 outbreak, however, organizers are still offering an opportunity to get the latest information on water issues.

 

There will be hour-long webinars featuring many of the speakers that would have been at the conference being offered throughout October and November.  The webinars will offer live question-and-answer sessions with the speakers as well.

 

Webinar registration is $10 per webinar, or three for $25 at riveraction.org.  Continuing Education Certificates will be available following the webinar, if chosen during registration........

 

Click here to read more from qctimes.com.

 

News Release From BoatUS


SPRINGFIELD, Va., Sept. 22, 2020 – Pretty soon, millions of recreational boats will be put into winter storage to await next year’s season. As they sit unattended for months, they can easily become a target for thieves. Will your boat be on a crook’s hit list? Here are five signs that may welcome a thief as well as simple things you can do to thwart them, from Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS).

 

1.  Leaving electronics aboard your boat mounted on a bracket over the winter is a sign that says “come take me.” Bring home any electronics that can be removed easily. For permanently installed electronics, take pictures and record model and serial numbers in case you need to file a claim or police report. If you want added protection, ask your insurer if it offers lower deductibles on claims made for electronics, the most common theft insurance claim during winter storage.


2.  Fishing gear, watersports equipment, expensive life jackets and other gear often get stolen with electronics. Bring them home, too, along with the boat’s registration. The title should never be stored aboard.


3.  You automatically make a crook’s target list if you have a PWC or an outboard-powered boat that is less than 26 feet and stored on a trailer – the most common types of vessels stolen. Florida, California and Texas (in that order) may be the top three states for boat theft, but if you live elsewhere, you’re not immune. If storing your boat at home on a trailer, arrange it so the tongue does not face the street for an easy getaway. Remove one wheel from an axle. Hitch receiver locks may also deter theft. PWCs should be stored inside a locked garage or secure storage facility.


4.  On sterndrive-powered motor boats, outdrives are targets for theft as they don’t take very long to remove and are expensive to replace. Consider removing the outdrive annually each fall at winter storage time and storing in a safe location, which can also allow for annual preventive maintenance such as a critical bellows inspection, a common cause of sinkings.


5.  Leaving a portable outboard on a small boat transom just begs a bad guy to come take it. Small outboards should always be removed and stored in a secure location, such as a locked garage or basement. Install a lock on larger outboards.


BoatUS offers additional ways to prevent off-season boat theft. If you’d like to compare your insurance policy coverage or get a free quote, go to BoatUS.com/Insurance.
 

###

 

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

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "March 2021" 

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

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

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

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

 

What's Going On This Week

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

 

Serving Wayne's Famous Kettle Chilli

 

 

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

The Alton Marina is currently open for business but we are limited on our amenities. We are selling fuel and doing pump outs every Thursday to Sunday from the hours of 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.

We will have take out service in our Deli/Ship's Store starting June 13th. The Deli hours are Friday 3:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M....Saturday 9:00 A.M. until 6:00 P.M......Sunday 9:00 until 1:00 P.M.

We hope as the next few weeks progress we will be adding more and more of the everyday services we usually offer!

 

Please watch our website as we will post what is new each week.

Please be safe and God Bless All Of Us!!

KAREN AND THE CREW
 

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

Now Open For Lunch and Dinner

Wed - Sun

Closed Mon & Tue (Temporarily Through Sept)

 

Kitchen Hours

Wed & Thurs...11-9pm

Fri & Sat.........11-10pm

Sun.................11-9pm

 

We offer indoor / Outdoor Dinning, Carryout

Contact Free Curbside & Online Ordering

 

Check out our Daily Drink & Food Specials

Call (618) 433-8288 for Reservation

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 

Open Thur, Fri, Sat... 11am - 11pm,   Sun...11am-10pm

 

Fuel Dock and Ramp Now Open

 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

Website.... N/A
Email...... Boathouseontheriver@gmail.com
 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Update 06/06/2020

The Golden Eagle Ferry is open with regular operating hours of Monday-Thursday 5am to 9pm, Friday -Saturday 5am to 2am and Sunday 8am to 9pm.

The Grafton Ferry just opened at 10am today, 06/06/2020 The river levels have not been kind to us lately but today the river level is down just enough to get open.

The Golden Eagle Ferry, Grafton Ferry, Brussels State Ferry and the Kampsville State Ferry are all open so come aboard for a very beautiful and scenic ride on the river.

Thank You and Take Care,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

 

 

About
Social Yacht Club centered around the Alton Pool (Pool 26) of the Mississippi River, website is www.contriosyachtclub.org

Founding Date
1966

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

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

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

Sat.. Sept 26...

Car Show..11am-10pm.. click here

 

$1.50 can beers during all televised St. Louis Blues games!!


LET'S GO CARDS!!!
$1.50 can beers during all televised games!!

 

07-13-20

We will now have kitchen open until 10pm on Sundays until Further notice

 

1530 Highway J
Portage Des Sioux, Missouri 63373
(636) 899-1139

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi & Illinois Rivers

 

 

We have pontoon boat rentals available
2 hours: $195
4 hours: $295
8 hours: $488
Includes gas and tax!!
Call: 618-786-7678

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 


ARRR Ye Mateys! Set sail for a 2-hour cruise while enjoying some of our most popular rum drinks


We have Covid guidelines in place.
Please arrive 30 minutes early for all cruises.
23 passengers will be allowed on the lower level and 26 passengers will be allowed on the upper level. Temperatures will be taken and questions will be asked before everyone enters the boat. Social distancing guidelines will incur.

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

Check out Grafton's Event and Music

Calendar for Sep 15 thru Sep 29 .... click here

 

 

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

Sat...Sept 26th –– Hookie.. 7pm
Sun...Sept 27th – Graham Band.. 2pm

 

Open:

Tuesday - Thursday 11am-9pm

Friday and Saturday 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

08-22-20

Foundation work started

 

"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

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

 

Gated Entry and Video Security

Where the fish are bitin’ and the bugs aren’t!

Weekly Mosquito Control

 

 

Need to fill up for your weekend water activities? Stop by for 24/7 pump outs & fuel docks

 

Marina, Boat Service, Fuel

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

Welcome to Lewis Boats! We are a family owned and operated company that was established in 1993. Our focus is on building relationships by providing the best in products and services.


We have a CSI Award-winning service and parts department with over 175 years of combined experience in the marine industry to take care of all of your parts and service needs. We service Mercury, Mercruiser, Yamaha, Volvo Penta, and Honda Outboards.
We offer Barletta Boats, Sylvan Marine, Cypress Cay, and Crestliner pontoon boats, Phoenix bass boats, Crestliner aluminum fishing boats, Monterey sport boats, and Mercury, Mercruiser, and Yamaha outboard and sterndrives.


Whether you are looking for an aluminum fishing boat, performance pontoon, tournament ready fiberglass bass boat, or a crossover ski boat/ bowrider, our sales consultants will help you find the perfect boat for your family’s wants and needs.


It's no wonder we have been regarded as one of the largest and most trusted dealers in Missouri for more than 20 years. Come meet our dedicated boating staff and allow them to find the right boat or service for your family's needs.


We are conveniently located in between the Missouri Riverfront and Lake Saint Louis. Family owned and operated since 1993. Come in today and check us out!
As we like to say, you are not just buying a boat or getting service but becoming a member of the Lewis Boats Family!

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Rat Run Weekend
Fri, Sat, Sun..Oct 2,3,4

Click here for flyer


 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Sat..Sep 27..David Caputo..3-7pm

Sun..Sep 28..Jonathon Baker Duo..3-7pm

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 


Port Charles Harbor, A Full Service Marina Located On The Beautiful Mississippi River! 60 Ton Marine Travel Lift. 636.250.BOAT www.portcharlesharbor.com

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

 

Patio Open Thu - Sat.. 5-10pm

 

Store Hours: Sun..10-9, M-Th..10-10, Fri Sat..10-11

Order On-line

Click here for website and menus

 

Sat, Sept 26 at 4-8pm....

Classic Saturday Car Show.. click here

 

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

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

The 2021 Yamaha Boats are here with 14 new models. There’s an all-new 25-platform, new 25-foot wake boats, new 25-foot FSH center console boats, four new 21-foot boats, the expansion of our award-winning Drive Technology across the line, and tons more.

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 


 

 

Check out Fatboys Restaurant Facebook page.... click here

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

OUR FUEL DOCK IS OPEN & we now have 93 OCTANE with ValvTect!Diesel is also available.

THE SHOWERS& BATHROOMS in the BACK of the Rack Room are also open!!!

We hope to see all of you soon! Call 636.250.4547 to schedule your splash!!

Be safe & happy boating!

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

 

 

Yacht Club was tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on hgher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

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

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

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

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645 

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Open
Alton Marina Deli Open
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Open
Bluff City Grill ........................................ Open
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ Longshot Marina Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Open
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed for remodling
Mike's LaRosa@ Longshot Marina Open
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

TUESDAY

22 SEPTEMBER 2020

 

The First Day Of Fall

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

The Picture of the Day....  Was taken Sunday evening

 

Sunset from the Point

At Woodland Marina

 

Open Thu, Fri, Sat & Sun

 

Fuel Dock and Ramp Are Open

 

You Can Now Order Your Favorite Food and Drinks Through Our Online Ordering.

https://www.restaurantlogin.com/api/fb/z0q_xp


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

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

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryear's Picture on this Day

 

Just Never Know Who You Run Into On The River

Mike's LaRosa

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

(L/R) It's RiverBill, Mary, Joe, Meagen and Matthew

click pic to enlarge

 

YesterYears Picture on this Day in 2019....

 

Mary and I just met Meagan and Matthew last Thursday evening at the Alzheimer's Luau and we run into them again on Sunday afternoon at Mike's La Rosa at My River Home.  And this time Meagen's father, Joe was with them !  They had just returned from a boat ride.

 

Alton Marina

 

Click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Sat...Sept 26th –– Hookie.. 7pm
Sun...Sept 27th – Graham Band.. 2pm

 

Open Tue - Thurs 11am-9pm and Fri & Sat 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

 

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

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

 

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

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED September 16, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 309.9 - BRIDGE MAINTENANCE
Hannibal Railroad Drawbridge; Due to replacement of rail ties on the drawbridge, the drawbridge will be maintained in the closed to navigation position beginning from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m., daily from September 21-25, 2020. A drawbridge opening is scheduled to occur around 3:00 p.m., daily, or there about, to clear navigation.

MILE 200.5 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until November 9, 2020, the Mel Price L/D 26 (auxiliary chamber) in the vicinity of Mile 200.5, is closed to navigation for repair. The main chamber is available to pass traffic, during this closure. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 200.5 - L/D RESTRICTION
The bullnose protection armor, for the lower long wall of the Mel Price L/D (main chamber) is experiencing deterioration. Continuing until further
notice, all tows transiting the main lock are requested to stay off the lower long wall bullnose. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special
instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 194.0 - DREDGE OPERATION
Continuing until further notice, the USACE contract vessel M/V GRAND TOWER is conducting dredging operations in the vicinity of Mile 194.0, Upper Chain of Rocks Canal Entrance. Work will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., each day. The M/V GRAND TOWER will monitor VHF-FM Channel 13 and requests 30-minutes advance notice of passage. No channel closures are expected with this operation. Mariners are requested to transit the area at their slowest safe speed to minimize their wake and proceed with caution after passing arrangements have been made.

MILE 185.5 - L/D CLOSURE
On September 18, 2020, from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., L/D 27 (main and auxiliary chambers) in the vicinity of Mile 185.5, will be closed for maintenance. All navigation interests 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.

ILLINOIS RIVER

MILE 271.5 - TEMPORARY L/D CLOSURES
Continuing until October 4, 2020, from 7:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., each day, the Dresden Island L/D in the vicinity of Mile 271.5, will be closed for maintenance. In addition, a 70-foot width restriction and no ability to pull unpowered barges, is in place.
MILE 244.6 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Marseilles L/D in the vicinity of Mile 244.6, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 231.0 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Starved Rock L/D in the vicinity of Mile 231.0, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 157.7 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 1, 2020, the Peoria L/D in the vicinity of Mile 157.7, will be closed for maintenance..
MILE 80.2 - L/D CLOSURE
 Continuing until October 13, 2020, the LaGrange L/D in the vicinity of Mile 80.2, will be closed for maintenance.

 

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

 on the Navigation Center Website

 

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

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

 


 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

 

 

Website..click here       Facebook Page..click here

 

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 7,301 members as of 09-22-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Upcoming Event....October 15, 2020

Earthquake Drill

Mississippi, Meramec And Missouri River Floodplains........

 

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency is calling on residents to participate in the "Great Central U.S. ShakeOut", which is a wide-ranging earthquake drill scheduled for October 15th.

 

The St. Louis Metro Region is located near two fault lines, one of which is the New Madrid Fault, which produced the largest earthquakes in the Continental U.S. in 1811 and 1812.  One of those quakes caused the Mississippi River to briefly flow backwards.

 

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the region known as the American Bottoms, reaching from Alton to Monroe County and the majority of St. Charles County between the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers are more vulnerable to earthquakes due to the floodplains and soft sediments........

 

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

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

 

Mississippi River At Hannibal, Missouri

Hannibal's Riverfront Rehab Project Nearing Completion........

 

Andy Dorian, Hannibal's director of central services reports that major progress continues to be made on the Hannibal riverfront restoration project.  He says that the riverfront is rocking and rolling.

 

During Thursday night's meeting of the Hannibal Park Board, Dorian told attendees that they are definitely on the downward slope of the project, and they are still tentatively on track to be completed by the end of October.

 

Dorian reported that the new boat ramp is completed, and several light bollards have been installed.  The Sam Clemons statue has been set in place and work on the new docks are expected to begin soon........

 

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

 

WWW.LONGSHOTMARINA.COM

 

Sun..Sept 28..Jonathon Baker Duo..3-7pm

 

Mike's LaRosa Cantina Bar Facebook..click here

 

Upcoming Event..... Saturday, 3 October 2020

Roaring 20's Dock Hop

Yacht Club of St. Louis...

 

 

Saturday, October 3, 2020 at 2 PM – 11:45 PM


Yacht Club of St. Louis


Public · Hosted by Dock Hop at YCSL


- Observe boaters in their natural habitat!
- We're officially announcing the date, time, and theme for Dock Hop 2020 - more details are forthcoming!
- Date: Saturday, October 3rd
- Time: Hopping starts @ 2:00 at A Dock
- Hopping ends @ Tiki
- Music @ 7:00 p.m.
- Awards @ 8:00 p.m.
- Theme: "Roaring 2020s" - (Think flapper dresses, jazz, speakeasys, 3 piece suits, etc!)
- As always, there will be prizes for best food, best drink, and best decorations!
- Returning this year is the "RiverBill's Choice" award!
- We'll have the after party at the pavilion where the old Yacht Club used to be. Music will be announced soon.
- Bring cash for a 50/50 and late night pizza order!
- We hope you can make it!

Reprinted from Dock Hop 2020 Facebook.... click here

 

Alton Motor Boat Club Update

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Piasa Creek...

 

 

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

 

Illinois Waterway Update

LaGrange Lock and Dam in Versailles, Illinois........

 

 

Reprinted from US Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District Facebook... click here

 

Hope On The River

Adventures of the SS Hail Mary.........

 

 

A leaky pontoon tube...
Lost keys...
Windy days...
Cold nights...
It's been over 3 weeks and Erich has already has too many stories to share in one post.
Which is why he's documenting every day he's aboard the S.S. Hail Mary!
Read the crazy mishaps he encounters each and every day as he drifts down the Mississippi River discovering HOPE and spreading the mission of Spare Key and the Help Me Bounce platform.
Catch up on what you've missed: https://sparekey.org/hope-on-the-river-news

 

Reprinted from Hope On The River Facebook... click here

 

 

 

River History....

 

September 22 1842 in River History

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

The duel was over Lincoln's severe criticism of Shields' proclamation that ordered tax collectors at that time to accept only gold and silver for payment of taxes and school debts. .

While the parties set up the dueling area, the principal seconds tried to resolve the issue peacefully. To demonstrate his obvious physical advantage, Lincoln then reached up and lopped off a high willow branch. After discussion the two seconds finally agreed that a note in which Lincoln admitted authorship of the letter and asserted that he "had no intention of injuring your (Shields) personal or private character or standing as a man or gentleman" would satisfy the honor of both them.

The duel never took place.

Today the Lincoln Shields Recreation Area is located on the Mississippi River in West Alton, Mo directly across the Mississippi River Alton, IL

 

Click here for map

Hayden Bicknese Racing

Captures Stock Moto Tack Record ........

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

Another great weekend for Hayden Bicknese Racing. Getting ready for next weekend when we will be racing the big bikes at Hallett Motor Racing Circuit in Jennings, Oklahoma with CMRA.

 

Hayden definitely has the work ethic from Little John. Hayden will be racing the big bikes at World Wide Technology Raceway at Gateway with MCRA the weekend of October 10-11.

 

Check out Hayden Bicknese Racing on Facebook for updates.

 

Randy Biccknese

 

Photos courtesy David T. Gillen

 

 

RiverBill says... Congrats to Hayden and the entire racing team

 

Hayden and his mother, Diane, and father, Randy, boat out of Lake Center Marina

 

Mississippi River At Granite City, Illinois

Port District Awarded $20.84 Million ........

 

The U.S. Department of Transportation recently awarded a grant totaling $20.84 million to America's Central Port District in Granite City, Illinois.  The grant will be used to fund infrastructure at the port.

 

U.S. Representative Mike Bost says that almost half of all U.S. crops and livestock are produced within a 500 mile radius of the St. Louis Metro Region.  He adds that the ports and terminals need investments in infrastructure to handle those millions of tons of products.

 

Bost says that this major investment will allow the port to expand and improve infrastructure in order to increase capacity.  He notes that positive effects of the grant on Southern Illinois will be compounding........

 

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

 

Mississippi River Education

Upper Mississippi River Conference Has Shifted To On-Line Format........

 

River Action Inc.'s annual in-person Upper Mississippi River Conference has been cancelled due to the COVID-19 outbreak, however, organizers are still offering an opportunity to get the latest information on water issues.

 

There will be hour-long webinars featuring many of the speakers that would have been at the conference being offered throughout October and November.  The webinars will offer live question-and-answer sessions with the speakers as well.

 

Webinar registration is $10 per webinar, or three for $25 at riveraction.org.  Continuing Education Certificates will be available following the webinar, if chosen during registration........

 

Click here to read more from qctimes.com.

 

Living Lands & Waters

COVID-19 Won't Stop LL&W's Mission........

 

Even though they have been hamstringed by the COVID-19 outbreak and the ensuing lockdowns, Living Lands and Waters has still been able to continue on their river cleanup mission.

 

The year began with the LL&W's alternative Spring Break cleanup in Memphis, Tennessee, however, that coincided with the first round of lockdowns, and the volunteers were called back home.  They managed to clean up 47,300 pounds of trash, and after the volunteers left, the crew cleaned up an additional 10,473 pounds of trash before returning to their Quad Cities-area home base.

 

Between March and May, the LL&W crew typically harvest, wrap and deliver trees for their MillionTrees Project.  This year, they managed to deliver 145,600 trees to 27 states without the help of the usual number of volunteers.

 

This year, the LL&W crews have conducted over 100 crew-only cleanups at 16 different locations along the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers.  Leah Cafarelli, marketing director and program coordinator for LL&W says that their goal this year was to clean up the debris left behind from the record-breaking spring flooding during 2019.  They removed over 66,000 pounds of garbage........

 

Click here to read this news story from waterwaysjournal.net.  With Photo.

 

The Tenn-Tom Waterway

Tenn-Tom Waterway Has Crucial Projects Completed This Year........

 

The Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, which is the shortcut between the Tennessee River to the north and Mobile Bay and the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway in the south, is finishing up a busy lock maintenance and dredging season.

 

During 2020, a pair of locks were closed along the Tenn-Tom for maintenance work.  The Howell Heflin Lock was closed between July 7th through July 25th for painting and valve work, repairs to the cathodic protection system, crack repairs and grease line and wall armoring improvements.  Asbestos abatement work was completed at the lock's operations building during this time as well.

 

The Jamie Whitten Lock was shut down from June 30th through August 12th.  The major work to that lock, which at 84 feet. provides the third highest lift of any lock east of the Mississippi River, included the replacement of webbing along the lower miter gates, culvert ceiling repairs, repairs to the cathodic protection system, repairs to cracks in gates and grease line and lock wall armoring projects.........

 

Click here to read more from waterwaysjournal.net.  With Phot

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "March 2021" 

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

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

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

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

 

What's Going On This Week

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

 

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

The Alton Marina is currently open for business but we are limited on our amenities. We are selling fuel and doing pump outs every Thursday to Sunday from the hours of 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.

We will have take out service in our Deli/Ship's Store starting June 13th. The Deli hours are Friday 3:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M....Saturday 9:00 A.M. until 6:00 P.M......Sunday 9:00 until 1:00 P.M.

We hope as the next few weeks progress we will be adding more and more of the everyday services we usually offer!

 

Please watch our website as we will post what is new each week.

Please be safe and God Bless All Of Us!!

KAREN AND THE CREW
 

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

Now Open For Lunch and Dinner

Wed - Sun

Closed Mon & Tue (Temporarily Through Sept)

 

Kitchen Hours

Wed & Thurs...11-9pm

Fri & Sat.........11-10pm

Sun.................11-9pm

 

We offer indoor / Outdoor Dinning, Carryout

Contact Free Curbside & Online Ordering

 

Check out our Daily Drink & Food Specials

Call (618) 433-8288 for Reservation

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 

Open Thur, Fri, Sat... 11am - 11pm,   Sun...11am-10pm

 

Fuel Dock and Ramp Now Open

 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

Website.... N/A
Email...... Boathouseontheriver@gmail.com
 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Update 06/06/2020

The Golden Eagle Ferry is open with regular operating hours of Monday-Thursday 5am to 9pm, Friday -Saturday 5am to 2am and Sunday 8am to 9pm.

The Grafton Ferry just opened at 10am today, 06/06/2020 The river levels have not been kind to us lately but today the river level is down just enough to get open.

The Golden Eagle Ferry, Grafton Ferry, Brussels State Ferry and the Kampsville State Ferry are all open so come aboard for a very beautiful and scenic ride on the river.

Thank You and Take Care,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

 

 

About
Social Yacht Club centered around the Alton Pool (Pool 26) of the Mississippi River, website is www.contriosyachtclub.org

Founding Date
1966

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

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

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

Sat.. Sept 26...

Car Show..11am-10pm.. click here

 

$1.50 can beers during all televised St. Louis Blues games!!


LET'S GO CARDS!!!
$1.50 can beers during all televised games!!

 

07-13-20

We will now have kitchen open until 10pm on Sundays until Further notice

 

1530 Highway J
Portage Des Sioux, Missouri 63373
(636) 899-1139

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi & Illinois Rivers

 

 

We have pontoon boat rentals available
2 hours: $195
4 hours: $295
8 hours: $488
Includes gas and tax!!
Call: 618-786-7678

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 


ARRR Ye Mateys! Set sail for a 2-hour cruise while enjoying some of our most popular rum drinks


We have Covid guidelines in place.
Please arrive 30 minutes early for all cruises.
23 passengers will be allowed on the lower level and 26 passengers will be allowed on the upper level. Temperatures will be taken and questions will be asked before everyone enters the boat. Social distancing guidelines will incur.

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

Check out Grafton's Event and Music

Calendar for Sep 15 thru Sep 29 .... click here

 

 

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

Sat...Sept 26th –– Hookie.. 7pm
Sun...Sept 27th – Graham Band.. 2pm

 

Open:

Tuesday - Thursday 11am-9pm

Friday and Saturday 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

08-22-20

Foundation work started

 

"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

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

 

Gated Entry and Video Security

Where the fish are bitin’ and the bugs aren’t!

Weekly Mosquito Control

 

 

Need to fill up for your weekend water activities? Stop by for 24/7 pump outs & fuel docks

 

Marina, Boat Service, Fuel

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

Welcome to Lewis Boats! We are a family owned and operated company that was established in 1993. Our focus is on building relationships by providing the best in products and services.


We have a CSI Award-winning service and parts department with over 175 years of combined experience in the marine industry to take care of all of your parts and service needs. We service Mercury, Mercruiser, Yamaha, Volvo Penta, and Honda Outboards.
We offer Barletta Boats, Sylvan Marine, Cypress Cay, and Crestliner pontoon boats, Phoenix bass boats, Crestliner aluminum fishing boats, Monterey sport boats, and Mercury, Mercruiser, and Yamaha outboard and sterndrives.


Whether you are looking for an aluminum fishing boat, performance pontoon, tournament ready fiberglass bass boat, or a crossover ski boat/ bowrider, our sales consultants will help you find the perfect boat for your family’s wants and needs.


It's no wonder we have been regarded as one of the largest and most trusted dealers in Missouri for more than 20 years. Come meet our dedicated boating staff and allow them to find the right boat or service for your family's needs.


We are conveniently located in between the Missouri Riverfront and Lake Saint Louis. Family owned and operated since 1993. Come in today and check us out!
As we like to say, you are not just buying a boat or getting service but becoming a member of the Lewis Boats Family!

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Rat Run Weekend
Fri, Sat, Sun..Oct 2,3,4

Click here for flyer


 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 


Port Charles Harbor, A Full Service Marina Located On The Beautiful Mississippi River! 60 Ton Marine Travel Lift. 636.250.BOAT www.portcharlesharbor.com

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

 

Patio Open Thu - Sat.. 5-10pm

 

Store Hours: Sun..10-9, M-Th..10-10, Fri Sat..10-11

Order On-line

Click here for website and menus

 

Sat, Sept 26 at 4-8pm....

Classic Saturday Car Show.. click here

 

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

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

The 2021 Yamaha Boats are here with 14 new models. There’s an all-new 25-platform, new 25-foot wake boats, new 25-foot FSH center console boats, four new 21-foot boats, the expansion of our award-winning Drive Technology across the line, and tons more.

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 


 

 

Check out Fatboys Restaurant Facebook page.... click here

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

OUR FUEL DOCK IS OPEN & we now have 93 OCTANE with ValvTect!Diesel is also available.

THE SHOWERS& BATHROOMS in the BACK of the Rack Room are also open!!!

We hope to see all of you soon! Call 636.250.4547 to schedule your splash!!

Be safe & happy boating!

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

 

 

Yacht Club was tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on hgher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

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

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

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

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645 

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Open
Alton Marina Deli Open
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Open
Bluff City Grill ........................................ Open
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ Longshot Marina Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Open
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed for remodling
Mike's LaRosa@ Longshot Marina Open
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

TUESDAY

22 SEPTEMBER 2020

 

The First Day Of Fall

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

The Picture of the Day....  Was taken Sunday evening

 

Sunset from the Point

At Woodland Marina

 

Open Thu, Fri, Sat & Sun

 

Fuel Dock and Ramp Are Open

 

You Can Now Order Your Favorite Food and Drinks Through Our Online Ordering.

https://www.restaurantlogin.com/api/fb/z0q_xp


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

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

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryear's Picture on this Day

 

Just Never Know Who You Run Into On The River

Mike's LaRosa

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

(L/R) It's RiverBill, Mary, Joe, Meagen and Matthew

click pic to enlarge

 

YesterYears Picture on this Day in 2019....

 

Mary and I just met Meagan and Matthew last Thursday evening at the Alzheimer's Luau and we run into them again on Sunday afternoon at Mike's La Rosa at My River Home.  And this time Meagen's father, Joe was with them !  They had just returned from a boat ride.

 

Alton Marina

 

Click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

National Weather Service River Levels Graphs / Flood Warnings .........  
  

Mississippi River Gauges

Check out RiverBills River Gages Page...

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

 

Missouri River Gauges

Check out National Weather Service River Gages

Sioux City, IA  to  St. Charles, MO ....click here

 

 

Winfield Grafton
Click here Click here

 

Alton - Tailwater

Click here

Illinois River

Hardin LeGrange
Click here  Click here

Missouri River
St. Charles, Mo Washington, Mo
Click here  Click here

 

Click here for RiverBills Mississippi River Gauge Page 

Click here for current weather conditions on WunderMap

Click here for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Louis District, River & Reservoir Daily Report.

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

 

Sat...Sept 26th –– Hookie.. 7pm
Sun...Sept 27th – Graham Band.. 2pm

 

Open Tue - Thurs 11am-9pm and Fri & Sat 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

 

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

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

 

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

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED September 16, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 309.9 - BRIDGE MAINTENANCE
Hannibal Railroad Drawbridge; Due to replacement of rail ties on the drawbridge, the drawbridge will be maintained in the closed to navigation position beginning from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m., daily from September 21-25, 2020. A drawbridge opening is scheduled to occur around 3:00 p.m., daily, or there about, to clear navigation.

MILE 200.5 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until November 9, 2020, the Mel Price L/D 26 (auxiliary chamber) in the vicinity of Mile 200.5, is closed to navigation for repair. The main chamber is available to pass traffic, during this closure. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 200.5 - L/D RESTRICTION
The bullnose protection armor, for the lower long wall of the Mel Price L/D (main chamber) is experiencing deterioration. Continuing until further
notice, all tows transiting the main lock are requested to stay off the lower long wall bullnose. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special
instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 194.0 - DREDGE OPERATION
Continuing until further notice, the USACE contract vessel M/V GRAND TOWER is conducting dredging operations in the vicinity of Mile 194.0, Upper Chain of Rocks Canal Entrance. Work will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., each day. The M/V GRAND TOWER will monitor VHF-FM Channel 13 and requests 30-minutes advance notice of passage. No channel closures are expected with this operation. Mariners are requested to transit the area at their slowest safe speed to minimize their wake and proceed with caution after passing arrangements have been made.

MILE 185.5 - L/D CLOSURE
On September 18, 2020, from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., L/D 27 (main and auxiliary chambers) in the vicinity of Mile 185.5, will be closed for maintenance. All navigation interests 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.

ILLINOIS RIVER

MILE 271.5 - TEMPORARY L/D CLOSURES
Continuing until October 4, 2020, from 7:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., each day, the Dresden Island L/D in the vicinity of Mile 271.5, will be closed for maintenance. In addition, a 70-foot width restriction and no ability to pull unpowered barges, is in place.
MILE 244.6 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Marseilles L/D in the vicinity of Mile 244.6, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 231.0 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Starved Rock L/D in the vicinity of Mile 231.0, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 157.7 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 1, 2020, the Peoria L/D in the vicinity of Mile 157.7, will be closed for maintenance..
MILE 80.2 - L/D CLOSURE
 Continuing until October 13, 2020, the LaGrange L/D in the vicinity of Mile 80.2, will be closed for maintenance.

 

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

 on the Navigation Center Website

 

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

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

 


 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

 

 

Website..click here       Facebook Page..click here

 

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 7,301 members as of 09-22-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Upcoming Event....October 15, 2020

Earthquake Drill

Mississippi, Meramec And Missouri River Floodplains........

 

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency is calling on residents to participate in the "Great Central U.S. ShakeOut", which is a wide-ranging earthquake drill scheduled for October 15th.

 

The St. Louis Metro Region is located near two fault lines, one of which is the New Madrid Fault, which produced the largest earthquakes in the Continental U.S. in 1811 and 1812.  One of those quakes caused the Mississippi River to briefly flow backwards.

 

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the region known as the American Bottoms, reaching from Alton to Monroe County and the majority of St. Charles County between the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers are more vulnerable to earthquakes due to the floodplains and soft sediments........

 

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

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

 

Mississippi River At Hannibal, Missouri

Hannibal's Riverfront Rehab Project Nearing Completion........

 

Andy Dorian, Hannibal's director of central services reports that major progress continues to be made on the Hannibal riverfront restoration project.  He says that the riverfront is rocking and rolling.

 

During Thursday night's meeting of the Hannibal Park Board, Dorian told attendees that they are definitely on the downward slope of the project, and they are still tentatively on track to be completed by the end of October.

 

Dorian reported that the new boat ramp is completed, and several light bollards have been installed.  The Sam Clemons statue has been set in place and work on the new docks are expected to begin soon........

 

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

 

WWW.LONGSHOTMARINA.COM

 

Sun..Sept 28..Jonathon Baker Duo..3-7pm

 

Mike's LaRosa Cantina Bar Facebook..click here

 

Upcoming Event..... Saturday, 3 October 2020

Roaring 20's Dock Hop

Yacht Club of St. Louis...

 

 

Saturday, October 3, 2020 at 2 PM – 11:45 PM


Yacht Club of St. Louis


Public · Hosted by Dock Hop at YCSL


- Observe boaters in their natural habitat!
- We're officially announcing the date, time, and theme for Dock Hop 2020 - more details are forthcoming!
- Date: Saturday, October 3rd
- Time: Hopping starts @ 2:00 at A Dock
- Hopping ends @ Tiki
- Music @ 7:00 p.m.
- Awards @ 8:00 p.m.
- Theme: "Roaring 2020s" - (Think flapper dresses, jazz, speakeasys, 3 piece suits, etc!)
- As always, there will be prizes for best food, best drink, and best decorations!
- Returning this year is the "RiverBill's Choice" award!
- We'll have the after party at the pavilion where the old Yacht Club used to be. Music will be announced soon.
- Bring cash for a 50/50 and late night pizza order!
- We hope you can make it!

Reprinted from Dock Hop 2020 Facebook.... click here

 

Alton Motor Boat Club Update

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Piasa Creek...

 

 

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

 

Illinois Waterway Update

LaGrange Lock and Dam in Versailles, Illinois........

 

 

Reprinted from US Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District Facebook... click here

 

Hope On The River

Adventures of the SS Hail Mary.........

 

 

A leaky pontoon tube...
Lost keys...
Windy days...
Cold nights...
It's been over 3 weeks and Erich has already has too many stories to share in one post.
Which is why he's documenting every day he's aboard the S.S. Hail Mary!
Read the crazy mishaps he encounters each and every day as he drifts down the Mississippi River discovering HOPE and spreading the mission of Spare Key and the Help Me Bounce platform.
Catch up on what you've missed: https://sparekey.org/hope-on-the-river-news

 

Reprinted from Hope On The River Facebook... click here

 

 

 

River History....

 

September 22 1842 in River History

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

The duel was over Lincoln's severe criticism of Shields' proclamation that ordered tax collectors at that time to accept only gold and silver for payment of taxes and school debts. .

While the parties set up the dueling area, the principal seconds tried to resolve the issue peacefully. To demonstrate his obvious physical advantage, Lincoln then reached up and lopped off a high willow branch. After discussion the two seconds finally agreed that a note in which Lincoln admitted authorship of the letter and asserted that he "had no intention of injuring your (Shields) personal or private character or standing as a man or gentleman" would satisfy the honor of both them.

The duel never took place.

Today the Lincoln Shields Recreation Area is located on the Mississippi River in West Alton, Mo directly across the Mississippi River Alton, IL

 

Click here for map

Hayden Bicknese Racing

Captures Stock Moto Tack Record ........

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

Another great weekend for Hayden Bicknese Racing. Getting ready for next weekend when we will be racing the big bikes at Hallett Motor Racing Circuit in Jennings, Oklahoma with CMRA.

 

Hayden definitely has the work ethic from Little John. Hayden will be racing the big bikes at World Wide Technology Raceway at Gateway with MCRA the weekend of October 10-11.

 

Check out Hayden Bicknese Racing on Facebook for updates.

 

Randy Biccknese

 

Photos courtesy David T. Gillen

 

 

RiverBill says... Congrats to Hayden and the entire racing team

 

Hayden and his mother, Diane, and father, Randy, boat out of Lake Center Marina

 

Mississippi River At Granite City, Illinois

Port District Awarded $20.84 Million ........

 

The U.S. Department of Transportation recently awarded a grant totaling $20.84 million to America's Central Port District in Granite City, Illinois.  The grant will be used to fund infrastructure at the port.

 

U.S. Representative Mike Bost says that almost half of all U.S. crops and livestock are produced within a 500 mile radius of the St. Louis Metro Region.  He adds that the ports and terminals need investments in infrastructure to handle those millions of tons of products.

 

Bost says that this major investment will allow the port to expand and improve infrastructure in order to increase capacity.  He notes that positive effects of the grant on Southern Illinois will be compounding........

 

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

 

Mississippi River Education

Upper Mississippi River Conference Has Shifted To On-Line Format........

 

River Action Inc.'s annual in-person Upper Mississippi River Conference has been cancelled due to the COVID-19 outbreak, however, organizers are still offering an opportunity to get the latest information on water issues.

 

There will be hour-long webinars featuring many of the speakers that would have been at the conference being offered throughout October and November.  The webinars will offer live question-and-answer sessions with the speakers as well.

 

Webinar registration is $10 per webinar, or three for $25 at riveraction.org.  Continuing Education Certificates will be available following the webinar, if chosen during registration........

 

Click here to read more from qctimes.com.

 

Living Lands & Waters

COVID-19 Won't Stop LL&W's Mission........

 

Even though they have been hamstringed by the COVID-19 outbreak and the ensuing lockdowns, Living Lands and Waters has still been able to continue on their river cleanup mission.

 

The year began with the LL&W's alternative Spring Break cleanup in Memphis, Tennessee, however, that coincided with the first round of lockdowns, and the volunteers were called back home.  They managed to clean up 47,300 pounds of trash, and after the volunteers left, the crew cleaned up an additional 10,473 pounds of trash before returning to their Quad Cities-area home base.

 

Between March and May, the LL&W crew typically harvest, wrap and deliver trees for their MillionTrees Project.  This year, they managed to deliver 145,600 trees to 27 states without the help of the usual number of volunteers.

 

This year, the LL&W crews have conducted over 100 crew-only cleanups at 16 different locations along the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers.  Leah Cafarelli, marketing director and program coordinator for LL&W says that their goal this year was to clean up the debris left behind from the record-breaking spring flooding during 2019.  They removed over 66,000 pounds of garbage........

 

Click here to read this news story from waterwaysjournal.net.  With Photo.

 

The Tenn-Tom Waterway

Tenn-Tom Waterway Has Crucial Projects Completed This Year........

 

The Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, which is the shortcut between the Tennessee River to the north and Mobile Bay and the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway in the south, is finishing up a busy lock maintenance and dredging season.

 

During 2020, a pair of locks were closed along the Tenn-Tom for maintenance work.  The Howell Heflin Lock was closed between July 7th through July 25th for painting and valve work, repairs to the cathodic protection system, crack repairs and grease line and wall armoring improvements.  Asbestos abatement work was completed at the lock's operations building during this time as well.

 

The Jamie Whitten Lock was shut down from June 30th through August 12th.  The major work to that lock, which at 84 feet. provides the third highest lift of any lock east of the Mississippi River, included the replacement of webbing along the lower miter gates, culvert ceiling repairs, repairs to the cathodic protection system, repairs to cracks in gates and grease line and lock wall armoring projects.........

 

Click here to read more from waterwaysjournal.net.  With Phot

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "March 2021" 

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

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

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

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

 

What's Going On This Week

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

 

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

The Alton Marina is currently open for business but we are limited on our amenities. We are selling fuel and doing pump outs every Thursday to Sunday from the hours of 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.

We will have take out service in our Deli/Ship's Store starting June 13th. The Deli hours are Friday 3:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M....Saturday 9:00 A.M. until 6:00 P.M......Sunday 9:00 until 1:00 P.M.

We hope as the next few weeks progress we will be adding more and more of the everyday services we usually offer!

 

Please watch our website as we will post what is new each week.

Please be safe and God Bless All Of Us!!

KAREN AND THE CREW
 

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

Now Open For Lunch and Dinner

Wed - Sun

Closed Mon & Tue (Temporarily Through Sept)

 

Kitchen Hours

Wed & Thurs...11-9pm

Fri & Sat.........11-10pm

Sun.................11-9pm

 

We offer indoor / Outdoor Dinning, Carryout

Contact Free Curbside & Online Ordering

 

Check out our Daily Drink & Food Specials

Call (618) 433-8288 for Reservation

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 

Open Thur, Fri, Sat... 11am - 11pm,   Sun...11am-10pm

 

Fuel Dock and Ramp Now Open

 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

Website.... N/A
Email...... Boathouseontheriver@gmail.com
 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Update 06/06/2020

The Golden Eagle Ferry is open with regular operating hours of Monday-Thursday 5am to 9pm, Friday -Saturday 5am to 2am and Sunday 8am to 9pm.

The Grafton Ferry just opened at 10am today, 06/06/2020 The river levels have not been kind to us lately but today the river level is down just enough to get open.

The Golden Eagle Ferry, Grafton Ferry, Brussels State Ferry and the Kampsville State Ferry are all open so come aboard for a very beautiful and scenic ride on the river.

Thank You and Take Care,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

 

 

About
Social Yacht Club centered around the Alton Pool (Pool 26) of the Mississippi River, website is www.contriosyachtclub.org

Founding Date
1966

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

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

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

Sat.. Sept 26...

Car Show..11am-10pm.. click here

 

$1.50 can beers during all televised St. Louis Blues games!!


LET'S GO CARDS!!!
$1.50 can beers during all televised games!!

 

07-13-20

We will now have kitchen open until 10pm on Sundays until Further notice

 

1530 Highway J
Portage Des Sioux, Missouri 63373
(636) 899-1139

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi & Illinois Rivers

 

 

We have pontoon boat rentals available
2 hours: $195
4 hours: $295
8 hours: $488
Includes gas and tax!!
Call: 618-786-7678

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 


ARRR Ye Mateys! Set sail for a 2-hour cruise while enjoying some of our most popular rum drinks


We have Covid guidelines in place.
Please arrive 30 minutes early for all cruises.
23 passengers will be allowed on the lower level and 26 passengers will be allowed on the upper level. Temperatures will be taken and questions will be asked before everyone enters the boat. Social distancing guidelines will incur.

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

Check out Grafton's Event and Music

Calendar for Sep 15 thru Sep 29 .... click here

 

 

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

Sat...Sept 26th –– Hookie.. 7pm
Sun...Sept 27th – Graham Band.. 2pm

 

Open:

Tuesday - Thursday 11am-9pm

Friday and Saturday 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

08-22-20

Foundation work started

 

"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

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

 

Gated Entry and Video Security

Where the fish are bitin’ and the bugs aren’t!

Weekly Mosquito Control

 

 

Need to fill up for your weekend water activities? Stop by for 24/7 pump outs & fuel docks

 

Marina, Boat Service, Fuel

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

Welcome to Lewis Boats! We are a family owned and operated company that was established in 1993. Our focus is on building relationships by providing the best in products and services.


We have a CSI Award-winning service and parts department with over 175 years of combined experience in the marine industry to take care of all of your parts and service needs. We service Mercury, Mercruiser, Yamaha, Volvo Penta, and Honda Outboards.
We offer Barletta Boats, Sylvan Marine, Cypress Cay, and Crestliner pontoon boats, Phoenix bass boats, Crestliner aluminum fishing boats, Monterey sport boats, and Mercury, Mercruiser, and Yamaha outboard and sterndrives.


Whether you are looking for an aluminum fishing boat, performance pontoon, tournament ready fiberglass bass boat, or a crossover ski boat/ bowrider, our sales consultants will help you find the perfect boat for your family’s wants and needs.


It's no wonder we have been regarded as one of the largest and most trusted dealers in Missouri for more than 20 years. Come meet our dedicated boating staff and allow them to find the right boat or service for your family's needs.


We are conveniently located in between the Missouri Riverfront and Lake Saint Louis. Family owned and operated since 1993. Come in today and check us out!
As we like to say, you are not just buying a boat or getting service but becoming a member of the Lewis Boats Family!

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Rat Run Weekend
Fri, Sat, Sun..Oct 2,3,4

Click here for flyer


 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 


Port Charles Harbor, A Full Service Marina Located On The Beautiful Mississippi River! 60 Ton Marine Travel Lift. 636.250.BOAT www.portcharlesharbor.com

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

 

Patio Open Thu - Sat.. 5-10pm

 

Store Hours: Sun..10-9, M-Th..10-10, Fri Sat..10-11

Order On-line

Click here for website and menus

 

Sat, Sept 26 at 4-8pm....

Classic Saturday Car Show.. click here

 

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

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

The 2021 Yamaha Boats are here with 14 new models. There’s an all-new 25-platform, new 25-foot wake boats, new 25-foot FSH center console boats, four new 21-foot boats, the expansion of our award-winning Drive Technology across the line, and tons more.

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 


 

 

Check out Fatboys Restaurant Facebook page.... click here

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

OUR FUEL DOCK IS OPEN & we now have 93 OCTANE with ValvTect!Diesel is also available.

THE SHOWERS& BATHROOMS in the BACK of the Rack Room are also open!!!

We hope to see all of you soon! Call 636.250.4547 to schedule your splash!!

Be safe & happy boating!

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

 

 

Yacht Club was tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on hgher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

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

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

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

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645 

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Open
Alton Marina Deli Open
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Open
Bluff City Grill ........................................ Open
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ Longshot Marina Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Open
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed for remodling
Mike's LaRosa@ Longshot Marina Open
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

MONDAY, MONDAY

21 SEPTEMBER 2020

 

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

River Travelers

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

Larger view not available

 

The Pictures of the Day....  were sent to us by an anonymous Pool 26 boater

 

Sunday morning, 09-20-20

These guys are at Two Branch... they are in no way prepared for their Journey. We're giving them a bunch of food, fuel, gas cans, etc. Probably not what they say they are. Younger guy made a comment he hopes to hit the hurricane... After STL they are in trouble. Feel bad that I question his motive but cannot help it.
 

Later Sunday, 09-20-20
They are running from Iowa to the Gulf in support of child trafficking... They barely have enough for food let alone fuel. We did what we could. He'll be good to Hoppies maybe. Feel bad that i question his motive but cannot help it.

Looks like they are going to stop at Grafton and try to get a bus ticket home. They were still there after breakfast, ended up stocking them up with food, or at least a couple days worth. After I explained the river in detail, about the lack of marinas and fuel stops below St Louis, bigger tow boats and they're limited funds and their barely running 1972 cobalt. I talked them into Calling it Quits. I think we saved two lives today

I love this river and the people you meet. The younger feller, Bruce actually thanked me. Said before he met all the people at Two Branch he was about to give up on life. We were the best, kind hearted people he had met. More than just 2 river gypsies got a lesson for today.


Hope their travels lead them to a better place in life.

 

Check out their Facebook page

 River Run for Tim Tebow Foundation


 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

At Grafton, IL

Click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day....  was sent to us by Mary Perottii

 

Beautiful day in Grafton, checking out the new turtle at the ramp. Captain Ham & 1st mate Chuck

 

It's River Dog

"Artemis"

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

The River Dawg of the Day ..... was  sent to us by Lynn Sansone

 

Hey Bill !

New Riverdog Artemis , took a selfie above the confluence.

Lynn

 

Check out all of our River Dawgs page....  click here

Open Thu, Fri, Sat & Sun

 

Fuel Dock and Ramp Are Open

 

You Can Now Order Your Favorite Food and Drinks Through Our Online Ordering.

https://www.restaurantlogin.com/api/fb/z0q_xp


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

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

 

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

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryear's Picture on this Day

 

RiverBills Sticker Sighting

RiverBills Headquarters

Woodland Marina

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

click pic to enlarge

 

YesterYears Pictures on this Day in 2019

 

 

(L/R) It's Mary, Nicole, Lisa, Beth and Trish

Five Lovely Ladies of Pool 26

 

RiverBills Sticker Sighting Page

Click here and check it out...

Alton Marina

 

Click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here


Open Tue - Thurs 11am-9pm and Fri & Sat 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

 

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

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

 

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

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED September 16, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 309.9 - BRIDGE MAINTENANCE
Hannibal Railroad Drawbridge; Due to replacement of rail ties on the drawbridge, the drawbridge will be maintained in the closed to navigation position beginning from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m., daily from September 21-25, 2020. A drawbridge opening is scheduled to occur around 3:00 p.m., daily, or there about, to clear navigation.

MILE 200.5 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until November 9, 2020, the Mel Price L/D 26 (auxiliary chamber) in the vicinity of Mile 200.5, is closed to navigation for repair. The main chamber is available to pass traffic, during this closure. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 200.5 - L/D RESTRICTION
The bullnose protection armor, for the lower long wall of the Mel Price L/D (main chamber) is experiencing deterioration. Continuing until further
notice, all tows transiting the main lock are requested to stay off the lower long wall bullnose. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special
instructions from the lockmaster.

MILE 194.0 - DREDGE OPERATION
Continuing until further notice, the USACE contract vessel M/V GRAND TOWER is conducting dredging operations in the vicinity of Mile 194.0, Upper Chain of Rocks Canal Entrance. Work will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., each day. The M/V GRAND TOWER will monitor VHF-FM Channel 13 and requests 30-minutes advance notice of passage. No channel closures are expected with this operation. Mariners are requested to transit the area at their slowest safe speed to minimize their wake and proceed with caution after passing arrangements have been made.

MILE 185.5 - L/D CLOSURE
On September 18, 2020, from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., L/D 27 (main and auxiliary chambers) in the vicinity of Mile 185.5, will be closed for maintenance. All navigation interests 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.

ILLINOIS RIVER

MILE 271.5 - TEMPORARY L/D CLOSURES
Continuing until October 4, 2020, from 7:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., each day, the Dresden Island L/D in the vicinity of Mile 271.5, will be closed for maintenance. In addition, a 70-foot width restriction and no ability to pull unpowered barges, is in place.
MILE 244.6 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Marseilles L/D in the vicinity of Mile 244.6, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 231.0 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 30, 2020, the Starved Rock L/D in the vicinity of Mile 231.0, will be closed for maintenance.
MILE 157.7 - L/D CLOSURE
Continuing until October 1, 2020, the Peoria L/D in the vicinity of Mile 157.7, will be closed for maintenance..
MILE 80.2 - L/D CLOSURE
 Continuing until October 13, 2020, the LaGrange L/D in the vicinity of Mile 80.2, will be closed for maintenance.

 

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

 on the Navigation Center Website

 

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

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

 


 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

 

 

Website..click here       Facebook Page..click here

 

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 7,300 members as of 09-21-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Mississippi River Near Quincy, Illinois

City Considering Privatizing Marina........

 

Boat slip rentals have decreased over the last decade at the Art Keller Marina located on Quinsippi Island and the city is considering making some changes at the Quincy Park District owned marina.

 

The main topic up for discussion will be whether the Park District should privatize the marina.  John Frankenhoff, Quincy Park Board President says that they have no intention of closing the marina, however, they need to look at options that will help the facility flourish.

 

Frankenhoff says that they have to accept the reality of what the numbers are revealing and that boat slip rentals have continued to decrease.  He adds that just a few years ago, there was a waiting list for people looking to rent a slip........

 

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

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Boating Legislation

Senate Passed Conservation Enhancement Act........

 

The U.S. Senate recently unanimously approved America's Conservation Enhancement Act, S. 3051, which is a package of natural resource management and conservation provisions that the recreational sportfishing industry calls a huge win.

 

The America's Conservation Enhancement Act will head to the U.S House of Representatives, where they are likely going to consider and vote on the legislation as soon as this week.

 

Mike Leonard, the American Sportfishing Association government affairs vice president says that the ACE Act would be a considerable win for outdoor enthusiasts across the nation.  The legislation authorizes the National Fish Habitat Partnership, which allows federal, state and local partners to conduct aquatic habitat restoration projects that will benefit recreational fishing.........

 

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

 

WWW.LONGSHOTMARINA.COM

 

Sun..Sept 28..Jonathon Baker Duo..3-7pm

 

Mike's LaRosa Cantina Bar Facebook..click here

 

Illinois River Near Peoria, Illinois

Volunteers Collect Trash Along The River........

 

While Trolling the Internet....  We reeled in a photo gallery showing volunteers participating in the annual Illinois River Sweep, which was held over the weekend.  Almost 45 volunteers worked on cleaning up six different spots along the Peoria riverfront........

 

Click here to check out this photo gallery from washingtontimesreporter.com.

 

 

 

River History....

 

21 September 2018 in River History


Grafton Harbor dedicated their new "D" Dock with a ribbon cutting ceremony.
D Dock is Home to:
..St. Louis Jet Ski Rentals
..First Mate Boat Sales
..Transient Boaters

 

Mississippi River At LaCrosse, Wisconsin

City Looking To Expand Cruise Ship Dock........

 

Officials in LaCrosse, Wisconsin recently called on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers St. Paul DIstrict to expand the existing cruise ship landing along the Mississippi River at Riverside Park.

 

Riverside Park is currently home to a 720 foot long cruise ship dock, and the proposed expansion of the cruise ship dock would involve the installation of 915 linear feet of driven sheet pile, rock rip-rap, dredging, earth moving, grading, paving, landscaping and more to extend the dock northwards.

 

The proposed expansion would be built upon a region of developed shoreline in Riverside Park that currently features an engineered stone revetment along it's length, pavement, lawn storm sewer as well as park amenities such as trash bins, lighting and benches........

 

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

Mississippi River At Minneapolis, Minnesota

Man Apprehended after Attempting To Steal Houseboat........

 

The Minneapolis Police Department reports that on Sunday, a man stole a houseboat near downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota before Police tased and arrested the man.

 

Shortly before 10:30 am Sunday morning, Minneapolis and Park Police responded to reports that a houseboat had been stolen.  Officers arrived on scene to find the houseboat north of the location occupied by a man in a mask.

 

The vessel did not have an engine, and the alleged boat thief was trying to navigate the vessel with a large piece of lumber.  THe man refused commands to bring the vessel ashore.  An officer in full uniform waded out the boat and grabbed it.  The man refused to leave the vessel, He was tased and removed from the boat........

 

Click here to read this news story from kare11.com.  With Photo

 

Lower Mississippi River

Ship Channel Deepening Project Launched....

 

 

Reprinted from the The Waterways Journal Facebook... click here

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "March 2021" 

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

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

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

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

 

What's Going On This Week

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

 

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

The Alton Marina is currently open for business but we are limited on our amenities. We are selling fuel and doing pump outs every Thursday to Sunday from the hours of 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.

We will have take out service in our Deli/Ship's Store starting June 13th. The Deli hours are Friday 3:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M....Saturday 9:00 A.M. until 6:00 P.M......Sunday 9:00 until 1:00 P.M.

We hope as the next few weeks progress we will be adding more and more of the everyday services we usually offer!

 

Please watch our website as we will post what is new each week.

Please be safe and God Bless All Of Us!!

KAREN AND THE CREW
 

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

Now Open For Lunch and Dinner

Wed - Sun

Closed Mon & Tue (Temporarily Through Sept)

 

Kitchen Hours

Wed & Thurs...11-9pm

Fri & Sat.........11-10pm

Sun.................11-9pm

 

We offer indoor / Outdoor Dinning, Carryout

Contact Free Curbside & Online Ordering

 

Check out our Daily Drink & Food Specials

Call (618) 433-8288 for Reservation

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina

 

Open Thur, Fri, Sat... 11am - 11pm,   Sun...11am-10pm

 

Fuel Dock and Ramp Now Open

 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

Website.... N/A
Email...... Boathouseontheriver@gmail.com
 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Update 06/06/2020

The Golden Eagle Ferry is open with regular operating hours of Monday-Thursday 5am to 9pm, Friday -Saturday 5am to 2am and Sunday 8am to 9pm.

The Grafton Ferry just opened at 10am today, 06/06/2020 The river levels have not been kind to us lately but today the river level is down just enough to get open.

The Golden Eagle Ferry, Grafton Ferry, Brussels State Ferry and the Kampsville State Ferry are all open so come aboard for a very beautiful and scenic ride on the river.

Thank You and Take Care,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

 

 

About
Social Yacht Club centered around the Alton Pool (Pool 26) of the Mississippi River, website is www.contriosyachtclub.org

Founding Date
1966

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

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

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

Sat.. Sept 26...

Car Show..11am-10pm.. click here

 

$1.50 can beers during all televised St. Louis Blues games!!


LET'S GO CARDS!!!
$1.50 can beers during all televised games!!

 

07-13-20

We will now have kitchen open until 10pm on Sundays until Further notice

 

1530 Highway J
Portage Des Sioux, Missouri 63373
(636) 899-1139

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi & Illinois Rivers

 

 

We have pontoon boat rentals available
2 hours: $195
4 hours: $295
8 hours: $488
Includes gas and tax!!
Call: 618-786-7678

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 


ARRR Ye Mateys! Set sail for a 2-hour cruise while enjoying some of our most popular rum drinks


We have Covid guidelines in place.
Please arrive 30 minutes early for all cruises.
23 passengers will be allowed on the lower level and 26 passengers will be allowed on the upper level. Temperatures will be taken and questions will be asked before everyone enters the boat. Social distancing guidelines will incur.

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

Check out Grafton's Event and Music

Calendar for Sep 15 thru Sep 29 .... click here

 

 

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Open:

Tuesday - Thursday 11am-9pm

Friday and Saturday 11am-til the last customer leaves

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

08-22-20

Foundation work started

 

"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

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

 

Gated Entry and Video Security

Where the fish are bitin’ and the bugs aren’t!

Weekly Mosquito Control

 

 

Need to fill up for your weekend water activities? Stop by for 24/7 pump outs & fuel docks

 

Marina, Boat Service, Fuel

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

Welcome to Lewis Boats! We are a family owned and operated company that was established in 1993. Our focus is on building relationships by providing the best in products and services.


We have a CSI Award-winning service and parts department with over 175 years of combined experience in the marine industry to take care of all of your parts and service needs. We service Mercury, Mercruiser, Yamaha, Volvo Penta, and Honda Outboards.
We offer Barletta Boats, Sylvan Marine, Cypress Cay, and Crestliner pontoon boats, Phoenix bass boats, Crestliner aluminum fishing boats, Monterey sport boats, and Mercury, Mercruiser, and Yamaha outboard and sterndrives.


Whether you are looking for an aluminum fishing boat, performance pontoon, tournament ready fiberglass bass boat, or a crossover ski boat/ bowrider, our sales consultants will help you find the perfect boat for your family’s wants and needs.


It's no wonder we have been regarded as one of the largest and most trusted dealers in Missouri for more than 20 years. Come meet our dedicated boating staff and allow them to find the right boat or service for your family's needs.


We are conveniently located in between the Missouri Riverfront and Lake Saint Louis. Family owned and operated since 1993. Come in today and check us out!
As we like to say, you are not just buying a boat or getting service but becoming a member of the Lewis Boats Family!

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Rat Run Weekend
Fri, Sat, Sun..Oct 2,3,4

Click here for flyer


 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 


Port Charles Harbor, A Full Service Marina Located On The Beautiful Mississippi River! 60 Ton Marine Travel Lift. 636.250.BOAT www.portcharlesharbor.com

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

 

Patio Open Thu - Sat.. 5-10pm

 

Store Hours: Sun..10-9, M-Th..10-10, Fri Sat..10-11

Order On-line

Click here for website and menus

 

Sat, Sept 26 at 4-8pm....

Classic Saturday Car Show.. click here

 

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

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

The 2021 Yamaha Boats are here with 14 new models. There’s an all-new 25-platform, new 25-foot wake boats, new 25-foot FSH center console boats, four new 21-foot boats, the expansion of our award-winning Drive Technology across the line, and tons more.

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 


 

 

Check out Fatboys Restaurant Facebook page.... click here

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

OUR FUEL DOCK IS OPEN & we now have 93 OCTANE with ValvTect!Diesel is also available.

THE SHOWERS& BATHROOMS in the BACK of the Rack Room are also open!!!

We hope to see all of you soon! Call 636.250.4547 to schedule your splash!!

Be safe & happy boating!

 

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

 

 

Yacht Club was tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on hgher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

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

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

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

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645 

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Open
Alton Marina Deli Open
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Open
Bluff City Grill ........................................ Open
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ Longshot Marina Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Open
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed for remodling
Mike's LaRosa@ Longshot Marina Open
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

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

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

or

Go to "RiverBill's Archives" 



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