CLUB MEETINGS ARE HELD THE FIRST TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH (Excluding December, January and February) AT THE

5 RIVERS DELTA RESOURCE CENTER (map) AT 7PM. SEE THE POSTS BELOW FOR MORE DETAILS!

To post information to this website or for further information about this website, just ask Tracy at tracy@thelannies.us
Current Club Coordinator: Tracy Lannie
MBCKC would like to express our appreciation to 5 Rivers and it's staff for all they do.

Disclaimer: This site provides general information & links on topics of paddling. Paddlesports can pose serious risks of damage to personal property & serious bodily injury including permanent disability & death. Anyone participanting in any MBCKC event or participating in any event mentioned on this website does so at their own risk and agrees to hold MBCKC harmless from any liability as a result of such participation or use of information contained herein.

Friday, February 18, 2005

////FLASH PADDLE - BYRNE'S LAKE////

Date: Sunday, February 20, 2005
Time: 12:30 PM
Place: Bruno's parking lot, Spanish Fort, corner of Hwy 31 & 225
Contact: Larry McDuff - 928-1582
Comments: This will be a beginner-friendly afternoon paddle.

Friday, February 11, 2005

Econfina Canoe/Kayak Trip - More Information
February 25 - 27

For those wanting to paddle but not camp, Gary advises a reasonable alternative is the Ebroe Motel, just down the road from Econfina. For reservations, call 850-535-2499.

Also, for those coming to the campsite, please bring camping or folding deck chairs for dining and sitting around the campfire. Gary is a Kum Ba Yah kind of guy!

Thursday, February 10, 2005

ST. VINCENT ISLAND TRIP - CANCELLED - DUE TO HIGH WINDS
REPLACED WITH NEW PADDLE/CAMPING TRIP TO DELTA PLATFORMS

Bob Andrews cancelled this trip due to high winds and rescheduled a camping trip to two of the platforms in the Mobile Tensaw River Delta. Call Bob at 251-367-4144 to see if he has any overnight camp openings left for either Friday or Saturday nights. The trip will start by leaving a car at Rice Creek Landing and then putting in at Hubbard's Landing on Friday afternoon. The first paddle will follow the course noted here to Canal Island platform for dinner and camping. Saturday will take them around to Tensaw River and into Bottle Creek to the Indian Mounds site for lunch, and down Jessamine Bayou to the Jug Lake platform that night. Sunday will be an easy paddle back to Rice Creek Landing, where they will meet the Matt Darring group at 1:00 PM.

Brint Adams will likely lead a Saturday day paddle from Rice Creek to meet Bob's group at the Indian Mounds for lunch and back. Call Brint at 251-583-9919 for more information.


----Club Meeting Announcement----

Casi Calloway from the Mobile Bay Watch will speak at our next monthly meeting on March 1, 2005. She will speak about the causeway project and the many other projects they are involved in around the region. Please plan to attend this informative presentation.

Wednesday, February 09, 2005

Econfina Trip Campsite Full

Gary Worob reports the 25 person campsite limit has been reached. He says there may be dropouts, so if you are interested, give him a call to be placed on a waiting list.

As an alternative, the website here has information about other campsites nearby, which may be available. There is no participation limit for the paddles, just for the campsite, so anyone may show up for the paddles and the potluck dinners.

Tuesday, February 08, 2005

Econfina Canoe/Kayak Trip

Dates: Friday, Feb. 25 - Monday, Feb. 28, 2005
Time: Open for us at 2:00 PM on Friday and check-out by 10:00 AM on Monday
Place: Blue Spring Campground, North West Florida Water Management District

Directions from Mobile: Go east on I-10 to Hwy 81 in Florida, about 2 hours. Go south to Hwy 20 at Bruce and turn left (East). Go past Hwy 79 and a few miles past Hwy 77, you will come to Econfina Creek and there will be Pitt Springs on your left. Continue a short distance (maybe a mile) and Blue Springs Rd. North will be on your left. DO NOT GO RIGHT ON BLUE SPRINGS SOUTH. Take a left on Blue Springs Rd. North and go about a mile. Ignore the private signs and drive carefully as the road winds alot. ON YOUR LEFT will be two gates. The second gate is for us. The lock combination is 9337.

What to bring: bring your own food, water and please bring firewood. Saturday night will be a potluck dinner. NWFMWD does not want to “SEE” alcoholic beverages, so be discrete. Bring your own tent, or camp in Tom Meyers giant teepee that will hold 16. Contact Tom for more details; or van camp. We are not supposed to bring rv’s.

This site will hold 25 campers and no limit on paddlers. We will be camped near our own set of springs. Tom and I will be setting up a sweat lodge for the big feast/celebration on Saturday. Bring musical instruments. Bring your canoes & kayaks. Bring wet suits and snorkeling gear, if you plan to explore the springs the closeup way.

Events: Friday, arrive anytime after 2:00 PM, when we will set up camp and play in our backyard. Saturday, we will have a shuttle to the Hwy 20 bridge for paddling up and downstream to explore the beautiful springs, to be followed by enjoying the sweat lodge (if you choose), feast and fun.
Sunday, for those leaving, there will be a trip to 7 Runs Creek in Bruce/Red Bay. This is an amazing short paddle into a beautiful Cypress Forest. Bob Andrews, Brint Adams, Fritz Jackson, Paula Brewer and I are the only club members to have paddled this before, and it is very exciting. From Hwys. 20 and 81, go north about 4 miles, until you come to Dead River Road on the right, next to a very old cemetery. Go 2.2 miles to put in. Time will be determined at the campground.

Contacts & phone numbers: Gary Worob: gworob@yahoo.com or 850-259-9337 cell
Bob Andrews: 251-367-4144
Tom Meyer:

Friday, February 04, 2005

-----ANNOUNCEMENTS-----
FOR THOSE WITH VOLUNTEER SPIRIT


February 9, 2005- 9:00AM-2:00PM - Great Mardi Gras Cleanup - To register for the cleanup call 208-6029 or just show up at the Keep Mobile Beautiful office at 352 Government Street on Wednesday, February 9.

February 19, 2005- Alabama Coastal Foundation Cypress Tree Planting Project - There are seven planting sites in the Mobile-Baldwin County area. For more information on how you may participate in this effort, click on Alabama Coastal Foundation.

Spring-Summer 2005- For those interested in participating in the Mobile Bay National Estuary Oyster Gardening Program this summer, please review qualification details at Oyster Gardening or contact Kara Lankford at 251-431-6409 or email Kara for more information.

On the MBNEP site under projects, there are many other interesting volunteer opportunities listed you may click on for more information, such as:
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation Gardening
Spooktacular!
Healthy Coastal Communities Initiative
Derelict Crab Trap Program
Alabama Coastal Birdfest Oct. 20-23, 2005
Bay Area Earth Day April 17, 2005 at Fairhope Pier Park
Alabama Coastal Cleanup

Thursday, February 03, 2005

Visit our MBCAKC Trip Reports to see Tom Meyer's photos of his trip to the Jug Lake platform in August 2004. In the near future, we hope to add his narrative to this report.
FEBRUARY CALENDAR OF EVENTS

February Flash Paddles will be posted on the baykayaker.blogspot.com website and sent by email as they are announced. So, check out this site frequently to make sure you do not miss any opportunities.

Second Annual Super Bowl Paddle and Party
Harriet and Fritz Ingraham
Date: Sunday, February 6, 2005 - rain or shine, cold or warm
Paddle time and place: 1 p.m. at the former Lulu's location, US 98 under the Fish River Bridge
Party time and place: after 5:30 at their home.
Comments: You don't have to paddle to party. We MUST know if you are coming (how else will you know where we are paddling or how to get to our house)- contact by phone 928-4568 or email. Bring a dish for everyone to share and bring your drink of choice - remember to be a responsible alcohol beverage consumer - let someone else drive you home. We will provide either grilled chicken. IF YOU WANT YOUR FOOD HOT, you guys must promise to go outside and talk to Fritz while he grills - he was left alone last year and missed most of the party. If you don't promise to go talk to him while he cooks - then he will cook before the paddle and we will have cold food. We will have 2 computers on with slide shows of various paddle trips of 2004. The Super Bowl will be on 2 TV's. SPECIAL HALFTIME EVENT (better than last years TV event!!! - now if this doesn't get you here, nothing will). Directions to our home will be sent to the members by e-mail or phone.

St. Vincent Island
Date: February 11-13
Time: TBA
Contact: Bob Andrews - cell: 251-367-4144
Place: St. Vincent Island
Comments: Call Bob to get on the waiting list. This trip is booked up.

Valentines Paddle
Date: February 13
Time: 1 p.m.
Contact: Matt Darring 463-8523 or iama@backpacker.com
Place: Rice Creek Landing
Comments: Wear red and/or bring your sweetheart.

Econfina Car Camping and Paddle
Date: February 25-27
Time: Campground reserved for Feb. 25 (Friday from 2:00 PM) until Monday, Febuary 27 10:00 AM
Contact: Gary Worob gworob@yahoo.com 850-259-9337
Place: Blue Spring Campground
Comments: Gary has 25 openings for overnight camping and 19 are filled as of the Tuesday night meeting. The Econfina campsite has toilets but no potable water. Fine deep springs upstream and downstream. On Sunday, he plans another paddle through very old cypress swamp near Bruce, FL. More details and clarifications later in separate announcement.

The baykayaker website has a link to our long range calendar with paddle dates already extending into early fall. Take a look and plan ahead.

Thank you Cara Lankford of the National Estuary Program for the presentation on Oyster Gardening and the beginnings of the Crabwatch program. The NEP has offices in the old Brookley complex. If you may be interested in volunteering for their programs to improve the health of Mobile Bay, contact them.

Harriet has newly designed club business cards. If you want a few to pass to potential members, just ask Harriet. We passed the hat at the club meeting to cover costs of printing them. We have no dues and really low expenses with this club.

News item: The January 27, 2005 issue of the Baldwin Press has an article on page 8 about the possible renaming of Justin's Bay. The United States Board of Geographic Names requested that the Spanish Fort City Council consider a name change from Justin's Bay to Chastang Bay. In addition, the board requested the name Duck Skiff Pass be added to the small channel that connects Sardine Pass to Justin's Bay.

Tuesday, January 25, 2005

----REMINDER----THIS SUNDAY
Book Reception
Date: Sunday, January 30, 2005
Time: 1:00-5:00 PM
Contact: Dennis Holt (251) 990-6444
Place: Morning Light Gallery and Studio, 410 Fairhope Avenue, Fairhope, AL.
Comments: Dennis Holt and Sue Walker made a presentation at our meeting. Sue read her poetry and Dennis showed some of the images in their new book, In The Realm of Rivers, about the Mobile Tensaw River Delta. Their event is a reception at the studio on the occasion of the book's publication. To see Holt's website, click here.

Saturday, January 22, 2005

FLASH PADDLE --- SIMPSON RIVER, PACE, FL
Date: Friday, January 28, 2005
Time: 9:00 AM
Place: Simpson River Boat Launch - north side of Hwy. 90
Directions: From Pensacola, go east on Hwy. 90 (Nine Mile Road). From the top of the Hwy. 90 Escambia River bridge, go 2.2 miles and the put-in will be on your left. Look for the crossover just past a bridge.
Comments: Kayaks are recommended for this 8 mile round trip. We will paddle upstream and take a short cut-through and paddle up White River for another two miles. The return will be five miles down the Simpson. Bring lunch, water, PFD, etc., and be prepared to eat lunch in our boats.
Contact: Tina Murphy - 850-994-0290 or Jane Mosteller - 850-995-1063 to sign up. We will contact those on the list, in case of bad weather. For those coming from Mobile, Bob Andrews will lead a caravan. Contact Bob at 251-367-4144 for time and meeting place.

Friday, January 21, 2005

---FLASH PADDLE - BYRNE'S LAKE---
Date: January 22, 2005
Time: 10:00 AM
Place: Byrne's Lake - or meet at Bruno's parking lot at 9:45 AM, at Hwy. 31 & 225 in Spanish Fort
Contact: Brint Adams - 251-583-9919
Comments: This will be a beginner-friendly paddle of about 5 miles, so we will come off the water around noon or soon thereafter. The road is paved all the way to the park and the paddle area is well protected from the wind.

Monday, January 17, 2005

Click here to read the trip report for the Canal Island Platform outing.

NEW TRIP AND EVENT CALENDAR SITE
A new Link has been added over in the left column under Links, which is a calendar with a long-range look ahead at upcoming trips, events, races and overnight outings. It is not intended to include all last minute posted Flash Paddles nor any great detail. The Flash Paddles and trip detailed information will remain on the MBCAKC main page, as usual. This is for your benefit in preparing your long-range schedules and is a new work in progress, so any comments or suggestions for improvements are welcome. You may comment by clicking comments at the bottom of the calendar, then Post a Comment or sending an email to brint.

Saturday, January 15, 2005

-----FLASH PADDLE-----HUBBARD'S LANDING TO CANAL ISLAND
Date: Sunday, January 16, 2005
Time: 11:30 AM
Place: meet at The Stagecoach Restaurant in Stockton
Directions: Take I-65 N to the Stockton exit 31 or Hwy. 225 north, cross I-65, and continue north to Stockton.
Contact: Bob Andrews - cell: 251-367-4144
Comments: This will be about an 8-9 mile roundtrip paddle from Hubbard's Landing up Tensaw Lake to Big Beaver Creek and Little Lake to the new floating platform behind Canal Island. The area is well protected with lots of woods, so the predicted north wind will not be much of an issue. Bring along a snack and fluids for the stop at the platform. This will not be a difficult paddle and is suitable for most anyone willing to go the distance.

Thursday, January 13, 2005

FLASH - SIMPSON RIVER PADDLE CANCELLED
The paddle scheduled for Friday, January 14th is cancelled due to windy weather. Look for a future rescheduled date.
Check out Boats For Sale for the latest hot deals. There have been two recently sold and two new ads recently posted.

Tuesday, January 11, 2005

ECONFINA PADDLE
February 25-28, 2005

I received confirmation we have the Blue Spring Campground for: Feb. 25 (Friday from 2:00 PM) until Monday, Febuary 27 10:00 AM.

I will give more specifics at another time and at the next club meeting in February. I already have several people who have committed to camping, but we are only allowed up to 25 campers....no limit on people paddling.

so, if you intend to camp make sure you email me: gworob@yahoo.com

a tentative agenda is:
Friday: anyone wishing to, can come Friday afternoon and set up and play in the springs in the front yard and help set up the teepee and sweat lodge, that Tom Meyer will bring.

Saturday: explore the rest of the springs (requires shuttle) and then sweat lodge, feast and music.....improvised.

Sunday: those with small boats to explore the upper creek...no details on that area yet....the rest may explore or lounge by the pool or take a self-directed trip to Marianna and the caves...(beautiful area). Bring along bikes, too.

Thursday, January 06, 2005

New link added for MBCAKC Boats For Sale
In order to enhance your usage of our website, I added a link over in the right column, to take you to a separate specific website, set up solely to advertise any member's canoes or kayaks for sale. You will no longer have to search through this site's archives to find the hot bargains out there.
If you:
1) Want to announce a boat for sale
2) Are looking to buy a boat
3) sold a listed boat or it is no longer on the market, just email me by clicking brint, so I can post your new ad or remove an old ad from the site.
New Trip Reports
To read the latest trip reports by Harriet (Tensaw River Adventure Paddle) and Gary (a travelogue to Fargo, GA), just click on MBCAKC Paddle Reports. Enjoy!

Wednesday, January 05, 2005

January Calendar of Events

January Flash Paddles will be posted on this website and sent by email as they are announced. So, check out this site frequently to make sure you do not miss any opportunities.

Book Reception
Date: Sunday, January 30, 2005
Time: 1:00-5:00 PM
Contact: Dennis Holt (251) 990-6444
Place: Morning Light Gallery and Studio, 410 Fairhope Avenue, Fairhope, AL.
Comments: Dennis Holt and Sue Walker made a presentation at our meeting. Sue read her poetry and Dennis showed some of the images in their new book, In The Realm of Rivers, about the Mobile Tensaw River Delta. Their event is a reception at the studio on the occasion of the book's publication.

Second Annual Super Bowl Paddle and Party
Harriet and Fritz Ingraham
Date: Sunday, February 6, 2005 - rain or shine, cold or warm
Paddle time and place: TO BE ANNOUNCED
Comments: You don't have to paddle to party. We MUST know if you are coming (how else will you know where we are paddling or how to get to our house)- contact by phone 928-4568 or email: click Harriet or click Fritz. Bring a dish for everyone to share and bring your drink of choice - remember to be a responsible alcohol beverage consumer - let someone else drive you home. We will provide either grilled chicken or hamburgers - yet to be decided. IF YOU WANT YOUR FOOD HOT, you guys must promise to go outside and talk to Fritz while he grills - he was left alone last year and missed most of the party. If you don't promise to go talk to him while he cooks - then he will cook before the paddle and we will have cold food. We will have 2 computers on with slide shows of various paddle trips of 2004. The Super Bowl will be on 2 TV's.
SPECIAL HALFTIME EVENT (better than last years TV event!!! - now if this doesn't get you here, nothing will). Directions to our home will be passed out at the next meeting, or I will be happy to email them to you, if you request.

At our January club meeting, we had about 46 members in the room including a couple dozen people new to the club. Some don't yet have a boat, but they came anyway. Let's take the time to show them the ropes. Sometimes a simple lesson can make paddling so much easier for a newcomer.

Thank you to Sue Walker and Dennis Holt for coming to our meeting and being on the program.
Bruce.

Tuesday, January 04, 2005

FOR SALE - 16' fiberglass canoe - $100
Aquaterra fiberglass 10' kayak - $325
Contact: Nancy Gwin at 251-478-6948 or 251-422-1211

Monday, January 03, 2005

---FLASH---SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE
The January meeting program will be presented by Dennis Holt, a professional photographer. He will have a slide presentation of his travels in the Mobile Tensaw River Delta. Dennis will also have a sample advance copy of his "coffee table-type" book, which is presently in publication and due out sometime in the near future.

This should be a great program to kick off 2005, which you will not want to miss!

For Sale - new Hobie Outback Mirage Kayak

It comes with the amazing MirageDrive pedaling system and sail kit.

It is yellow with yellow and white sail. It has a retractable hand-controlled rudder, rod holders, cupholders, 3 storage hatches and much more.

I am selling it for $1500. It is really fun to sail while kayaking the pedaling system is amazing. It can be seen and tested at Fowl River.

Sam St. John - 786-3114 sam@cbroker.com

Thursday, December 30, 2004

KAYAK FOR SALE - $450
includes a cover, skirt, wood paddle, pump and paddle float. It can be seen at the East Shore Cafe on Main Street in downtown Daphne, by asking for Larry. The boat has been used by a 70-year-old man, who only used it in the bay and swamps.
Red Boat Mickelson
National Paddling Film Festival
Saturday, February 26, 2005
Lexington Convention Center, 430 West Vine Street, Lexington, Kentucky


Raising money for river conservation and access for over 20 years, the NPFF is an all-volunteer run competition which showcases paddlesport related film, video and still photography. Run by paddlers, we have divisions for film makers who are amateurs, professionals and something in-between. Motion entries accepted until January 21, and still photos until February 18. Check the website for details on entering or attending, by

clicking www.surfbwa.org.

The Film Festival, Silent Auction and Awards Party all will take place this year in the newly renovated convention center. Our special guest is Kent Ford, world champion kayaker, paddlesports commentator from the Summer Olympics, and prolific producer of instructional books and videos. Check our website for more details; tickets will be available on-line.

Zina Merkin
zmerkin@uky.edu
Bluegrass Wildwater Association

Wednesday, December 22, 2004

For a special Gary Worob report on last Sunday's Monet Paddle, click on MBCAKC Paddle Reports.

Thursday, December 16, 2004

Inflation Strikes Again!
Recreation permits for Eglin AFB are now $7.00 per person for this current season. For more information and the mailing address, click on FAQs. Thanks to Dick Becker for the update.

CANOE FOR SALE
Mohawk canoe-16 feet long x 36" wide. Compare to Intrepid 16 feet, click on Mohawk Canoe
This canoe is in very good shape and is an excellent roomy, stable, load-carrying family canoe. $425.00
Call Charlene Lee 251-928-0366 or email charlene@interlink-llc.com

Wednesday, December 15, 2004

The Bob Andrews Memorial Adventure Event was held and completed despite tough weather conditions. Director Larry McDuff would not have a Big Boy Event any other way! Larry declared the race a rousing success after losing only one participant, who attempted to find a shortcut through many backyards on the trail run segment. After straying way out of bounds, the unnamed athlete was officially disqualified.

For a complete report and an added bonus of festive poetry, please click on MBCAKC Paddle Reports.

Thursday, December 09, 2004

FLASH: 2nd ANNUAL SUPER BOWL PADDLE & PARTY
date: Sunday, February 6, 2005
place: Party at Harriet & Fritz's in Fairhope, paddle to be announced later
comments: You don't have to paddle to attend the party - details about time, what to bring, paddle location and directions will follow at a later date. Mark this one on your calendars, so you will not miss it. Last year's paddle/party was legendary, including the food, fun and halftime costume malfunction!

DECEMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS
prepared by Bruce Zimmerman


Bob Andrews Memorial Adventure Event
Date: Saturday, December 11, 2004
Time: 3:00 PM
Contact: Larry McDuff 928-1582
Place: Fairhope Yacht Club
Comments: This is not a race; everybody wins. Pairs of participants will go separately at the same time. One will paddle a boat from Fairhope Yacht Club to Rock Creek and stop where a kayak will be tied up. Bring a bowline to secure your boat since there is little river bank sand left after the storm. The paddler will walk or run up the creek and trail to a meeting place near the Montrose post office. The other person in the pair of participants rides a bicycle to the same meeting place. Switch off. The paddler becomes the bike rider and rides the bike to the yacht club. The other person walks or runs to the kayak and paddles back to the yacht club. Larry needs responses from anyone wishing to participate. He also needs some helpers on the course.

Styx River Paddle
Date: December 11, 2004
Time: 9 a.m.
Place: Meet at the Oasis Truck Stop and shuttle to the put in, which may be Steel Bridge.
Contact: Marc Vance, (251) 458-7574
Comments: Styx River has a drop that may be Class I or Class II depending on the river stage. If you have the boat for it (spray skirt), this is fun. If not you can portage around the drop over a rock shelf and maybe borrow a boat to try the drop.

Econfina Creek
Date: Sunday, December 12, 2004
Time: 7:30 AM
Place: Meet at Oasis Truck Stop on I-10 at Wilcox Road exit 53
Contact: Sonya Wood Mahler- 709-7588 (cell)
Comments: We will travel to Hwy 20 & Hwy 77 north of Panama City. The Econfina Creek is the source of drinking water for the city of Panama City, FL. It is a brown, slow-moving creek with crystal clear springs feeding into it along the way. The banks of the creek are rolling hills of loose sand, often hundreds of feet deep. Intermixed with the hills are dozens of shallow, sand-bottomed lakes that have extremely clear water.

We will put in at Hwy 20, go upstream to Pitt Spring, Williford Spring and Blue Spring. Then we will go downstream past our put-in to several large springs, down to Hwy 388, and back up to Hwy 20 by 4:00 PM.

If interested, you may transport your kayak on Sonya's trailer for $10 or rent a kayak from her for $40. Please contact Sonya by Wed., December 8th, to arrange for a rental and get a headcount. If you are renting, give her your height and weight, so she can choose the right boat for you.

This is a beginner-friendly paddle with some upriver paddling. It will be good for snorkeling, so you may want to bring fins, mask and with 70 degree water, a wetsuit jacket.

Be sure to bring: towel, jacket, polartec or sweatshirt, hat, sunglasses, water shoes, camera, lunch, drinks, PFD and change of clothes. Sonya will bring: first aid supplies, bottled water, maps to the put-in site and of the creek.

For further general information, call Bob Andrews - 251-367-4144 cell

Big Lagoon
Date: Saturday, December 18, 2004
Time: TBA
Place: Leaving from Big Lagoon State Park
Contact: Larry McDuff 928-1582
Comments: Over night campout on the Johnsons Beach National Seashore

Matt's Monet Paddle
Date: TBA
Time: TBA
Place: Buzbee's Fish Camp
Contact: Matt Darring 463-8523 or iama@backpacker.com
Comments: This may be the last one since Matt has been doing this for a year.


2nd Annual Super Bowl Sunday Paddle and Party
Date: Sunday, February 6, 2005
Time: TBA
Place: TBA
Contact: Harriet
Comments: More details at the next meeting. - Paddle to be announced. Party at Harriet and Fritz's following the Paddle. You don't have to paddle to attend the party.

News and notes:

Our December meeting was well attended, with 31 members. The Bayou LaFourche paddle that Tom went on in November, was fully booked with 170 paddlers! The route on Bayou LaFourche started at Donaldsonville, LA and ended 54 miles downstream. Each night the group was greeted by local families who provided Cajun feasts and live music. This extraordinary event happens around the second weekend in November, so you may need to get a reservation far in advance. Marc Vance gave us a rundown of what rivers in northwest Florida are cleared after the Chainsaw Paddles: Juniper Creek, Escambia Creek, Blackwater, Coldwater Creek, Boiling Creek are cleared. Clearing Turkey Creek is still in progress.

Wednesday, December 08, 2004

More Good Kayak Building Information
Here is an email received with several good websites for those interested in building your own boat. There are also some pictures of a kayak in progress here in Mobile.

Hi,
I live in Mobile and check out the trip reports periodically. I noted the reference to Greenland kayak building and thought you might want to check out these sites:

www.kayakforum.com
and
www.oneoceankayaks.com

They are two excellent Wood Strip building sites, with links to many other excellent sites offering information and plans to build your own.

For Stitch and Glue kayak building, go to: www.clcboats.com, which is an easier way to build a boat.

Also...WoodCraft opened a store on Schillinger Road next to Hobby Lobby, and has spoke shaves, nice hand planes and wood like padauk, bubinga and has epoxy, etc.

I began building a stripper in June, and am nearly done with it. The following link goes to photos giving the basic idea of my boat: kayakphotos

Patrick C.
Mobile, Alabama

Monday, December 06, 2004

FLASH PADDLE: Econfina Creek

Date: December 12, 2004
Time: 7:30 AM
Place: Meet at Oasis Truck Stop on I-10 at Wilcox Road exit 53
Contact: Sonya Wood Mahler- 709-7588 (cell)
Comments: We will travel to Hwy 20 & Hwy 77 north of Panama City. The Econfina Creek is the source of drinking water for the city of Panama City, FL. It is a brown, slow-moving creek with crystal clear springs feeding into it along the way. The banks of the creek are rolling hills of loose sand, often hundreds of feet deep. Intermixed with the hills are dozens of shallow, sand-bottomed lakes that have extremely clear water.

We will put in at Hwy 20, go upstream to Pitt Spring, Williford Spring and Blue Spring. Then we will go downstream past our put-in to several large springs, down to Hwy 388, and back up to Hwy 20 by 4:00 PM.

If interested, you may transport your kayak on Sonya's trailer for $10 or rent a kayak from her for $40. Please contact Sonya by Wed., December 8th, to arrange for a rental and get a headcount. If you are renting, give her your height and weight, so she can choose the right boat for you.

This is a beginner-friendly paddle with some upriver paddling. It will be good for snorkling, so you may want to bring fins, mask and with 70 degree water, a wetsuit jacket.

Be sure to bring: towel, jacket, polartec or sweatshirt, hat, sunglasses, water shoes, camera, lunch, drinks, pfd and change of clothes. Sonya will bring: first aid supplies, bottled water, maps to the put-in site and of the creek.

For further general information, call Bob Andrews - 251-367-4144 cell

Saturday, December 04, 2004

Go to MBCAKC Paddle Reports to view the latest paddle report for a trip to Mudhole Creek in December floodwaters.

For those into kayak boatbuilding, you may be interested in the following email:

In the event you think that any of your members might be interested in
learning about Greenland Style Kayak boatbuilding, Techniques or History,
your members might find the following of interest:

The Fall 2004 MASIK, Qajaq USA's Newsletter, Is now online and downloadable,
and is FREE!

click on www.qajaqusa.org/QUSA/newsletter.html

Articles on traditional kayak building, the Greenland Championships, Harpoon
throwing and making, appear in this issue.

Ed Zachowski
Public Relations Advisor, QAJAQ-USA
ed@qajaqusa.org

Wednesday, December 01, 2004

Flash Paddle - Mudhole Creek
Date: Saturday, December 4, 2004
Time: 10:30 AM
Place: Cloverleaf Landing
Contact: Brint Adams - cell 251-583-9919
Comments: Due to high water conditions on the Tensaw River, this paddle is recommended for moderate to strong paddlers. For those unfamiliar with Cloverleaf Landing, we will meet at the Bruno's parking lot at Hwy. 31 & Hwy. 225 in Spanish Fort at 10:15 AM. Others may go directly to Cloverleaf where we will put in. The trip will go downriver past Blakely State Park, cross over to the west side of Apalachee River and enter Mudhole Creek. After exploring it, we will return back upriver, stopping for lunch at the pavilion at Blakeley. There is a $3 launch fee at Cloverleaf. The trip will be approximately 7-8 miles.

Reminder - Adventure Event - Saturday, December 11, 2004
Get your team together for this fun event involving paddling, biking and trail running/walking. If you need a partner or boat/bike or have questions or want more information regarding the event, come to the December club meeting on Tuesday, December 7th for help and to see if you can team up with someone. Contact Larry McDuff if you would like to volunteer by manning a transition area or intersection turn. The event will be great fun for everyone.

Here is a repost of the original announcement:

Bob Andrews Memorial Adventure Event
Date: Saturday, December 11, 2004
Time: 3:00 PM
Contact: Larry McDuff 928-1582
Place: Fairhope Yacht Club
Comments: This is not a race; everybody wins. Pairs of participants will go separately at the same time. One will paddle a boat from Fairhope Yacht Club to Rock Creek and stop at a rope swing. The paddler will walk or run up the creek and trail to a meeting place near the Montrose post office. The other person in the pair of participants rides a bicycle to the same meeting place. Switch off. The paddler becomes the bike rider and rides the bike to the yacht club. The other person walks or runs to the kayak and paddles back to the yacht club. Larry needs responses from anyone wishing to participate. He also needs some helpers on the course. No Potluck dinner at the gazebo afterwards, due to FYC event that evening.

Tuesday, November 23, 2004

For a look back at last weekend's Larry McDuff-led memorable paddle to the west end of Dauphin Island, there are two reports posted on the MBCAKC Trip Reports site. One report is from this world and the other, well, a different perspective from an alternate universe!

Tuesday, November 16, 2004

TAMPICO KAYAK FOR SALE
Hurricane Aquasports Tampico - red deck, white hull, 13.5 feet long, 23.5 inches wide, weighs 38 pounds, capacity 285 pounds. Purchased new November 2003, in perfect condition (kept in garage). $800.
Call Marilyn Craig, 251-973-0129 (home) or 251-605-6453 (cell). For more details about this model, go to www.hurricaneaquasports.com/tampico.htm.

CAPE HORN KAYAK FOR SALE
Wilderness Systems Cape Horn 170 - 17 feet, roto-molded plastic, yellow with black hatches, forward and aft, small day hatch, rudder, paddle, PFD, great boat, good condition, asking $950. Call Dick Becker, cell 251-604-0335.

Monday, November 15, 2004

UPDATE -- DAUPHIN ISLAND PADDLE
Saturday & Sunday, November 20-21, 2004


Although not clearly noted before, this is a two-day paddle with camping at the far west end of the island. The meeting time for put-in has changed to 10:00 AM to allow for a more leisurely trip and stops to explore the cut-throughs and lunch, etc. You still need to call Larry McDuff at 928-1582 for detailed information about where to meet and park, and so he will know who to call with potential last minute trip changes.
The trip report for the MBCAKC Fall Picnic and Paddle is now posted on MBCAKC Trip Reports. If you weren't there, you were square!

Wednesday, November 10, 2004

Go to MBCAKC Trip Reports to read the account of Bob Andrews' overnight trip to the Jug Lake platform and then over to Bottle Creek to Tensaw River and Bayou Tallapoosa to the platform behind Dead Lake Island and back down Tensaw Lake to Briar Lake and back to Rice Creek Landing. Whew!!

Tuesday, November 09, 2004

KAYAK FOR SALE

14 Foot Necky Zoar Sport (Yellow) only used 4 times
Bending Branches Paddle (Wood Paddle)
Stohlquist Jacket Adult Large
Aqua Bound Bilge Pump
Thule Roof Rack
All this for just $950.00

Contact George Miller - Home (251)639-6004, Cell (251)455-9162 or email George Miller

Friday, November 05, 2004

----UPDATE----
Annual Club Fall Picnic and Paddle

Date: Saturday, November 13, 2004
Time: 2:00 PM into the evening
Place: Gary & Aven Warner's place on Dog River
Directions: I-10 to Dauphin Island Parkway south, turn right (after CVS) on Clubhouse Rd, go .25 mi., turn right on Riverside and go 1 mi. to 2212 Riverside on the right. They have a long driveway to get back to the put-in.
Comments: PLEASE RSVP TO AVEN (251)473-1819 to get a headcount and to let her know what you will bring for the potluck dinner, which will start at 5:00 PM. Aven will provide chicken and salad, so she needs to know how many to cook for. Bring your own beverages of choice.
The paddle will start at 3:00 PM and go into a nearby bayou, lasting for 1 hour, with other options for those who want to paddle a little longer. The paddle will be leisurely and most suitable for beginners with any kind of kayak or canoe.
This will be a great outing to meet your fellow club members and will be well attended, so make plans to come and call Aven.

Wednesday, November 03, 2004

NOVEMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Rice Creek to Jug Lake Platform-UPDATED
Date: Saturday, November 6, 2004
Time: Afternoon
Place: Rice Creek Landing
Contact: Bob Andrews - cellphone: 251-367-4144
Comments: This will be an overnight camping trip to Jessamine Bayou and camping at the platform on Jug (Fisher) Lake. Bob has it reserved for Saturday night, so you will need to call him to reserve one of the limited camping spaces. Bob will give you further instructions as to exactly when and where to meet on Saturday. He will also explain the dining arrangements and what to bring for the various meals. The paddle will be moderate in length, as he plans to explore several nearby areas on Saturday and Sunday before returning on Sunday afternoon.
For those wishing to paddle out Saturday afternoon, eat dinner and paddle back without camping overnight, Norman Clapp will meet at Rice Creek Landing at 3:30 PM, paddle to Jug Lake, eat dinner and paddle back after dark. He has a strong light, is familiar with the route and will be able to lead others back after dark.

Annual Club Fall Picnic and Paddle
Date: Saturday, November 13, 2004
Time: 2:00 PM into the evening
Place: Gary & Aven Warner on Dog River
Comments: This is a preliminary notice for those who need time to put this date on their schedule. More detailed information about times, directions, food and activities will be forthcoming at the next Club Meeting on November 2, 2004 and will be posted again on this website and by email.


Dauphin Island Paddle
Date: Saturday, November 20, 2004
Time: 1:00 PM approx.
Place: private address on west end of Dauphin Island
Contact: Larry McDuff - 928-1582
Comments: Please call Larry in advance for exact directions to put-in and start time. This will be a moderate paddle of approx. eight miles around the north side of Dauphin Island.

Bob Andrews Memorial Adventure Event
Date: Saturday, December 11, 2004
Time: 3:00 PM
Contact: Larry McDuff 928-1582
Place: Fairhope Yacht Club
Comments: This is not a race; everybody wins. Pairs of participants will go separately at the same time. One will paddle a boat from Fairhope Yacht Club to Rock Creek and stop at a rope swing. The paddler will walk or run up the creek and trail to a meeting place near the Montrose post office. The other person in the pair of participants rides a bicycle to the same meeting place. Switch off. The paddler becomes the bike rider and rides the bike to the yacht club. The other person walks or runs to the kayak and paddles back to the yacht club. Larry needs responses from anyone wishing to participate. He also needs some helpers on the course. Potluck dinner at the gazebo and a sunset paddle afterwards. Feel free to show up just for the social.

NOTICE
If you ordered MBKAKC Tervis Tumblers from Harriet, please contact her NOW to arrange payment before she places the order. If you do not pay now, your order will be cancelled. To contact Harriet regarding payment, please email Harriet or phone 251.928.4568.

Phatwater Kayak Challenge revisited
To read another account of the race on the Mississippi River last month, go to MBCAKC Paddle Reports.

There are accounts of other recent club paddles posted as well.

Friday, October 29, 2004

Flash Paddle - Whiskey Ditch
Date:Today, October 29, 2004
Time: 4:00 PM
Place: Meet at old Riverdoc's parking lot on the Causeway just east of Ed's Seafood Shed.
Contact: Bob Andrews - cellphone: 251-367-4144
Comments: This will be an easy paddle suitable for beginners. Dennis, the photographer who is putting out a new book the end of this year will be taking some photos of the fall flowers in Whiskey Ditch.

Flash Paddle - Escatawpa River Cleanup
Date: Sunday, October 31, 2004
Time: 9:30 AM
Place: Sunshine Canoe Landing, Airport Road, 13 mi. west of Mobile at the Escatawpa River
Contact: Bob Andrews - cellphone: 251-367-4144
Comments: For anyone planning to help with the river cleanup and/or detailed directions, call Bob Andrews to reserve a place. Bob will make available free use of his canoes, so you will not need to bring your personal kayaks, canoes, PFD's or paddles.

Bring your own lunch and fluids and be prepared for approximately four hours of paddle time on the river.

Annual Club Fall Picnic
Date: Saturday, November 13, 2004
Time: Afternoon and evening
Place: Gary & Avan Warner on Dog River
Comments: This is a preliminary notice for those who need time to put this date on their schedule. More detailed information about times, directions, food and activities will be forthcoming at the next Club Meeting on November 2, 2004 and will be posted again on this website and by email.

Thursday, October 28, 2004

MEETING REMINDER
The next club meeting will be election day, November 2, 2004 at 7:00 PM at the Fairhope Yacht Club. Remember to vote early and often and then come out to the meeting to hear a presentation on "Reptiles of Southern Alabama" by Roger Clay, Non-Game Wildlife Biologist, Alabama Fish and Game Department.

Finalization of MBCKC Logo Tervis Tumblers - payment due..

CLUB LOGO TERVIS TUMBLERS
Harriet is continuing to take orders for Tervis Tumblers with the MBCKC logo. She will be collecting money for your tumblers at the meeting on November 2 and will deliver your tumblers at the December meeting. Please bring your checkbooks or cash. All checks must be made out to Harriet K. Ingraham. To contact Harriet with your order, please email Harriet or phone 251.928.4568. Or mail to 9 Echo Lane, Fairhope, Al 36532

Gary Worob and Brint Adams have written paddle reports on their recent trips. Read them at our separate website for trip reports, www.paddlereport.blogspot.com.

Monday, October 25, 2004

Flash Paddle: Full Moon & Total Lunar Eclipse Delta Paddle
Date: Wednesday, October 27, 2004
Time: 6:00 PM
Place: Buzbee's on Hwy. 225, 2 miles north of Hwy. 31 in Spanish Fort. Bring $3 launch fee.
Contact: Bob Andrews - cell: 251-367-4144
Comments: The full moon will be visible when we put in at 6:00 PM. At about 8:14 PM, the moon will enter the earth's shadow. The total lunar eclipse will be from 9:23 to 10:45 PM. We will stay out for some of the total eclipse, but probably not all of it.

The paddle will be to somewhere in Bay Minette Basin or possibly over to the fork in the Blakeley and Apalachee Rivers. Please bring a flashlight or headlamp for the return trip and to meet state boating regulations for paddling at night. You may also want to bring along some bug spray, fluids and snacks to celebrate the festivities. This will be an easy trip suitable for new or beginner paddlers.

Wednesday, October 20, 2004

Flash Paddle: Cloverleaf Landing
Date: Saturday, October 23, 2004
Time: 9:00 AM
Place: Cloverleaf Landing
Contact: Brint Adams - cell 251-583-9919
Comments: For those who are familiar with Cloverleaf Landing, you may go directly there where we will meet at 9:00 AM. For those who have not been there before, we will meet first at Bruno's parking lot in Spanish Fort at Hwy. 31 & Hwy. 225 at 8:45 AM and caravan from there. There is a $3 parking fee per vehicle. After paddling in McVoys Lake, we will paddle down to Blakeley Park for a potluck lunch at one of the covered picnic pavilions overlooking the Tensaw River and delta. This will be an easy relaxed trip of about 5 miles suitable for beginner and novice paddlers.

Saturday, October 16, 2004

Flash Paddle: Magnolia River/Weeks Bay
Date: Sunday, October 17, 2004
Time: 1:00 PM
Place: Exxon on Hwy. 98 & Magnolia Springs Hwy.
Contact: Brint Adams - cell 251-583-9919
Comments: We will put in at the public access at the end of Rock Street in Magnolia Springs. Depending on the group, we will travel one-way out Magnolia River and up the east side of Weeks Bay to our take out by the Hwy. 98 bridge or possible out and back on the Magnolia. This will be a leisurely trip of 4-5 miles suitable for new or inexperienced paddlers wanting to see the beauty and wide array of waterfowl along this beautiful river in lower Baldwin County.

Friday, February 06, 2004

______________________________________
- - - Paddle Canceled - - -

Brint Adams will *not* be leading a paddle on Sat. Feb 7. Cancellation is due to iffy weather.

Thursday, January 29, 2004

_____________________________________
Flash Paddle: Rice Creek - Fisher Island

Date: Sat., Jan 31, 2004
Time: 9:30 AM
Place: Meet at Conoco Station at I-65 & Hwy 225 (exit 31). We will drive north to the Rice Creek boat launch.
Contact: Brint Adams - work: 661-7490 ext. 102, home: 626-4940, cell: 583-9919

Comments: This will be a fairly easy paddle of about 5.5 miles, crossing Tensaw River to Jessamine Bayou and circling Fisher Island. Once finished paddling, and for those interested, we will end up at Stagecoach for a late lunch. Bring along fluids, snacks, pfd, etc.

Brint Adams

Friday, January 23, 2004

_____________________________________
- - - Flash Paddle - Hurricane Creek - - -

Date: January 24, 2004
Time: 9:30 AM
Place: Bruno's- Spanish Fort, Hwy 90 @ Hwy 225
Contact: Brint Adams - cell 583-9919, day 661-7522 ext. 102
Directions: Head north on 225 for 12.5 mi., turn left at stop sign on CR 86, go 0.8 mi. to Y, take right fork and go 2 mi.

We will meet at Bruno's at 9:30 AM and go to Hurricane Landing to put in. You may drive directly there and meet at 10:00 AM. The trip will travel up Hurricane Bayou and back for an approx. total of 6 mi. and about 3 hours. You may want to bring lunch or a snack and fluids. There may be a $3 put-in fee, although the last two times I was there, there was no one there to collect. Call if you have any questions or to confirm last minute plans re: weather, although rain should hold off until evening.

Friday, January 09, 2004

_________________________________________
- - - Bob's Surprise Paddle!! - - -

Date: Sunday, Jan 11th, 2004
Time: Call Bob
Place: Call Bob
Contact: Call Bob!

Bob will be leading a paddle to Sand Island. Call him for any additional information. The paddle will leave mid-morning and return late-afternoon. Contact Bob at (cell) 367-4144 or (hm) 344-8664.

__________________________________________

Rowing Machine for Sale:
Want to get in incredible shape for boating? Gently used ERG - Concept 2 Rower for sale. $450.00 OBO. call Liz or BJ at 447-0003.

Wednesday, January 07, 2004

__________________________________________
January Big Boy Paddle - St. Andrews Bay-Little Point Clear
by Brint Adams

Date: Saturday, January 10, 2004
Time: 10:00 AM
Place: Lambert's Restaurant - Foley, on Hwy. 59
Contact: Brint Adams - cell 583-9919, day 661-7522 ext. 102, brintadams@yahoo.com
Comments: Please call or email me in advance, so I can get an approx. count.

We will meet at Lambert's and travel down Hwy. 59 to Gulf Shores, turn right on Hwy. 180 and go out to mile marker 4, before Ft. Morgan. On the right (north - bay side) is parking and put-in for St. Andrews Bay.

We will put in approx. 10:30 and head NE to Little Point Clear along the shore. Either on the way out or back we will explore some of the several long sloughs, stopping to eat lunch.

I anticipate an approx. distance of 8-10 miles at a moderate speed. Please bring food, hydration and prepare for weather/temp variations. We plan to take-out at approx. 4:00 PM.


__________________________________________
- - - January Calendar - - -
Compliments of Bruce Zimmerman

January Big Boy Paddle
St. Andrews Bay - Little Point Clear
When: Sat., Jan. 10, 2004
Time: 10:00 am
Place: Meet at Lambert's Restaurant in Foley
Contact: Brint Adams 583-9919
What: Contact Brint

----------------------------

Bob's Surprise
When: Sun, Jan. 11, 2004
Time: TBA
Place: TBA
Contact: Bob Andrews 344-8664

------------------------------

Lower Perdido River
When: Sat. Jan. 24, 2004
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Place: Ruby's Fish Camp off US 90
Contact: Mark 458-7574

----------------------------

Heads Up for :

The Derelict Crab Trap Removal Day, March 13, 2004

Triathlon at Fairhope Municipal Pier, June 19, 2004
This is the event that was held at Pelican Point last year.
We provided boats on the swim course for safety.

Thursday, December 11, 2003

__________________________________________
- - - Out of the Water Roll Classes - - -

Tony Kramer write us :

I will be holding my out of the water roll class on Friday Jan. 2nd around 1 pm at the park just up from the American Legion and Gambino's in Fairhope, AL on Scenic 98. You will be able to park at the American Legion or at the boat ramp. I am going to try to set up around the boat ramp area. Bring your boat if you want to try and get your roll down in the water. Bring a friend as well! Cost for the roll class is just $30.00.

For more info on the class go to my web site: www.theseakayaker.com. or email me at: tony@theseakayaker.com

Then on Saturday the 3rd I will be leading a small group to Sand Island Lighthouse. Leave Fairhope for Fort Morgan around 8am. The trip will be against the tide on the way out and if the surf is up at Dixie Bar we will do some surf work. Anyone who wants to paddle is welcome!

"See you on the water!!"

The Sea Kayaker
Sea Kayak Adventures
Guided Tours, Instruction & Rentals
Tony Kramer
770-403-8346
www.theseakayaker.com
tony@theseakayaker.com

Tuesday, December 09, 2003

________________________________________
- - - Fowl River Boat Parade - - -
Marilyn Craig writes us:


I live on Fowl River just down from the marina. If the weather is good on Sat. I'd be happy for anyone wishing to paddle a few minutes up river to see the boat parade and then return. I have a pretty good spot to put in and plenty of parking space. If food and booze sweeten the deal I'll also make some hot chilli and cold beer for after the parade. If the weather is too bad to paddle you can see the parade from the marina or I'll call friends and see if I can get us an invite to their pier. Boats come by the marina about 6:30pm. Marilyn Craig: Home 973-0129, Cell 605-6453 Give me a call if you are interested and I can give directions.

________________________________________
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

General Information:


1. Our monthly meetings are held the first Tuesday of every month at 7:00 p.m. at the Fairhope Yacht Club. Anybody and everybody is welcome to attend. There is no charge. The typical meeting lasts two hours. We start with a review of the previous month's paddles, continue with plans for and announcements of paddles for the next month, and end with a presentation. Presentations may include slide shows of past paddling trips by club members, member reviews of paddling gear, and safety and skills presentations.

2. If you e-mail a request to jrobber@worldnet.att.net, Julie will put you on the club's e-mail list. You will receive a monthly newsletter, which includes a calendar of events, and e-mail notices of "flash paddles" i.e., club paddles that are planned and announced on short notice. (If you used to be on Gene's e-mail list for the club and are wondering why you suddenly stopped receiving club e-mails, it's because Gene's e-mail list was suddenly and unexpectedly destroyed by his computer. You need to "re-subscribe" by e-mailing Julie, if you want to get on the new e-mail list for the club.)

3. We regularly post "want ads" for individuals seeking and selling used boats. E-mail a description of the boat desired or for sale (type, make, model, length, weight, age, condition, accessories included, etc.) to Julie at jrobber@worldnet.att.net and she will post your "want ad" to this website and e-mail it to the club membership in the next regular club e-mailing.

4. We are a group of people who enjoy paddling and sharing our experiences with others. We are not a formal organization. There are no dues, no application forms, no membership lists. All you have to do to "join" our "club" is show up at a paddle, come to a meeting, or just decide you're a member.

5. Our intention is for safety to always be the first priority. It is up to each individual to decide for him/herself whether the paddling conditions for each event are within their enjoyment and skill range. Everyone must be responsible for their decision whether to participate in each event. The coordinator of the paddle should be able to assist with information on the expected paddle conditions. However, always remember that the weather and other conditions can, and quite often do, change both quickly and dramatically. (In other words, paddle at your own risk.)

6. You should always contact the trip coordinator for any paddling trip to let them know if you plan to attend. If they don't know you are coming, trip leaders cannot contact you with changes in plans or cancellations, and you may find yourself waiting alone in a parking lot while the rest of us are off having fun somewhere else.

7. What should you bring? You should bring a PFD and drinking water on every paddle. You should also bring whatever you think you'll need in the way of snacks or meals, if anything. If we will be on the water after dark, you are required by law to bring a single, white light. (But don't turn it on unless you need it for safety and/or the trip leader tells you to. White lights ruin night vision.) We also appreciate paddlers who choose to carry a trash bag to collect litter along the way. They make it nicer for everyone.

--------------------

Contact list and links:

If you would like to subscribe to the club e-mail list, or if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions about this website, please e-mail Julie at jrobber@worldnet.att.net.

Click here to go to the website of the West Florida Canoe Club.

Click here to go to the website for the Bartram Canoe Trail.

Click here to go the website for the U.S. Geological Survey, where you can download free maps.

Click here to go to the MBCAKC's archive of "trip reports" on past paddles. This website ranges from the informative to the poetic, and sometimes includes links to maps. You are encouraged to submit trip reports of whatever genre, as well as your favorite links.

--------------------

Reminder: Permit for Boiling Creek

A current permit is required to paddle Boiling Creek in Eglin Air Force Base. The permits are good from 1 October to 30 September. They cost $5.00. (You get a map with the permit that is worth more than the fee.)

Request the Recreational Permit, which is the one for paddling. You can get the permit from one of the gates or by mail. Permits may be obtained from the Jackson Guard Office (Natural Resources Branch), located at Highway 85 North, Niceville FL 32578 (850) 882-4164. The mailing address is:

Eglin Natural Resources Branch

107 Highway 85 North

Niceville, FL 32578

For each permit requested, send a photocopy of either a driver's license or other identification card (e.g., passport) which contains a photograph, your full name, current address (including zip code), current phone number, and date of birth. Specify the type of permit (recreational) desired.

As an alternative to a photo-i.d., you can send last year's permit, if you have one.

Be prepared to wait three weeks for delivery (although recent turn-arounds have been only a few days). Payments can be by personal check, money order, or cashiers check made payable to DFAS-LI Eglin AFB. Cash is not accepted.

Wednesday, December 03, 2003

____________________________________________________
- - - December Meeting Notes - - -
Re: county parks


We had a full room at the Yacht club for the December meeting with 29 club members attending a presentation by Cara Stallman and Stan Arbaczauskas of the Baldwin County Planning and Zoning Department. They brought us some good news:
- A new park on Tensaw Lake will be opening soon. This is a 400 acre tract, which includes wetlands for conservation, acquired in August.
- The bike trail on Scenic 98 will be extended from Montrose to Point Clear starting in January.

They also gave us a little bad news - the land around Reeder Lake is slated for development into an 1,800 unit subdivision

They gave their Powerpoint presentation telling us about county parks, categories and management goals for improving what we have. They showed us Geographic Information System products and brought sample maps with them. They have the capability of producing a map on a few days request for any area in the county. They can make a paper product or a PDF file for e-mail.

The summary of county assets includes 4 beach front parks of an acre or more, 11 boat launches, 16 conservation parks, 6 cultural resource parks (ever see a dipping vat?), 7 multi-recreational parks and 113 Right of Way accesses.

They have requested from us comment on identifying those right of way access points that have good parking. If you have comments about the right of way accesses, or any questions about parks and public lands, you may reach them:

Cara L. Stallman Senior Natural Resource Planner, (251) 580-1655 ext. 7255
e-mail: cstallman@co.baldwin.al.us

Stan Arbaczauskas, Natural Resource Planner, (251) 580-1655 ext. 7251
e-mail: sarbaczauskas@co.baldwin.al.us

-Bruce Zimmerman

____________________________________________________
- - - December Paddle Calendar v1.0 - - -
by Bruce Zimmerman


December Big Boy Challenge
When: Sat., Dec. 6, 2003
Time: 2:00 p.m.
Place: Fairhope Yacht Club
Contact: Larry McDuff; 928-1582
What: A short event combining kayaking, running (or walking) and biking.

Format: Teams of two will share a bicycle and a kayak over a loop course. One team member will start in the kayak paddling north on Mobile Bay and up Rock Creek to the upper limits of navigation. Leaving the kayak on the right bank, head on a trail a short distance upstream and cross a log bridge, continue about a mile north on the trail to Third Street near the Montrose Cemetery. Pick up your team's bike, continue north on Third Street, turning left where it deadends into Gabel, then left again on Scenic 98, following it to Volanta and the Yacht Club.

The other team member will start on the bicycle, leaving on Volanta, turning left at the light and bearing left on Scenic 98 to Montrose. Then turn right on Gabel and right again on Third Street. Leave your bike just inside the woods where the trail intersects Third Street past the cemetery. Run south on the trail, Crossing Rock Creek on the log bridge and continuing downstream until you reach your team's kayak. Paddle downstream to the bay, turn left and return to the yacht club.

Please form your own teams. a little planning is required to share a kayak, bike, paddle, PFD and possibly a spray skirt and jackets or other warm clothing which may be needed on the bike and the kayak but not on the run. Call Larry McDuff at 928-1582 if you need a partner.

The run course will be sparsely marked with surveyors tape. If you just want to watch the action we could use some help in the transition areas pointing people in the right direction. Call Larry.

--------------------------------
Full Moon Paddle
Bob will be leading a full moon paddle. Stay tuned to the website,
www.baykayaker.blogspot.com for information.

------------------------------
Alligator Bayou Slacker Paddle
Time: TBD
Date: weather dependent. Announced by Flash paddle.
Place: Put in at Seminole Boat Launch. Paddle down the Perdido River.
Contact: Frank Laraway 945-5504
Comment: This area is slated for development. Visit it before it goes away.

--------------------------------
Christmas on the Bayou
Date: Sun., Dec 21, 2003,
Time: 12:00 noon
Place: Bruno's in Spanish Fort
Contact: Matt Darring; 343-1196 or 341-1669; e-mail: iama@backpacker.com
Comments: Paddle on Hurricane Bayou. Christmas decorations required. Recommend decorating boat and paddler at Hurricane Bayou. Launch fee $3.00

--------------------------
Last Sunset Paddle
Date: Wed., Dec. 31, 2003
Time: 4:30 p.m.
Place: Fairhope Yacht Club
Contact: Gene Boothe; 928-1107; e-mail: boothecg@bellsouth.net
Comments: Paddle out from the beach, drink a toast to the past year at sunset,
which is just after 5:00 p.m. BYOB.

------------------------
Hangover Paddle - First Paddle of the New Year
Date: Thurs., Jan. 1, 2004
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Place: Fairhope Yacht Club
Contact: Steve Delker 928-7342
Comment: Paddle south, seek brunch. Return.

Tuesday, December 02, 2003

____________________________________________________

Don't forget the meeting tonight!!! 7 pm, Fairhope Yacht Club!!!
Should be a good program!!!


____________________________________________________
- - - Announcement - - -

Dear Paddlers,

In the next month Tom Foote (the southeastern rep from Current Designs) and myself are planning on coming to Mobile Bay for an on-the-water demo and roll class. Tom will bring a wide selection of kayaks from Current Designs for everyone to try out and I will be holding an "off the water" roll class using my roll cage.

This roll class is a great way to master your roll or learn a new roll with out getting wet or the disorientation that comes from being upside down in the water. Because of this you can take your time and "think" each step of the roll through. As well, you won't need to wear any neoprene or cold weather gear. The attachment enclosed will give you an idea how the cage works. If you can't open the attachment, please go to my web site at www.theseakayaker.com for more info.

What we need from the paddling community there on Mobile Bay is an idea of how many people would be interested in attending this demo/roll class. The boat demo is free and, if you choose to take the roll class, cost for the class is $30. If there is enough interest we will be there, on the Bay in Fairhope, to
accommodate every paddler. We are also looking at several other locations along the Gulf Cost to have this demo but Mobile Bay is our first choice.

Please help us out by emailing me of your interest in the event!

Thanks!

"See you on the water!!"

The Sea Kayaker
Sea Kayak Adventures
Guided Tours, Instruction & Rentals
Tony Kramer
770-403-8346
www.theseakayaker.com
Tony@theseakayaker.com

Webmaster's Note: I can't get the images Tom included to paste into Blogger. Don't know if Blogger blocks them or if I am not doing it right. Please go to the web site mentioned above, scroll down a bit, look on the left, and click on "Winter Roll Classes" to view the images.

Saturday, November 29, 2003

____________________________________________________
- - - Kayak for Sale - - -

10ft Old Town Castine Kayak with two storage compartments and in excellent condition. Used 4 times. Asking $375.00 with paddle. Color is blue. Phone 504-282-6685, ask for John. Location New Orleans, La.

John A. Broussard

Monday, November 24, 2003

__________________________________________________
- - - Flash Paddle - - -
Perdido River, Blackwater River, Reeder Lake


Date: Wed, Nov 26, 2003
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Place: Meet at intersection of C.R. 87 and U.S. Highway 90 (Elsanor, AL)
Put in: Seminole Boat Ramp
Contact: Frank Laraway; 945-5504

Paddle down the Perdido to the Blackwater and into Reeder Lake. Stop for lunch at an Indian Mound there and return. Take out : about 2 p.m.

Bring water, lunch, warm clothes for layering, and the usual safety stuff.

Wednesday, November 19, 2003

_________________________________________________
- - - Flash Paddle - - -
Magnolia River/Weeks Bay

Date: Sat., November 22, 2003
Time: 9:00 AM
Place: Exxon at intersection of U.S. Hwy 98 & CR 49 (Magolia Springs Hwy)
Contact: Brint Adams - 583-9919 (cell), or brintadams@yahoo.com

We will meet first to determine whether we do an out/back or point to point with shuttle from the Hwy 98 bridge. Bring fluids, snacks and sunscreen. Paddle will be about 6 mi. for 3-3.5 hrs., with optional lunch afterwards at Lulu's. Call or email with any questions.

Tuesday, November 18, 2003

_________________________________________________
- - - Baldwin County Parks and Public Accesses - - -
Foley Public Meeting November 18, 2003
by Bruce Zimmerman


The County held a meeting at Bay Minette Monday night and another meeting at Foley tonight. Cary Bentley and I showed up for the Foley meeting. The Foley meeting had 13 plus the two county employees, Stan and Cara, who were running the meeting. Stan knows some of us kayakers because we get his maps for the put-ins. I don't know of the turnout for the Bay Minette meeting. I heard from Stan that Brint Adams showed up for the Bay Minette meeting.

This meeting is a good two way communication. The county employees tell us, in a high quality slide show format, what they are doing to make our parks better. They are setting some standards for parking, for example. They have pictures of some of the better parks like Cliffs Landing and Keeny Drive East on Fish River, a FEMA acquisition. They have categorized and plotted on a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) map, the different kinds of parks and accesses the county has. The map is available at the meeting. Some parks are historic places like Mims Park, and others have environmental preservation as their goal. Some are beach parks and others are on the rivers. They acknowledge that some of these properties are not well marked; either the signs are gone or the neighbors have made the right of way a part of their yard. But the purpose of the meeting is to look ahead and not to dwell on how things were done in the past.

We had a good discussion from the public. The Mayor of Foley was present, and he had deep insight into the problems related to land title, fee simple land and developed versus undeveloped county property. We had Commissioner Price attending also. He made some helpful observations also. We had a fellow who remembers when the Marlow Ferry was operating to take cars across the Fish River; he had a depth of knowledge of the county that was helpful, since he had 12 years experience doing a similar job in the parks department.

But most of these folks were focused on getting boat ramps built for their fishing boats. Some acknowledgment of right of way access for pedestrians was thrown in too, but only if the right of way was kept discrete; they don't want their neighborhood swarming with tourists trying to get to the water.

Cara and Stan seem to be already aware of the situation in the county parks. They gave out comment sheets for us to add our comments. I recommend that we paddlers show up at the meeting in the Fairhope Courthouse Thursday at 6:30 and make comment. They have heard we have over a hundred paddlers in the club; wouldn't showing up in numbers make the impression on them? It is an opportunity to gripe, sure. But I tried to emphasize in my comments that we have a pretty good deal here. We have more put ins than we can use, if we can just find them.

And good news looking ahead, Baldwin County has acquired 400 acres on Tensaw Lake for a not-yet-opened park.

__________________________________________________

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

General Information:


1. Our monthly meetings are held the first Tuesday of every month at 7:00 p.m. at the Fairhope Yacht Club. Anybody and everybody is welcome to attend. There is no charge. The typical meeting lasts two hours. We start with a review of the previous month's paddles, continue with plans for and announcements of paddles for the next month, and end with a presentation. Presentations may include slide shows of past paddling trips by club members, member reviews of paddling gear, and safety and skills presentations.

2. If you e-mail a request to jrobber@worldnet.att.net, Julie will put you on the club's e-mail list. You will receive a monthly newsletter, which includes a calendar of events, and e-mail notices of "flash paddles" i.e., club paddles that are planned and announced on short notice. (If you used to be on Gene's e-mail list for the club and are wondering why you suddenly stopped receiving club e-mails, it's because Gene's e-mail list was suddenly and unexpectedly destroyed by his computer. You need to "re-subscribe" by e-mailing Julie, if you want to get on the new e-mail list for the club.)

3. We regularly post "want ads" for individuals seeking and selling used boats. E-mail a description of the boat desired or for sale (type, make, model, length, weight, age, condition, accessories included, etc.) to Julie at jrobber@worldnet.att.net and she will post your "want ad" to this website and e-mail it to the club membership in the next regular club e-mailing.

4. We are a group of people who enjoy paddling and sharing our experiences with others. We are not a formal organization. There are no dues, no application forms, no membership lists. All you have to do to "join" our "club" is show up at a paddle, come to a meeting, or just decide you're a member.

5. Our intention is for safety to always be the first priority. It is up to each individual to decide for him/herself whether the paddling conditions for each event are within their enjoyment and skill range. Everyone must be responsible for their decision whether to participate in each event. The coordinator of the paddle should be able to assist with information on the expected paddle conditions. However, always remember that the weather and other conditions can, and quite often do, change both quickly and dramatically. (In other words, paddle at your own risk.)

6. You should always contact the trip coordinator for any paddling trip to let them know if you plan to attend. If they don't know you are coming, trip leaders cannot contact you with changes in plans or cancellations, and you may find yourself waiting alone in a parking lot while the rest of us are off having fun somewhere else.

7. What should you bring? You should bring a PFD and drinking water on every paddle. You should also bring whatever you think you'll need in the way of snacks or meals, if anything. If we will be on the water after dark, you are required by law to bring a single, white light. (But don't turn it on unless you need it for safety and/or the trip leader tells you to. White lights ruin night vision.) We also appreciate paddlers who choose to carry a trash bag to collect litter along the way. They make it nicer for everyone.

--------------------

Contact list and links:

If you would like to subscribe to the club e-mail list, or if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions about this website, please e-mail Julie at jrobber@worldnet.att.net.

Click here to go to the website of the West Florida Canoe Club.

Click here to go to the website for the Bartram Canoe Trail.

Click here to go the website for the U.S. Geological Survey, where you can download free maps.

Click here to go to the MBCAKC's archive of "trip reports" on past paddles. This website ranges from the informative to the poetic, and sometimes includes links to maps. You are encouraged to submit trip reports of whatever genre, as well as your favorite links.

--------------------

Reminder: Permit for Boiling Creek

A current permit is required to paddle Boiling Creek in Eglin Air Force Base. The permits are good from 1 October to 30 September. They cost $5.00. (You get a map with the permit that is worth more than the fee.)

Request the Recreational Permit, which is the one for paddling. You can get the permit from one of the gates or by mail. Permits may be obtained from the Jackson Guard Office (Natural Resources Branch), located at Highway 85 North, Niceville FL 32578 (850) 882-4164. The mailing address is:

Eglin Natural Resources Branch

107 Highway 85 North

Niceville, FL 32578

For each permit requested, send a photocopy of either a driver's license or other identification card (e.g., passport) which contains a photograph, your full name, current address (including zip code), current phone number, and date of birth. Specify the type of permit (recreational) desired.

As an alternative to a photo-i.d., you can send last year's permit, if you have one.

Be prepared to wait three weeks for delivery (although recent turn-arounds have been only a few days). Payments can be by personal check, money order, or cashiers check made payable to DFAS-LI Eglin AFB. Cash is not accepted.

Friday, November 14, 2003

________________________________________________

We have a fishing paddle report from Red Boat Mickelsen on the paddle of Nov 13. Check it out at www.paddlereport.blogspot.com

Thursday, November 13, 2003

_______________________________________________
- - - Camping Outing - - -

Date: Sat Nov 15
Time: After the party
Place: Magnolia River
Contact: Larry McDuff, 928-1582

After the party Saturday night I'm planning to camp on the Magnolia River and would welcome any company. The campsite has a sandy beach for landing and a grassy area under a large oak tree for sleeping (non-snorers only). Others may wish to use a separate area located further back in the woods.

As of Thursday morning the weather forecast looks great for sleeping under the stars. If that holds the only camping gear you would need would be a waterproof groundcloth (a couple of garbage bags would do), a sleeping pad or folded blanket underneath, and a sleeping bag or another blanket or two on top for warmth.

You may call 928-1582 if you have any questions.

- Larry McDuff

Tuesday, November 11, 2003

______________________________________________
- - - Fishing Paddle - - -

Date: Wed., Nov 12
Time: 7 am
Place: Mayday Park


Who's ready to go out smart the fish? If you are, be at Mayday Park Wednesday 11/12/03. We get underway at 0700. The last time the fish stopped bitting when I ran out of bait. I used live shrimp. Bring your own bait. If there are any fishermen or women out there that can not make it, we can always go on the weekend. Us "slackers" can go anytime, day or night. :)

- Red Boat Mickelsen....

Monday, November 10, 2003

_____________________________________________

We have a fishing paddle report from Red Boat Mickelsen on his trip today. It is at www.paddlereport.blogspot.com
___________________________________________
- - - Flash Paddle - - -
- Perdido Estuary -

Date: Tues. Nov 11
Time: 9 am
Place: Perdido Estuary
Contact: Bob Andrews; cell 367-4144 or 344-8664

Bob will be leading a paddle through or around the Perdido Esutary. Detailed plans not available at this time. Please call Bob to learn full details!

Saturday, November 08, 2003

___________________________________________
- - - Paddle Reports - - -

We have reports from Larry McDuff on the November Big Boy Paddle, and from Harriett Ingraham on the Full Moon/Lunar Eclipse Paddle. Both occurred today. Check out www.paddlereport.blogspot.com for all the info.
__________________________________________
- - - Fishing Paddle - - -

Date: Mon. Nov 10
Time: 7 am
Place: Mayday Park

I am going to try to out smart the fish. Underway at 0700, 11/10/03 from MAYDAY PARK. Bring your own bait. Note: If you can't go in the morning, because you have to work so the kids won't starve, maybe we could do one in the evening.

- Red Boat Mickelsen....

Thursday, November 06, 2003

_________________________________________
- - - FLASH/FULL MOON/LUNAR ECLIPSE PADDLE - - -
Byrnes Lake to Gravine Island

Date: Sat. November 8, 2003
Time: Meet at Bruno's in Spanish Fort at 4:00 P.M.
Contact: Harriet King Ingraham, 928-4568 home; 604-3741 cell; hvk1457@aol.com
or Fritz cell 680-8928

The eclipse is early - peaking shortly after 7 p.m, but starting as early as 5:30 p.m. We plan a fun evening of paddling to Gravine, eating dinner and watching the eclipse. The weather will be cool (low in mid 50's that night) - so wear/bring adequate clothing. Bring food to share. As we will not have Bob with us, we probably will not be cooking on the island (no ship to transport the equipment), but can make a fine meal of sandwiches or anything you want to bring and share. A LIGHT IS REQUIRED BY LAW ON ALL BOATS WHEN PADDLING AFTER DARK. This is an easy paddle. If there is a breeze, the river crossing will be one point up from easy on the scale - definitely 'doable' for most or all. VERY IMPORTANT TO READ THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

As they are filming a movie at Byrnes Lake, I MUST know by Friday early afternoon who is coming. The film crew has a security service on site now, due to vandalism in past weeks. They welcome us using the landing, but need to know how many are coming (and requested names, but I will have that when you say you are coming). Of course, if you find you want to come, I am sure that will be no problem - I just need as accurate a count as I can get.

The parking around the landing is filled with construction equipment and filming equipment, therefore we must try and team up and put as many kayaks and people on as few vehicles as possible. WE MUST CONVOY FROM BRUNO'S TO THE LANDING - NO ONE IS ALLOWED TO GO AHEAD WITHOUT THE GROUP AS WE MUST ARRIVE AS ONE GROUP.

Parking will be slim, so at Bruno's, we will swap some boats to other vehicles, and leave some cars at Bruno's. IF YOU HAVE A VEHICLE THAT CAN ACCOMODATE EXTRA BOATS, PLEASE ALLOW YOUR FELLOW PADDLERS THE OPPORTUNITY TO PUT THEIR BOAT ON YOUR VEHICLE.

Remember, call me, email me, or call Fritz.

Wednesday, November 05, 2003

_____________________________________________
- - - Kayak for Sale - - -

14 foot Old Town kayak bought in Fairhope and used twice. It is dark green with a rudder and hatch installed. Also includes paddle and anchor and rubber car top carrier. All for $650.00. 928-9095 or cell # 540-761-2773.
____________________________________________
- - - Meeting Notes - - -

The monthly meeting was held on Tues. Nov. 4. Stuff worth noting is:

New President

Fritz has stepped down and our new president is Harriet Ingraham. Thanks Fritz for all of you hard work and congrats to Harriet.
-----

T-Shirts

The idea of club shirts has been in the works. What we need are designs. Designs are due by the next meeting on December 2nd.
-----

Annual Club Party

Jane is once again hosting the annual party. Thank you Jane. She really needs your help in setting up and cleaning up. She cannot do it this year.

Paddling will be from 3:30 - 6:00
Dinner will start at 6:00 - Bring a covered dish, your own beverage and chair.
Date: Saturday, November 15th
Contact: Jane, 978-1651
-----

Byrnes Lake Closing:

Byrnes Lake landing will be closed from Sunday Nov. 9th until the first of the year. They are filming a movie on site.
-------

Baldwin County Parks

The Parks and Land Management Committee for Baldwin County is meeting with the public to discuss future plans at county parks. The meetings will be held as follows:

- Bay Minette, Monday, November 17, at 6:30 p.m., at the County Administration Building

- Foley, Tuesday, November 18, at 6:30 p.m., at the City of Foley Chambers

- Fairhope, Thursday, November 20, at 6:30 p.m. at the Satellite Courthouse

The county employee who is the point of contact is Stan Arbaczauskas, phone 580-1655 x7251.

-----

Full Moon Paddle

Bob will be leading a full moon paddle. The date is not set yet, but will happen prior to November 11th. Check the web site for information
-----

Big Boy Paddle

Date: November 4th
Time: 9:30 meet at WalMart in Tillman's Corner
or
10:15 at Bayou Cumbest at the state line
Contact: Carl Hlavenka, chlavenka@hotmail.com
Comments: Approximately 13 mile, 5-6 hour loop Day Paddle. Paddle begins in Bayou Cumbest near AL/MS border, a pristine saltwater marsh leading to bird-popular shell mound islands (Bangs Indian Mound and Rigolets Islands) - partially exposed to Gulf (one may stay close to shore or have brief open water experience - cut across 3-5ft deep Pt.aux Chenes Bay). Loop return via Crooked Bayou, marsh creek with occasional hammocks of pine. Alternatively, meet at 9:30 am at Wal-Mart in Tillmans Corner, AL on Rangeline Rd. (AL-193 North/Higgins Rd), exit 17B off I-10. We will then continue I-10W to first MS exit 75, Franklin Creek Rd. Go left, or south to Hwy90. Next, go right, or west ~3.6 miles to Orange Grove Rd. on left past boat launch sign and gas station. Next, go ~1.7 miles on Orange Grove Rd. Finally, take a left onto Grand Bature Rd, follow to end. $2-$3 Launch Fee.

-----

Little Bateau / Conway Creek

Date: Sunday, November 16th
Time: 10:00 am
Place: Texaco on the Causeway
Contact: Matt Darring, 343-1196 or 341-1669
-----

Lower Perdido River

Date: Saturday, November 15th
Time: 9:00 am
Place: Ruby's Fish Camp
Contact: Mark Vance, 458-7574

Meet at Ruby's Fish Camp, shuttle to Adventures Unlimited, Take out at Ruby's. Ruby's is on Hwy 90 just east of the Perdido River which is on the AL/FL State line. Take I-10- to Hwy 90 alternate (9 mile road) go west to meeting place on north side of road.

Bring lunch, $3.00 - $5:00 for launch and take out fee

Monday, November 03, 2003

___________________________________________
- - - Fishing Tournament Anyone ? - - -

Anybody have any feelings about getting into this "Causeway Classic Fishing Tournament"? It could be fun and someone could win something. How about it? Lets see some feed back on this. See you at the meeting.
- Red Boat Mickelsen.

___________________________________________
- - - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - - - (FAQs)

General Information:


1. Our monthly meetings are held the first Tuesday of every month at 7:00 p.m. at the Fairhope Yacht Club. Anybody and everybody is welcome to attend. There is no charge. The typical meeting lasts two hours. We start with a review of the previous month’s paddles, continue with plans for and announcements of paddles for the next month, and end with a presentation. Presentations may include slide shows of past paddling trips by club members, member reviews of paddling gear, and safety and skills presentations.

2. If you e-mail a request to jrobber@worldnet.att.net, Julie will put you on the club’s e-mail list. You will receive a monthly newsletter, which includes a calendar of events, and e-mail notices of “flash paddles” i.e., club paddles that are planned and announced on short notice. (If you used to be on Gene’s e-mail list for the club and are wondering why you suddenly stopped receiving club e-mails, it’s because Gene’s e-mail list was suddenly and unexpectedly destroyed by his computer. You need to “re-subscribe” by e-mailing Julie, if you want to get on the new e-mail list for the club.)

3. We regularly post “want ads” for individuals seeking and selling used boats. E-mail a description of the boat desired or for sale (type, make, model, length, weight, age, condition, accessories included, etc.) to Julie at jrobber@worldnet.att.net and she will post your “want ad” to this website and e-mail it to the club membership in the next regular club e-mailing.

4. We are a group of people who enjoy paddling and sharing our experiences with others. We are not a formal organization. There are no dues, no application forms, no membership lists. All you have to do to "join" our "club" is show up at a paddle, come to a meeting, or just decide you're a member.

5. Our intention is for safety to always be the first priority. It is up to each individual to decide for him/herself whether the paddling conditions for each event are within their enjoyment and skill range. Everyone must be responsible for their decision whether to participate in each event. The coordinator of the paddle should be able to assist with information on the expected paddle conditions. However, always remember that the weather and other conditions can, and quite often do, change both quickly and dramatically. (In other words, paddle at your own risk.)

6. You should always contact the trip coordinator for any paddling trip to let them know if you plan to attend. If they don’t know you are coming, trip leaders cannot contact you with changes in plans or cancellations, and you may find yourself waiting alone in a parking lot while the rest of us are off having fun somewhere else.

7. What should you bring? You should bring a PFD and drinking water on every paddle. You should also bring whatever you think you’ll need in the way of snacks or meals, if anything. If we will be on the water after dark, you are required by law to bring a single, white light. (But don’t turn it on unless you need it for safety and/or the trip leader tells you to. White lights ruin night vision.) We also appreciate paddlers who choose to carry a trash bag to collect litter along the way. They make it nicer for everyone.

--------------------

Contact list and links:

If you would like to subscribe to the club e-mail list, or if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions about this website, please e-mail Julie at jrobber@worldnet.att.net.

Click here to go to the website of the West Florida Canoe Club.

Click here to go to the website for the Bartram Canoe Trail.

Click here to go the website for the U.S. Geological Survey, where you can download free maps.

Click here to go to the MBCAKC’s archive of “trip reports” on past paddles. This website ranges from the informative to the poetic, and sometimes includes links to maps. You are encouraged to submit trip reports of whatever genre, as well as your favorite links.

--------------------

Reminder: Permit for Boiling Creek

A current permit is required to paddle Boiling Creek in Eglin Air Force Base. The permits are good from 1 October to 30 September. They cost $5.00. (You get a map with the permit that is worth more than the fee.)

Request the Recreational Permit, which is the one for paddling. You can get the permit from one of the gates or by mail. Permits may be obtained from the Jackson Guard Office (Natural Resources Branch), located at Highway 85 North, Niceville FL 32578 (850) 882-4164. The mailing address is:

Eglin Natural Resources Branch
107 Highway 85 North
Niceville, FL 32578

For each permit requested, send a photocopy of either a driver’s license or other identification card (e.g., passport) which contains a photograph, your full name, current address (including zip code), current phone number, and date of birth. Specify the type of permit (recreational) desired.

As an alternative to a photo-i.d., you can send last year’s permit, if you have one.

Be prepared to wait three weeks for delivery (although recent turn-arounds have been only a few days). Payments can be by personal check, money order, or cashiers check made payable to DFAS-LI Eglin AFB. Cash is not accepted.

Sunday, November 02, 2003

__________________________________________

We have a fishing paddle report from Red Boat M. Check it out at www.paddlereport.blogspot.com

Saturday, November 01, 2003

_________________________________________

Brint Adams has filed a report on the paddle down the lower end of the Styx River. Check it out at www.paddlereport.blogspot.com
_________________________________________
- - - Sierra Club Events - - -

NOV 14-16 ALABAMA ANNUAL RETREAT.
Plan to join Sierrans from across Alabama at our annual retreat on the shores of Weeks Bay at at Camp Beckwith. This encore gathering (we met there in 1997) will include boating, nature walks, and distinguished speakers. Registration Forms have been mailed to members and are also available at http://alabama.sierraclub.org/registr.pdf

TUE NOV 18 MOBILE SIERRA CLUB MEETING.
Mobile Botanical Gardens, 7pm. Members and non-members are invited for a discussion of current, local environmental issues and a program by Tommy Swearingen on legal and ecological land preservation techniques for Alabama. For more info contact Dianne at 251-344-1890.

WED DEC 3 IN-TOWN MOONLIGHT HIKE AND DINNER.
Meet at the Statue Garden at the Women's and Children's Hosptial as the sun goes down. Our hike will be lit by holiday lighting and the nearly full moon. We will walk for less than an hour. Those interested will reconvene for dinner at the Dew Drop Inn after the walk. For more information, contact Kevin at 251-928-6231.