MOBILE BAY CANOE & KAYAK CLUB PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST

'"COASTAL IMAGES"

Categories (limit of 3 photo's per category per entry)

Flora/Fauna

Landscape/Waterscape

Boat (with or without Paddlers)

Birds/Wildlife

Share what you see as you paddle the delta, bays, estuaries or many rivers and bayous along the coast.

Photographs must be taken from your boat* and/or include an image of a boat* in your photograph.

Photographs may be in color or black and white

All Entries should be recent photographs

For judging purposes please title your entry

Awards will be given for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each of the four categories listed above.

Bring your mounted or framed photograph to the October 2nd meeting. Entries will be judged by MBCKC members.

*boat represents non-motorized: kayak, canoe, etc.

Attach the following information to the back of your entry:

Name

Subject

Title

Full Moon Paddle - Bay Minette Basin

Monday, August 27, 2007; 6:00 PM

Harriet and Fritz Ingraham

928.4568 home; 604.3741 h-cell; 680.8928 f-cell

hvk1457@aol.com ; phritz@bellsouth.net

launch at Buzbee's on Hwy 225 north of Spanish Fort

$3.00 launch fee

Call/email Harriet or Fritz if you are coming.

if rain delay, will be re-scheduled for Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Join us for another full moon rising, sun setting paddle - no better place to view both in such glory. LIGHTS are required for paddling after dark. We will raft together somewhere to watch the sun set and the moon rise. Bring all normal paddling gear and food and drink for yourself and/or to share. We will not be exiting our kayaks, but will be stopping at some point to enjoy the view and eat a snack. Bug spray may be needed.

FOWL RIVER PADDLE - JULI DAY WILL LEAD

DATE: AUGUST 25, 2007 - SATURDAY

TIME: 8:00 AM

PLACE: JENKINS MEMORY STORE ON FOWL RIVER ROAD

FOWL RIVER ROAD RUNS EAST AND WEST BETWEEN DAUPHIN ISLAND PKWY AND BELLINGRATH ROAD.

I PLAN TO STAY IN THE UPPER SECTION OF FOWL RIVER GOING SOUTH FROM JENKINS AND THEN BACK NORTH UNDER THE BRIDGE. SHOULD BE OUT A COUPLE OF HOURS AND THIS IS AN EASY PADDLE.

WE SHOULD BE ABLE TO SWIM ALSO.

BRING SUNSCREEN, WATER, PFD AND THE NORMAL GEAR.

ANYONE PLANNING ON GOING ON THIS TRIP MUST!!!!!! CONTACT ME AT 377-0054 OR E-MAIL ME AT THIS SITE OR AT CEZANNEART@BELLSOUTH.NET

JULI DAY

Kayak Instruction Opportunity!!

Four hour private group class on Mobile Bay for a total of> $650. That works out to $65 per person for 10 people.
The rate goes up, per person, for groups under 10:
9- $72
8- $81.25
7- $93
6- $103
5- $130
4- $162.50 ..... and so on.

>> This class is geared toward recreational kayaks and consists of boat and paddle design, getting in and out of the kayak from shore using the rear cockpit paddle brace, wet exits, self-rescue, assisted rescue, towing an injured paddler, learning the forward stroke technique, sweep turns, skullingdraws, hanging draws, and bow rudders; proper form for preventing physical injuries and proper maneuvers for efficient paddling will be emphasized. Tonywill gear the class to the experience level and individual interest of the participants.

Paddle float (blow-up) and hand pump required for class. Tony will show how to make a tow-belt from simple materials. The class location will be at the park on South Mobile Street in Fairhope on Mobile Bay. The class should meet at 10am and would be 4 to 6 hours. If weather conditions are bad, the class would be moved to Bay Minette Creek. There is a launch fee there of $3 per boat. Class is held rain or shine. Only severe weather conditions would warrant cancellation of the class.

Tony Kramer
Owner/Guide/Instructor The Sea Kayaker
http://theseakayaker.com
1-800-595-3286> 770-403-8346
http://theseakayaker.com/sea_kayak_instruction/sea_kayak_rescue.html

Tony takes a "How To" approach to his kayak instruction and tours. Asan instructor, his experience is based on over seventeen years of open oceantouring and BCU training.His adventures have taken him to Alaska and the many miles of the southeast Atlantic Coast, Gulf Coast and Mississippi Sound. Tony is certified in CPR andFirst Aid and has countless hours of rescue work in seven to eight foot seas.

Please contact Tina Murphy tcmurph@mchsi.com (WFCKC) or Harriet > Ingraham hvk1457@aol.com (MBACKC) if you are interested in taking this class. If there are enough people wanting a class and it is a go, payment will be due August 20. If there are enough people for two classes, another class in Pensacola may be added.

--July Notes and Paddles--
(last updated: July 19th)

August Meeting
The August Meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 7th at 7pm at Fairhope Yacht Club.

We are looking for a new webmaster as I am leaving Mobile shortly...I will provide training (it's pretty simple) to whomever wishes to take over the website. E-mail me at out2sea03@hotmail.com

Two new paddle reports have been posted...one for the Susquehanna River up north, and our own local Magnolia River. Check them out by clicking here, or at the paddle reports link to the right.

Sunday Dog River Paddle
Date: July 15th, 2007
Time: 8:00am
Place: Lusher Park, 2459 Dog River Drive
Launch Fee: none
Contact: Maggie Pyle, (251) 648-0059 Cell if you plan to paddle.
Length: Several easy miles.
Directions: For directions, go to:
http://www.cityofmobile.org/parks/parklist.php?view=full&park=46
Comments: Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, etc. We'll go up Dog River from the
park and perhaps downriver depending on time, powerboats, and weather.

Please call Maggie Pyle, (251) 648-0059 Cell if you plan to paddle.

(Another) Upper Magnolia River Paddle
Date: July 22nd, 2007
Time: 1:30pm
Place: Upper Magnolia River
Launch Fee: None.
Contact: Nancy Ward, 990-5575, wardn@earthlink.net
Length: Several easy miles.
Directions: Meet at the Shell station on Highway 98 and cty rd 49. (careful, cty rd 49 comes out in two places---go to the Shell station). We'll then drive the short distance to the Rock Street put-in.
Comments: Repeat of a popular paddle. It's casual and relaxing, there's opportunity for swimming, and it's easy to leave early---if you must. We will stay in the no wake zone, which boaters are good to honor, and head up river. Soon we'll be in areas the power boaters cannot even access. Last trip we got out in one of the many shallow places and played in the water. We'll retrace our path and pass the put in. People can leave early if they must. We'll continue downriver until just before making a wake becomes legal. On our final return we'll swim from the sandbar across from the put in. Bring sunscreen, water, snack, pfd, bug spray, anything to make your paddle pleasant. Nancy Ward, 990-5575, wardn@earthlink.net


Full Moon Float
Date: Sunday, July 29th, 2007
Time: meet at 6-6:15pm...depart at 6:30 pm sharp!
Place: Meaher State Park on the Causeway
Launch Fee: none
Contact: Juli Day 377.0054
Length: Several easy miles.
Directions: Click Here for Directions
Comments: Plan to leave Meaher Park at 6:30, paddle in the general area, destination Justins Bay... where we will raft together, eat a snack, watch the sun set to the west and the Full Moon rise over the cat-tails to the east. A beautiful place to enjoy the full moon.
Bring snack, and if you want to share, bring enough to share. Bug Spray, water, LIGHT, PFD.

Call Juli for more details on the trip AND Call her so she is expecting you.

--June/July Notes and Paddles--
(last updated: June 28th)

July Meeting
The July meeting has been cancelled and replaced with the 4th of July Paddle.

Full Moon Float to Whiskey Ditch
Date: Friday, June 29th
Time: 6:30 pm
Place: River Doc's on the causeway
Launch Fee: none
Contact: Harriet and Fritz Ingraham - 928.4568 hm; 604.3741 or 680.8928 cells
Length: Round Trip 5 miles. Pace - modest
Directions to launch: Launch is 300 feet to the west of Ed's Shed on the opposite side of the road (the north side).
Comments: MAKE SURE TO CALL US IF YOU ARE COMING AND LEAVE A CONTACT PHONE NUMBER WITH US - Time and Place are subject to change based on
weather. This is not written in stone - if you don't call and leave a contact number with us, we will not be able to update you in the event we change time or locations of this paddle.
Bring food and drink. We will paddle east in Pass Picada, then north up the Apalachee River to Whiskey Ditch. We will raft together in the ditch and share munchies from our kayaks. We will NOT be getting out of the kayaks on this float. BRING LIGHT and Bug Spray, along with normal paddling gear. Moonrise is a little before 8 pm, we will be at medium outgoing tide.

Upper Magnolia River Paddle
Date: July 1st, 2007
Time: 1:30pm
Place: Upper Magnolia River
Launch Fee: None.
Contact: Nancy Ward, 990-5575, wardn@earthlink.net
Length: Several easy miles.
Directions: Meet at the Shell station on Highway 98 and cty rd 49. (careful, cty rd 49 comes out in two places---go to the Shell station). We'll then drive the short distance to the Rock Street put-in.
Comments: We'll stay in the no wake zone which boaters have been good to honor and head up river. Soon we'll be in areas the power boaters cannot even access. This will be a slow, relaxing paddle. Maybe we can swim. Bring sunscreen, water, snack, pfd, bug spray, anything to make your paddle pleasant.

Fourth of July Fireworks Paddle
Date: Wednesday, July 4th
Time: Meet around 7 to 7:30 pm ( if you are late arriving, just head to the pier, you can't miss us).
Place: Fairhope Yacht Club
Launch Fee: None
Contact: Harriet and Fritz Ingraham - 928.4568 hm; 604.3741 or 680.8928 cells
Length: Short.
Directions: Click Here
Comments: Plans are to raft together, or even get out, if the sandbar is present, on the north side of the Fairhope Pier. This is an annual event - nothing better than to view the fireworks from a kayak - and we usually get not only the Fairhope Fireworks, but Lake Forest, Mobile, sometime the Grand Hotel - lots to see. However, it is important that you have a light with you. The waters will be full of motor, sail, various kinds of boats - plus, lights after dark is the law. This is one paddle we always have our lights on. We will return following a path very close to the beach, and paddling together for visibility. Gene Boothe started this annual paddle 7 years ago - he is turning the paddle over to Harriet and Fritz for this year. No need to call, unless you need further directions, just show up, or meet us there.

--May Notes and Paddles--

(last updated: May 26th)

June Meeting (!IMPORTANT UPDATE!)
The next meeting of the Mobile Bay Canoe and Kayak Club will be on Tuesday, June 5th at 7:00 p.m., at the Fairhope Boat Company, not Fairhope Yacht Club. Fairhope Boat Company is up the road from Fairhope Boat Company (click here for directions). Dave Armstrong from Alabama Wildlife and Fisheries will be presenting.


Full Moon Paddle & Potlatch
Date: Thursday, May 31st
Time: 6pm
Place: Meet at Byrnes Lake; from there we will paddle out to Gravine Island
Launch Fee: None.
Contact: Harriet Ingraham home: 928.4568; cell: 604.3741; hvk1457@aol.com
Length: 4-5 easy miles
Directions: Take Hwy 225 North from Spanis Fort, the turn for Byrnes Lake is signposted (as a reference, you will pass Cloverleaf Landing beforehand).
Comments: Bring a dinner item to share! We will paddle out to Gravine Island and eat dinner before paddling back under a full moon. DO NOT FORGET to bring a light and your PFD.

Kayak Support for the Grandman Triathlon
Date: Saturday, June 2, 2007
Time: at the beach with kayak in the water by 6:30 a.m. - no later than 6:45 a.m. - meet me there so I can stage you in the water.
Place: north side of Fairhope municiple pier
Launch Fee: none
Contact: Harriet Ingraham home: 928.4568; cell: 604.3741; hvk1457@aol.com
Length: no more than a couple miles over the day
Directions: We can't put in at the pier, no cars allowed - so we need to put in at the yacht club or at pier street - both are about 1/2 mile paddle
Comments: It's that time again - the GRANDMAN Triathlon. And, as has become a much appreciated custom, MBCKC has been asked to kayak lifeguard again for the swim part of the event - this will be our 6th year! I need 12-15 kayakers to line the swim course and help direct swimmers on course, and be there to offer a bow or stern for a tired swimmer to hang on to for a few minutes. It's a wonderful hour of assisting, and we are invited to the food and fun after the event. You don't have to be super accomplished, as most of the duties will involve lining the course so swimmers have an eye to the course of swim.
Reward: T-shirt and fun and food and the thanks of the racers.

Website: thegrandman.com - click on race course and then swim.

-- April Notes & Paddles --
(Please note that Gary Worob's paddle during the second weekend has been cancelled )

Upcoming spring events include the start of a multi-stage circumnavigation of Mobile Bay, kayak polo, and an opportunity to learn/practice simple kayak skills and rescue techniques. Please note that the webmaster will be away for several weeks, so if you are planning an April trip, please take advantage of the Yahoo Group's e-mail message system to announce any paddles you wish to lead. Follow the link and click the Join This Group button on the upper right side of the webpage.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/mbcakc/


MBCKC Paddlers requested at Five Rivers Resource Center Ribbon Cutting
Date: Friday, April 13th
Time: 9 AM
Place: Bartrams Landing at the Five Rivers Resource Center on the causeway, first left after you enter the grounds of the Five Rivers Resource Center
Launch Fee: none
Contact: Harriet Ingraham home: 928.4568; cell: 604.3741; hvk1457@aol.com
Length: Short
Directions: Contact Harriet.
Comments: Ribbon cutting of the Five Rivers Resource Center on the Causeway is
Friday, April 13 at 10 am. Any MBCKC paddler who is free is asked to
attend with kayak/canoe - the state has requested our presence. There
is a designated kayak/canoe launch at Bartrams Landing, the first left
after you enter the grounds. We will meet between 9 and 9:15 to launch
our boats from the dock, to paddle to the main buildings for the ribbon
cutting. Please let Harriet know if you are attending, and she will
give you more directions to the launch. If you prefer to launch across
the causeway at Meaher Park, feel free to do so, just schedule your
launch and paddling to allow you time to link with Harriet at least 15
minutes before the ribbon cutting.

The rest of the weekend is the Blues Festival on the causeway, with
Five Rivers and all restaurants participating. Lots of fun and food.

Website: http://www.outdooralabama.com/outdoor-adventures/5rivers/

Kayak Support for the Grandman Triathlon
Date: Saturday, June 2, 2007
Time: at the beach with kayak in the water by 6:30 a.m. - no later than 6:45 a.m. - meet me there so I can stage you in the water.
Place: north side of Fairhope municiple pier
Launch Fee: none
Contact: Harriet Ingraham home: 928.4568; cell: 604.3741; hvk1457@aol.com
Length: no more than a couple miles over the day
Directions: We can't put in at the pier, no cars allowed - so we need to put in at the yacht club or at pier street - both are about 1/2 mile paddle
Comments: It's that time again - the GRANDMAN Triathlon. And, as has become a much appreciated custom, MBCKC has been asked to kayak lifeguard again for the swim part of the event - this will be our 6th year! I need 12-15 kayakers to line the swim course and help direct swimmers on course, and be there to offer a bow or stern for a tired swimmer to hang on to for a few minutes. It's a wonderful hour of assisting, and we are invited to the food and fun after the event. You don't have to be super accomplished, as most of the duties will involve lining the course so swimmers have an eye to the course of swim.
Reward: T-shirt and fun and food and the thanks of the racers.

Website: thegrandman.com - click on race course and then swim.

Loss of a friend...

MBCKC holds Marilyn Craig in our thoughts with the loss of her daugter, Andi.

March Meeting Confusions:

Sorry to all who showed up at the yacht club for the meeting... due to vehicular problems, our March meeting director couldn't get there. As part of the club had planned to skip the regular meeting for the undersea adventures production in Mobile, communication was dropped and no one showed up to conduct the meeting. The first time in 7 years we've had a glitch like this - don't worry we will be back on regular schedule for the April meeting.

Check back for postings on upcoming paddles. The end of March and the early part of April will bring some fantastic paddles. Fritz and Harriet will for sure be leading a couple during that period - thinking Boiling Creek for one, so make sure you have your pass (click here and scroll down the page for details)

-- March Meeting --

The March meeting will be held at the Fairhope Yacht Club on Tuesday, March 6th at 7pm. (got that? March 6th at 7 not March 7th at 6)

**A few people have indicated that they are planning on attending the Mike DeGruy film at Mobile's Saenger Theatre on the same night. If you find your heart torn between the meeting and the film, there will be an informal gathering at a nearby watering hole following the film to allow you to get your fix of MBCAKC.

== !!FOUND!! ==

Found a kayak last June washed up on the Pensacola side of Perdido Bay. It has the name "Wolfwoman" stenciled on the side. If this is your kayak or you know who owns it, please em me with a description.
MarK

markmadach@cox.net

-- Red Maple Slough Paddle --

The day has been determined: SUNDAY, Feb 25, 2007. 8-10 mile paddle, moderate pace.
Harriet and Fritz - 928-4568 home; 604-3741 Harriet cell; 680-8928 Fritz cell.
approximate time 1 pm at old River Docs on the causeway.

PLEASE CALL US IF YOU PLAN TO COME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The weather is quite questionable at this time. Paddle put-in and/or destination may have to be altered. If you don't call us, you may not know if we have to make last minute changes in plans - leave a phone number where you can be reached.

Factors to be considered for the paddle this particular weekend: WEATHER. A front is moving in Sat and early Sun - strong southerly winds will be in our favour in that water will be pushed up into the bay. However, if the strong winds do not die (and the expected rain, for that matter), then the return paddle will be quite tough. Temps will be quite pleasant in upper 60's or lower 70's - high tide is about 6:30 pm, so we will have an incoming tide.

Bring foul weather gear in the event of rain. Bring water and snacks.

Come, but call us!!

--Flash Paddle--

dream trippin: (with Gary Worob)

when ....second weekend in april, friday nite until you leave.......

where: grassy point, florida ....south of milton, north of navarre, florida

what: camping, paddling and exploring and hanging out on one of the most beautiful sites in the south, or anywhere.

details: grassy point is owned by the northwest florida watermanagement district, it is a pristine cove with great beach and crystal clear water and plenty of exploring to do. i will be there friday and i will stay until who knows when. so, bring plenty of food and water and your paddling gear. we will camp and cook together and paddle the local area on saturday and then a pot luck feast on saturday nite. on sunday, we will paddle boiling creek so nearby so you will need your eglin pass unless you want to hang out at grassy point.

this is a primitive camping site with very, very clean port-a-potties and you will be awed and some hiking trails. if we are lucky, tom and diane, who live nearby may gitve us a tour,again, of their totally self-sufficient home and i may have my 26 foot sailboat. there is no potable water here so you have to bring all your supplies with you and a shared treat.

but, be prepared to sit around the campfire and swap lies and stories and be treated to a great weekend. bring the kids, bring your mother-in-law or just bring yourself. this is a managed area now and they do restrict drinking......so we will be discreet....??????ha!

i am driving in from prescott, arizona the week before or thereabouts but i will be camped at grassy point expecting you....just show up, there are no reservations and no fees!

directions: take the 87 south exit for milton/navarre. go south over the yellow river bridge and then a few more miles until you come to "olf-choctaw" road. it is the only paved road on the west side as you go south. take a right there and drive until you see the gate for the air force facility and turn just before that on the graded dirt road. should say: grassy point.

go about 5 miles? and stay on the right fork.

-- FEBRUARY NEWS AND NOTES --

Paddles:
Delta Paddle; Contact Bob for full details
Date: Sunday, Feb 11th
Time: afternoon time to be determined
Place: Lower Delta
Launch Fee: As determined by location
Contact: Bob Andrews 367.4144
Length: Reasonable
Directions: Call
Comments: Bob is watching the weather and will make a decision based on the weather. If you wish to paddle with him, call him to let him know and get the details.

Red Maple Slough
Date: Saturday or Sunday, February 24th or 25th; weather depending
Time: TBD
Place: Launch at Old River Docs on the Causeway
Launch Fee: Call Harriet and Fritz
Contact: Harriet and Fritz - 928.4568
Length: 8-10 miles
Directions: Call Harriet and Fritz
Comments: One of the most anticipated paddles of the year - we have about a 3 week window to see the Red Maples as they bud out. Usually this is a prime weekend. Come with us. There is
lots more to see. We will paddle up through Conway and Big Bateau Bay, and back through Conway and possibly Savages Ditch, depending on water levels. Call us to find exact day and time. Bring water and snacks and wear clothes appropriate for whatever the weather dictates.

Notes:
The Undersea Adventures of Mike deGruy: Award winning cinematographer and Mobile native, Mike deBruy will be making a special appearance at the Saenger Theatre in Mobile, March 6, 2007 at 7pm. Tickets are $10.00 each. This is hosted by Alabama Coastal Foundation and will feature incredible footage from some of the worlds most remote and spectacular locations. Sit back and enjoy as Mike takes you on adventures to: Antartica, Patagonia, Titanic, The Deep and more. Mike has filmed for BBC, PBS, National Geographic, Discovery Channel and more. Call the Saenger 251.208.5600 or Alabama Coastal Foundation 251.990.6002 for tickets or more information.

University of South Alabama Overnight Trip: Anyone intersted in joining Randy Hunter and his USA students on an overnight in the upper Delta, Feb 17, please call 460.6214. There will be a fee involved.

-- February Meeting and Spring Paddling--

The next meeting of the Mobile Bay Canoe and Kayak Club is Tuesday,
Feb 6 at 7 pm at the Fairhope Yacht Club.

February will bring some weather changes with the climate becoming more favorable for great paddles - the days are getting longer and the trees, plants and flowers are going to begin popping out - remember to look for the wonderful Red Maple Slough paddle that will occur in late Feb or early March. Do you have your Eglin Recreational Pass? (click here if not) A Boiling Creek paddle or two will be happening as we move further into spring, and spring on Boiling Creek is something everyone should experience, but you can't experience it without having the mandatory pass. Everyone is invited to think through some places they'd like to paddle, and go ahead, bite the bullet and lead a trip. We all know there's nothing to leading one other than knowing where you are going (or take someone from the club with you who knows where you are going) and inviting people along.

--FLASH PADDLES: January 27th and 28th--

Bay Grass Creek Paddle
Date: January 27th, 2007
Time: 1:00 p.m. (in the water and departing)
Place: Bay Grass Creek
Launch Fee: None
Contact: Rob Nykvist at 423-0015
Length: 11-12 miles, plan on 4-5 hours at a leisurely 3mph pace.
Directions: Launching on the Causeway by the old Exxon/Texaco Station near the triple boat ramps.
Comments: Plan to get back around sunset. We will be crossing open waters which can get choppy in windy conditions. Please bring a spray skirt, life jacket and other usual safety gear, sunscreen, water, snacks, etc. The route we will take is as follows: cross the Tensaw River, up the Spanish River to Bay Grass Creek and back.

Bob's Mystery Flash Paddle
Date: January 28th, 2007
Contact: Bob Andrews at 367-4144
Comments: Bob Andrews plans to lead a paddle somewhere on Sunday, Jan 28, 2007. Place and time are undecided of yet, as he is watching the weather. Temperature calls for high of 50 with strong winds and overcast sky. Bob will choose a protected area to paddle, but dress appropriately and bring the usual snacks, water and gear. Bob's paddles are always great. Give him a call if you want to come along and he will keep you updated on time, place, etc.

Flash -- Weekend Paddle

January 13 or 14, 2007

Who: Fritz and Harriet
when: Sat OR Sun, Jan 13 or 14 -
time: TBD
where: Lower Delta - Bay Minette Basin, Byrnes Lake or Hurricane Creek
contact: home 928-4568
Easy Paddle, 3-4 hours
sounding a bit vague - it is, but we are definitely going. We just have a home-do chore that must be completed, so not finalized on which day yet. SOOOO, if you are interested in paddling with us, give us a call so we can call you when our plans become firm (leave a message if we don't answer). This will be an easy paddle, pace will be determined by those who wish to join us.

Days will be pleasant, bring snack and drink. And don't forget, we will have 'the paddle' so you guys can use it and sign it. Hope to hear from you.

January News and Notes

Happy New Year! There are a number of paddles tentatively planned for this month, but no firm dates have been set...yet!

If you haven't already done so, I am going to make a quick plug for the yahoo e-mail group that the club has...it is a venue for anyone to announce a paddle to the rest of the club via e-mail. I do my best to keep the website updated, but if I am out of town I occasionally miss paddles that people have asked me to post. In short, your best bet for getting and passing paddling information is to do both the yahoo groups e-mail and the website! Follow the link and click the Join This Group button on the upper right side of the webpage.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/mbcakc/


Paddles:
Pass the Paddle:
Date: Your choice...
Time: Anytime...
Place: A kayak-able/canoe-able waterway in Alabama
Length: A single paddlestroke (or two...)
Contact: Harriet Ingram; hvk1457@aol.com or (251) 928-4568
Comments: READ THIS OR NOTHING ABOVE MAKES SENSE...Pass the Paddle is a program to dip a single paddle in as many Alabama waterways as possible before the Governor of Alabama dedicates the paddle to the 5-Rivers Resource Center in Mobile. You pick the place (no one else can have paddled it) and dip the paddle. Afterwards, you dry it, write the location, and sign it. We are asking that you limit your paddlestrokes as some of the earliest names are starting to wear after repeated immersion. Contact Harriet for full details and coordinate a paddle.

Lake Eufala (click to see December's News and Notes)



Planning a paddle? Let me know, and I will post it here!

Notes:
- Our next meeting is February 6th, see you then!

--JANUARY MEETING--

Meeting on January 2nd at the Fairhope Yacht Club at 7pm! See you then!

December News and Notes

December will be a quiet month as of right now...

Paddles:
Lake Eufala
Date: February 16-18, 2007
Time: Daily
Place: Lake Eufala, AL
Contact: Bob Andrews at 367-4144
Length: Variable
Comments: You are invited to join us for a Sea Kayaking Weekend at Lake Eufaula
Alabama for the weekend of February 16 - 18, 2007. We have heard
that there are a lot birds that winter in this area. There is a
preserve right next to the park that we can paddle in and observe
birds and other wildlife.

We will be staying at Lakepoint State Park just north of Eufaula.
They have (depending on availability) lake front cottages, woods
cabins and lodge rooms. There is also camping available at the
park. Reservations can be made by calling 800 544 5253.

Please let Bob Andrews (251 367 4144) know if you plan to attend.
We will discuss meal possibilities late in January, after we know
about how many paddlers are coming.

Weather can be "iffy" in this area in February. Need to be prepared
for the possibility of cold weather paddling even though the current
forecast is for full sun, low 70's and light and variable winds.

Planning a paddle? Let me know by 13th, and I will post it here!

Notes:
- Bruce Zimmerman has submitted two paddle reports; A Paddle to the Big Tree and Boatyard Lake & Pine Log Creek. Check them out in the paddle reports section!

- Our next meeting is January 2nd, see you then!

-- DECEMBER MEETING --

As always, first Tuesday of the month (December 5th) at 7pm at the Fairhope Yacht Club. This meeting will be an informal potlach...please bring food and paddling stories to share!

--FLASH PADDLE--

Richard Grove, the "Georgia Kayaker" will be paddling through the lower Mobile Bay to Dauphin Island on Friday, November 9th as part of his 843 mile trip from North Georgia. If you are interested in a paddle associated with this leg of his trip, please contact Mickey Feltus at 251-626-5462. For more information about Richards trip, see his website at http://www.georgiakayaker.com/

November News and Notes

First off, the 6th Anniversary Party has been postponed as our gracious hostess has an important family commitment arise at the last minute. Fear not, fellow paddlers...a party will be had (you'll hear about it here, so stay tuned!)

Paddles:
Perdido Estuary and Black River
Date: Sunday, November 12
Time: Call Bob
Place: Perdido Estuary and Black River; put in at Hurst Hammock
Contact: Bob Andrews at 367-4144
Length: 3.5-4hrs
Directions: From the Mobile area, head east on I-10 to Florida exit 5 for Hwy 90. Go West on Hwy 90 until you come to a caution light at the top of a hill. This is Hwy 99 and you want to go left here. Hwy 99 ends at Hurst Hammock. There is a launch fee. Call Bob if you plan to paddle.

Planning a paddle? Let me know, and I will post it here!

Notes:
- The Mississippi-Alabama Bays and Bayou's Symposium will be held in Mobile, on Nov 27th, 28th, and 29th. Check it out at their website, http://ambbs.mobilebaynep.com/default.htm

- Gary Worob has posted an interesting story from Arizona on our paddle reports page. It's a great read! http://www.paddlereport.blogspot.com/

- Some questions were asked about where to find accurate weather information for paddling the Mobile Bay area. Below is the link to NOAA Marine Weather for our area. There is a great deal of information on this page. You can get current observations from the first section. Scroll down to the section labelled marine weather and click inside the appropriate box where you expect to paddle for the weeks weather forecast (GMZ630 is for Mobile Bay). http://www.srh.noaa.gov/mob/marine.shtml

- Our next meeting is December 5th, see you then!

--November Meeting--

November 7th @ 7pm at the Fairhope Yacht Club...bring your leftover Halloween candy!

-- FLASH PADDLE --

Perdido Estuary and Black River
Date: Sunday, November 12
Time: Call Bob
Place: Perdido Estuary and Black River; put in at Hurst Hammock
Contact: Bob Andrews at 367-4144
Length: Call Bob
Bob's trips are not to miss, give him a call for more details

--URGENT PARTY NOTICE--


!!!Anniversary Party Urgent Notice!!!

Notice - MBCKC 6th Anniversary Party Location Change
Aven and Gary have had a conflict arise, so the 6th Anniversary Mobile Bay Canoe and Kayak Club party has been moved to:

Marilyn and Dick's home on Fowl River & Mobile Bay.

Same time, new place - November 11th, 2:30ish for a paddle up the river to the Osprey nests, back to eat around 5:30ish - BRING a DISH. Call Marilyn so she can coordinate food.
Home Phone: 973-0129
Cell Phone: 605-6453
Come once, come all - it will be great fun as usual at their place, BUT you won't know how to get there if you don't call Marilyn...........SO.............CALL HER!

October News and Notes

Boiling Creek Paddle
Date: October 15th
Time: Call.
Place: Call.
Contact: Bob Andrews @ 367-4144
Launch Fee: None.
Directions: Call.
Comments: An Eglin AFB Recreation Permit is required, see notes below for details.

6th Annual MBCKC Birthday Party and Paddle
Date: November 11th
Time: 2:30
Place: Aven and Gary Warners house on Dog River
Contact: Aven and Gary @ 473-1819
Launch Fee: None.
Directions: Call.
Comments: Party starts at 2:30ish, with a light paddle at 3. Dinner
will follow at or after sunset. Everyone is asked to bring a dish
BUT, you must coordinate this with Aven. They will supply the main
dish. You must call Aven to accept, coordinate what to bring, and get
directions to their house. She is asking that everyone coordinate
this with her BY November 5. They have launching facilities on their
property and always a wonderful time is had at their house.
Come celebrate MBCKC 6th Birthday.

Watch the website for other paddles this month, it's a great month to hit the water, enjoy the fall blooms, and enjoy the cool air. If you need to renew, or get your first, Eglin Air Force Base Recreation Permit, here is the information. You can obtain the permit by mail (recommended) or you can drive yourself to the Jackson Guard at Eglin and obtain it in person (they will make you watch a movie about unexploded ordnance). The information below may be dated, please call the the number listed below to confirm that you enclose everything they need in your request.

When ordering permits by mail, please allow three weeks for delivery. Send your requests to:

Eglin Air Force Base
Natural Resources Division, ACC/EMSN
107 Highway 85N
Niceville, FL 32578

Specify the number and type of permits desired together with the proper payment and proper identification, or a copy of anything with a date of birth on it. Payment of $7 should be made by money order, certified or cashier's check payable to AFO Eglin AFB, Florida. Personal checks are also accepted, with proper identification.

The Natural Resources Branch of Eglin is open Monday through Thursday from 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. only. They are closed on Sundays and all Federal Holidays. Information may be obtained by calling Jackson Guard at (850) 882-4164.

FLASH PADDLE - SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2006

Mobile Bay Lighthouse & Sunset Trip

Date: September 30, 2006
Launch: Mullet Point Park (About 5 miles south of Point Clear, in Baldwin County, on County Road 1, a quarter mile south of the Scenic US 98 turn to the east.)
Time: Plan on arriving early enough so we can be in the water and getting underway at 2:00 P.M.
Duration: Approx 4-5 Hours. Expect to get back about sunset, so bring a flashlight just in case.
Pace: About 3 mph avg - Leisurely - not a race.
Skill Level: This is an OPEN water trip 6 miles out into Mobile Bay, not a trip for beginners.
Gear: Standard safety gear and if you have a sit-in kayak, please, make sure you bring a spray skirt & pump.
Expenses: Launch is free.
Leader: Rob Nykvist (251) 423-0015

(CONTINUE SCROLLING DOWN FOR UPCOMING PADDLES)

October Meeting
Date: Oct 3rd
Time: 7:00pm
Location:Fairhope Yacht Club
(note:meetings occur the first Tuesday of every month, same time and place)

Cathy Barnette, Executive Director, Alabama Coastal Foundation will be presenting at the October meeting. Cathy will talk about the Coastal Foundation and their activities and mission to protect the quality of Alabama's Coastal Resources. Come and enjoy her presentation and have your questions ready for her. To see the foundation's website go to http://www.joinacf.org/

-- Flash Paddle --
Rice Creek to Jug Lake
Date: October 1st
Time: 9:30 am
Place: Rice Creek Landing/Stagecoach Restaurant Stockton, AL
Contact: Bob Andrews @ 367-4144
Launch Fee: none
Directions/Comments: Bob is limiting this paddle to 20 people, so call him if you plan to come!

Meet at Stagecoach Restaurant in Stockton, AL at 9:30 a.m. If you know the way to Rice Creek landing, be there by 10 a.m. Note the signpost at Rice Creek Road is down, so if you aren't sure where to go, meet at Stagecoach at 9:30 so you can follow Bob.

Paddle will be 10-12 miles in length - plan on 5-6 hours as the paddle will be leisurely and time will be spent eating. Bring snacks or lunch to eat on the Jug Lake Platform. Bring water, food, bugspray, sunscreen - all the usual. Bob is limiting this paddle to 20 people, so call him if you plan to come - in addition - this paddle will be posted on the West FL Canoe and Kayak Club site, so there may be people coming from there. The platform will only hold so many people - first to respond to Bob, first to get on the list.

No shuttle is needed. Remember, don't linger - call Bob and reserve your spot.

--FLASH INFO--

Alabama Coastal Cleanup
Date: September 16, 2006
Time: 8:00 - 12:00 Noon
Place: Luscher (Navco) Park (Cleanup going on at multiple locations)
Contact: Rob Nykvist at 460-7573 / 510-0403

http://www.alabamacoastalcleanup.com/