June Notes and Paddle Information

July Meeting
The next meeting will be held Tuesday, July 1, 2008 at the Tensaw Theater / 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center. This will be a meeting not to miss!....a premiere of the show The Mobile-Tensaw-Delta Revisited presented by the Alabama Public Television show Discovering Alabama. One of the very first Discovering Alabama episodes was “The Mobile-Tensaw Delta.” This new show is not so much an update as it is a new look at the Delta after the Forever Wild and other purchases that have preserved more than 107,000 acres. Doug Phillips and/or Roger Reid will be present to premiere this show for us - and be available for questions and answers and basic discussion. We are most fortunate to be able to view this show before release and in the presense of those responsible for making Discovering Alabama available to our state.
There have been some Mobile-Tensaw Delta Special Addition DVD’s created for this occasion. The DVDs will include Doug’s first show in the Delta produced in 1988 and the new show produced in 2008. They can be purchased for $20.


June Meeting Notes
Thank you to Hank Burch for a fantastic and informative presentation on the Forever Wild Program. For more information on these lands (some of which can be utilized for our recreational enjoyment), go to: http://www.outdooralabama.com/public-lands/stateLands/foreverWild/

There was also some discussion between members about the Orange Beach Canoe Trail. For a map of the trail, go to:
http://www.cityoforangebeach.com/pages_2007/pdfs/coastal_resources/2008/02_04_2008_canoe_trail_map.pdf


Looking Forward:
The 2nd Annual Photo Contest will be held during the November meeting. Get your cameras and start snapping shots while your out on your boats! Photos to be entered must not be larger than 8X12 and cannot be digitally enhanced. Watch for more info in the future


Click on the 'Paddle Reports' link to the left to see recently posted reports.

Upcoming Paddles and Events

Events
5th Annual Dog River ‘Dog Paddle’ Race - June 14, 2008
Dog River Park (formerly Luscher-Navco Park)
Kayak & Canoe Races 9am – 12pm
To register for this event, go to: http://dogriver.southalabama.edu/


June Paddles

June 8,2008 Upper Magnolia River Paddle
Leader: Nancy Ward
Meet: 1:30 pm Shell Station on Hwy 98 and Cty Rd 49 in the city of Magnolia Springs
(Careful, Cty Rd 49 comes out in two places---go to the Shell Station)
Notes: Repeat of a popular paddle from 2007. It's casual and relaxing, there's opportunity for swimming, and it's easy to leave early. We'll put in at the Rock St. put in and stay in the no wake zone, which boaters are good to honor. We'll head up river and soon be in areas the power boaters cannot even access. It's possible to get out in a shallow place and play 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 can 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

Tuesday, June 17 Full Moon Paddle
Leaders: Harriet and Fritz Ingraham.
Put-in Place/Time: 6:30 at Buzbees Landing on Hwy 225
Notes: we will paddle to Yanceys Bay - raft together to snack, then return under full moon.
call if you are coming:::::::::Harriet 604.3741 Fritz 680.8928
$3 put in per kayak
BRING BUG SPRAY, Life Jacket, LIGHT IS MANDATORY
anything else regularly needed

Sunday, June 22 - Upper Magnolia River
Leader: Nancy Ward
Let's have another fun, easy paddle.
Meeting Place/Time: 1:30 pm Shell station on Highway 98 and cty rd 49 in the city of Magnolia Springs. (Careful, cty rd 49 comes out in two places---go to the Shell station.)
Notes: We'll put in at the Rock St. put in and stay in the no wake zone; going upstream then turning around, passing our put in spot, and heading downstream and returning. There's a play in the water spot upstream and a shallow sand bank across from the put in that's near deep enough water to do some real swimming. Bring pfd, sunscreen, water, snack, bug spray, anything to make your paddle pleasant. This time I want people to contact me if they plan to come; even if you're only considering it. 990-5575 or wardn@earthlink.net. A home repair almost kept me from the last paddle and I had no way to contact anyone. I need phone numbers. If Bob Andrews schedules a paddle for 6/22 this one might be cancelled

June 25th, Wednesday - Mid-Week Paddle
Contact: Tracy Lannie 463-4233 or tracy@thelannies.us
Put-In Place/Time: 6pm, River Docs on the causeway (just west of Ed's Shed on the opposite side of the road)
Notes: A short paddle to Whiskey Ditch - plan on being back at launch around sunset. Bring usual gear, PFD, light, water, snacks, bugspray.
Please call if you plan on attending and leave a number where you can be reached in the event my plans change.

Week of June 23 -27 Bob Andrews to lead a paddle one evening during this week, 6pm
Watch for further details

Upcoming July Paddles

July 2nd - Early Morning Dauphin Island Paddle This Paddle has been cancelled
Leader: Maggie Pyle

July 4th Fireworks Paddle
If anyone is interested in leading a July 4th Fireworks Paddle, please let me know so I can post it. Gene Boothe usually leads a paddle out of Fairhope but will not be able to do so this year. It is always a spectacular sight to view the fireworks from your kayak so if anyone is interested in organizing this, please step forward. Tracy

July 6, Pelican Point Paddle
Leader: Nancy Ward
Meet: 4pm Sunday, July 6, meet at Pelican Point (at the end of Highway 1).
Notes: I plan to keep near the shore and paddle up the west side of Weeks Bay. I'm told there's houses, then a little marsh, then a nice beach just before you get to Camp Beckwith. I'm also told there could be dolphins playing in the water later in the afternoon. It's an easy paddle. We'll retrace our path and return before dark. Bring sunscreen and bug spray if you think you'll need them. It might also be good to bring a snack. Waves and wind might make me change our route. The good thing about that area is that changes are easy. Contact me if you're coming or considering coming. I need a phone number so I can contact you if plans really change or the paddle gets cancelled. Nancy Ward 990-5575 or wardn@earthlink.net

May Notes and Paddles

June Meeting:
The next meeting is Tuesday, June 3 at the Tensaw Theatre, Five Rivers Delta Resource Center.
Guest Speaker: Hank Burch, Director Five Rivers Resource Center, State Lands Division

Hank will be presenting on the history and acquisitions of all state lands through the Forever Wild Program. As a large portion of these tracts of land are in Mobile and Baldwin counties, this should be a very interesting and informative presentation. Forever Wild opens up many avenues of protected ecosystems with seasons of changing natural habitat for us to view and enjoy, along with providing opportunities for ecological research and education.
Hank gives wonderful presentations, we are most fortunate he is available for this meeting - don't miss this meeting. We are all aware of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta tracts of land, but there are some 20 or so more just in our two county area.


May Meeting Notes:
Thank you to Dave Armstrong with Wildlife and Fisheries for a wonderful presentation - there is life outside Mobile and Baldwin Counties guys.. saw many wonderful paddling opportunities in and around our surrounding counties, not to mention some really neat fishes. Can't wait to try a few of them (oopss, the launches and paddles, not the protected fishes.......).
A great turn-out - 48 people...

So, paddling season is here - keep check on the website, as more paddles will be happening than just those posted here. Don't miss some fun on the water - every paddle is a learning experience.

Paddle on......
Harriet


Upcoming Paddles: a busy month or 6 weeks ahead::

May 13th, Tuesday
Bob Andrews 367.4144
beginner friendly, evening paddle - beginning 5:30 p.m.
place to be determined, but Call Bob for details -

Saturday- May 17, Dog River Paddle followed by lunch at Aven and Gary's house.
Time: 9:30 am Hoppe's Boat Ramp.
Notes: 6 mile paddle from Dog River bridge upstream on north side of river. This is a real estate paddle however there is enough wetlands to give variety. This is the time of year when there is a lot of boat traffic another reason we will be staying next to the shoreline. There is also the wind factor which can be not fun since this is large, open body of water. Saturday's forecast is wind 5-10 mph. Optional: Bring your bike and we can ride our bikes the 6 miles through the neighborhoods to pick up our vehicles. (Mountain bikes recommended-no sidewalks last mile also last 1/2 mile on Dauphin Island Parkway with five foot shoulder) Hoppe's Boat Launch is $5.00 just north of Dog River Bridge. Please RSVP for parking considerations and if you want to bring more lunch snacks. Snacks are good. Aven's menu: Soup and French Bread Sandwich. The weather is supposed to be dry. The last cool front of spring? Aven and Gary 473-1819

Full Moon Float Monday, May 19 -
Leaders: Harriet & Fritz
Launch: Buzbee's Landing on Hwy 225 6:15 pm Launch fee $3
Notes: The First Full Moon Float of 2008 - don't miss it. Paddle duration 3 to 5 miles. Beginner friendly, but do have a level of comfort with your boat to paddle in semi-darkness. Paddle into either Bay Minette Basin or over to Yancy's Bay. Watch the sun set and paddle back under a rising full moon.Bring snack and drink, some to share if you want - we will raft together to enjoy the evening. Bug Spray, LIGHT (mandatory by law), a flashlight will be fine, pfd, regular paddling gear. Plan to gather together before departing to have a 1 minute chat about safety with night paddling and a large group. If you are coming, PLEASE call us - just in case plans change - but if you let us know you are coming, and are running a couple minutes late, we will wait for you. If you call, make sure to leave a contact phone number with us. Harriet 604.3741 Fritz 680.8928 Home 928.4568


May 22 - Thursday
Juli's Lazy Afternoon Paddle
Time: 4 pm
Launch: Byrnes Lake
Notes: beginner friendly, easy paddle
Must contact Juli if you plan to attend - 377.0054


Starry Nite Paddle - TBA
Leader: Tom Meyer
on a VERY DARK NIGHT - sometime in the near future (watch the moon schedule - we need NO moon for this one). It may be short notice - and will definitely be a great paddle - the opposite of the full moon. Everyone, get your lights handy, we'll need them at some point on this dark paddle but must follow the instruction of our leaders - group together, don't separate, turn on lights when they instruct). Tom will lead us through the constellations and show us some wonderful sites that are not readily visable to the eyes of anyone who lives in a light-filled town or city.... don't miss this one.

Sepulga River - TBA
Dave Armstrong
Dave is planning a Sepulga Float sometime in the near future - should be a wonderful paddle - stay in touch to see when, where, how, etc...

Upcoming Events

Grandman Triathlon - Sat May 31
Looks as if we are filled for our volunteer need - if anyone finds they cannot make it, let me know, so I can fill your spot with an alternate. Thanks to the wonderful volunteers - and everyone enjoy yourself...

Dog River Dog Paddle - Sat June 14
Dog River Park
Kayak & Canoe Races 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Bring the Family and enjoy:::::;; But remember,, MBCKC has been WELL represented in the past - we ALWAYS come away with 'Dog Bones' for our speed and power and skill to win the race - but it really is about how you play the game. So go and have a good time and a good laugh......

April Notes and Paddles

May Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tues. May 6, 7 PM at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center on the causeway in the Tensaw Theater.

David Armstrong with Wildlife and Fisheries will give a presentation of various Access Areas for kayaks within a several county area. Additionally, he is available to talk about any other topics from fishes to wildlife of our area. David always gives a great presentation - don't miss this meeting.


EVENTS

The Grandman Triathlon - SEARCH FOR VOLUNTEERS IS CLOSED - Thanks to all those who did volunteer. If you are one of the signed volunteers and need to contact Harriet, her number is: 604.3741

DogPaddle 2008
June 14, 2008 Dog River Park 9 a.m. through 12 a.m.
Kayak and Canoe races - Win a Dog Bone !!!!!!!!

The Pensacola Beach Triathlon will be held Sunday, April 27, starting with a swim off Quietwater Beach at 7:00 a.m. The race director is looking for some kayakers to assist the lifeguards in aiding any swimmers that may encounter difficulties.
The race director is Steven Fair, and his email is swimmore@cox.net

Saturday - Sunday, May 10-11 Paddle Lafayette 2008 --- Lafayette, LA.
Two day event showcasing the ecology and culture of the Lafayette, LA area. For more information and registration please visit http://www.paddlelafayette.com/

Tree Planting on Little Dauphin Island
Mobile Bay NEP will host another tree planting on Little Dauphin Island this Saturday (April 5) from 9-12. Volunteers should arrive at the AL Marine Resource Division office on Dauphin Island at 9am. Commemorative t-shirts will be given to all participants. Volunteers should bring sunscreen, bug spray, and their own shovel. Water and soft drinks will be provided.
Kara Lankford Mobile Bay National Estuary Program 251-431-6409 251-431-6450 http://www.mobilebaynep.com/

Kayak Seminar
Mike Bosarge, president of Mobile Bay Kayak Fishing Assn invites the members of the MCKC to the 1st Annual Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing Seminar on April 12th and 13th at 5 Rivers. The seminar includes topics such as fishing from the kayaks, local conservation. The Tensaw theater will have Jason Smith on Kayaking Streams and Rivers, KC of Baykeeper on Pathogens and Sewage Spills, MBNEP on Spillwater, CCA of Alabama on Gillnets in Alabama, Mobile Powerboat Squadron on Boating safety for kayakers and DI Sealab on Manatees in Mobile. Classroom 2 will be used for the fishing lectures. Entrance is free for all MCKC members.


Becks Lake to Open
What was known as one of the best places to fish and boat in Northwest Florida is going to be open again. It's about 10 miles up the Escambia River and is in the "heart" of the 35,000 acres of Florida Wildlife Mgmt area, very similar to Tensaw River area. It is at the end of "Becks Lake Road" about 15 min north of I-10 on Hwy 29 in Cantonment, north of Pensacola. For more info see http://www.beckslakefishcamp.com/


April Paddles

Byrnes Lake (in the Lower Delta)
When: Sat April 19
Contact: Harriet & Fritz Ingraham 928.4568; 604.3741
Metting Place: Meet at Bruno's supermarket in Spanish Fort - intersection of Hwy 31 and County Rd 225 at 9:30 a.m., Sat morning. Caravan to launch
Launch at Byrnes Lake launch (9 miles north on 225).
Notes: Paddle will be modest - round trip at least about 6 miles, at most, 10 miles. Bring snack, bugspray, water, usual necessities.


Juli's Lazy Afternoon Paddle
When: April 3, Thursday 4:30 pm
Where: Bayfront Park - Daphne, AL
Contact: Juli Day 377.0054
Juli wants to paddle in places she's never been before. A lazy exploratory paddle - short in duration and paced for about anyone. CALL JULI IF YOU PLAN TO COME!!!!!!!!!


Bartram Trail from Rice Creek Landing to theIndian Mounds on Bottle Creek
When: Tuesday, April 8.
Meeting Place: Meeting place and time of departure are to be determined.
Contact: Please contact Steve Day at 251-421-1847 to get the time and meeting place.
Notes: You should expect to be on the paddle for most of the day as the pace will be "relaxed." Bring a lunch, proper clothing, sunscreen for protection, and all necessary safety gear including life vests/preservers. Call Steve if you have any questions.

March Notes and Paddles

April Meeting: Tuesday, April 1st 7 pm
Meeting Location Change
Until further notice, the location for the monthly meeting of MBCKC will be at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center on the causeway, in the Tensaw Theater.
***This month, please come to the main buildings, and someone will direct you to the meeting location

Special Safety meeting - Wednesday 7 pm, March 19 at Fairhope Boat Company.
Ian Brosnan will be showing us some basic safety items, how to use them, and discussing safety on the water in our kayaks. We can never pick up enough hints. Come learn some new skills.


March Paddles: Please check frequently for paddle postings


NOTES:

New Paddle Website:
Paddle and Path, http://www.paddleandpath.com/ , is an informative source about exploring Florida's trails and waterways.
Conceived by a couple of University of South Florida (St. Petersburg) Florida Studies grad students, Paddle & Path features links to all things kayaking, canoeing, backpacking and outdoor; while at the same time sneaking in a little Florida history along the way


EVENTS:

Mulletman Triathlon Saturday, April 19th – volunteer paddlers no longer needed as kayak swim guards for this event.

*Registration for Paddle Bayou LaFourche ends on Friday, March 21st at 4:30 pm. For more information, see February notes.

February Notes and Paddles

March Meeting
The next meeting will be held at the Fairhope Boat Company - the top of the hill from the yacht club - 702 N. Section Street - Fairhope, March 4th at 7 p.m.



The February Meeting/Paddle took place on Soldier Creek on Febrary 5th. Eleven Kayakers attended and had the opportunity to see abundant wildlife, enjoy the sun, and even play 'kayak football'. For more on this meeting/paddle please click on "MBCAKC Paddle Reports" under 'links' to the right.

Please Note: Tina Murphy's email address is changing from tcmurph@mchsi.com to tcmurph@bellsouth.net

***New Paddle Posting*******
Red Maple Slough
Date: Monday, March 3, 2008
Contact: Harriet Ingraham 604.3741; 928.4568
Time: time to be determined - mid-morning probably
Launch: launch at River Docs on the causeway
Notes: about an 8 mile round trip - will be an advanced paddle - wind possibly will be an issue.
The Red Maples should be in about full bloom by the 3rd... A beautiful paddle that we all look forward to every year.
You must call Harriet if you want to come - she will tell you the time.

Events:

The Alabama Derelict Crab Trap Removal will be held on March 1, 2008 on the Mobile Bay Causeway
Where: Tensaw boat launch
When: March 1 at 8am
Notes: T-shirts and water will be provided. Please see the below link for more details. http://www.mobilebaynep.com/



Tour De LADR
Click here: Medical Society of Mobile County — Home
Location: Five Rivers Delta Resource Center
When: Sunday, March 16, 2008; 6:30 until noonish
What: Our help is needed to take kids or families on canoe or kayak rides.
Who: Harriet Ingraham 604.3741 cell; 928.4568 hm

We are helping Five Rivers Outfitters with taking anyone who wants to go for a short canoe or kayak ride. Five Rivers is providing the canoes/kayaks, we are supplying the paddler. As the race begins at 7, it is best we be there prior to. These events are a bundle of energy, even early in the morning.

This is an annual fund-raiser for Camp Rap-A-Hope, the wonderful foundation for chlidren of cancer. 100% of monies collected at this event go back to the camp. We are among several vendors and groups who are helping put on this event. Your time is what will make this happen. As both the run and the canoe/kayak rides is a new offering to the event this year, It is unknown how many will want to take canoe/kayak rides, so we need at least 15 people there, but will be happy with many more. Feel free to bring your own kayak and equipment to do some paddling. Ideally, we will paddle around Sardine Pass while the race part of the event is going on - a great way to raise awareness of our sport, and raise interest for, esp., the younger generation of enthusiasts. But, during and after, we will be available to take people out.

Please let me know you are coming - this takes some organization on my part. I need a contact phone number to reach you in the event of updates or changes or any kind.

Paddle Bayou Lafourche
March 27-30
2008 Registration is now open. For more information call: 1-800-259-869 or go to the website at: http://paddling.btnep.org/


Bluz Cruz Marathon
April 19, 2008 - A 22 mile race on the Mississippi
http://www.bluzcruz.com/



February Paddles:
Farewell to Mareike & Andre' Paddle
Date: Sunday, Feb 10, 2008
Place: Rice Creek Landing to the Indian Mounds
Notes: approximately 13 miles round trip Pace is moderate to advanced - must be able to paddle 3-4 mph for extended periods of time.
Meeting Place: Meet at Stagecoach parking lot in Stockton at 8:45 A.M.
Contact: Harriet & Fritz - home 928.4568; h cell 604.3741, f cell 680.8928 CALL IF YOU PLAN TO COME
Mareike and Andre' are leaving for a different river on their journey. They've been here for 2 years, been paddling with us for a year. This is one place they haven't made it to - so now is the time.
More Notes: A long day, so come prepared with plenty of food, snacks, drinks, bug spray, sun-tan lotion, extra clothes, rain jacket - all the normal things. We will do a short hike to the Indian mounds, so have shoes that are appropriate.Again, call if you plan to make the trip.


Other Upcoming various paddles include: Camp Rapahope fundraiser on March 16, Bayou La Fouche the end of March (see December Paddle announcements), Grandman Triathlon the end of May, a spring trip to Boiling Creek will be posted soon (have you purchased your pass?), and much more before, during, and in-between - there's always someone on the water -take advantage of their knowledge and learn our water-ways.

February Meeting/Paddle
Due to Mardi Gras day activities, the February meeting of MBCKC has been cancelled.
However, I will be having a 'Meeting-Paddle' on Mardi Gras day (Feb 5). We can gather and chat about past paddles and discuss the opportunity for many beautiful spring paddles and kayaking activites.

Place: Soldier Creek (off county rd 97, between Elberta and Lillian)
Host: Harriet Ingraham 604.3741 cell; 928.4568 home
Time: meet at the intersection of Hwy 98 and County Road 95 between Elberta and Lillian, at 10:45 a.m.
Notes:This is a 6 mile paddle, the pace will be as appropriate for the kind of boats people are paddling. Bring a snack or lunch and proper clothing along with normal paddle gear.

PLEASE CALL ME IF YOU ARE COMING - plans may change due to weather, etc - I need your phone number to contact you in the event of change.


Paddles


Date: Saturday, Jan 26
Place: Byrnes Lake to and/or around Gravine Island
Meeting time/place: 10:00 am - Brunos parking lot, Spanish Fort if you need to follow us - otherwise meet at the launch at 10:15
Put-in at Byrnes Lake county launch 9 miles north of Spanish Fort on Hwy 225
Fritz and I will be at Bruno's parking lot in Spanish Fort at 9:45.
Hosts: Harriet and Fritz 928.4568 hm; 604.3741 H cell; 680.8928 F cell
******PLEASE CALL IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND!
Notes: A paddle we most frequently do on a full moon - will be nice to see it on a winter day. Depending on weather conditions and paddle skills, the paddle could be 5 miles or it could be 8 miles. The pace will be moderate.

Bring a snack or your lunch. We will take out on Byrnes Lake sand spit to stretch and have a snack. Dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Byrnes Lake will be flat water, but sometimes the Tensaw can flow quite briskly and have wave action, so be prepared depending on the conditions

December Notes

January Meeting - no meeting will be held due to the New Year Holidays. The next meeting will be February 5th, 2008


Note and Paddles:

Paddle Bayou Lafourche 2008
Registration is now open for Paddle Bayou Lafourche 2008 which will be held on March 27-30, 2008. This is a 4 day, 52 mile South Louisianna adventure from Donaldsville to Lockport that is sure to be fun, entertaining, and educational. For more information call: 1-800-259-869 or go to the website at: http://paddling.btnep.org/


Paddle Florida - March 20-27, 2008
Registration is now open for Paddle Florida, a 7 day, 123 mile paddlefest on the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail. For more information: http://paddleflorida.org/

Paddle : Rice Creek to Indian Mounds
Date: Thursday, Dec. 27
Meeting Place: Stagecoach Restaurant parking lot in Stockton at 8:30 am.
Caravan to Rice Creek put-in.
Contact/Leader: Maggie Pyle
Notes: Moderate skill levels needed - approx 10 miles round trip. CALL MAGGIE in case plans should change Cell (251) 648-0059
Bring snacks or lunch. Plan to paddle to the Indian Mounds, take out and eat, then paddle back. Bring usual safety equipment and food. Paddle will be at a moderate pace.

Paddle on Tuesday, Dec. 18th
Trip leader: Juli Day, call Juli so she will know who is coming in the event of any changes
Contact #: 377-0054
Date: Tuesday, December 18th
Time: 2:00 pm
Place: Busby's landing
Launch Fee: $3.00

Future Paddles:
Please check website frequently for future paddle postings.


Dog River Cleanup Event
Saturday, Dec. 8th at 9am
Lusher Park
2459 N. Dog River Drive
The Mobile Bay Kayak Fishing Association, The Alabama Coastal Fisherman's Association, The Mobile Bay National Estuary Program, The Dog River Clearwater Revival, Cub Scout Pack 133, and Mobile Baykeeper have all volunteered to assist in the effort of cleaning up Dog River. The City of Mobile will be supplying the trash bags. Kayaks, motorboats, and landlubbers are asked to help pick up the trash from the river and the shorlines. Please be at Lusher Park on Dec. 8th at 9am to help clean up the trash.

November Notes and Paddles

December Meeting
The December meeting will be Tuesday, December 4th at 7 pm Fairhope Yacht Club Pier. It may be cool, dress accordingly.

Sunday Paddle - New Posting
Date: Sunday, Dec. 2nd
Place: Rice Creek to Jug Lake Platform
Meeting Place: Meet at Stagecoach Rest. parking lot in Stockton at 9am. Caravan to Rice Creek put-in.
Contact/Leader: Harriet and Fritz Ingraham / CALL HARRIET OR FRITZ IF YOU ARE COMING, as plans could change. 928-4568 home; 604-3741 Harriet cell; 680-8928 Fritz cell
Notes: Moderate skill levels needed - approx 8 mile round trip
Bring snack or light lunch. Plan to paddle to the platform, take out and eat a bite, then paddle back. Bring usual safety equipment and food. We will paddle at a nice moderate clip.

6th (or 7th) MBCKC Anniversary Party.
Sat, Nov 17 1:30 pm until it's over.........Aven and Gary Warners House off Dog River. - beginner to advanced - everyone will enjoy time on their water

Gather at the Warners for a shortish, very nice paddle. After, we will all share food and drink. Bring your own drink, and bring a dish to share with everyone. VERY IMPORTANT - you MUST call Aven 473.1819 for directions to their house - to discuss what you are bringing to share - and for parking instructions. Bring your kayak/canoe - we can launch at their house.

This is a not to miss party - we always have a wonderful time gathering together..... Come and join us....

Notes from the November 6th Meeting
There were approximately 15-20 persons who dared to come out in the chill of the night for the meeting which was led by Fritz. Many important safety-type issues were discussed; we all shared important pointers that ranged from wearing PFD’s to appropriate clothing suitable for the weather and environment for which one is paddling.

Upcoming Paddles

Sunday, Dec 2 - please see above

Johnson’s Beach
Date: Friday, November 9
Time: 10:00 AM
Launch: Gulf Island's National Seashore / Johnson's Beach boat ramp Perdido Key, Florida. There is an $8 park entrance fee.
Contact/Leader: Perry Phillips 251-593-1506 or perrywphillips@yahoo.com .
Length: Approximately 5 hours.
Skill Level: This is not an endurance trip. Beginners are welcome, and we may go only as far as Langley Point depending on the condition of our paddlers.
Advisements: Dress for the weather conditions. Bring plenty of fluids and something for lunch and your favorite energy snacks. Paddlers must have PFD's. This area is regularly traversed by large powerboats and barge traffic.


Tentative Paddle – Cancelled in lieu of this paddle we are holding our anniversary party. (See above)
Date: Saturday, November 17
Leaders: Fritz and Harriet Ingraham
Please watch for further updates regarding this tentatively scheduled paddle

November Meeting
The November Meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 6th at 7pm at Fairhope Yacht Club. The meeting will be on the FYC pier; it may be cool and/or breezy so you may want to bring a jacket.

Paddle Nov. 3rd
Place: Cloverleaf Landing up to McVays, down to Blakeley and back
Date: Nov 3, Saturday
Fritz Ingraham: 680.8928 cell; 928.4568 hm
Time: Meet at Bruno's in Spanish Fort at 8:30 a.m.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

This is the previously announced Upper Delta Paddle that has been changed to Lower Delta due to the possibility of winter water (low water due to north winds) in the Bayous of the Upper Delta.

As there is another paddle that has just been announced for this day, we suggest those wishing for an easy paddle to go on the other one, those wishing to go on a faster paced, longer paddle to go with Fritz. It's great to have choices, isn't it?

Bring usual safety equipment, water, snacks or light lunch. Duration could be 4-6 hours.

Call if you are coming - you never know when the paddle leader may change location, and if he doesn't have your phone number, you won't be able to be notified!

Anyone wishing to join in with one or many of the weekend activities at the Florida Paddlers' Rendezvous 2007 (Oct. 26-28), please follow the following link and instructions - great weekend of fun on the water and off

http://wfcanoekayak.com/rendezvous/

Mystery Paddle
Sunday, Oct. 14
Time: call to find out Place: call to find out
1) maybe Boiling Creek (but have to have a current pass)
2) maybe Sand Island
3) maybe Perdido Estuary
Call Bob 367.4144 to find out where, when and other details

--October Notes and Paddles--
(last updated: October 3rd)

November Meeting
The November Meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 6th at 7pm at Fairhope Yacht Club.

Notes:
1) Alabama Coastal Birdfest is October 18-21st, see http://www.alabamacoastalbirdfest.com/

2) Thanks to everyone who entered photographs for the first annual Mobile Bay Canoe and Kayak Club photography contest and congratulations to all our winners!

*5 Rivers Fall Kayak Fishing Tournament - Mike Bosarge invites us to join in the festivities of the 1st Annual 5 Rivers Kayak Fishing Tournament to be held October 27, 2007. For more information, click here: http://www.mbkfa.com/tournament1007.htm

Paddles:
Bayou Le Batre Paddle
Date: 6 October, 2007
Time: 9 a.m.
Place: Meet at St. Margaret Catholic Church.
Launch Fee: none
Contact: Tracy Lannie at 463.4233
Length: easy to moderately paced 5-mile round trip in protected water.
Directions: 13790 South Wintzell, just over the BLB bridge (click here for map&directions)
Comments: The plan is to go under the bridge and paddle up to the head of
the 'bayou'. Bring fluids, snacks, PFD, suntan lotion, bug spray.
CALL TRACY 463-4233 IF YOU PLAN ON PADDLING AND LEAVE YOUR NUMBER SO THEY CAN CONTACT YOU IN THE EVENT OF ANY CHANGES.

Upper Delta Paddle - Rice Creek
Date: 7 October, 2007
Time: Afternoon
Place: Rice Creek to Jug Lake
Launch Fee: None
Contact: Bob Andrews at 367.4144
Length: 5 miles in and 5 miles back.
Directions: Contact Bob Andrews
Comments: Plan to paddle 5 miles in and 5 miles back with time to eat a snack/meal on the platform. Call Bob for time and meeting place.

Pelican Point Paddle
Date: 14 October, 2007
Time: 2 p.m.
Place: Weeks Bay
Launch Fee: none.
Contact: Nancy Ward @ 990.5575
Length: Several easy miles along the shoreline of Weeks Bay, return before sunset.
Directions: Launching at Pelican Point at the terminus of Route 1 on the Eastern Shore.
Comments: Contact Nancy if you intend to paddle

Boiling Creek Paddle
Date: 20 October, 2007
Time: 8:20 a.m.
Place: Meet at Wilcox Road Exit 53 off I-10 at 8:20 a.m. to begin the caravan to the put-in.
Launch Fee: none.
Contact: Harriet and Fritz Ingraham - 928.4568 hm; 604.3741 or 680.8928 cells
Length: 5 miles.
Directions: East on I-10 from Mobile/EasternShore to Exit 53.
Comments: This will be a moderate paddle due to the narrow, twisty nature of Boiling Creek that requires a degree of boat handling skill in a following current. Contact Fritz or Harriet if you plan to make this paddle.

Upper Delta Paddle
Date: 3 November, 2007
Comments: Details TBD

--September Notes and Paddles--
(last updated: September 29th)

October Meeting - LOCATION CHANGE
The October Meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 2nd at 7pm at BAYSIDE ACADEMY IN DAPHNE, see map below or call Juli for directions at 377-0054. Bring your photo submissions for the photo contest (click here for contest details)


View Larger Map

Notes: (There is a lot here this month...)

1) Alabama Coastal Birdfest is October 18-21st, see www.alabamacoastalbirdfest.com

2) Lisa Kennedy had three kayaks stolen in early-August. She is asking club members to keep an eye out for them. See pictures and contact info at:
http://mbcakcboats4sale.blogspot.com/2007/08/stolen-3-kayaks.html

3) Eglin Air Force Base Recreation Permits expire on October 1st, 2007, they now cost $10. Please see the link to the right for details.

Paddles:
September Full Moon Paddle
Date: 26 September, 2007
Time: 5:45pm
Place: Whiskey Ditch
Launch Fee: none.
Contact: Harriet and Fritz Ingraham - 928.4568 hm; 604.3741 or 680.8928 cells
Length: Several easy miles.
Directions: Launcg at River Docks, the boat launch on the north side of the causeway, approximately 300 feet west of Ed's Shed)
Comments:

CALL IF YOU PLAN TO COME - LOCATION SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND WEATHER - IF YOU CALL US AND LEAVE A PHONE NUMBER TO REACH YOU, WE WILL CALL YOU WITH ANY CHANGE OF PLANS.

Short duration - 5 miles round trip - a beautiful place to float to. Pace will be slow to medium. Bring LIGHT, PFD, bugspray, all the usual paddling needs.

A note of reminder: at any time when paddling, be aware of your surroundings, especially with regard to motor boats, air boats, sailboats, etc. We will paddle through Pass Picada enroute and on return from Whiskey Ditch. Pass Picada often has faster, larger moving watercraft on it, due in large to people going to the local restaurants to dine. At any time, when paddling with Harriet and Fritz, that another larger faster moving watercraft approaches - you MUST MOVE TO THE SHORE OF THE WATERWAY. Use common sense - you may not be able to hear the directive from us, so take the responsibility yourself and move close to shore. If after dark - MAKE SURE YOUR LIGHT IS DIRECTED IN THE DIRECTION OF THE LARGER WATERCRAFT, so there is an awareness of you, in your kayak, sitting very low on the water.

Have fun on the water - the Full Moon Paddle's are magical. But remember to be aware of your surroundings.

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.