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.

Monday, February 20, 2012

March Meeting
The next meeting will be on Tuesday, March 6, 2012 in the Tensaw Theater at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center. Russ Lea, MBCKC member, will present on his recent kayak adventure in Belize. Anyone who has ever had the opportunity to hear Russ speak knows he is very entertaining and his presentation is sure to include non-kayak Belize adventures as well.

February's Meeting
February's meeting was another well attended meeting as members and guests came to enjoy Ron Smith's presentation on "Paddling Lake Huron's North Channel". Ron had a great story and some nice photos, including those of Paddling in Crappy Weather! Thanks to Ron for sharing his paddling tales with us.

General Notes and Announcements
MBCKC and the Sierra Club have swapped meeting places for the month of April; April's meeting will be held in the Delta Hall at Five River's.

*Volunteers wanted to lead/conduct MBCKC meetings. Presently, April is the next available opening. If you would like to conduct a meeting, please contact Tracy Lannie, MBCKC coordinator, at 463-4233 or tracy@thelannies.us

*If you would like to present a "mini-slide show paddle report" during one of the monthly meetings, please contact Tracy Lannie. Members are encouraged to share their paddle trip in this style. Time allotted for these presentations are 5-7 minutes


Paddles and Events

Paddles
The below paddles have been posted on the club calendar. Please click on the Calendar link to the right for more information on the paddle.

Monday, Feb 6 - Full Moon Paddle

Sunday, Feb 19 - Boiling Creek Paddle

Friday, March 2nd - Paddle launching from Scott's Landing

Saturday, March 17th- Paddle launching from Buzbee's


Events
March 2nd - Battle on the Bayou - for more info: http://www.battleonthebayou.com/

April 21-22 - Alabama Scenic River Trail's Delta Paddle (Bartram Canoe Trail)
for more info: http://alabamascenicrivertrail.com/  and click on Events

Monday, January 16, 2012

February Meeting
The next meeting will be on Tuesday, February 7, 2012 in the Tensaw Theater at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center. This is always a nice time of the year for the club because we welcome back many of our out-of-state members that spend the winter season in Southern Alabama.  This month,  MBCKC welcomes Ron and Suzie Smith of Black Parrot Paddling L.L.C. back into our neighborhood.   Ron will be our guest speaker and will present on "Paddling Lake Huron's North Channel".  Lake Huron is the second largest of the 5 Great Lakes and has the largest shoreline.  For more fast facts about Lake Huron, see:  
http://www.great-lakes.net/lakes/ref/huronfact.html

January's Meeting
January's meeting was well attended.  Michael Pornovets of Everything Kayk in Biloxi, MS spoke briefly about the Wounded Warrior Project.  As Michael sends updates on how we can volunteer to help with the project, they will be posted.   Thanks to Bob Strader for the mini slide-show presentation of his Murder Creek Paddle.

Also, MBCKC welcomed back club member, Paul Taylor, who serves in the U.S. Army National Guard and recently returned from a tour in Iraq.  Paul presented the U.S. Flag which he flew over Balad, Iraq to Five Rivers Delta Resource Center.  Hank Burch accepted the flag during the ceremony on behalf of Five Rivers.


Paddles and Events

Paddles
The below paddles have been posted on the club calendar.  Please click on the Calendar link to the right for more information on the paddle.

Sunday, January 1st - New Year's Day Paddle on Hurricane Bayou
Saturday, January 7 - Wolf Bay to Miflin Creek Paddle
Sunday, January 8 - Harriet's Sunday noon paddle from Buzbee's FishCamp
Saturday, January 14 - West Fowl River Paddle


Check back frequently for paddle announcements

Events

March 3 - Battle on the Bayou  for more info:  http://www.battleonthebayou.com/


Wednesday, December 28, 2011

January Meeting
The next meeting will be Tuesday, January 3rd at 7 p.m. in the Tensaw Theater at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center.  Michael Pornovets, Navy Veteran, of Everything Kayak, L.L.C. in Biloxi, MS will be our guest speaker this month.  Michael will talk about the Wounded Warrior Project and our opportunities as kayakers to volunteer in the Wounded Warrior Project program (kayaking).

Bob Strader, MBCKC member, will present this month's mini-slideshow on his November paddle trip from Murder Creek (at Brewton) to the Conecuh River to Pollard.  He shared a little about this paddle at the December meeting and so many people were asking questions that we have invited him to tell us more about this 14.2 mile trip.

MBCKC welcomes Paul Taylor  back home from Iraq after serving there for several months (6+).  Paul will present Five Rivers with special gift at the January meeting.

December Meeting
December's meeting was lacking quite a few members, but the photo show and pot-luck dinner was enjoyed by all!  We had several new paddlers join us and it was nice to get to greet new faces!  Thanks to everyone who brought photos, newspaper articles, and food to share!





Tuesday, November 22, 2011

December  Meeting
The next meeting will be Tuesday, December 6th at 7 p.m. at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center (exact room location to be announced).  We will have our 5th Annual  Photography Exhibition, "Through the Eyes of a Paddler" and pot luck dinner.  Please  join us as we share our paddle tales through our photography.  Everyone is encouraged to bring a covered dish or snack and their favorite kayaking photos.  We will display mounted photos on easels.  If your prints are not mounted, we can lay them on a table or pass them around.  Please put your name on the back of all photos.  Don't miss this annual event which has come to be a favorite of many!

November Meeting
Last month, we viewed a slide-show of the charity kayak event, Paddle Bayou La Batre.  66 paddlers took to the water and paddled the Bayou making this inaugural paddle a success!  We also shared paddle tales and welcomed out winter paddlers back to the Mobile Bay area.


General Notes and Announcements
*Volunteers wanted to lead/conduct MBCKC meetings. Presently, January is the next available opening. If you would like to conduct a meeting, please contact Tracy Lannie, MBCKC coordinator, at 463-4233 or tracy@thelannies.us

*If you would like to present a "mini-slide show paddle report" during one of the monthly meetings, please contact Tracy Lannie. Members are encouraged to share their paddle trip in this style. Time allotted for these presentations are 5-7 minutes

Paddles and Events
The following paddles are posted on the club's calendar

Sunday, Dec 4th - Juli Day's mid-morning paddle 
 
Check back frequently for scheduled paddles


Monday, October 31, 2011

November Meeting
The next meeting will be Tuesday, November 1st at 7 p.m. in the Tensaw Theater at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center.  Join us as we talk about recent kayak events and share paddle reports and future paddles.

October Meeting
Nancy Milford, host of October's meeting, did a great job presenting "Dinner with the Birds".  Nancy had some terrific photos of birds depicting their different habits and behaviors.  Nancy has come to enjoy "slowing down the pace" so that she can observe these behaviors, learn from them, and get to know the birds better.  Thank you, Nancy, for an interesting and entertaining presentation!


Upcoming Paddles and Events:
Check back frequently for updates
 
Paddles

Events 
November 5-6:  Alabama Scenic River Trial's "Fossil, Food, and Fun"
 http://alabamascenicrivertrail.com/events/?eventID=39&date=11/05/2011 




Tuesday, September 27, 2011

October Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 4th at 7:00 p.m. in the Tensaw Theater at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center.  Nancy Milford, MBCKC member, will be the host of this months meeting.  While some people like to paddle in races, others like a slower pace.  Nancy will talk about some of the things that you can see, learn, and experience by slowing down some.  Her theme is "Dinner with the Birds"

 Maggie Pyle will do the mini-presentation this month.  Maggie recently participated in the 16th Atlanta Dragon Boat Festival, entering three races.  In Atlanta, there were over 60 teams competing from collegiate, corporate, industry, banking, retail, and breast cancer survivors teams. On Saturday, September 24th, 32 teams participated in dragon boat races on the Mississippi River at Memphis. Maggie will have photos she took of the Atlanta Dragon Boat Festival and share insights into the 2,000 year-old sport of dragon boat racing which is currently the 8th fastest growing sport in the world.

Tracy Lannie will have raffle tickets for a Bending Branches Navigator Paddle. Drawing to be held on October 8th at Paddle Bayou La Batre.  Tickets are $3 each.  For more information on this paddle: http://www.bendingbranches.com/navigator      Tracy will also have forms for Paddle Bayou La Batre; this will be your last chance to register via hand-written form.  The registration fee is $25. For more information on Paddle Bayou La Batre:    http://www.paddlebayoulabatre.org/

Also, a representative from the Mobile Bay National Estuary Program will be at the meeting to talk about "Clean Up the Bottom", to take place on Saturday, October 22.  More info will be posted on the yahoo groups page (South Alabama Paddlers)

September Meeting
We have several first timers at September's meeting.  It is alway nice to meet a new paddler!  We shared our paddle tales and learned about the upcoming event, Paddle Bayou La Batre.

Upcoming Events and Paddles:Paddles
The following paddles are posted on MBCKC's calendar, click on the calendar link for more detail

Paddles
Harriet's Rice Creek Paddle:  Sunday, Oct 2 / meet 10am

Full Moon Paddle: Wednesday, Oct 12 - 6pm

Harriet & Fritz Whiskey Ditch Paddle -Sunday afternoon, Oct 23 (not posted on calendar) For information, call: 604.3741 (harriet) 680.8928 (fritz)

Fresh Air Family paddle by Juli Day /Buzbee's Fish Camp Paddle -Sunday afternoon, Oct 23 (not posted on calendar) For more info, call:  Juli Day 377-0054

Rob's Big Boy Middle Bay Lighthouse Paddle:  Sunday, Oct 23 / meet 1:45 pm

Events
Paddle Bayou La Batre - October 8 http://www.paddlebayoulabatre.org/

Phatwater Challenge - October 8 http://www.kayakmississippi.com/

Tour du Teche II, Race - October 7-9 http://www.techeproject.com/tour-du-teche.html

Paddle Florida, October 13-20 http://www.paddleflorida.org/oct11/details1011.htm

Clean Up the Bottom - Oct 22 http://www.mobilebaynep.com/news/clean_up_the_bottom



Monday, September 05, 2011

September Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 6 at 7:00 p.m. in the Tensaw Theater at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center.  We will share recent paddle tales and discuss future paddles.  The upcoming Coastal Clean-Up will be discussed.  Also, Tracy Lannie will present on an upcoming paddle event to be held on October 8, Paddle Bayou La Batre.

August Meeting Notes
During the August meeting, Tracy Lannie shared a slide-show presentation of a trip she and David did on the Naeroyfjord in Norway.

We also passed the hat to take up donations toward our new club banner.  Thanks to everyone that contributed to our beautiful banner.


Upcoming Events and Paddles:
The following paddles are posted on MBCKC's calendar, click on the calendar link for more detail


Paddles
Full Moon Paddle:  approx Sept 13, watch for update

Dog River Scenic Blueway Paddle:  Sept 23

Events
Coastal Cleanup - Sept 17  http://www.alabamacoastalcleanup.com/

Paddle Bayou La Batre - October 8   http://www.paddlebayoulabatre.org/

Phatwater Challenge - October 8 http://www.kayakmississippi.com/

Tour du Teche II, Race - October 7-9 http://www.techeproject.com/tour-du-teche.html

Paddle Florida, October 13-20 http://www.paddleflorida.org/oct11/details1011.htm

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

August Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 2nd at 7 p.m. in the Tensaw Theater at Five River's Delta Resource Center. Tracy Lannie, MBCKC coordinator, will present on kayaking in the fjords of Norway.  She and David did a short day-paddle on the Naeroyfjord in Western Norway on July 15th.  The Naeroyfjord has been listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005 and is rated, along with the Geirangerfjord, by the National Geographic Society as the world's number one heritage site.  Come join us as Tracy shares their experience on the Naeroyfjord!

July Meeting
Russ Lea shared his photos of a two week trip to Greece he and his wife, Robin, made recently. Their first week was spent in Greek cooking classes for Robin, learning Greekstyle dishes for her Bayside Cafe business. The second week was spent onboard a forty three foot sailboat cruising around the small towns on Peloponnese Peninsula. Russ had planned to spend time kayaking but discovered he absolutely had to have a kayak guide. The day a guide became available however, the wind conditions around Poros Island in the Saronic Gulf were challenging to say the least. His photos of their Greek adventures were an awesome presentation for the well attended club meeting.

General Announcements
MBCKC now has a banner!  This banner will be displayed in front of the Tensaw Theater during monthly meetings and during other special events.  For anyone wishing to contribute to the cost of the banner, we will 'pass the hat' at August's meeting.

*Volunteers wanted to lead/conduct MBCKC meetings. Presently, September is the next available opening. If you would like to conduct a meeting, please contact Tracy Lannie, MBCKC coordinator, at 463-4233 or tracy@thelannies.us

*If you would like to present a "mini-slide show paddle report" during one of the monthly meetings, please contact Tracy Lannie.  Members are encouraged to share their paddle trip in this style.  Time allotted for these presentations are 5-7 minutes.



Upcoming Events and Paddles:
The following paddles are posted on MBCKC's calendar, click on the calendar link for more detail

Paddles

Full Moon Paddle - Friday, August 12, from Buzbee's

Sunday Morning Paddle - Sunday, August 14 McVays Lake



Saturday, August 20 - Magnolia River


Monday August 22 Evening Paddle - from Buzbees
 

Please check back frequently for updates on paddles to be held

Events

Coastal Cleanup - Sept 17 http://www.alabamacoastalcleanup.com/

Paddle Bayou La Batre -  October 8 http://www.paddlebayoulabatre.org/

Phatwater Challenge - October 8 http://www.kayakmississippi.com/

Tour du Teche II, Race - October 7-9  http://www.techeproject.com/tour-du-teche.html

Paddle Florida, October 13-20  http://www.paddleflorida.org/oct11/details1011.htm

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

July Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 5th, at 7p.m. in the Tensaw Theater at Five River's Delta Resource Center.  Russ Lea, MBCKC member, will present on a recent trip to Greece.  The understanding is that he has some beautiful photos!  Russ always presents with a bit of humor so there's sure to be some laughter too!

June Meeting Notes
Maggie Pyle did a great job at the June meeting presenting on Kayak and Canoe Racing!  There was a lot of group participation with many members asking Maggie questions about racing and about the 20' Stellar Surf Ski she brought which, by the way, stretched from nearly one wall to the other where it sat in front of the wide screen. 

General Notes
*Volunteers wanted to lead/conduct MBCKC meetings. Presently, September is the next available opening. If you would like to conduct a meeting, please contact Tracy Lannie, MBCKC coordinator, at 463-4233 or tracy@thelannies.us

*Harriet thought ordering Camelbak Bottles with the club logo on them was a good idea, and many club members agree. This is the Camelbak Better Bottle which is BPA-free. If there is enough interest, the cost to club members would only be $9 per bottle. If you are interested in purchasing a bottle, contact Harriet at: hvk1457@aol.com

Upcoming Events and Paddles:
the following paddles are posted on MBCKC's calendar, check here for more detail

Paddles:

Escatawpa River/Presley's Outing - Saturday, June 11 (see calendar)

Full Moon Paddle - Wed, June 15 6:30 pm (see calendar)

June 26th - Afternoon Paddle on Fish River, 2pm (see calendar)
Please check back frequently for updates on paddles to be held

Events:

June 17 - 18 Third annual Ocean Springs Kayak Festival -
Mississippi State Games Paddle Race to be held at the festival - June 18
For more info: http://www.southcoastpaddling.com/Special%20Events.html

June 17 - Cultural Kayaking Adventure - Grand Bay National Estuarine Reserve
For more info: http://grandbaynerr.org/ or call (228) 475-7047

June 25-26 Alabama Scenic River Trail's Weiss Lake Event
For more info: http://www.alabamascenicrivertrail.com/events/?eventID=35&date=06/25/2011

Thursday, May 26, 2011

June Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 7 in the Tensaw Theater at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center at 7:00 p.m. Arrive at 6:45 for refreshments. Maggie Pyle will be the host of June's meeting and will present on kayak/canoe racing.  Maggie will bring her Stellar 20' surf ski which is 16.4" wide and an Epic Wing paddle.  The word "race" may be overstated, as anyone can take part in a canoe/kayak race.  Some participate for fun, while others are serious, skilled competitors. Participating in races is a great way to meet new people and paddle new places.

May Meeting Notes
We had a good turnout with many club members and new faces for the viewing of "Oil Spill" as presented by Dr. Doug Phillips and Roger Reid of Discovering Alabama.  It seems, everyone enjoyed viewing it on the "big screen".  On an exciting note, we discovered a few days after the meeting that the Discovering Alabama Oil Spill show received an EMMY nomination.  This is something to really be proud of because, of all the many entries, only the top three programs are nominated.  Congratulations to Dr. Doug and Roger! A big thanks to Harriet for hosting the meeting and for the grand idea of inviting Discovering Alabama!

General Notes
*Volunteers wanted to lead/conduct MBCKC meetings. Presently, September is the next available opening. If you would like to conduct a meeting, please contact Tracy Lannie, MBCKC coordinator, at 463-4233 or tracy@thelannies.us

*Harriet thought ordering Camelbak Bottles with the club logo on them was a good idea, and many club members agree.  This is the Camelbak Better Bottle which is BPA-free.  If there is enough interest, the cost to club members would only be $9 per bottle.  If you are interested in purchasing a bottle, contact Harriet at:  hvk1457@aol.com

Upcoming Events and Paddles:

Paddles:

Escatawpa River/Presley's Outing - Saturday, June 11 (see calendar)

Full Moon Paddle - Wed, June 15 (see calendar)
Please check back frequently for updates on paddles to be held

Events:
June 17 - 18  Third annual Ocean Springs Kayak Festival -
Mississippi State Games Paddle Race to be held at the festival - June 18
For more info:  http://www.southcoastpaddling.com/Special%20Events.html

June 17 - Cultural Kayaking Adventure - Grand Bay National Estuarine Reserve
For more info:  http://grandbaynerr.org/  or call (228) 475-7047

June 25-26 Alabama Scenic River Trail's Weiss Lake Event
For more info:  http://www.alabamascenicrivertrail.com/events/?eventID=35&date=06/25/2011

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

May Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 3rd in the Tensaw Theater at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center at 7:00 p.m.  Arrive at 6:45 for refreshments.  Harriet King-Ingraham will conduct the meeting and introduce our special presentation and guests, Dr. Doug Phillips and Roger Reid.  Dr. Doug, creator, producer, and host of Alabama Public Television's Series Discovering Alabama, and Roger Reid, producer, director and writer of the series, will present their film, "Oil Spill". 

Here is a direct quote from the film:  "While Discoveing Alabama is a natural history series showcasting the beautiful natural wonders of our state, in this show we are compelled to examine a tragedy assailed as the most catastrophic oil spill in U.S. History - that no doubt will affect our state for years to come."

Don't miss this rare opportunity to see the film as presented by Dr. Doug and Roger!  Each and every Discovering Alabama show celebrates the natural wonders of our state, and this film is no different.  As Doug Phillips says, "come along as we discover Alabama".

April Meeting Notes
Juli Day did a fantastic job leading April's meeting which had a very large turnout of members!  Juli presented on the Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT).  She covered many details of the ASRT including the mission of the trail, the area/miles the blueway covers, and  their very informative website: http://www.alabamascenicrivertrail.com/    Juli also did a slide-show presentation of ASRT's recent two-day Spring Delta Paddle which many MBCKC member's participated in.

General Notes
Volunteers wanted to lead/conduct MBCKC meetings.  Presently, September is the next available opening.  If you would like to conduct a meeting, please contact Tracy Lannie, MBCKC coordinator, at 463-4233 or tracy@thelannies.us

Harriet King-Ingraham is looking for volunteer kayakers to assist in the Grandman Triathlon on June 4th.  If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Harriet at 604-3741 or hvk1457@aol.com

Upcoming Events and Paddles

Paddles
The following paddles are posted on MBCKC's calendar.  Please refer to calendar for details:

Full Moon Paddle - CANCELLED

April 29 - Friday evening paddle from Causeway

Events
April 16 - Bluz Cruz Marathon:  http://bluzcruz.com/

April 16 - The Great Drift   http://www.dogriver.org/

April 30 - Delta Woods & Waters Expo Canoe Race and Kayak Fun Run http://www.deltawoodsandwatersexpo.com/
April Meeting

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 5th, in the Tensaw Theater of the Five Rivers Delta Resource Center. Juli Day is the coordinator for April's meeting. Juli will present on the Alabama Scenic River Trail's (ASRT) Delta Paddle that will have just taken place, and Jim Feldman, executive director of ASRT, will be our special guest.

The local chapter of the Alabama Hiking Trail Society will be raffling off an Ascend kayak. Juli Day will have tickets available at the April and May meeting. Tickets are $5 each or 5 tickets for $20. Proceeds will enable the purchase of much needed trail building and maintenance gear.

March Meeting Notes
Bruce Coldsmith of Dog River Clearwater Revival spoke about the new Dog River Scenic Blueway and its grand opening event, "The Great DRIFT". "The Drift" will take place on April 16th. See the club calendar of www.DogRiver.org for more detail.

The mini-slideshow presentation was "Fall Colors of Ocheesee Pond" presented by Tracy Lannie.

General Notes:
Volunteers Wanted: to host/conduct the monthly meetings during 2011. July is the next opening available for volunteers. Please contact me if you would like to 'be in charge' of a meeting. Tracy Lannie tracy@thelannies.us or 463-4233

Congratulations to MBCKC members and area paddlers who placed in the Battle on the Bayou Canoe and Kayak Race in Ocean Springs, MS on March 12th. Maggie Pyle, Rich Wetmore, Jerry Inman, and Carol Dearing brought home medals!

There are some really great kayak event opportunities in April. Watch the calendar for future paddles. Also, the Lake Forrest Yacht Club plans on having their weekly kayak races again in May (more info TBA soon).
Upcoming Events and Paddles
Please Check back frequently for updated paddle announcements.
Paddles

Full Moon Paddle to be announced.
Events
April 2 & 3 - ASRT's Spring Delta Paddle http://www.alabamascenicrivertrail.com/
April 7 - 10 - Paddle Bayou Lafource http://paddling.btnep.org/
April 16 - Bluz Cruz Marathon http://www.bluzcruz.com/
April 16 - Launching of "Dog River Scenic Blueway" http://www.dogriver.org/

Monday, March 28, 2011

February Notes and Paddles


March Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 1st, in the Tensaw Theater of the Five Rivers Delta Resource Center. Bruce Coldsmith of Dog River Clearwater Revival will give us the details of the "Launching of the Dog River Scenic Blueway". This exciting event will take place on April 16th.

There will be a mini-slideshow presentation of a fall Ocheesee Pond paddle.

February Meeting Notes
Bob Strader, MBCKC member, was the coordinator for February's meeting and what a great job he did! He presented with a slide-show presentation of his recent paddle from Rice Creek to Bottle Creek (Indian Mounds). Immediately following, Dr. Gregory Waselkov, Professor of Anthropology/University of South Alabama, shared his knowledge of the Bottle Creek Indian Mounds . The history of the inhabitants there was intriguing. Dr. Waselkov also had some very interesting artifacts which were on display for us to see and hold!

General Notes:
Volunteers Wanted: to host/conduct the monthly meetings during 2011. Please contact me if you would like to 'be in charge' of a meeting. Tracy Lannie tracy@thelannies.us or 463-4233

There are some really great kayak event opportunities in March and April. Watch the calendar for future paddles which will include a Full Moon Paddle for March! Also, the Lake Forrest Yacht Club plans on having there kayak races again on Wednesdays in May (more info TBA soon).

Upcoming Events and Paddles
Please check the calendar frequently for new paddle postings. Paddles currently posted or soon to be posted are:

Paddles

March 5 - paddle on Graham Creek (Foley's Graham Creek Nature Preserve)
March 18 - Full Moon Paddle from the Causeway

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

January Notes and Paddles

February Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 1st, in the Tensaw Theater of the Five Rivers Delta Resource Center. Bob Strader, MBCKC member, is the volunteer conductor for this month's meeting. . Bob will present with a slide-show presentation of his recent paddle from Rice Creek to Bottle Creek (Indian Mounds). Immediately following, Dr. Gregory Waselkov, Professor of Anthropology/University of South Alabama, will speak on the Bottle Creek Indian Mounds.

January Meeting Notes
Nancy Milford was our first club member of the year to volunteer to coordinate and conduct January's meeting. What a great job she did! Leslie Lasister, Environmental Manager for the City of Foley, presented on Foley's Graham Creek Nature Preserve. The slide-show included photos of the canoe/kayak launch at the preserve as well as beautiful photos of the wildlife and abundant flora, some of which is rare, that can be seen in the area. Many club members left looking forward to paddling Graham Creek.

General Notes:
I am looking for volunteers to host/conduct the monthly meetings during this new year. Please contact me if you would like to 'be in charge' of a meeting next year. Tracy Lannie tracy@thelannies.us or 463-4233


Upcoming Events and Paddles

Please check the calendar frequently for new paddle postings. Paddles currently posted or soon to be posted are:
Paddles
Saturday, January 9th - 11:00 am Paddle from Buzbee's
Sunday, February 6th - Ingram's Bayou morning paddle

Friday, January 07, 2011

January Meeting

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 4 at Five Rivers in the Delta Hall. Nancy Milford,MBCKC member, will be conducting the January meeting. Nancy has arranged for Leslie Lassiter, CPESC, Environmental Manager for the City of Foley to speak about Foley's Graham Creek Nature Preserve and the outdoor opportunities it provides.

December Meeting Notes
Russ Lea shared his very entertaining and humorous adventures on the Bowron Lakes of British Columbia with clubmembers at December's meeting. The photo show was beautiful! Thank you Russ for sharing with us!


General Notes:
I am looking for volunteers to host/conduct the monthly meetings during this new year. Please contact me if you would like to 'be in charge' of a meeting next year. Tracy Lannie tracy@thelannies.us or 463-4233

Upcoming Events and Paddles
Please check the calendar frequently for new paddle postings. Paddles currently posted or soon to be posted are:

Paddles
Friday, Dec 31 - Gene Boothe's "Last Sunset" Paddle

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

November Notes and Paddles

December Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 7 at Five Rivers in the Tensaw Theater. Russ Lea, MBCKC member, will give a presentation on paddling the Bowron Lakes in British Columbia.

November Meeting Notes
A good time was had by all at last month's 4th Annual Photo Event. Beautiful photos were on display in the front of the Delta Hall and table lined with good food was in the back! Thanks to everyone for making this night a success!
General Notes:
I am looking for volunteers to host next year's monthly meetings. Please contact me if you would like to 'be in charge' of a meeting next year. Tracy Lannie tracy@thelannies.us or 463-4233

Upcoming Events and Paddles

Paddles
Nov. 3, 10, & 17 - Juli's mid-afternoon paddles
Nov. 13 - Ocheesee Pond Paddle by Bob Andrews

Events:
November 5 - 7 - ASRT's Fall Color Paddlehttp://www.alabamascenicrivertrail.com/event

Saturday, November 27, 2010

October Notes and Paddles


November Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 2nd, at 6:45pm in the Long Leaf Room/Delta Hall (immediately to the left of the Tensaw Theater). We will hold our 4th Annual Photo Event, "Through the Eyes of a Paddler", along with a potluck dinner. This year's event will be a Photo Exhibition, not a photo contest. Bring your photos and a dish to share, and come enjoy the evening. Please note time and place change for this special event.

Categories include:
1. Flora / Trees
2. Landscape / Waterscape
3. Boat (with or without paddlers
4. Animals / Wildlife
5. Birds
Photos can be previously submitted photos from past contests or new photos. Photographs must be taken while on a paddle and can be in color or black and white. Photos must be no larger than 11X14 and cannot be digitally enhanced/altered. Bring your mounted /framed photo to the November meeting!

October Meeting Notes
Thanks to Bob Andrews for stepping in when we had a last minute cancelation from our guest speaker, Russ Lea. Russ will give his Bowron presentation at the December meeting. Bob Andrews had a lovely slide-show presentation on paddling the Okefenokee swamp.

General Notes:
Congratulations to Maggie Pyle, MBCKC member for placing third in her division in the Phatwater Challenge, a 42.5 mile race on the Mississippi River. Hats off to all members who participated in this race!

Upcoming Events and Paddles
Please check the calendar frequently for new paddle postings. Paddles currently posted or soon to be posted are:

Paddles
October 23-24 Eglin AFB Camp/Paddle Trip

Nov. 3, 10, & 17 - Juli's mid-afternoon paddles

Check back frequently for updated paddle announcements.

Events:
October 16 - Suwannee Race Challenge & Marathon http://www.aca1.com/

November 5 - 7 - ASRT's Fall Color Paddlehttp://www.alabamascenicrivertrail.com/events

Thursday, October 14, 2010

September Notes and Paddles

October Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 5, at 7:00 pm in the Tensaw Theater at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center. The presentation will be given by MBCKC member, Russ Lea. Russ recently paddled the Bowron Lakes which are located in the Northern part of British Columbia. We are sure to see some beautiful photos of this paddle trip! The mini-slideshow will feature MBCKC members participating in the 23rd Annual Alabama Coastal Cleanup.

September Meeting Notes
What a great turnout at September's meeting! We had several first timers attend. Juli Day shared her summer hiking trip on the Appalachian Trail.

Also, Bethany Craft and Catherine Mackey of Alabma Coastal Foundation (AFC) spoke about opportunities for club members to participate in the AFC's Volunteer Field Observer Training Program. AFC will soon have the training for this volunteer project available on the web. Continue to watch this site for updates.

General Notes:
Don't forget Wednesday's Canoe & Kayak races at Lake Forest Yacht Club Marina!

Alabama Coastal Cleanup! We are hoping to get a large group of MBCKC members to participate in the cleanup on Sept 18 from 8am to noon around the causeway area and at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center. See calendar for more information. Free lunch available to all volunteers.

Upcoming Events and Paddles
Please check the calendar frequently for new paddle postings. Paddles currently posted or soon to be posted are:

Paddles
September 23 - Full Moon Paddle - Possibly the last full moon paddle of the year!
October 1 - Paddle on the Grand Bay National Estuarine Reserve to study the Diamondback Terrapin

Events:

September 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 - Weekly Wednesday Kayaking Races at Lake Forest Yacht Club. See http://lakeforestycc.com/ and click the "special events" link

September 18 - 23rd Annual Alabama Coastal Cleanup http://alcoastalcleanup.com/

September 17-19 - Tour Du Teche (130 mile paddle marathon) for more info: http://www.techeproject.com/tour-du-teche/about-the-tour.html

October 9 - Phatwater Challenge 2010 http://www.kayakmississippi.com/phatwater

Thursday, September 09, 2010

August Notes and Paddles


September Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 7 at 7:00 pm in the Tensaw Theater at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center. The presentation will be given by MBCKC member, Juli Day who will share her experiences from her summer hiking trip on the Appalachian Trail.

Also, Alabama Coastal Foundations Executive Director, Bethany Kraft, and their AmeriCorps VISTA, Catherine Mackey, will speak to us about ACF's VFOB (Volunteer Field Observer) program.

August Meeting Notes
The photos in Russ Lea's slideshow of his June SE Alaskan trip were beautiful! Thank you Russ for sharing this fishing/kayaking adventure with us.

General Notes:
Don't forget Wednesday's Canoe & Kayak races!

Upcoming Events and Paddles

Paddles:
Please check the calendar frequently for new paddle postings. Paddles currently posted or soon to be posted are:

August 15 - Weeks Bay Paddle

August 23- Full Moon Paddle with Tracy Lannie

August 24 - Full Moon Paddle with Juli Day

August 28 - Saturday Evening Paddle from Buzbee's
Check back frequently for updated paddle announcements.

Events:
*September 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 - Weekly Wednesday Kayaking Races at Lake Forest Yacht Club.  See    http://lakeforestycc.com/ and click the "special events" link
*September 18 - 23rd Annual Alabama Coastal Cleanup http://alcoastalcleanup.com/
*September 17-19 - Tour Du Teche (130 mile paddle marathon) for more info: http://www.techeproject.com/tour-du-teche/about-the-tour.html

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

July Notes and Paddles


August Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 3 at 7:00 pm in the Tensaw Theater at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center. The presentation will be given by MBCKC member, Russ Lea. Russ will share his recent SE Alaskan experience with photos of fishing, kayaking, and more in and around the Sitka area.

This months mini-slide show will be "Kayaking the Sepulga River" by Tracy Lannie.

July Meeting Notes
Becky Winstead, a research assistant with the Institute for Marine Mammals Studies (IMMS) presented a slide-show that shared the rewarding work that IMMS does in Mississipi and Alabama. The impact on marine mamals in our area due to the recent BP Oil Spill was a major topic of the Q & A session that followed. To volunteer or for more information on IMMS, see: hppt://www.imms.org/

The Green River (Utah's Canyonlands National Park) slide-show that Maggie shared was awesome and full of beautiful photos!


General Notes
*Follow Jake Stachovak on his solo 5,000 kakak trip:
http://www.portagetoportage.com/index.html


Upcoming Events and Paddles
Please remember to check the calendar for new paddle postings. Paddles currently posted or soon to be posted are:
July 11 - Fish River Paddle
July 25 - Fish River @ Big Daddy's

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

June Notes and Paddles

July Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 6th at 7:00 pm in the Tensaw Theater at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center. Our guest speaker will be Becky Winstead, a research assistant from the Institute for Marine Mammals Studies (IMMS) For more information about the IMMS, see: http://www.imms.org/

Maggie Pyle will be this month's mini-slideshow presenter with photos of her Green River trip.
June Meeting Notes
Bob Andrews slide-show presentation of his canoe trip on the Green River in the Canyonlands National Park in Utah was awesome. Beautiful photos/scenery. Thank you, Bob.

Also, Maggie Pyle presented June's mini-presentation on the BluzCruz Race. How cool to see our fellow paddlers on the Mississippi River competing against others!

General Notes
Upcoming Paddles and Events
Please remember to check the calendar for new paddle postings. Paddles currently posted are:
June 6 - Fish River Paddle at Big Daddy's
June 12 - Silver River in Ocala National Forest
June 20 - Weeks Bay Paddle
June 25 - Full Moon Paddle

Events:
June 6 - Grandman Triathlon
June 11-13 Lower Cahaba River by ASRT - visit http://www.alabamascenicrivertrail.com/ for more info
June 19 - Mississippi State Games (Kayak Race) Visit http://www.stategamesofms.org/site1/?q=node/139
June 25 - 27 - ASRT's 2nd Annual Paddle Weiss Lake Visit http://www.alabamascenicrivertrail.com/ for more info
June 26 - Kayak Festival in Ocean Springs (more TBA soon)

Wednesday, June 02, 2010

May Notes and Paddles

June Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 1st at 7:00 pm in the Tensaw Theater at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center. Bob Andrews will present a slide-show of the Green River (Canyonlands National Park, Utah). This month's mini photo presentation will be on the Bluz Cruz presented by Maggie Pyle

May Meeting Notes
Paul Taylor presented with a slideshow on an Outward Bound canoe trip in the Everglades that he did this Spring.
Also, Bruce Coldsmith with Dog River Clearwater Revival (DRCR) updated members on the Dog River Blueway progress and the Dog River Canoe/Kayak Races which are scheduled for May 22nd. He ended the night with updates on the latest news on the Deep Horizon Oil Spill, and we spoke about local volunteer opportunities.
For more info on the DRCR: http://www.dogriver.org/

Here is an informative website that was mentioned at the meeting: http://gulfseagrant.tamu.edu/oilspill/index.htm

Upcoming Events and Paddles
Paddles
May 9 - Boiling Creek
May 16 - Boiling Creek
May 27th - Full Moon, Bay Minette Basin

Events
May 22 - DRCR Dog Paddle Races

Wednesday, May 05, 2010

April Notes and Paddles

May Meeting - Please note change in meeting place for May Only
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 4th at 7:00 pm in the Class Room at Five Rivers. MBCKC member, Paul Taylor, will give a slide-show presentation on an Everglades trip he recently went on. Also, a representative of the Dog River Clearwater Revival will give us updates on the progress of the Dog River Blueway and talk about the Dog Paddle Race to be held in May. Come to the meeting to get your $5 voucher good toward the registration fee for the Dog Paddle Race.

April Meeting Notes
Ron Smith gave an awesome presentation on the 145 nautical mile paddle/camp trip he did on the North Shore of Lake Superior. What beautiful photos!
Also, Nick Kinderman of the Gulf Coast Kayakaholics gave a mini-slide show of the Battle on the Bayou Race which was held in Ocean Springs, MS in March. Approximately 10 MBCKC members participated in this fun-filled day.

General Notes
*Kayakers Needed: Please see June 5th's posting on MBCKC's calendar to sign up for The Grandman Triathlon. You MUST contact Harriet King-Ingraham to sign up for participation in this event.



Upcoming Events and Paddles

April 9 - Whiskey Ditch Paddle
April 28 - Full Moon / Whiskey Ditch Paddle

Thursday, April 15, 2010

March Notes and Paddles


April Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, April, 6th at 7:00 pm in the Tensaw Theater at Five Rivers. Ron Smith, MBCKC member, will present on a recent paddle trip that he participated in: a 145 nautical mile trip along the Canadian North Shore of Lake Superior from Silver Islet to Terrace Bay.

The April "Mini Slide-Show Paddle Report" will feature the Battle on the Bayou race on Old Fort Bayou in Ocean Springs, MS which many MBCKC members participated in.

March Meeting Notes
The presentation for March was put on by MBCKC members. Members submitted some of their favorite kayaking photos and talked about them as they were displayed. The slilde show included Jimmy Saxon's skin on frame kayak which he built last year.

Upcoming Events and Paddles
Please remember to check the calendar for new paddle postings. Current paddles/events posted on calendar are:
Paddles:

March 4 - Magnolia River Paddle
March 13 - Fish River Paddle
March 15 - 4 pm Paddle from Bay Front Park
March 21 - Fowl River Paddle
March 27 - Indian Mounds Paddle
March 28 - Paddle to Bay Minette Creek to see Golden Club
March 29 - CANCELED Moon Light Paddle CANCELED
March 30 - Juli Days 4:00 p.m. Bay Front Park Paddle
April 9 - Whiskey Ditch Paddle

Check back frequently for updated paddle announcements.

Events:
March 6 - Battle on the Bayou - A Charity Canoe and Kayak Race
March 5 -Volunteer Paddlers needed for locating/marking traps for the Derelict Crab Trap Recovery
March 6 - Derelict Crab Trap Recovery / http://www.mobilebaynep.com/
April 8 - 11 Paddle Bayou LaFourche
April 9 - Alabama Scenic River Trail's Delta Paddle

Wednesday, March 03, 2010

February Notes and Paddles
March Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 2nd at 7:00 pm in the Tensaw Theater at Five Rivers. Claire Wilson of the Dog River Clearwater Revival will update us on the progress of the Dog River Blueway. Claire will also share details of this years "Dog Paddle Race" which will be held on May 22, 2010

February Meeting Notes
Dr. Jim Connors presented an informative presentation on "The Geological History of Mobile Bay" (including the Delta) which was followed by a Q&A session. The presentation was filled with interesting data on the changes of the area throughout history as well as some humor which, combined, demanded everyone's attention. Thank you to Dr. Connors for an outstanding job!

Fritz and Harriet Ingraham presented January's "Slide-Show Paddle Report" which featured some very icy paddling conditions on Guntersville Lake in North Alabama. Many club members commented afterwards on the great job they did!

Upcoming Events and Paddles

Please remember to check the calendar for new paddle postings. Current paddles/events posted on calendar are:

Paddles:
February 6 - Dog River Exploratory Paddle
February 27 - Whiskey Ditch Full Moon Paddle

Wednesday, February 03, 2010

January Notes and Paddles

February Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 2nd at 7:00 pm in the Tensaw Theater at Five Rivers. James Connors, Ph.D., P.G., an Assistant Professor of Geology at the University of South Alabama, will be our guest speaker. Dr. Connors will speak about the "Geological History of Mobile Bay".

This months "Slide-Show Paddle Report" will feature Guntersville Lake and will be presented by Fritz Ingraham.


January Meeting Notes
Thanks to Jim Felder and Glenn Dean of the Alabama Scenic River Trail for speaking to us about the possibilities the Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT) offers to both power-boaters and paddling enthusiasts. For more information on the ASRT, see http://www.alabamascenicrivertrail.com/



General Notes

Follow Jake Stachovak on his solo 5,000 kakak trip:
http://www.portagetoportage.com/index.html


Upcoming Events and Paddles
Please remember to check the calendar for new paddle postings. Current paddles/events posted on calendar are:
January 30 - Saturday Paddle / Hurricane Bayou
March 6 - Battle on the Bayou

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

December Notes and Paddles

January Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 5th at 7:00 pm in the Tensaw Theater at Five Rivers. The new year brings in a new president for MBCKC, Tracy Lannie. Tracy will talk a little about her goals for this year and will ask for club members ideas as well.

Jim Felder, Executive Director of the Alabama Scenic River Trail, and Glenn Dean, Events Coordinator, will be our guest speakers. They will present with a slide show promoting the Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT) and give information on future events. For more information on the ASRT, go to http://www.alabamascenicrivertrail.com/

December Notes
What a great way to end the year! Amanda Cox brought the cypress strip canoe that she has been building for several months now. What a beauty! The craftmanship was amazing, and it was interesting to hear the technique she is using in constructing the vessel. Amanda has committed to coming back with the finished product in the near future. Now, that is something to look forward to!

Rob Nykvist also gave an overview of the "Local Launch Sites" web page on Google Maps that he has been working on for over a year now (see the link to the right). This is great resource for paddlers to learn more about local launch sites.

December's meeting was Maggie Pyle's last month as club president. MBCKC wishes to express their appreciation for the efforts and hard work that Maggie put forth in planning the club meetings, etc. Maggie says she hopes to lead more paddles as a club member next year.

Upcoming Events and Paddles

December 5 - Saturda Morning Byrnes Lake Paddle
December 13 - Five Rivers Canoe/Kayak Holiday Flotilla
December 31 - 'Last Sunset Paddle'

Monday, November 30, 2009

December Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 1st at 7:00 pm in the Tensaw Theater at Five Rivers.
Amanda Cox, Engineer with Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding , is bringing a cypress strip 12' canoe that she is in the process of building. Amanda is an expert in wood construction and is using a very unique technique to build this canoe. Come look at this canoe and hear the details from Amanda on its construction! Also, Rob Nykvist will give us an overview of the excellent web resources he has developed on Local Launch Sites in our area.

November Notes
MBCKC held its Third Annual Photo Contest and a pot-luck dinner. There was plenty of good food and good photos to be shared. Thank you to Juli Day for all her efforts to make this event possible. Also, a big thank you to those sponsors who donated the prizes for the photo contest. Some really nice prizes were distributed. Prizes for the photo contest were donated by: Fairhope Boat Co., Alabama Outdoors, West Marine, Calagaz Photo, and Maggie Pyle. Another thanks to all of those who helped 'count votes'.



Upcoming Events and Paddles

Please remember to check the calendar for new paddle postings. Current paddles/events posted on calendar are:

November 1 - Gunnison Creek Paddle
November 1 - Kayak Stroke Refinement Class
November 15 - Byrnes Lake/Gravine Isl to Briar Creek Tributary
November 22 - Paddle - Launching from the Causeway

Thursday, November 05, 2009

October Notes and Paddles

November Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 3rd at 6:30 pm in the Long Leaf Room (immediately to the left of the Tensaw Theater). We will hold our 3rd Annual Photo Contest, Coastal Images, along with a potluck dinner. Bring your photos and a dish to share and enjoy the evening. Please note the time and place change for this special event!

Contest Rules:
Categories include : 1. Flora 2. Trees 3. Landscape/Waterscape 4. Boat (with or without Paddlers) 5. Animals/Wildlife 6. Birds
Photographs must be taken while on a paddle. Photographs may be in color or black and white and must be NO larger than 11x14. No digitally enhanced/altered photographs please. For judging purposes please title your entry. Awards will be given for each of the six categories listed above. Bring your mounted or framed photograph to the November 3rd meeting. Entries will be judged by MBCKC members. Attach the following information to the back of your entry: Name, Subject/Category, and Title

October Notes
Don Morrow of the Trust for Public Land explained the plans and process for the aquistion on Live Oak Landing. Stay tuned for future updates so that that we, as individuals, can voice our interest in seeing this land made available for public use.



Upcoming Events and Paddles

Please remember to check the calendar for new paddle postings. Current paddles/events posted on calendar are:

October 3 - Approximate date for the Island Apple Snail Removal Project. Please call Mobile Baykeeper for more info: (251)433-4229
October 10 - Phatwater Challenge http://www.kayakmississippi.com/phatwater/
October 10 - Fowl River Shoreline Assessment
October 15-22 - Paddle Florida (fall paddle) http://www.paddleflorida.org/
October 17 - Pedal or Paddle Trip
October 25 - Kayak Rolling and Bracing Class
October 29 - Bay Bash for more info go to: http://www.mobilebaykeeper.org/events/bay-bash
November 1 - Gunnison Creek Paddle
November 1 - Kayak Stroke Refinement Class

Thursday, October 01, 2009

September Notes and Paddles

October Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 6th. Don Morrow from the Trust for Public Land will be discussing the TPL's acquisiton of Live Oak Landing on the Tensaw River. For more info on the TPL, visit: http://www.tpl.org/
We will also have the pleasure of viewing a short video of White Pelicans at Justin's Bay (filmed by Five Rivers).

September Notes
Tracy Lannie presented a slide show and gave tips from an amateur's view on photographing wildlife from a kayak. The show featured many photos of the birds and other wildlife that can be seen while paddling our local waters.



Upcoming Events and Paddles

Please remember to check the calendar for new paddle postings. Current paddles/events posted on calendar are:

September 2 - Moonlight Bay Minette Basin Paddle
September 5-7 - Sipsey River Paddle / Camp Trip
September 19 - Yak-A-Du / Kayak & Run Duathlon
September 19 - AL Coastal Cleanup / http://www.alabamacoastalcleanup.com/
Sept 26 & 27 - Turkey Creek/Boiling Creek Camp/Paddle

Thursday, September 03, 2009

August Notes and Paddles

September Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 1st. Tracy Lannie, MBCKC webmaster, will present on taking photographs from a kayak with an emphasis on photographing wildlife. The presentation will include a slideshow. Come early (6:45) for Meet, Greet, & Eat and enjoy chocolate poundcake and coffee!

August Notes
Maggie Pyle, MBCKC President, presented with a slide show of the 2009 Great Lakes Sea Kayak Symposium and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore which she attended last month. Thank you Maggie for sharing your trip and the paddling skills you learned at the symposium. Your story made some of us appreciate our warm-weather/warm-water paddling opportunities even more!

August Paddles
See Calendar for paddle details

August 8 - Escatawpa at Presley's Outing
August 13 - Whiskey Ditch
August 16- Magnolia River
August 25 - Whiskey Ditch
August 30 - Fish River

Sunday, August 09, 2009

July Notes and Paddles
August Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 4th. MBCKC President, Maggie Pyle. and club members, Andrew and Mary Emilie Acklen, will give a presentation on the Great Lakes Sea Kayak Symposium and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan

July Notes
Thanks to Tom Montgomery for sharing his Paddle Florida photos and story with us. He had some really nice photos! If you are interested in participating in the fall Paddle Florida trip, you will find more information at the following website: http://www.paddleflorida.org/

Upcoming Events and Paddles
Please remember to check the calendar for new paddle postings. Current paddles posted are:
July 19 - Magnolia River Paddle
July 31-Aug 1 - Wilcox County Cleanup / Paddle
August 1 - Big Creek Lake / Kayak Fun
August 2 - Fish River at Big Daddy's

Saturday, July 11, 2009

June Notes and Paddles
July Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 7th. MBCKC member, Tom Montgomery, will present on the Paddle Florida trip he did this past spring. He spent a week on the Suwannee River paddling approximately 125 miles during this event that is held twice a year. http://www.paddleflorida.org/

June Notes

What an interesting presentation by Arthur Hebert! Thanks to Arthur for taking the time to travel to our area and share the fascinating experience he had in the Gulf of Mexico with us all. What an attitude for us all to develop...to begin first with a dream and, if obtainable, make it a goal!

Upcoming Events and Paddles

Beginning this month, all paddles and events can be viewed in detail on the Calendar page. Please view the calendar often for updates. Currently, the following scheduled paddles can be found there:

Saturday, June 13 - Big Lagoon @ Big Lagoon State Park
Sunday, June 14 - Fish River / Big Daddy's Paddle
Friday, June 19 - Boiling Creek Paddle
Saturday, June 27 - Fish River at Big Daddy's
Saturday, June 27 - Middle Bay Lighthouse Paddle
Saturday, July 4 - Fireworks Paddle
Wednesday, July 8 - Fowl River Paddle


Of Interest:

If you spot a Swallow-tailed Kite while out, please go to http://www.thecenterforthebirdsofprey.org/ to report your siting. Please fill out all reports as completely as possible with detailed location descriptions and complete longitude and latitude reading that can be found using the Google map tool on the report form.

Sunday, May 31, 2009

May Notes and Paddles
June Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 2nd. Avid paddler, Arthur Hebert of Gretna, LA will be our guest speaker. Arthur will be sharing his adventure of his 1998 twenty-day, 738-mile solo open-water crossing of the Gulf of Mexico. Arthur made this unescorted trip from Isla Mujeres, Mexico to the mouth of the Mississippi River in his 17' Eddyline Wind Dancer and dedicated the expedition to his daughter, Nichole, who was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis at the age of nine. The goal was not only to cross the Gulf but to make more people aware of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.


May Notes

Thanks to Bruce Coldsmith for sharing the plans for a Blueway on Dog River. How exciting to know that MBCKC members may have the opportunity to participate in the planning of the Blueway! Stay-tuned for further info. Thanks to Tom Meyer for sharing several paddlers photos from March's Paddle Bayou Lafourche.

Upcoming Events and Paddles

May 16, 2009 - Dog Paddle Races / Dog River Park 8:30AM - 2:00PM, 1/2 mile races, 1 mile races, and a 7 mile down river race to Dog River Bridge. Open to all paddlers. See www.dogriver.org

May 30, 2009 - Grandman Triathlon - the quota for Volunteer Kayakers has been met

June 11-13, 2009 - Paddle Alabama @ Weiss Lake for more info: http://www.alabamascenicrivertrail.com/events/?eventID=12&date=06/11/2009

Saturday, May 16, 2009

Boiling Creek Paddle (sometime between June1 -4 (Mon - Thurs)
Leader: Bob Andrews
Notes: Bob will be leading a boiling creek paddle during the first week of June. Check back for futher information. If you do not have your Boiling Creek Pass and you wish to make this paddle, you need to apply for the pass now. For more information, see the "Eglin AFB Recreation Permit" link to the right.

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Friday, May 8 - Full Moon Paddle
Contact: Tracy Lannie 463-4233
Meet/Put-in: Bayou La Batre State Docks, Shell Belt Rd (see calendar for map)
Time: 6pm
Notes: We will put in at the State Docks in Bayou La Batre and paddle out into the Mississippi Sound to Coffee Island (Isle Aux Herbes) to watch the sun set and the moon rise. This is one of the most perfect spots in our area to see both! MUST bring PFD and light. Bring all other necessary paddling gear. Bring bugspray.
Important Note: This is not a paddler for beginners. Depending on winds, current, etc. we could have some small seas. Also, there is a main channel nearby, we are subject to encounter boat traffic. From the put-in to the island is one mile. Total trip will be approximately 3 to 5 miles. Paddlers must call if you plan to paddle. This event is subject to change depending on weather/water conditions.

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Saturday, May 2 Dauphin Island Paddle
Leader: Maggie Pyle
Launch: 7:30 a.m. at the DI Golf Course
Easy Paddle, Two-four hours / Moderate pace
Please contact Maggie if you plan to paddle. Cell 251 648-0059
Notes: We'll paddle along the shore lines of Dauphin Island and Sand Island. This is an excellent paddle for new paddlers. We'll take a break on Sand Island to stretch our legs, have snacks, and watch the sea birds. To find DI Golf Course, go to the MBCKC website, scroll down to Paddling Resources, click on Local Launch Sites. On the left scroll down, click on DI Golf Course(not listed alphabetically).Please bring PFDs, water, munchies, bug spray, hats, sunglasses, binoculars, etc.
April Notes and Paddles
May Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 5, 2009. Bruce Coldsmith, President of Dog River Clearwater Revival , will talk about developing a "Blue Way Trail" on Dog River. Claire Wilson, Vice President of DRCR, will talk about the upcoming Dog Paddle Races. Also, there will be a presentation of March's Paddle Bayou Lafourche which was attended by approximately ten club members.

April Notes

Ron Smith gave an awesome slide-show presentation of the Alaskan paddle trip that he and his wife, Suzie, experienced. A special thanks to Ron for sharing his adventure with us!

Upcoming Events and Paddles

May 2, 2009 - Fish River Project - Kayakers needed/ Contact Anna Keene at (251)990-6002 or akeene@joinacf.org (see below)

May 7 - 9, 2009 - Woods & Water Expo, Spanish Fort / Volunteer Kayakers Needed. For more information, contact Gene Boothe Home Phone: 928-1107

May 16, 2009 - Dog Paddle Races / Dog River Park 8:30AM - 2:00PM, 1/2 mile races, 1 mile races, and a 7 mile down river race to Dog River Bridge. Open to all paddlers. See www.dogriver.org

May 30, 2009 - Grandman Triathlon /Volunteer Kayakers needed to assist in swim portion. Those interested MUST contact Harriet King-Ingraham (cell) 604-3741 or (Fairhope Boat Co) (251) 928-3417

June 11-13, 2009 - Paddle Alabama @ Weiss Lake for more info: http://www.alabamascenicrivertrail.com/events/?eventID=12&date=06/11/2009

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Saturday, April 25 Escatawpa River at Presley's Outing
Leader: Maggie Pyle 251 648-0059
Launch: 2:00 p.m. at Presley's Outing (Please see calendar for map)
Launch Fee: $5
Notes: Easy Paddle, Two hours / Moderate pace
Presley's Outing is a beautiful small lake on Escatawpa River, located off I-10 just inside the Mississippi state line. It's an easy launch site. We'll paddle up the Escatawpa River and return back down to the launch site in about two hours. This is an excellent paddle for new paddlers. We'll take a break on sandy beaches. To find Presley's Outing, go to the MBCKC website, scroll down to Paddling Resources, click on Local Launch Sites. On the left scroll down, click on Presley's Outing (not listed alphabetically).
Please bring PFDs, water, munchies, bug spray, hats, sunglasses, etc. And don't forget the launch fee of $5. Please contact Maggie if you plan to paddle.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Thursday, April 23 - Whiskey Ditch Paddle
Contact: Tracy Lannie 463-4233 or tracy@thelannies.us
Put-In Place/Time: meet at 5:45 pm to be paddling by 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. MUST BRING PFD & LIGHT

Wednesday, March 04, 2009

March Notes and Paddles
April Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 7th. Ron Smith, MBCKC member and guest speaker for April, will do a presentation on an Alaskan adventure that he and his wife, Suzie, partook in. His tales and photos of this 300 mile journey in Southeast Alaska from Sitka to Petersburg is sure to underscore why Alaska is known as "The Great Land".

March Notes
Thanks to Joe Cuhaj, VP Publicity /Alabama Hiking Trail Society, for sharing information on the AHTS and their 7th annual conference which will be held at 5 Rivers this weekend - March 6th and 7th.

Upcoming Events and Paddles7th Annual Alabama Hiking Trail Society - March 6 & 7 http://www.hikealabama.org/conference.html


Paddle Bayou Lafourche March 26 - 29
http://paddling.btnep.org/

Fish River Project Postponed until Sat. May 2- Volunteer Paddlers needed!
Volunteers needed to conduct a shoreline assessment of Upper Fish River to provide a baseline of current watershed conditions. Volunteers will boat specific grids, noting their observations based on a provided checklist
Volunteers meet at 7:30 AM at Bohemian Park off of CR 48/Fairhope Avenue on Saturday, May 2nd. Please bring all appropriate gear and GPS units and cameras if you have them. Also, if you have extra boats that other volunteers could use, please let us know. Volunteer training will be held March 17th at Big Daddy's Grill off of CR 32 at 6:30 PM.
For more information, contact Anna Keene at (251)990-6002 or akeene@joinacf.org

Tuesday, March 03, 2009

Tuesday, March 17 - Whiskey Ditch -
Contact: Bob Andrews 367-4144
Put-In Place/Time: 5:30pm, 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 - It may be getting dark when we get back to launch. Bring a light and all usual gear, PFD, water, snacks, bugspray.
***Canceled Sunday March 15 Fowl River Paddle Canceled****
Contact: Juli Day 377-0054 cezanneart@bellsouth.net
Launch: Memories boat launch
Time: early morning approx 8am
Launch Fee:
$3
Notes: Moderate Paddle 2-3 hours
Bring PFD, sunscreen, all usual paddle/safety gear
very slight current unless we get a good amount of rain during the week, beautiful deciduous trees, very few homes. Usually see a wide range of birds. Plant life should be coming into bloom. There will be no place to get out of the boat to stretch your legs. This will be an early morning paddle. Don't forget your binoculars!

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

February Notes and Paddles
March Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 3 at the Tensaw Theater/Five Rivers Delta Resource Center 7pm. Come early (6:45 pm) for 'Meet, Greet, & Eat'. Our guest speaker for March will be Joe Cuhaj, VP Publicity/Alabama Hiking Trail Society and author of several books (including co-author of Paddling Alabama). Mr. Cuhaj will be talking about the Alabama Hiking Trail Society and give us the inside take on their exciting 7th annual conference which will be held at 5 Rivers, March 6th and 7th

February Notes
Thanks to Ron and Suzie Smith, two of MBCKC's newest members, for the presentation on 'proper clothing for cold water paddling'. It is most important to consider proper clothing for the environment in which one is paddling before hitting the water. Also, thank you to Tom Meyer for sharing his photos of past "Paddle Bayou Lafourche" trips.

Friday, February 20, 2009

Saturday, Feb 21 - Red Maple Slough Paddle
Contact: Bob Andrews 367-4144
Bob Andrews and Gene Boothe will be paddling to Maple Slough Saturday afternoon. Those interested should call Bob Andrews Friday evening/Saturday morning to get further details: 367-4144
Note: ***Please note that this paddle is for long boats only. Wind is forecasted and it could be a 'tough' paddle. As always,all participants are responsible for determining their own paddling capabilities and paddle at their own risk

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Sunday, Feb. 15, 2009 - Rice Creek Landing to the Jug Lake platform - Again!
If you are unable to paddle Saturday, here is a repeat of the paddle on Sunday!!
Leader/Contact: Bob Andrews (251) 367-4144
Meet: Meet 11:00 for lunch at the Stagecoach Cafe Restaurant / Stockton. If you don't wish to join us for lunch, be in the Stagecoach's parking lot at 12 noon. - if you know where the Rice Creek put in is, you can be there shortly after noon.
Notes: Approximately 10 miles round trip. Flat water. Bring snacks, drinks, bug spray, sun-tan lotion, PFD - all the normal gear. As always, all participants are responsible for determining their own paddling capabilities and paddle at their own risk.
Call Bob if you plan to paddle: 367-4144 / for directions to Stagecoach, see paddle posting below

Monday, February 09, 2009

Canceled Saturday, Feb. 14, 2009 - Rice Creek Landing This paddle has been canceled
Leader/Contact: Maggie Pyle (251) 648-0059
Meet: Stagecoach Cafe Restaurant parking lot/ Stockton 8:30 am
Go to MapQuest for directions to 52860 Highway 59 - http://www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Stockton&state=AL&cat=stagecoach+restaurant
Notes: Approximately 10 miles round trip. Pace will be moderate - should be able to paddle 3 - 4 mph for short periods of timeon the open water sectons. They bayous will be more leisurely.
The paddle is usually an all day trip, so come prepared with plenty of food, snacks, drinks, bug spray, sun-tan lotion, extra clothes, rain jacket, PFD - all the normal gear.
As always, all participants are responsible for determining their own paddling capabilities and paddle at their own risk.
Must call Maggie if you plan to attend: 648-0059

Tuesday, February 03, 2009

Sunday, Feb 8 Chickasabogue Creek
Leader: Juli Day
Meet/Launch Place: Chickasabogue Park, 760 Aldock Rd Eight Mile 574-2267
Launch Fee: $1.00 park entrance fee
Time: call Juli
Contact Info: Juli Day cezanneart@bellsouth.net 377-0054
Notes: Easy 2 - 3 hours on water
beautiful wooded creek, sand bars along the creek, creek is winding with a slow to moderate current. Bring snacks, water, PFD and all essential paddling gear. Remember, you must call Juli

Thursday, January 29, 2009

January Notes and Paddles
February Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 3rd at the Tensaw Theater/Five Rivers Delta Resource Center 7pm. Come early (6:45 pm) for 'Meet, Greet, & Eat' (Conecuh sausage bites and soft pretzel sticks). Tom Meyer will be talking about the paddling event "Paddle Bayou Lafourche" which will be held from March 26 - 29 this year. Also, Tracy Lannie talked about posting paddle invitations on the website for those of you interested in leading a paddle or inviting others to paddle with you.

January Notes
A special thanks to both Mimi Fearn and Karen Jordan for their presentations on January 7th. Karen spoke about geocaching. Many of our club members have already participated in the sport of geocaching, and it seemed like many others are now seriously thinking about it.Dr. Fearn gave an educational presentation on the history of Dog River and how the growth of our area has affected the river. She also spoke about ideas for "Dog River Kayak/Canoe Races and Paddles. For anyone interested in helping plan the "Dog River Activities", contact Mimi Fearn at mfearn@usouthal.edu or call 460-6381.

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Saturday, Jan 31, 2009 Gunnison Creek Paddle
Leader/Contact: Rob Nykvist (251) 423-0015
Meet Time/Place: Meet at Pilot Truckstop at I-65 & US 43 at 10:45 a.m.
Notes: We will be departing for the launch site at 11:00 a.m. Steele Creek Park, Satsuma, AL Launch is Free (Unless things have changed) Easy Distance about 6 miles. Expected time on water: 2-3 hours. Anticipate being back by 2:30-3:00 p.m. Rob plans to explore Gunnison Creek for his first time. Gunnison Creek wanders north from Steele Creek Park up about 3 miles before crossing under I-65, then another quarter mile later, it crosses under U.S. 43 where it looks like it gets too small to navigate.
Experience Level: Can you handle 50 degree temperatures for 3 hours? This will be a leisurely exploratory paddle, 2-3 mph average speed.
Second Wind Paddle: For those so inclined, after a short break back at Steele Creek Park, Rob plans to do a second paddle going up Steele Creek and back (less than 2 miles round trip).
Safety Warning: Water temperatures are still very cold. Dress appropriately. You may want to bring a change of clothes along

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Saturday, Jan. 17, 2009 Bay Minette Creek Sunset Paddle
Contact: Rob Nykvist (251) 423-0015
Launch: 3:00 P.M. Buzbee's off Hwy 225 just north of Spanish Fort
Launch Fee: $3
Notes: Easy Paddle / 4-6 miles, about 2 hours on the water.
Leisurely paddle (or pedal) in protected waters. Anyone welcome.1 hour up Bay Minette Creek and then back to watch sunset.
Usual gear plus a flashlight. Dress appropriately for the air and water temperatures.

Wednesday, January 07, 2009

Thursday, January 8th Majors Creek Paddle
Contact/Leader: Gene Boothe Home Phone: 928-1107
Notes: Gene will lead a morning an 'exploration paddle' to Majors Creek, up to the Alabama River and back. Call Gene for more information

Friday, January 02, 2009

Sunday, January 4th Paddle
Time: sometime in the morning
Leaders: Harriet and Fritz Ingraham
Notes: Advanced skills needed (capable of over 3.5 mph for sustained period of time).Please call if you are interested for exact time and place 604.3741 Harriet; 680.8928 Fritz

Wednesday, December 31, 2008

December's Notes and Paddles

January Meeting

The next meeting will be on Tuesday, January 6, 2009 at the Tensaw Delta Theater with the all new "Meet, Greet, & Eat" beginning at 6:45 pm and the program beginning at 7pm. Ms. Karen Jordan, Instructor, USA Earth Sciences, will provide information on the sport of geocaching. Also, Dr. Mimi Fearn, Department Chair, USA Earth Sciences, will talk about "Dog River Activities".

December Notes and Paddles
Good food and good 'paddle tales' were shared at December's meeting. The club presented Harriet with a 'kayak photo-memory book' in recognition of her outstanding contributions to and support of our club. We also welcomed our new club president, Maggie Pyle. Maggie will begin leading our meetings in January under the guidance of Harriet.

Wednesday, December 03, 2008

Wednesday, December, 31st - Last Sunset Paddle
Contact/Leader: Gene Boothe Home Phone: 928-1107
Notes: Gene will put in at the Fairhope Yacht Club and paddle out to see the last sunset of 2008. Contact Gene for more information.
Sunday, December 7 - Indian Mound Paddle
Contact: Gene Boothe Home Phone: 928-1107 Cell Phone: 421-7826
Meeting Place/Time: StageCoach Cafe 7:30 am
Notes: Gene will be leading another paddle in conjunction with the Archaelogical Studies to see Indian Mounds. Please call Gene for more information

Wednesday, November 05, 2008

November Notes and Paddles

December Meeting
The next meeting will be held Tuesday, December 2nd 7pm at the Tensaw Theater / Five Rivers Delta Resource Center.
The last month of the year will be here and Christmas Season will have arrived. December's Meeting will consist of potluck and story telling. Bring your favorite dish/snack to share as you share your favorite paddle tale (or your most memorable one) from 2008. Wear your Santa hat and all! Dont' miss this last meeting of the year!

Also, T-shirts are here and will be distributed at the meeting Tues night to all who ordered. If you have not paid Harriet, please bring cash or check (made out to Harriet King-Ingraham) to the meeting.


Notes from November's Meeting
What beautiful photos were displayed at the "Coastal Images" photo contest, and some interesting ones too! It is both fascinating and amusing to see what one person views as a photographic opportunity...that someone else may not 'see'. Thanks to all of those who brought their photos to share.

November Paddles
Please check back frequently for updates. There seem to be a lot of paddles that are still in the 'planning mode'.

Sunday, November 9, 2008
Leaders: Audrey Preston and Suely
Launch: 2pm - Scott's Landing on the causeway
Notes: paddle this Sunday afternoon 11/9. We will head up the coast towards Bay Minette Basin until we get tired and want to turn around. We're both relaxed paddlers so the pace will be whatever we're in the mood for. Hoping to see some wildlife (maybe even white pelicans?) Anyone is welcome to join us but please call or email. Suely: 251-609-0880 or Audrey cell#251-752-8860, email: audreyloupreston@yahoo.com

Saturday, November 16
Contact: stapeshlds@aol.com
Dorine and Stape Shields are in the Mobile Bay area again. We are planning to paddle Wolf Bay and up the Wolf River on Saturday, Nov. 15 with Janick Temler , and with any one else who would like to go. Stape.

November 20th - Juli Day's Afternoon Paddle
TBA - time will be approximately 3:30 pm somewhere off the causeway

Wednesday, November 26th - Juli Day's Afternoon Paddle
11/26- wednesday
Contact: Juli Day – PLEASE CALL as she may change place 377-0054
Launch: Scotts landing on the causeway 1 p.m.
Call Juli for more details: 377.0054
Launch fee: $1


Upcoming Events

Volunteers Needed Dec 3 - 10 / A note from Aileen Trotter
Hello to all of our wonderful Grandman Volunteers!
You all have been such wonderful volunteers for us in the past, we are hoping that some of you may have some time to help us out with an upcoming event. Mobile Baykeeper, MAWSS and Five Rivers are hosting the Wyland Clean Water Mobile Learning Center. This is a hands-on exhibit developed by the Wyland Foundation to teach children about the importance of water in our world. There is a brief description on our web site (www.mobilebaykeeper.org).
We are in need of volunteers for December 3 through the 10th. Below, I have included a brief description of the volunteer opportunities. We would love to have you join us for this event. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact me at atrotter@mobilebaykeeper.org or 251-433-4229.
We hope to see you there!
Aileen Trotter
Outreach & Education Director
Mobile Baykeeper
251-433-4229 Office
251-432-8197 Fax

Sunday, December 14, 2008 2pm - Holiday Flotilla
Decorate your canoe / kayak for Christmas! A day of fun on Sunday, Dec. 14th 2pm. Float begins at 2pm, be there by 1:30 to decorate and get boats in water. Click below for more info:
Holiday Kayak and Canoe Flotilla information.