TowboatU.S. Lake Ozark, Marine Towing & Salvage

HOW ABOUT "WORKIN ON THE RIVER" -

2012-01-31T16:48:00.000-06:00

SEE POST DECEMBER 21, 2011 Rollin on the River (again) American Queen"
WORKBOAT MAGAZINE Reports
Great American Steamboat to hire 300

By WorkBoat Staff
1/31/2012

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - The Great American Steamboat Company announced today that it will be hiring over 300 new employees for the paddlewheeler American Queen, which is being refurbished at Bollinger Shipyards and will enter service in April.

A career fair will be held in Memphis during the third week of February, details of which will be forthcoming.

In preparation for the upcoming career fair, qualified applicants are encouraged to proceed to the company’s website and visit the careers section.

The company will be seeking to fill numerous positions, including but not limited to hotel and hospitality, housekeeping, culinary, marine and technical crew and various front- and back-of-house positions.

The company said it offers attractive compensation packages, comprehensive health and medical benefits, convenient shift rotations and tremendous opportunities for advancement and growth.

Great American Steamboat is an equal opportunity employer that supports diversity in the workplace. Applications will only be accepted online and in person at the upcoming job fair.

Bollinger is refurbishing the American Queen for the Great American Steamboat Company. Photo courtesy Bollinger Shipyards.

STILL TIME TO COME BY AND SEE US!! BOOTH - #15

2012-01-29T07:54:00.001-06:00

TODAY, 1/29/12 - 10:00 TO 5:00 P.M.

SOMETIMES, You Just Can't Win -

2012-01-25T06:44:00.000-06:00

As always, "Mother Nature" is hard to reckon with - I have run some recent posts concerning "Drift Aways" that are often not secured on their lifts. We have had some pretty windy weather over the past few weeks,. high winds along with temperature changes often cause boat lifts to leak down and if "YOU DON'T TIE OFF THY BOAT", IT'S GONNA LEAVE. - - However; In this case, our customer had followed that advice and tied off each of his two PWC's with substantial line to solid cleats on the "Drive on" style floating lift. - - - Soo - THIS TIME, THE WHOLE LIFT WITH BOTH PWC'S ABOARD - BREAKS LOOSE AND HEADS OUT ON A ONE AND A QUARTER MILE TOUR TO THE NORTH SHORE - -

Two 2002 Yama PWC's on lift taking a sunny morning cruise

BUSTED!!

YOU LOSE 'UM - WE FIND 'UM !!

DON'T forget to stop by and see us in OVERLAND PARK THIS WEEKEND!! BOOTH 15

BOAT SHOW!! KANSAS CITY!! WE'LL Be THERE!!

2012-01-21T07:01:00.003-06:00

OVERLAND PARK KANSAS, STARTS THURSDAY JANUARY 26, 2012!

BOOTH #15

CLICK HERE

STOP BY AND SAY HI!!

LEARN MORE ABOUT BOATU.S. AND BOATU.S. ANGLER, JOIN RIGHT AT THE SHOW!!

JUST A "LITTLE" MORE POWER!!!

2012-01-18T11:21:00.000-06:00

SUMMER'S COMIN - - THINK ABOUT IT NOW!!

2012-01-17T14:46:00.000-06:00

THINK YOU'LL NEVER NEED THIS??

SO DID THESE FOLKS - -!

Weigh-to-Win Again in 2012 - NEWS FROM BOATU.S. ANGLER!

2012-01-07T06:38:00.002-06:00

NEWS From BoatUS

Boat Owners Association of The United States

880 S. Pickett St., Alexandria, VA 22304

BoatUS Press Room at http://www.BoatUS.com/pressroom

Weigh-to-Win Again in 2012

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Jan. 6, 2012 -- It’s simple, it’s affordable, it calms concerns about mechanical breakdowns, and it pays tournament cash bonuses. For those four reasons alone, the hundreds of anglers that signed up for BoatUS Angler and “Weigh-to-Win” in its inaugural 2011 season, can look forward to renewing and participating again this year.

That’s right, by purchasing a membership in BOATU.S. Angler, you get towing you can trust should you have a breakdown, plus the chance to win tournament cash bonuses when you sign up for the “Weigh-to-Win” program, all for as little as $38.

“Tournament anglers spend countless hours behind the wheel of their bass boat and tow vehicle,” said BoatUS Angler’s Steve Levi. “We’re offering a program that takes the hassles away with 24/7 dispatch assistance when either one breaks down, and gives you the chance to make some extra cash when competing in 287 professional fishing tournaments,”

Participation in BoatUS Angler’s “Weigh-to-Win” is as simple as signing up for any of the following invaluable programs. You choose which option appeals to you most.

The On-the-Road Towing package includes a BoatUS Angler membership for just $38 and is great for bass anglers concerned about breakdowns on the highway. Those who want on-the-water assistance would likely choose the On-the-Water Freshwater Towing package for $58.

Anglers that want their mind at ease, both on-the-road and on-the-water would choose the combined BoatUS Angler membership for $72. All three offerings make you eligible to enter the “Weigh-to-Win” tournament cash bonus program at no additional cost.

Take it from guys like the BassZone.com’s Matt Pangrac who called for assistance from BoatUS after his bass boat’s trailer tire blew out on Interstate 35. Help was dispatched, the tire was replaced, and Pangrac went on to catch an 11-pound bass hours later. There’s also Bassmaster Elite Series pro Britt Myers who was stranded during practice for the Lake Wheeler Bassmaster Elite Series Event on the Tennessee River miles from the ramp with nightfall approaching, and now brags about BoatUS’ on-the-water towboat service.

Better yet, top weekend anglers like Kip Carter, Tyler Moberly and Shonn Goodwin have never needed BoatUS’ towing assistance, but have hauled home hundreds of dollars simply by being BoatUS Angler members and doing well in their respective events.

Simply said, it pays to buy a highly affordable BoatUS Angler membership – especially when you’re registered for the Weigh-to-Win cash tournament bonus program, and that’s why hundreds of anglers signed up last year. To make sure you are eligible in 2012, just dial (918) 742-6424 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. CST, and ask for Kendell, she’ll make sure you get signed-up. Or to learn more, please visit www.BoatUSFishing.com.

About BoatUS Angler:

BoatUS Angler, a membership program from the nation’s largest association of recreational boaters, BoatUS, offers boat-owning fishermen services such as on-the-water breakdown and towing assistance provided by the largest fleet of towboats in North America, roadside boat trailer and tow vehicle assistance through 18,000 specialized towing companies, and fishing boat insurance that has the right coverage for anglers. Visit BoatUSAngler.com for more.

WINTER FISHING? - DON'T GET LEFT OUT IN THE COLD!

2012-01-04T22:06:00.000-06:00

WINTER FISHING CAN BE CHALLENGING ENOUGH - MAKE LIFE SIMPLER - "Hook-up" with TOWING YOU CAN TRUST And BOATU.S. ANGLER

GATHERING UP THE FLOCK - -

2012-01-01T09:10:00.000-06:00

The last day of the year was closed out with 2 "DRIFT AWAY" cases. We had a Sunny & Warm New Year's Eve, with temperatures in the mid 60's but winds were running WSW @ 15-20 with gusts to 40 mph. The combination of "warm" / "cold" weather contrasts along with high winds usually results in a fair number of "DRIFT AWAY'S", where Boat Lifts leak down and the vessel is not secured to the dock - - so it decides to leave home - - ONCE AGAIN AS BEFORE -

"TIE OFF THY BOAT"

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

THIS YAMA PWC DRIFTED ABOUT 1/4
MILE FROM HOME AFTER LIFT LEAK
DOWN - AGAINST SHORE AND DOCK
CABLES - - MINOR DAMAGE

THIS REGAL DRIFTED OFF AFTER LIFT
LEAKED DOWN - - DRIFTED OVER A MILE
ACROSS THE LAKE FROM THE SUNRISE
BEACH SIDE TO HORSESHOE BEND AND CAME
TO REST AGAINST BREAKWATER

MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!!

2011-12-24T08:38:00.001-06:00

USCG SQUADRON ONE - VIETNAM - 1965 - 1975

"Rollin on the River (again) American Queen

2011-12-21T06:52:00.002-06:00

The "Queen" moored, Hannibal, Missouri August, 2007

The "QUEEN" is NOT dead - "Long live the Queen"
Thanks to Capt Richard R.. - Bitter End Blog, on 12/19 - I caught this -

The LA Times is reporting: December 14, 2011

American Queen steamboat will be rollin’ on the river again

The American Queen, the largest steamboat ever built, will return to the Mississippi River with cruises starting in April. The re-created riverboat that had ended service in 2008 returns under new management and with onboard entertainment and historians to keep it lively.

The complete LA Times post by Mary Forgione is here.

In August of 2007, Laura and I took grandson Ryan Dubinski on a day trip to Hannibal, MO, while touring Hannibal and doing the "Mark Twain" thing we were fortunate enough to find the "QUEEN" making a stop on the Hannibal waterfront. She was an awesome sight to see up close and we would loved to have made a "cruise". She was taken out of service in 2008, but looks like she has been revived - - Maybe we can still make that trip - -

Hannibal waterfront August 2007

Laura, Ryan and some sailor - -

A PRIVILEGE and AN HONOR CRUISE (Part 1)

2011-12-18T20:52:00.002-06:00

THE PRIVILEGE: - I was invited to come along on a "un-heralded" afternoon cruise this Saturday, which was part of the local 5th Annual Troop Appreciation Day - I had no idea it would also be such an HONOR:

M/V CELEBRATION

The troops that are serving or who have served in the last year, their spouses and children attending the TROOP APPRECIATION DAY, December 17, (see Lake Expo Break Bread with Heroes) were treated to an afternoon cruise aboard the M/V CELEBRATION (CELEBRATION CRUISES) Captain Mike Bouffiou, Owner, along with Captain Dave Anderson and members of the "Celebration" Crew treated over 130 Appreciation Day attendees to a cruise that afternoon. The "Celebration" shoved off at 1:30 p.m. under a sunny sky and light breeze for an hour and half cruise. The troops and their families with numerous children enjoyed the relaxing trip. Most of them were just arriving in the lake area to attend the Appreciation Day scheduled to start @ 5:00p.m. at Tan-Tar-A. Many were not aware, that one of the persons on board for the cruise was MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT, Colonel Don (Doc) Ballard , Kansas City, MO , Missouri's only living Medal of Honor recipient.

Ballard was born in Kansas City, Missouri and it was there that he enlisted in the United States Navy. Sent to Vietnam, Ballard served as a corpsman in the Quang Tri province with Company M, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines (Mike 3/4) of the 3rd Marine Division. On May 16, 1968, Ballard treated two Marines suffering from heat exhaustion, and when returning to his unit from the casualty evacuation helicopter pad he and his company were attacked by the North Vietnamese Army. While under fire, Ballard directed aid to other wounded U.S. Marines and when a grenade landed nearby, Ballard fearlessly threw himself upon the lethal explosive device to protect his comrades from the deadly blast. Grabbing the grenade and rolling upon one of his wounded comrades to protect him he threw the devise seconds before it harmlessly exploded. He calmly arose from his dangerous position and resolutely continued his determined efforts in treating his Marines. For his actions, he received the United States of America's highest award, the Medal of Honor. In 1970, Ballard received the Navy Medal of Honor from President Richard M. Nixon and General Westmoreland . He then left the United States Navy and enlisted in Army officer candidate school. Westmoreland offered Ballard a direct commission; however Ballard turned it down for personal reasons. Ballard later joined the Kansas National Guard, and served as an ambulance platoon leader, company commander, and was tasked with creating the new 'Medical Detachment 5', a unit which performs medicals on Guard members in order to save the cost of contracting outside medical help, and of which he was the first member and commander. On April 5, 1998, Ballard was promoted to colonel by Major General James F. Reuger and served as Special Assistant to the Adjutant General until his retirement in 2000. Inducted into the National Guard Hall of Fame in November 2001, Ballard is the only living Kansas Guardsman to have received the Medal of Honor. He is also the subject of a memorial statue at the National Medical War Memorial in Kansas City, depicting Ballard during the action for which he received the Medal of Honor.

NOTE, As a 21 year career Military retiree and Vietnam Vet, This was the first time I had ever met a "MEDAL OF HONOR" RECIPIENT, and though I only spoke with him briefly - - His first words to ME were - - "WELCOME HOME" - - -

BELIEVE - Thanks SANTA!

2011-12-12T16:38:00.001-06:00

On a recent cold weather call - - Our 24 ft X USCG Justice Class TowBoat had a close encounter of the best kind - - It seems that Santa just happened to be making a pre-Christmas test flight near the state park in the Glaize Arm - his sleigh appeared to be grossly overloaded and there was no doubt he would soon be making an unscheduled water landing - the look of panic in the struggling Reindeer eyes was easily read by our Towboat Captain. He carefully maneuvered the TowBoat under the slowly descending sleigh and as the runners touched down on the deck of the TowBoat, the Reindeer were able to compose themselves and stay just off the water as the TowBoat supported the heavy sleigh. Santa said not a word, but looked at our captain with a huge grin and twinkling eye - - He motioned to two panicked elves who were cowering in the back of the sleigh and directed them to offload some objects from the sleigh - - Twin VERADO 200's were quickly dropped on the deck - - Santa gave the reins a slight tap - looked back and waved as the Reindeer quickly ascended with the now much lighter sleigh - BELIEVE! - MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

CHRISTMAS TREE SHIPS - - LEGENDS, STORIES & CHRISTMAS TREE SHIP 2011

2011-12-08T08:32:00.001-06:00

CLEVELAND — The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Alder, acting as the “Christmas Ship," departed Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., Tuesday morning (Nov 29) and was to arrive at Chicago’s Navy Pier at 8:30 a.m. Friday (Dec 2nd) for an annual event to distribute Christmas trees to deserving families on Saturday.

READ USCG NEWS RELEASE HERE

HEAR THE STORY OF THIS YEARS CHRISTMAS TREE SHIP (USCGC ALDER) LIVE, THIS SATURDAY (DEC 10) 7 to 8 A.M. ON BOB'S NO WAKE ZONE RADIO SHOW - KDKD AM - KDKD FM KXEA FM - WORLD WIDE STREAMING AUDIO @

www.bobsnowakezone.com

He will have the CO and crew (CGC Alder) ...and the head of the Committee from Chicago on the radio show this Saturday - - (scroll down to Live Radio Show and click either radio station button for audio...or come back Monday in the On Demand Dock Box to listen).

MORE READING AND INFORMATION ABOUT THE

CHRISTMAS TREE SHIP(S)

Lives and Legends of the Christmas Tree Ships - brings the maritime heritage of the Great Lakes to life, using the tragic story of the schooner Rouse Simmons as a porthole into the robust but often forgotten communities that thrived along Lake Michigan from the Civil War to World War I.

For this book & others about CHRISTMAS TREE SHIPS - BARNES & NOBLE HERE

Memorialized in songs, poems, fiction, and even a musical, the infamous ship that went down in a Thanksgiving storm while delivering Christmas trees to Chicago has long been shrouded in myth and legend. As a result, the larger story of the captain, crew, and affected communities has often been overlooked. Fred Neuschel delves into this everyday life of camaraderie, drudgery, ambition, and adventure—with tales of the Midwest’s burgeoning immigrant groups and rapid industrialization—to create a true story that is even more fascinating than the celebrated legends.

The Christmas Tree Ship: Captain Herman E. Schuenemann and the Schooner Rouse Simmons
By Glenn V. Longacre - National Archives - - Story HERE

2011-12-07T06:30:00.001-06:00

IN MEMORY, 70 YEARS - DAY OF INFAMY
I POSTED THIS STORY BACK IN DECEMBER OF 2009 - - DECIDED TO RUN IT AGAIN-
The US Coast Guard Cutter Taney is one of seven Treasury/Secretary-class cutters built for the Coast Guard in the Mid-1930s. Home ported in Honolulu, Hawaii beginning in 1937, Taney was attached to Destroyer Division 80 in the summer of 1941 and was in action against Japanese planes during the Pearl Harbor attack. Of the 101 U.S. fighting ships present in Hawaiian waters on 7 December 1941, Taney is the only one afloat today.

At sea for 80 of the first 90 days of war, Taney carried out anti-submarine patrols off Hawaii, and later served as a convoy escort in the Pacific through 1943. Following a major refit, the cutter was transferred to the Atlantic in 1944 where she escorted six convoys between the east coast of the US and North Africa. On 20 April 1944, Taney helped fight off a German torpedo bomber attack on Convoy USG 38 off Algiers. Converted to an Amphibious Command Ship in 1945, she participated in the battle for Okinawa downing four Japanese Kamikazes and one "Betty" bomber.

Known as "The Queen of the Pacific," Taney was home ported in Alameda, CA, from 1946 to 1972 carrying out ocean weather patrol, law enforcement and search and rescue duties. During 1969-70, the cutter was assigned to Coast Guard Squadron III off South Vietnam where she helped interdict the flow of arms along the coast, fired over 3400 rounds of 5/38 ammunition in naval gunfire support missions, and provided medical assistance to over 5,000 South Vietnamese civilians.
Transferred to Little Creek, VA and later Portsmouth, VA, in 1972, Taney completed the last Coast Guard ocean weather patrol in 1977, and from 1977 to 1986 carried out search and rescue duties, training cruises for the Coast Guard Academy, and drug interdiction in the Caribbean. In one 1985 drug bust Taney seized a record 160 tons of marijuana. Decommissioned on 7 December 1986, she is displayed in Baltimore's Inner Harbor along with USS Torsk and Lightship 116.

Class: Secretary Cutter
Launched: June 3, 1936
At: Philadelphia Navy Yard, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Length: 327 feet
Beam: 41 feet, 2 inches
Draft: 15 feet, 3 inches
Displacement: 2,560 tons
Armament: One 5-inch/38 caliber gun (1986)

USCGC Taney is a National Historic Landmark.
Address: Baltimore Maritime Museum 802 S. Caroline St.
Baltimore, Maryland 21231
(410) 396-3453
Fax: (410) 396-3393
Email: administration@historicships.org
http://www.historicships.org/ see also http://www.historicships.org/taney.html
Latitude: 39.28581, Longitude: -76.606293
Google Maps, Microsoft Bing, Yahoo Maps, Mapquest

NEED A GIFT FOR THAT BOATER FRIEND?

2011-12-04T13:40:00.002-06:00

GIVE THIS FOR CHRISTMAS - -

IN CASE THEY NEED THIS NEXT SUMMER!

WINTER WORK - -

2011-12-02T18:16:00.000-06:00

Today this 24ft Cobalt was adrift on the lake near the 4 mile marker and the Water Patrol asked us to pick it up and locate the owners and give them the good news - - Once again - - if you"Keep'eth thy Boat on a lift"??

Lifts leak down - - boat goes away - - - TIE OFF THY BOAT ! - -

MIXING "APPLES" and "TOWBOATS"??

2011-11-27T17:46:00.000-06:00

TOWBOAT COMPANY FEATURED IN "APPLE" BUSINESS -

SAFE SEA MARINE RESCUE

Rhode Island

SAFE SEA, a TOWBOATU.S. service provider was recently featured by APPLE. As you can see, APPLE technology has given the Assistance Towing Industry yet another nudge forward in professionalism and service. We will all benefit from the lead that SAFE SEA has taken in providing better and faster service on the water.

View the iPAD in Business profile on SAFE SEA HERE. (Hit "play" in center of picture to watch the 2+ minute video)

READ the entire story (with links) of how this all came about on SAFE SEA's website HERE

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE SAFE SEA TEAM!!

MUSTANG SURVIVAL RECALL - Info From BOATU.S.

2011-11-19T08:22:00.000-06:00

Passing on a notice we just received from TOWBOATU.S.
BoatU.S. reports: A Voluntary recall of certain inflatable PFD's
This recall is being issued for the inspection and repair of an inflator installation inconsistency that may prevent some units from fully inflating.

This recall notification is for only the MD2010 and MD2012 22LB buoyancy inflatable PFDs. No other Mustang

Survival products are affected as they utilize different inflator assembly methods.

SEE RECALL NOTICE HERE:

On the Road

2011-11-19T06:55:00.001-06:00

I haven't been posting much lately as we have been on the road and things have really slowed down with both "boating" and of course the season ended at the farm as well - - While headed back home, made a brief "rainy" day stop by TOWBOATU.S., Hopewell, Virginia. moorings. City Point, the oldest part of Hopewell, was founded in 1613 by Sir Thomas Dale. City Point is located on a bluff overlooking the James and Appomattox Rivers has been an important factor in Hopewell's history for almost four centuries. TOWBOATU.S., Hopewell, VA is located at Jordan Point Marina just below the Benjamin Harris Bridge on the James River.

TowBoatU.S. Hopewell, VA, Benjamin Harris Bridge in Background

FREEDOM ISN'T "FREE"

2011-11-07T19:59:00.001-06:00

SALUTE - - - -

IT'S OVER!!!!!

2011-10-28T07:54:00.002-05:00

FALL MADNESS @ THE FUNNY FARM CAME TO A CLOSE ON OCTOBER 31!

NMFH FINAL DAYS PARTY - - THAT'S ME ON THE BOTTOM STEP - -

Back to the FUN (funny?) FARM!!

2011-09-19T08:23:00.001-05:00

It is that time of year again - - (not sure how it goes so fast) and we are in the Fall season - - I have to shift gears as we head for the farm and get ready for Fall Fun - - Our 10 acre corn maze this year is the FFA logo (FUTURE FARMERS of AMERICA, (Vocational Agriculture). Our on site pumpkin crop for this year was very poor due to heavy rains early, (4 inches plus, right after planting) and then near drought conditions up until last week. NOT TO WORRY - we will have PLENTY of pumpkins from one of our other farms. - - ONCE AGAIN, FOR THE GREAT PHOTO'S, We want to say, THANKS! TO THE FOLKS AT:
Helisat Helicopter Flight Training, Maintenance & Service

159 Raceway Park DrMoscow Mills, MO 63362

(636) 366-9110

PHOTO COURTESY OF HELISAT - Moscow Mills, MO

EAGLEFORK.COM

LABOR DAY WEEKEND ROUND-UP

2011-09-06T07:46:00.002-05:00

A combination of weather change, some dark nights, wind and a little to much to drink kept us pretty busy over the labor day weekend. Friday was very quiet, but Saturday, Saturday night in to Sunday the pace picked up. We had numerous routine tows which included three (3) BUI tows on Saturday evening and early Sunday morning. Our featured jobs were:

1. A 1988, 33 ft CRUISERS, sunk at the dock when the un-used Generator cooling line parted, flooding the vessel.

Our main feature recovery was eerily similar to a larger one from Fall of 2009 (See HERE)

A 36 ft DORAL Cruiser ran aground (actually ARock over a seawall) at the 38 mile mark. This mishap occurred late Saturday night. We were dispatched to the scene @ 2315 hours. Captain Delton Jones arrived on scene shortly after mid-night, evaluated the situation, secured the vessel and we made plans to re-float it on Sunday morning. There were some moderate injuries involved. (See MSHP Report HERE). At 1100 hrs on Sunday morning we arrived back on scene with 2 Towboats and a shore party. Captain Jones had spent the morning patching and plugging the large hole in the bow and preparing the vessel for removal. Captain Tim McNitt of Atlantis Dive, secured air bags on the stern to lift the running gear off the rocks below and to help to re-float her. Pumps were loaded aboard (just in case) and around 1300 hours TowBoat #1, Captain Meyer and TowBoat #2, Captain Anderson commenced a tandem heavy pull. AT 1315 hours, (after a rather scary FULL POWER pull by the towboats - - - She was re-floated to the cheers of a very large spectator gallery - -. Captain Jones's patches held FIRM and she did not take on any water forward and only a minor amount from the rudder seals in the engine compartment which barely triggered the bilge pump. She was quickly towed to Silver Sands about 1.5 miles away and loaded on trailer and hauled to holding lot in Camdenton. In all a very successful recovery.

"SKATIN" on THIN ICE - RACE IS OVER 'FORE IT STARTS -

2011-08-27T07:40:00.000-05:00

This 3000 H.P., 32 ft SKATER won't make it to the SHOOTOUT race - -

On Firiday afternoon on the Poker Run near Captian Ron's, Owner Jim Denooyer from Albany, NY had torn open a large hole in the hull of his "SKATER" he had hoped to enter in the "Shootout" races on Saturday and Sunday.

Discovering the vessel was rapidly taking on water, he beached it in front of Captain Ron's and called TOWBOATU.S. for assistance. We responded with a TOWBOAT, pumps and crew. Tim McNitt of Atlantis Dive brought in air bags and with the help of Fire Department volunteers, TOWBOATU.S. pumps and lift bags she was kept afloat and towed about a mile to the Hurricane Deck launch ramp where she was hauled on the owner's trailer. - (PHOTO'S BY CAPTAIN'S DWAYNE JOHNSON and DELTON JONES - TOWBOATU.S.)

The "New York" guys will have to sit this one out - -

Diver Tim McNitt checks the Lift Bags in
preparation for the tow to ramp.

Hull damage and de-lamination

TRAPPED!

2011-08-23T08:22:00.000-05:00

Last Sunday August 21, we had a rather unusual recovery operation near the 26 mile marker at a dock on the main channel. The storms from the two days before had wreaked havoc with the dock which had a 44 ft Sea Ray and a 24 ft Formula on lifts. The lift holding the FORMULA had come apart and the forward lift arms had broke loose causing the front of the very heavy lift to sink, one of the lift bunks somehow managed to get wedged into the out drive of the FORMULA and pulled the stern of the vessel down. When we arrived on scene, the FORMULA was taking on water continuously and the stern was still hung on the lift, plus the partially submerged lift was trapping the FORMULA in the slip - - - -. The channel was very rough and we were constantly being plagued by large cruiser wake waves, which made working conditions rather dangerous. - - We attempted all sorts of maneuvers to free the FORMULA from the lift without success and the rear lift arms were coming loose with all the pounding. We were afraid if the lift came completely loose before we freed the FORMULA it would sink, taking the boat with it - - -. Some 5 hours later, we brought in our diver Tim McNitt (Atlantis Dive) with dive gear, lift bags and a SawsAll - Tim cut the lift up enough to free it from the FORMULA and then we would sink the lift and remove the boat - - well that would have worked, but the rear of the lift hung on the underwater dock cross brace and would not sink all the way clear. Tim went down and put a 2000 lb lift bag on the front of the lift to try to lift it so it would slide forward and clear the brace - - the bag could not quite lift the front, but did take some weight off - - finally we were able to get enough clearance to remove the FORMULA, and tow it to ramp for haul-out - -

Once again, Don't let appearances fool you - - what might look like a simple recovery upon arrival can quickly turn in to a NIGHTMARE!

TIM FINALLY GETS TO GO FOR A BOAT RIDE!

STORMY WEEKEND and It got a little Drunk out -

2011-08-21T08:17:00.001-05:00

This weekend produced a couple of quick early morning storms on Friday and Saturday with strong wind gusts, heavy rain and damaging some docks in the Lake Ozark area. Saturday evening into early Sunday morning produced quite a number of BUI arrests for the State Water Patrol Troopers, with the last one being taken on a free ride in a Patrol Boat @ 2:00 a.m. Sunday morning - - - -

Large Dock @ Monarch Cove (2mm) had broken loose early Saturday morning.

The gangway to the above pictured dock was ripped away.

DUHHHHHHH - Not a Good Idea -

2011-08-17T08:42:00.003-05:00

AS POSTED ON BITTER-END BLOG

COULD BE CATEGORIZED AS
"WHAT THE **** WERE YOU THINKIN"!

Extreme Racing Series, COWES, ISLE OF WIGHT, UK AUGUST 6, 2011
The Marine Knutsen supertanker was being guided by a pilot boat into Southampton docks and was making its presence known by repeatedly sounding its horn. But one yacht didn't seem to give itself enough time to clear the massive boat and was hit before having its mast and rigging ripped off when one of its sails got caught in the tanker's anchor.

The yacht was quickly attended by several vessels offering assistance.

YACHT 0 - TANKER 1
ME THINKS THE "PINK" SPINNAKER MADE A GOOD TARGET TO AIM AT - - -

THANKS TO BITTER END

JUMPING OFF THE BOAT? - BOATU.S.

2011-08-14T07:45:00.000-05:00

Summer Safety Tips for Boaters Looking for a Good Swim - NEWS from BoatUS

PHOTO BY LAKE EXPO

ALEXANDRIA, Va., August 8, 2011 – “Boating and swimming often go hand-in-hand,” says BoatUS Director of Damage Avoidance Bob Adriance, “but adding alcohol to that mix can lead to some unintended outcomes.” Charged with combing through the BoatUS Marine Insurance Claims files to identify unsafe boating behaviors and help boaters avoid injury or accidents, Adriance knows what he’s talking about. “People know not to drink and drive a boat, but they don’t always know that it’s not a good idea to drink and swim,” he added.

Buried deep in the claims files, Adriance comes across a story about a group of friends having drinks at a Florida resort that decided to go for a moonlit tour of the harbor. At midnight, despite choppy seas and 20-knot winds, their boat is allowed to drift while several jump in. Unfortunately, winds quickly sweep the boat away, so the captain “backs down” on the swimmers in the water to get everyone back aboard. Amazingly, no one is hurt except for a 40-year old woman – later identified as a good swimmer – who is simply never found.

It’s no secret that alcohol often causes people to take unwise risks while at the same time inhibiting their ability to think quickly in critical situations. With up to about 50% of all adult drownings involving alcohol, BoatUS has the following information that all boaters should know:

Medical researchers have found that combining alcohol and swimming without taking in sufficient carbohydrates can be dangerous. In the Florida case, it is believed that the woman had only a salad and two glasses of white wine for dinner, but when adding the exercise of a midnight swim, she may have developed hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, which causes weakness and confusion.

US Coast Guard tests have shown that environmental stressors – sun, wind, wave motion, vibration and glare – can slow a boat operator’s reaction time and make them prone to more errors. This fatigue reduces an operator’s reaction time as much as drinking alcohol alone. However, when you combine the two, it can lead to boaters missing ten times as many “cues” as those who are only exposed to the environmental stressors alone.

Alcohol also inhibits the body’s signaling system so that swimmers may not realize how quickly hypothermia has set in. In one case from New England, a man who was drinking beer on a sunny day fell overboard, but the cold waters quickly prevented him from climbing back aboard. He tried to swim to shore but never made it.

Sudden cooling of the skin can also cause caloric labyrinthitis and/or hyperventilation. An inner ear disturbance, caloric labyrinthitis causes disorientation leading some swimmers to become confused on which way is up. Hyperventilation can also cause a swimmer to “breathe in” water.

Know what drowning looks like: someone who is drowning lacks lung capacity to call for help. Drowning victims move their arms as though climbing a ladder, taking quick gulps of air before slipping back under. In an adult, this can last up to a minute before the victim never resurfaces – a child may only do this for 20 seconds.

Never jump overboard before ensuring the depth of the water and knowing that it’s free of underwater hazards such as rocks, shoals, stumps, or other structures. Also pick swimming areas away from boating traffic and strong currents. It’s always best to anchor, shut down the motor, and deploy the boarding ladder before going in.
ABOUT BOATUS:
BoatUS – Boat Owners Association of The United States – is the nation’s leading advocate for recreational boaters providing over half a million members with government representation, programs and money-saving services such as boat insurance. For membership information visit www.BoatUS.com or call 800-395-2628. For a free online insurance quote, go to www.BoatUS.com/insurance or call 800-283-2883. For more information on boating safety, go to www.BoatUS.com/Foundation.

IT'S NOT IF you WIN or LOSE, BUT that YOU PLAYED THE GAME -

2011-08-09T13:42:00.000-05:00

DRIVER, MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL TROOPER JASON WORTHLEY WITH WATER PATROL DIVISION'S 2011 CAR #98 (Photo by LAKE EXPO)

Back on JULY 22 and JULY17, we posted the story and follow-up on the BATTLE OF THE BADGES RACE CAR (#98) that we helped sponsor. At the LAKE OZARK SPEEDWAY Race on July 24, Trooper Jason Worthley did a fine job and though he did not win - (had the race been on water, we would have taken the checkered flag for sure) - Thanks to the efforts of ALL our Missouri Law Enforcement participants, $38,895.00 dollars were raised for MISSOURI SPECIAL OYLMPICS!

JULY 24, 2011, PHOTO COURTESY OF LAKE EXPO

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL!

HEAT IS ON!

2011-08-04T13:34:00.001-05:00

THE PAST SEVERAL WEEKS ON THE "MID-WEST COAST" HAVE BEEN HOT AND MUGGY, WITH TEMPERATURES IN THE 100'S. WE HAVE ASSISTED NUMEROUS BOATERS DURING THIS HEAT WAVE AND BELOW IS JUST ONE OF OUR BOATU.S. MEMBERS WHO WAS VERY, VERY GLAD TO SEE US ON A 103 DEGREE AUGUST DAY.

CALL US ANYTIME!

JULY 2011 - ROUND-UP

2011-08-01T07:41:00.000-05:00

FIRST ASSISTANCE CALL FOR 2011 (Jan 2, 2011) Sunk at Dock

JULY is usually our busiest month, last year (2010) we ran 85 assistance calls during the month. FOR JULY 2011 we had a 7% increase in calls for a total of 91 cases.

On a different note: JULY is also the month in which we have the most BUI tows. In JULY of 2010 we had a total of 13 BUI related tows, and by the end of JULY of 2010 we had accumulated a total of 30 BUI tows for the 2010 season.

JULY 2011 showed a dramatic DECREASE in both the monthly BUI tows, and the "year to date" total at the end of JULY. We had only 5 BUI related tows this July, resulting in a whopping 60% drop over JULY 2010. Also our "year to date" BUI total of 20 so far this year, results in a 1/3 decrease over the same time last year.

Based on our 2011 results so far, I would believe the total number of BUI arrests by the Missouri State Highway Patrol (Water Patrol Division) will also show a similar decrease - - - -

"JUMPER - - -??" OR NOT - -

2011-07-26T20:29:00.001-05:00

State Trooper #1285 meets with Lake Ozark FireBoat to review side scan sonar image

This Tuesday afternoon around 2:00 p.m. a possible "Jumper" was reported on the Lake of the Ozarks Toll Bridge near the Porta-Cima side - -. A motorist reported seeing a male subject jump off the bridge on the down stream (west) side close to Porta Cima. They did not however; see if the "jumper" surfaced, made it to shore or was picked up by a boat - - ? The "jump" part was fairly reliable, but afterwards was not - - a surface search by LAKE OZARK FD, Lake Ozark FireBoat#21, TOWBOATU.S. Point Young and TWO WATER PATROL OFFICERS turned up nothing. Water Patrol commenced dragging operations in the area where the jumper may have landed, but the search was suspended pending further developments around 4:00 p.m. - -

ARTICLE IN LAKE NEWS ONLINE - HERE
"LAKE EXPO" article HERE

Water Patrol prepares to commence dragging operations

JULY 25th, 1956 - THE SINKING OF THE ANDREA DORIA

2011-07-25T08:09:00.000-05:00

"BITTER END" BLOG, CAPTAIN Richard Rodriguez recalls:

FIFTY FIVE YEARS AGO TODAY - - THE LINER "ANDREA DORIA" SINKS AFTER BEING HIT BY THE LINER "STOCKHOLM" - -

JULY 25, 1956

I was 12 years old and remember this well, it was some of my first exposure to Maritime news and tragedy on the high seas - - This was also one if the things that sparked my interest in the UNITED STATES COAST GUARD and Search and Rescue - - -

Thanks for the reminder Richard - -

ONE RACE, ONE TRACK, ONE CAUSE (LAKE EXPO) 7/22/11

2011-07-22T07:43:00.000-05:00

FOLLOW-UP STORY TO LAST SUNDAY'S (7/17/11) POST

Friday July 22, 2011 - LAKE EXPO REPORTS:

One race, one track, one cause

Cops from 26 agencies to race in the Battle of the Badges Saturday at Lake Ozark Speedway to raise money for Special Olympics

"Water Patrolman Jason Worthley will put his “armchair racing skills” to the test Saturday when the 2nd Annual Battle of the Badges Race hits the track at the Lake Ozark Speedway. - - - "

READ ENTIRE LAKE EXPO STORY (HERE)

OFFICER WORTHLEY ON HIS OTHER JOB (See this story here)

#98 2011 SPONSORS INCLUDE:

Dream Weaver Graphics, TowBoatU.S.

Atlantis Dive,

Diamond Dog Food, The Gas Hole

and Iguana Sports

GO #98!

BATTLE of the BADGES - SPECIAL OLYMPICS, MISSOURI -

2011-07-17T08:08:00.000-05:00

BATTLE OF THE BADGES

LAW ENFORCEMENT RACE for SPECIAL OLYMPICS

LAKE OZARK SPEEDWAY - SATURDAY JULY 23, 2011

SECOND ANNUAL RACE

Drivers...Start your engines!!! Missouri Law Enforcement Officers will be rolling out on Lake Ozark Speedway for the second annual Battle of the Badges Law Enforcement Race on Saturday, July 23, 2011 in Eldon, Missouri.

2011 represents the 26th year that Missouri Law Enforcement Officers have supported Special Olympics through their annual Law Enforcement Torch Run. We are once again proud to join their worthy cause by promoting this sure to be exciting, fun filled event for the second year.

All funds raised for the Battle of the Badges will go toward supporting Special Olympics year round sports training and competition program for the more than 15,000 Missouri athletes across the state.

This race will feature Missouri's finest Law Enforcement Officers participating in an eventful race. The officers will be driving late model Ford Crown Victoria's that will provide a "cop car" look for the race.

Trophies will be given for the following…Feature Winner, Second Place, The Hard Charger, Best Looking Race Car, and The Most Money Raised by a Team for this event.

In 2010, 21 participating departments and agencies raised over $40,000 for Special Olympics. Please help continue keeping smiles on those Olympian faces. Mark your calendars now!

"CROWN VIC" CAR #98

ATLANTIS DIVE AND "GAS HOLE" 2011 SPONSORS

2010 CAR #98, SPONSORS TOWBOATU.S. & ATLANTIS DIVE and the "GAS HOLE"

MISSOURI HIGHWAY PATROL, WATER PATROL DIVISION

Driver Jason Worthley

TO MAKE A DONATION TO JASON and the WATER PATROL TEAM - CONTACT JASON @ 573 462-6030

2010 - #98 STREAKS DOWN THE TRACK!

RACE OUT TO LAKE OZARK SPEEDWAY, JULY 23 AND HELP A GREAT CAUSE!!!

uhhhhhhh 2nd thought - DON'T RACE TO LAKE OZARK -
JUST GET THERE :-)

BURN OUT!! -

2011-07-16T07:59:00.001-05:00

BURNED OUT hulk of Runabout rests against sea wall near home that was
also in danger of catching fire

This 1990 Ozark Runabout was a total loss after catching fire near a residential dock at the 9.8-mile marker. According to the Water Patrol, the fire broke out in the engine compartment about 12:22 p.m. with 7 persons aboard, one passenger reported a minor injury, but refused treatment.

The boat was totalled. During the fire the vessel drifted into a neighboring dock burning the walkway. The heat and flames caught some near-by brush on fire and nearly caused a fire to breakout on the house.

The Water Patrol, Sunrise Beach Fire Protection District and a Sunrise Beach Fire Boat responded to the scene to extinguish the fire and provide emergency support.

There was very little of the boat left to recover, but we were able to winch the remains aboard Atlantis Dive's Salvage Vessel "Nautilus" and transport it to Osage Beach, where it was transferred to a "Rollback" Wrecker from A-1 THOMAS WRECKER of Camdenton to be held for investigation.

Burned and collapsed dock walkway

Slowly winching the hull aboard

Vessel aboard and ready for transport

BOATU.S. REPORTS! Voice Your Opinion: Possible GPS Signal Loss

2011-07-14T06:50:00.002-05:00

Boaters Stand to Lose Critical GPS Navigational Aid

Voice Your Opinion: Comment Period Closes July 30

ALEXANDRIA, Va., July 13, 2011 - As a result of a proposal by a private company to use radio frequency bandwidth right next to the existing GPS radio bandwidth, the future reliability of the GPS system across the United States is now in question. The nation's largest recreational boaters group, BoatUS, says boaters could have a hard time avoiding treacherous shoals or simply finding their way home if GPS signals are interfered with, and is urging boaters to speak out during a 30-day comment period.

"This is a remarkably short comment period for an issue that has such dire consequences for America's boaters and every other GPS user in the country," said BoatUS Vice President of Government Affairs Margaret Podlich.

At issue is an unusual conditional waiver granted in January by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to a broadband wireless communications provider, LightSquared, to permit the dramatic expansion of land-based use of mobile satellite spectrum. This spectrum, or frequency bandwidth, is directly adjacent to the frequencies used for Global Positioning System (GPS) communications.

The company has proposed to build 40,000 ground stations. LightSquared's high-powered ground-based transmissions from these stations have shown to cause interference in hundreds of millions of GPS receivers across a wide range of uses, including aviation, marine, emergency response and industrial users such as delivery and trucking companies. A new report requested by the FCC says, "all phases of the LightSquared deployment plan will result in widespread harmful interference to GPS signals and service and that mitigation is not possible."

Recreational boaters lost their only other viable navigation system, LORAN, when the Department of Homeland Security shut the system down last year. At that time the US Coast Guard urged mariners to shift to GPS-based navigation systems. Boaters rely on GPS-enabled chart-plotters to steer clear of navigation hazards, keep them in the safety of deep-water channels, or even get them home when storms shut down visibility. "They are a critical piece of safety gear," said Podlich. "What will boaters do if they are unreliable, and how will the US Coast Guard's new emergency search and rescue system that stands watch over 36,985 miles of coastline, Rescue 21, remain effective, since it relies on GPS?"

Boaters and other GPS users are urged to speak up now by going to www.BoatUS.com/gov to send their comments to the FCC and their members of Congress.

BoatUS is a member of the Coalition to Save Our GPS, which works to resolve this serious threat to the GPS system.

###

About BoatUS:

BoatUS - Boat Owners Association of The United States - is the nation's leading advocate for recreational boaters providing over half a million members with government representation, programs and money-saving services. For membership information visit www.BoatUS.com or call 800-395-2628. YOUR LOCAL BOATU.S. TOWING SERVICES - TOWBOATU.S. Lake of the Ozarks - 573 216-4701

###

BLOWING YOUR OWN HORN - - WHY NOT??

2011-07-13T17:06:00.000-05:00

TOWBOATU.S. LAKE OF THE OZARKS

IS NOW

Accredited For Commercial Assistance And Professional Towing

C-PORT, and the marine assistance industry, has developed the Accredited for Commercial Assistance and Professional Towing program to recognize the professional who is willing to adhere to high standards of service, training, and equipment.

With the growth of the private towing and salvage industry has come a strong need for assurances of towing industry professionalism and expertise.

Up until mid-1988, the Coast Guard inspected and qualified the vessels of the industry. But in 1988, the Coast Guard discontinued inspections and the ACAPT (Accredited for Commercial Assistance and Professional Towing) program began.

The ACAPT distinction recognizes the professional who is willing to adhere to high standards of service, training, and equipment. To be certified, a company must meet all the standards on the application and be inspected by another ACAPT certified professional or marine surveyor. C-PORT membership is not required for participation.

ACAPT certified firms are publicized in the boating and industry press, and recognized by major boating organizations. For example, the BOAT/U.S. towing guide highlights the towing firms that meet the ACAPT standards.

AFTER INSPECTIONS, SURVEYS, EQUIPMENT SCRUTINY, VERIFICATION AND MORE, WE HAVE FINALLY PASSED AND BEEN GIVEN THE HIGHEST ACCREDITATION AVAILABLE FOR THIS INDUSTRY!

THANKS

MEDICAL EMERGENCY -? (The Rest of the Story)

2011-07-09T14:24:00.002-05:00

THERE'S MORE TO THE STORY!
MISSOURI STATE WATER PATROL TROOPERS - MORE THAN JUST "BUI'S" AND "TICKETS" -

Crewman Rick Anthony checking the tow length on our "prize" we just found abandoned :-)

Last weekend the media briefly mentioned some "Boat Wake Injuries". It sounds quite routine, not to exciting. The Official News Release about one particular incident from the Missouri State Highway Patrol (HERE) was, (as expected) pretty "Ho-Hum" and "Just the Facts _ _". Of course there were few witnesses to what really took place. As usual, the "letter's" and "comments" on the various media "blogs" and "papers" continue to harp on "TO MUCH ENFORCEMENT!" "TO MANY BUI'S", "WHY DON'T THEY LEAVE US ALONE - -" and on and on. The above incident was a little more than routine - -. As described in the release, a 43 year old woman had injured her back from being thrown in the air on a deck boat and landing back down on the boat hard enough to injure her back. She had to have medical attention. The boating traffic was extremely heavy in the area causing large waves, confused chop and a small local thunderstorm was developing with winds in excess of 25 mph. Two State Patrol boats located the vessel carrying the woman who was in extreme pain and the officers were attempting to get the boat and woman to medical attention ashore as soon as possible. One of the officer's had to abandon his boat and be put aboard the deck boat to provide help to the woman. They were going to attempt to cross the lake to the Lake Ozark side where medical attention could get to the woman quicker. Due to rough water, they were unable to cross. We were about a mile away and proceeded to assist. On scene, we found the patrol boat, about 400 foot from shore in a 25 mph wind and drifting rapidly toward a rocky shore. We hooked up and took the Patrol Boat in tow, meanwhile the Troopers and the distressed vessel made it to a dock on the SUNRISE BEACH side and were attending to the injured woman while waiting for FIRE & EMS to arrive. The location would require the woman be carried up the bluff over 100 ft on a backboard. TOWBOAT Crewman and Fire Fighter, Rick Anthony was dropped off to assist in getting the woman up the hill and to the ambulance. This whole scenario took nearly an hour, after which the Troopers came back to drop off our crewman and retrieve their boat (Damn!) - - This was not the first time we have gathered up drifting Patrol Boats due to emergency situations. The Troopers are almost always "first on the scene" and don't think twice about jumping in the water to assist someone in trouble or jumping aboard a boat to perform CPR and first aid. It isn't exactly a "Stellar" career move to abandon a rather expensive piece of equipment which may wind up being a beach ornament or a very costly "crappie bed" - - but when a life, safety or injuries to others are at stake they don't put themselves FIRST - -. The next time your sitting down to write a comment about the "Enforcement" just remember; One day, you may find yourself lying injured in the bottom of your boat or gasping for air, having been dumped in the water and looking in to the face of a TROOPER who is going to make EVERY EFFORT TO GET YOU TO SAFETY -- WELL DONE GUYS!! HATS OFF - -!

A QUICK "SNIFF" BELOW, MAY PREVENT THE "BLOW"

2011-07-02T07:10:00.000-05:00

July 31, 2010, Lake of the Ozarks - This vessel exploded after re-fueling,
Severely injuring the operator. (Photo by C. Meyer TowBoatU.S.
Lake of the Ozarks

"One good sniff at gas dock may save a life" - BOATU.S. reports

It was the end to the Memorial Day weekend when a 32-foot motorboat with four persons aboard pulled up to the fuel dock. Moments later, after filling up, an explosion ripped through the boat - literally separating it into clamshell-like halves. In an instant a 25-year old woman was dead. All of the boat's remaining four occupants as well as a fuel dock attendant were hospitalized.
Saddest of all, the accident may have been preventable. A newspaper reported that investigators found that the recently purchased used boat, which was being refueled by its new owner for the first time, may have had a fuel system gasket "give way," or fail, which allowed gasoline fumes to escape and accumulate below decks. While the owner had properly turned the engine compartment blower on - a required procedure anytime a boat is refueled - not enough of the explosive fumes had been cleared before an engine backfire ignited the blast.
A simple sniff test may have prevented the tragedy, says Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS). "While it appears the owner did the right thing by having the blower on to safely remove any fumes from the engine compartment area, he may not have performed the "sniff" test - lifting the engine compartment hatch in an attempt to smell any lingering gasoline fumes," said Director of Damage Avoidance Bob Adriance. "Unlike a car, boats have fuel tanks and engines located in enclosed spaces which don't allow gasoline vapors to escape. This accident shows how important it is do a sniff test every time a boat is refueled."
BoatUS has these six refueling safety tips:
• Always remove passengers from the boat, and reboard only after refueling is complete and the engine(s) restarted.
• Engine should be turned off and do not operate any electrical switches, including the ignition.
Keep all doors, ports and hatches closed, and only open them when refueling is complete.
• To prevent unintentional sparking, hold hose nozzle firmly against fuel fill (and not a rod holder, water tank fill or holding tank, which happens more often than you think). Also don't overfill.
• After refueling, ensure engine compartment blower runs for at least four minutes. This may delay others waiting to fill up, but it's worth the wait.
• A quick sniff test takes only a few seconds and is the most effective method for detecting fuel leaks.
• Always open the engine bay hatch (if boat is equipped) and smell the bilge area as well as any closed compartments or interior spaces.
For more information on safe refueling, check out the BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water's online boating safety course study guide at www.BoatUS.com/foundation/refuel.
PHOTO BY C. MEYER, TOWBOATU.S. LAKE OF THE OZARKS

BOATU.S. JULY 4TH WEEKEND PRESS RELEASE

2011-07-01T06:54:00.000-05:00

BOATU.S. RELEASES HINTS AND CAUTIONS FOR THE UPCOMING HOLIDAY WEEKEND:

CAUTION, CAUTION, CAUTION!
The entire Press release from BOATU.S. can be read HERE
THESE PHOTO'S WERE TAKEN BY TOWBOATU.S. ON LAKE OF THE OZARKS FROM INCIDENTS THAT HAPPENED OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS, WE URGE YOU TO USE EXTRA PLUS CAUTION WHEN BOATING AT NIGHT. BOATU.S. INDICATES THAT THE 4TH OF JULY WEEKEND AND ESPECIALLY AFTER FIREWORKS DISPLAYS WILL BE ONE OF THE FEW TIMES MANY BOATERS NAVIGATE AT NIGHT - - - - - PLEASE READ THE RELEASE AND TAKE EXTRA PRECAUTIONS THIS WEEKEND AND EVERY TIME YOUR ON THE WATER!!!

"CHECKPOINT" "Operation Dry Water"

2011-06-29T06:47:00.002-05:00

Operator (orange pfd) of Pontoon boat just taken in to custody after having
failed a field Sobriety check, and no other persons aboard that qualified as
"Sober's", the vessel will be towed to safe mooring or impounded -

This Saturday evening's, broad daylight, Sobriety checkpoint in the mouth of Anderson Hollow Cove (Party Cove) netted quite a number of BUI's.

As it was FULL daylight and over 11 Patrol Boats (with lights) spaced across the cove and in plain sight, it was a "NO BRAINER" that when you crossed the line - - - "Your gonna get stopped and checked". In spite of all the obvious warning signals - - there were 7 BUI arrests out of a total of 103 boats stopped during the over 2 hour checkpoint. There is a "LOT" of "haranguing" in the local media regarding the stepped up BUI enforcement both on and off the water - - and I am not about to get in the middle of the argument, but I can say this - - - IF you have been drinking, and IF you think you may be over the legal limit (.08, same as DUI) and IF you are exiting an area where you can see an obvious "CHECKPOINT" - - (you know, those PATROL BOAT thingy's , with RED and BLUE FLASHING LIGHT thingy's ) - STOPPING every boat that goes past them) over a 1/4 a mile away - - - AND YOU DRIVE RIGHT UP TO IT - - (you know, kinda like,) "I'm invisible, they can't see me, I'm gonna drive through - - AND you get stopped and HAULED OFF for BUI - GUESS WHAT - YOU REALLY KINDA HAD THAT FREE RIDE IN A PATROL BOAT COMING - -

I believe, that maybe due to exposure to the elements, a few drinks, (and some really loud music emitting from your $8,000.00 sound system thrown in) (I know, that's a cheap system) gives some people a sort of "brain freeze" that being faced with the OBVIOUS - - nothing will happen to YOU and when it does, it becomes the legal limit law or the OFFICER's fault that you were stopped!

Bottom line - no matter how you view the law or the checkpoints, this one, hands down is a prime example of stupidity - - IT was advertised there would be a CHECKPOINT, it was BROAD DAYLIGHT, it could be seen from a 1/2 mile away, and it IS NOT illegal to "drop the hook" and kick back for a bit - - you know, maybe sober up?? IF YOU GOT CAUGHT UP IN THIS ONE - - OH, WELL, NEVER MIND - -

CELL PHONE DISTRACTION, ROLE IN DEADLY "DUCK"" ACCIDENT

2011-06-27T07:23:00.000-05:00

Cell phone usage plays role in deadly accident, says NTSB

Final desperate seconds caught on film before Barge strikes the disabled DUKW
via BITTER END BLOG - MarineLink.com is reporting:

“The deadliness of distraction” was at the heart of a collision last year between a “duck” tourboat and a sludge barge, according to an investigation conducted by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board. The accident on July 7, 2010 on the Delaware River near Philadelphia, Pa., left two passengers dead and 27 others injured.

The NTSB investigators say the mate operating the tug was distracted by repeated use of his cell phone and lap top. Further, rather than being in the upper wheel house as expected, the mate was navigating from its lower wheel house where visibility of the channel ahead was limited.

The complete MarineLink.com post is here.

HEY!!! FISHERMEN!! - CHECK THESE BABIES OUT!!!

2011-06-20T07:57:00.002-05:00

AND MARK ZONA !!

WANT YOU TO CHECK THIS OUT!

WIN AN AWESOME FISHING TRIP
With MARK ZONA
AND $1,000.00 !!
TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR THIS GREAT DEAL!
JOIN BOATU.S. ANGLER BY JULY 31, 2011

CHECK IT OUT RIGHT HERE!

BUNDLING - - 2 F'RRS -

2011-06-18T07:52:00.000-05:00

Even though fuel prices are dropping a bit - - we still try to find the most efficient and cost effective way of moving boats around. In this case we were lucky to have two boats being taken to the same shop for repairs - - - so by "Bundling", we could reduce some of the associated costs and time in getting this job done. "Tandem" tows are not rare, we often have occasions where we pick up more than one "stranded" boater on the water, with one already in tow, but the opportunity for a "planned" tandem tow doesn't come up that often.

This week has been steady, with mostly routine tows and very little excitement - - thus this post -

Don't "YOU" become the "DEADLIEST CATCH"

2011-06-15T07:47:00.000-05:00

"BUSTED" - COOPER CORLEY - "CAUGHT" WEARING A LIFEJACKET

2011-06-10T08:52:00.000-05:00

A GREAT PROGRAM! - WEAR IT!!

REST OF THE STORY -DIVER CLOSE CALL!

2011-06-08T22:35:00.003-05:00

QUITE OFTEN PEOPLE GRIPE ABOUT HOW EXPENSIVE IT IS FOR A DIVER TO COME OUT AND WORK ON (OR FREE) YOUR BOAT (Many times in the middle of a busy channel) - -

Last post, (HERE) we talked about a 37ft Cruiser that was hung up on a Wave Break Anchor line and had wrapped both props up over Memorial Day. HERE IS THE REST OF THE STORY -

Until we reviewed the video from the boat "Dash Cam", we hadn't realized the BOAT OWNER had actually waived the Water Patrol Trooper over to his boat, KNOWING the diver was just below his stern!
The Trooper thought the Diver was out of the water and came over. We were off the bow of the Cruiser working with the tow line and were TOTALLY SHOCKED to see the Patrol Boat coming right over the top of our Diver!! We blew the horn and told him to "back off" and as you will see, diver pops to surface just after the Patrol Boat backs away. NOTE: We have removed some of the audio "expletives" with the "FOGHORN" to keep this "G" rated - -

LESSONS LEARNED - NEVER TAKE YOUR EYES OFF YOUR DIVER AND DON'T EXPECT YOUR BOAT OPERATORS TO HAVE ANY SENSE!

Memorial Weekend = Routine Tows and a few BUI's

2011-06-06T07:52:00.001-05:00

2011 MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND REPORT:
The Memorial Day weekend was pretty much un-eventful for us. We logged about 18 total Assist calls, which included 5 BUI tows, one minor taking on water and one 37ft Sea Ray which picked up about 50 foot of 3 inch, "Wave Break" anchor line which had parted and floated to surface. The line was floating on the surface in the high traffic main channel, still attached to the wave break anchor which weighs a few thousand pounds. Unable to see the line in the rough water, the Sea Ray ran over it and fouled both props, firmly attaching him to the Anchor. We brought Diver Tim McNitt (ATLANTIS DIVE) to the scene, where he went down about 40 ft to cut the line (to avoid another vessel running over it). Tim reported the line was firmly fouled on both props and water was to rough for him to safely attempt to cut it out. We towed vessel to Marine Max for haul-out and inspection.

DIVER MCNITT SURFACES FROM 40FT BELOW AFTER CUTTING WAVE BREAK ANCHOR LINE TO FREE CRUISER

Our only other excitement was my first High Speed Tow (HST) for this season. Towing a 17 ft Lowe for about 4 miles to its home dock Monday afternoon. The water was pretty calm and most folks had headed home. We took this one down the turnpike at 27.3 MPH. (See short (poor) video below also view from our on board rear view camera). We were running in the commuter lane for this one!! -

I posted this just to give you an idea of how desperate we were for something to talk about - - To make matters worse - - this past weekend (June 3,4,5th) was EVEN MORE boring with only 2 assists for the weekend!! - HAPPY BOATING!!

KNOW THE SIGNS!! They really could be DROWNING!!!!

2011-05-31T08:03:00.000-05:00

Drowning Doesn’t Look Like Drowning

Our Lake weekend was marred by the unfortunate Drowning of a 39 year old man from St Louis, just off a dock and after mid-night. We have many similar drownings each year, often within "feet" of shore or dock, sometimes with people only yards away and looking on - - not realizing the person is in trouble, BECAUSE the waving, splashing, and yelling that dramatic conditioning (television) prepares us to look for, is rarely seen in real life. The Instinctive Drowning Response – so named by Francesco A. Pia, Ph.D., is what people do to avoid actual or perceived suffocation in the water. And it does not look like most people expect. PLEASE TAKE A MOMENT AND READ THE SHORT ARTICLE LINKED BELOW - - You may save a life!

READ ENTIRE ARTICLE HERE

LEARN THE SIGNS

Note:

Thanks to Captain Doug Gould RED RIGHT RETURNING for the link!!

MEMORIAL DAY - 2011

2011-05-28T09:33:00.000-05:00

U.S. COAST GUARD MEMORIAL DAY MESSAGE

ADM Papp

" Shipmates, Memorial Day is the day we remember the sacrifice of our fellow Coast Guardsmen who gave their lives in service to our nation. By taking time today to attend to the manners of our profession, we show respect to our shipmates and honor those brave men and women who have gone before us. Their service is part of our heritage."

As a retired USCG Chief Warrant Officer and a USCG VIETNAM COMBAT VETERAN, I want thank ALL who have served and who continue to serve in our ARMED SERVICES and remember the sacrifices of those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for us all

NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK

2011-05-22T09:00:00.000-05:00

NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK

MAY 21 - MAY 27 2011

SAFE BOATING WEEK KICK-OFF LAKE OF THE OZARKS

We didn't start out to well this year - - we nearly made it through the first evening of SAFE BOATING WEEK until shortly after 11:00 p.m. when a two (2) boat collision (see MHP incident report) took place near the 3.5 mile mark which resulted in minor injuries to 2 persons and moderate injury to one boat operator. Two persons in Boat#1 were thrown in to the water (without PFD's) but were able to re-board. The 2nd boat's passengers were not injured, but vessel sustained major damage to the port bow. The 1st boat sustained a broken windshield, gel coat damage and was inoperable.

Around the same time we also picked up our first BUI tow for the season - - Vessel operator was arrested near the 33 mile mark for a BUI and the boat with several passengers was towed to the 54 mile mark and moored at its dock around 02:30 Sunday morning (The 2nd Day of Safe boating Week)?? This is not exactly the trend we should be taking this week - - - - -

"RIVER MONSTERS" The FINAL TAKE -

2011-05-20T13:11:00.002-05:00

We leave our "RIVER MONSTERS" saga with a few final photo's taken by Laura during filming - - and with some fun memories and stories that will stay with many of us for some time to come. As a result of this, new friends were made and some "true" mystery's have been uncovered. Mike Gillespie has been doing research (still on going) which has uncovered some very interesting "facts" surrounding the incident on Memorial Day weekend of 1954, when a Lake of the Ozarks excursion boat capsized during a storm and as many as 8 persons were drowned. This was the largest number of fatalities, resulting from a single boating accident on record for the lake so far. (SEE MIKE'S ARTICLE IN THE "POINTE" PAPER HERE). We look forward to seeing the "final cut" of the RM story next season and hope that maybe one or more of our folks will be recognizable in the 2 seconds of blurred action, followed by brief flashes of underwater bubbles, thrashing arms and legs - - - - ahhh well - thats showbiz.

"VICTIMS" Pose with Host of RM, before their big "take"

FILM CREW CHECKS OUT "LOCATION"

APPREHENSIVE "VICTIMS" (Ryan Dubinski, left, and Jonah Dubinski)
Air Temp = 46 deg, Water Temp = 58 deg

VICTIMS GETTING THEIR INSTRUCTIONS FROM FILM CREW

CAMERA "TESTING" They were only going to do this ONCE

2ND THOUGHTS?

Our job with the boat was to provide some waves and lots of 'white water" around the area where the "victims" would be in the water. They would "fall" in (fully clothed) one at a time and thrash about and were to quickly come out on to the swim platform. Because we were busy "making waves", Laura was unable to get a shot of them going in to the water - - Jonah (below) was able to get back out on to the swim platform. When RYAN went in, the wash from the boat jet produced such a hard current, he was unable to get on the swim platform and had to go to shore - -

NOT TO BAD - - BRRRRR!

FINAL TAKE

THE FINAL TAKE - - As we got the boys dried off and wrapped up the filming, we had one final shot to make - - the film crew hopped back aboard the boat and we headed for open water with the State Park in the back ground, we stopped and the "Director" pointed to the "Life Ring" we carry aboard and asked if he could use it, I said "of course". Shutting the engine down, they set the lonely "Ring" adrift behind us - - -, using some small underwater camera's on pole's, they rolled several different shots and angles from above and underwater of the drifting Life Ring - - - after all the "commotion" and the "excitement" of filming - watching that Life Ring drifting alone in the water was a sobering reminder of what really took place 57 years ago when 8 souls were lost and "Reality" came rushing back to me - - - - - BOAT SAFE - - WEAR A PFD

"RIVER MONSTERS" The final Chapter, Part 1

2011-05-16T08:08:00.000-05:00

On a cold and chilly Sunday, MAY 1st, we completed our work with the "RIVER MONSTERS" team in the Grand Glaize Arm near the State Park. Our mission for that day was to provide a moving "camera platform" for the RM film crew. Along with several others from Kapilana Resort, our son-in- law Joe Dubinski, grandson Ryan Dubinski and cousin Jonah Dubinski of Overland Park, KS and Columbia, MO were given the honor of being "extra's" and the two boys were given the dubious honor of being "victims" - - - (fact is the air temp that day was 46 deg with water temp hovering around 58 and they were the only two who "volunteered" to go in to the water :-). We think, since both boys are HUGE River Monsters fans, that had the "host" asked them to "swim" across the lake they would have done it!!

Filming began early with several "takes" of "Excursion" passengers boarding a 1949, 36ft Chris Craft Cruiser, graciously provided by Jan and Dan Mitzel. The Mitzel's cruiser is an on-going restoration process which requires a great deal of work and expense and they have done a fabulous job with her.

"ALL PHOTO'S BY LAURA MEYER"

Passenger's boarding the sightseeing boat - TAKE 2?

Filming passengers boarding the "Excursion" boat

The next step in the process is where things began to get a bit "hairy" - the cruiser was to get underway and make maximum speed and we would follow with the camera crew - -
The "Director" told me to follow behind the cruiser "as close as possible" while the cameraman sat on the bow (sometimes, gripped firmly by the "director") - O.K. you want "close" "here we go" - -

WARNING - "DON'T TRY THIS AT HOME!"

"CLOSE"

"CLOSER"? (Cameraman turned to me and gave a big "thumbs up")
Note: He also had to pick up his feet

Well, that went fine - and I figured we were going to settle down and do some routine filming - - WRONG! - the "director" now says to me - - (in that stern and precise British accent) - "that was fine, can we now do it in the front"? - - - uhhh - O.K. - (doing things up close and in dangerous situations is pretty much a regular occurrence with this business) - but he sorta wants me to defy ALL safe boating practices - - perform some maneuvers that usually result in our being called out to "pick up the pieces" AND he wants me to do it on CAMERA!!!! I looked at my wife Laura, who was just beginning to recover from the previous "takes" astern (in which she managed to get some pretty good shots) and the realization of what the "director" was asking had just sunk in with her - - - - before she could say "let me off!!!" I pushed the throttle forward while the camera crew moved to the stern - - and caught up with the unsuspecting cruiser - "Task 1" - run close down the starboard side and then cut 'CLOSE" in front so the camera crew would be under the bow - - o.k. - - boys - here we go - -

One of several "passes" close to starboard

Cutting "close" across the bow (Shades of "Whale Wars")

"BOW SHOT"

Cameraman saying; "that was good! Now let's do it again!"

We repeated this little maneuver a couple of times, the last time we were close enough the camera crew got soaked by the cruiser bow wash - - -. I want to compliment Captain Dan Mitzel for his STEADY HAND at the cruiser wheel - - it took great courage to remain calm and steady while being "run down" by a TowBoat - - . Over the years, Laura has made quite a number of calmer "boat calls" with me, on this one, she really hung in there and rode it out! She also somehow managed to get some GREAT SHOTS in spite of her "white knuckle" grip on the hand rail and "ashen color" from having the "bejeezes" scared out of her - - enough excitement for now -. WE WILL CLOSE THIS FINAL CHAPTER in OUR "RIVER MONSTERS" ADVENTURE WITH A LATER POST - -

Writer Note: Before the comments come in - - Trying to get a British film crew in PFD's is a struggle - and I am at fault for not insisting on they being more than just "close at hand" - should the occasion arise again in the future - - it will be a much different story. In my defense - "Brits" are a stubborn lot - and they sorta took to PFD's with the same attitude as they did when they chose to wear "Redcoats"in 1812, the outcome of which we all know - - - - - -

NEW BOAT or PWC - 101 - THE TEST DRIVE!

2011-05-15T07:27:00.000-05:00

Whenever you think MURPHY'S LAW doesn't apply to YOU - THINK AGAIN!
This customer had just purchased a like NEW KAWASAKI PWC and couldn't wait to get it on the water.

So, with great fanfare - NO REGISTRATION, NO INSURANCE and not much EXPERIENCE, took it for a TEST DRIVE - - RESULT: KAWASAKI on the ROCKS - - -

We retrieved the PWC, slightly worse for wear, the owner who was NOT a member or insured has had his first expensive lesson in 'BOATING" -

RIVER MONSTER UPDATE - (By a REAL writer)

2011-05-05T08:29:00.001-05:00

Local Historian's "moment of fame on TV’s River Monsters"

Photo by Laura Meyer

Michael Gillespie, staff member and writer for The Pointe, a weekly newspaper based in Grain Valley, Missouri, focusing on local news, sports and events. The paper was established November, 1998. The paper serves Grain Valley and the surrounding communities with a circulation of 4,500. Mike also provided us with lots of Lake area history, interesting facts and legends on LAKE AREA HISTORY PAGES.

As a follow-up on our first "River Monster" post here on MAY 2nd, the link (and story) below is from a "real" writer's perspective -

http://www.grainvalleypointe.com/?p=2157

READ AND ENJOY !

RIVER MONSTERS, DAY 1 AFTERNOON

2011-05-03T07:02:00.002-05:00

AFTERNOON DAY1

The afternoon was spent providing transport and assistance for filming some underwater footage with TIM McNITT and the ATLANTIS DIVE crew.

NAUTILUS APPROACHES LOCATION FOR FILMING

"HOST" AND "TIM"

(IT'S ALL ABOUT TIM)!

SUITING UP

READY TO TAKE THE PLUNGE

FINALLY IN THE WATER AND OUT OF SIGHT WHERE HE BELONGS

PHOTO'S BY LAURA MEYER

RIVER MONSTERS? - - RIGHT HERE?

2011-05-02T07:44:00.005-05:00

"RIVER MONSTERS" COMES TO THE LAKE!

A Well known ANGLER, and the ICON FILMS PRODUCTION TEAM investigate Lake Myths and Legends and look for GIANT CATFISH!

The Producers of "River Monsters" (Icon Films, Bristol, U.K.) contacted us a little over a month ago and requested we assist them in developing and filming a segment for the upcoming 4th season of this great cable network "Animal Planet" show. They would be visiting four states in the U.S. and Lake of the Ozarks was one of the places they planned to film. They were pursuing "GIANT CATFISH" stories, along with possible "MYTH'S and LEGENDS" of the area. Lake area Historian and Author "Mike Gillespie" (LAKE AREA HISTORY PAGES) provided them with some possible material to use. We also provided them with some background and research on various topics over the following weeks. We had no idea exactly what "story line" they intended to use until about a week before they arrived. Along with Captain Tim McNitt (ATLANTIS DIVE) and his crew, we provided support vessels and filming platforms for them over two days. The 4th season may have a 2 hour special which should include the Lake of the Ozarks. We enjoyed meeting the "host" and found him and the entire team a great group to work with. The Actor is very calm and easy to talk to and of course enjoys "Extreme Fishing". Having watched the show often and now meeting and working with him, I have even more respect and admiration for the show and his efforts. I will be posting more in the future from this and related stories. (PHOTO'S BY LAURA MEYER)

DAY 1 (MORNING)

Myself (left) Extreme Angler and Mike Gillespie (right) at Wilmore Lodge

Production Crew checking out the sights above the dam

Discussing location for filming

Delivering a signed photo to Laura for Grandkids

Going over notes for the interview with Mike Gillespie

Filming Mike Gillespie interview

MORE TO COME - - -

ITS TIME TO GO BOATING - - (RESPONSIBLY)

2011-04-30T07:25:00.000-05:00

ARRRRRGGGGHHHHH!! Pirates at the Lake !

2011-04-28T06:33:00.000-05:00

THINGS ARE STARTING TO BREAK LOOSE AND YOU WILL SEE SOME PRETTY INTERESTING POSTS IN THE NEXT FEW WEEKS - - WE'RE STILL HERE!!

WELL, IT HAD TO HAPPEN - - - WE ALL KNEW THERE WERE PIRATES HERE, THEY SHOWED UP YESTERDAY - - -

TOWBOATU.S. LAKE OF THE OZARKS - PHOTO BY LAKE EXPO

CAPTAIN DAVE ANDERSON, TAKING A SNAPSHOT OF THE PIRATE SHIP "GYPSY ROSE" AS IT HEADS FOR IT'S NEW HOME AT "CAPTAIN RONS"

She was transported here from the St Charles area by land and launched in Osage Beach and will be moored at Captain Ron's.

CHECK OUT LAKE EXPO AND LAKE TV 32 FOR MORE LAKE "HAPPENINGS"

TRAGEDY -

2011-04-22T08:38:00.002-05:00

FROM LAKE EXPO: TODAY!

Boat-wake incident ends in tragedy

By LakeExpo.com Staff
Published: Friday, April 22, 2011 7:31 AM CDT
LAKE OF THE OZARKS, Mo. - A day on the water ended in tragedy yesterday for an Oklahoma man and his nephew.

William C. Ray, 53, of Newcastle, Okla., and Scott A. Kimble, 39, of Buhler, Kan., were headed north at the 17-mile marker in an 18-foot Bass Tracker at 9 a.m., Thursday, when a larger cruiser passed by approximately a half-mile away. Misjudging the size of the wake, Kimble told the Water Patrol that the bass boat was traveling at about 45-50 mph as it hit the wake at a 90-degree angle. The boat reportedly jumped the first wake and was tipped hard to starboard by the second, dumping both men into 56F water.

Without lifejackets and weighed down by heavy clothing, the men began swimming for shore. After Kimble reached a dock he looked back to find Ray facedown in the water. Shortly thereafter, a Lake Ozark Fire Boat arrived at the scene and pulled Ray from the water and began pulmonary resuscitation. The effort was unsuccessful. Ray was declared dead by drowning at 11:07 a.m. at Lake Regional Hospital in Osage Beach, Mo.

OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILIES OF MR. KIMBLE
This is the second time in a week that fisherman have been in the water, last Friday (4/15/11) a small fishing boat was swamped by wind waves in Indian Creek cove of the Gravois Arm. Putting some fishermen in the water, IN THIS CASE, ALL of them luckily made it to shore - - -

Along with ATLANTIS DIVE, we recovered that boat and there were NO INJURIES -

Captain Dave Anderson of TOWBOATU.S. and Atlantis Dive crewman, approaching capsized Bass Boat to begin recovery.
15 ft bass boat against shore in Indian Creek
Atlantis Dive placed Lift Bags on and rolled boat
PLEASE DON'T TAKE CHANCES - - WEAR YOUR PFD, USE YOUR KILL SWITCH

OH BOY!!! CAN'T WAIT 'TIL THIS HITS THE OZARKS!!!!!!

2011-04-20T07:44:00.002-05:00

JETLEV! the NEW PARTY COVE - EXTREME MOBILE WATER CANNON!

Lake of the Ozarks test flights for the new WATER CANNON?

Pirated from BITTER END BLOG - (Thanks RR and BE contributer)

BUT - - WAIT - - COULD IT BE - NO, - SURELY NOT!

Captain Undies???

- - AND YOU GUYS THOUGHT WE ARE JUST A BUNCH OF MUD - PUPPY HILLBILLIES OUT HERE!! Once again we lead the way in Ozarks Technology - - - well - sort of - -

NOT TO LATE!! COME ON DOWN!!

2011-04-17T06:21:00.000-05:00

SUNDAY, APRIL 17, SHOULD BE A GREAT DAY - - WE'RE HERE, HEAD FOR DOG DAYS AND STOP BY!!

OUR BOATU.S. FOUNDATION LOANER LIFEJACKETS ARE READY TO GO TO WORK HELPING TO KEEP OUR LITTLE ONES SAFER WHILE ON THE DOCKS - -

CAPTAIN'S DWAYNE JOHNSON AND DAVE ANDERSON MANNING THE BOOTH YESTERDAY AT THE "IN WATER BOAT SHOW" AT DOG DAYS, OSAGE BEACH

STARTS FIRDAY @ 1 P.M. !! JOIN US!!

2011-04-13T08:06:00.001-05:00

LOOK FOR OUR BOOTH AT THE

Join us at the April In Water boat Show at DOG DAYS Bar & Grill

Located at the 19 MM

Hours of Show

Friday, April 15, 1 PM - 7PM

Saturday, April 16, 10 AM - 7PM

Sunday, April 17, 10 AM - 4 PM

BORROW A CHILDS PFD FROM US TO HELP WITH YOUR CHILD'S SAFETY

100% ON WATER COVERAGE ON THE LAKE FOR ONLY $58!

!!!! BOAT SHOW SPECIAL !!!!

PURCHASE MEMBERSHIP AT THIS SHOW AND YOUR $5 ADMISSION FEE WILL BE DEDUCTED FROM YOUR 1ST YEARS MEMBERSHIP
($53 TOTAL)

SEE YOU THERE!!
http://www.lomdaboats.com/mo-boat-shows.asp

ENJOY THE VIEW! - - -

2011-04-08T11:21:00.000-05:00

VISITING SOON?

PLEASE ENJOY THE VIEW - -

DON'T LET THE BELOW BE THE VIEW THAT LASTS FOREVER - - -

This is all YOUR FAULT, I can’t believe you sunk the boat!

2011-04-01T06:29:00.000-05:00

ITS ALL YOUR FAULT - -

FROM CAPT RICHARD RODRIGUEZ's, "BITTER END" BLOG via BE reader Laurie Davidson

NO MATTER "WHO'S" FAULT -

ON LAKE OF THE OZARKS?

AIN'T YOUR DADDY'S COAST GUARD - - or is it?

2011-03-30T08:22:00.000-05:00

I was told some time back that TODAY'S Coast Guard ain't like "your daddy's was" - -

I tend to disagree - - - HISTORY shows a different view - - - -

TODAY

YESTERDAY

WORLD WAR I, The USRC Miami, circa 1912.

PICKET BOAT - RUM WARS (Late 20's , Early 30's)

USCGC SPENCER WWII

VIETNAM 1965 "POINT COMFORT"

CGC MIDGETT WHEC 726

AND ON, AND ON, AND ON,

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT "YOUR DADDY'S" COAST GUARD, GO TO:

U.S. Coast Guard Historian's Office
http://www.uscg.mil/history/default.asp

STUART, FLORIDA, Monday 3/28/11

2011-03-29T23:02:00.002-05:00

Boats on fire at a Stuart, Fl marina - YOU MAY HAVE TO ENDURE A 15 Second COMMERCIAL FIRST -

BOATING SEASON HAS OPENED - - !!

2011-03-29T06:55:00.021-05:00

LAST SUNDAY (3/20/11), Captain Dave Anderson had the honor of getting our first legitimate Boating Season case, which wound up being a chain reaction of Boating Follies that didn't want to stop - - sorta like a "Train Wreck" - - We had a surprise sunny and 80 plus degree day, SO that means that many of our CABIN FEVER sufferers HAD to get on the water - - Not all were prepared. MIX a newly purchased boat, out for the first time this year, add a Novice Boater at the helm, throw in a DISTRAUGHT wife, who was ready to immediately give up the family's newest hobby - - "boating", then throw in a DEAD BATTERY, 2 grand kids, and you have a VERY VOLATILE MIX! IT WENT KINDA LIKE BELOW:

This should have been a single, simple, at the dock "Jump Start" by vehicle. Capt Dave arrives at Bridal Cave docks by truck and gets them started, they shove off and "kill" it about 100 yards out (oops!) - - It then turned in to a nightmare which had Capt Dave climbing up and down the bluffs at Bridal Cave carrying a 20 pound "Jump Pack" (which seemed to gain 25 lbs every time he told the story), providing services to this boat 3 separate times over the period of an hour. Trying to catch them as the wind blew them toward shore, the "boater's" attempt to throw a 6 ft line and think it will reach 30 feet! At one point Dave asked them to throw him a longer line, like the "anchor line" he suggested, the wife threw him the end of the Anchor line, which he caught - - while the "husband" threw the ANCHOR over too! - - - Finally, (with the help of a good sam pontoon boat) Dave was able to capture them and get them started and running a second time at which point they headed for their Condo dock about 3 miles away - - - first going in the wrong direction - - Capt Dave finally makes it back to his truck (where he tipped his 14 year old "guide"who had lead him up and down the bluffs) and heads out to meet them at their dock, retrieve our jump pack and fill out the paper work - - he arrives where they should be, but doesn't see them - - He hears voices several docks away and finds them once again DISABLED - ADRIFT with a stern line wrapped in their prop!! - - As the wind blows them close by a dock, he is able to get a line from them (after telling them to please keep the anchor on board) - and FINALLY Gets them to their home dock and the boat on it's lift and untangled the mooring line from their prop - - YEP - THE SEASON IS OFFICIALLY OPEN! LESSON LEARNED - - NEVER RESPOND TO ANY CALL WITHOUT A BOAT!!!! - - If this is an "omen" for the 2011 season - - we're in TROUBLE!!

COMING SOON - APRIL 15!! BE THERE!!

2011-03-27T19:20:00.000-05:00

BORROW A CHILDS PFD FROM US WHILE ON THE DOCKS

FOR YOUR CHILD'S SAFETY

LOOK FOR THE TOWBOATU.S. BOOTH

THIS CAN AND WILL HAPPEN TO YOU - - SOMETIME

2011-03-25T12:52:00.000-05:00

ON LAKE OF THE OZARKS - CALL US