9-6-18 to 9-13-18 Alton waiting for the flood

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9-6-18 to 9-13-18 Alton waiting for the flood

We pulled into the Alton Marina in Illinois a day earlier than planned due to the predicted heavy rain from the Tropical storm.  St. Louis was predicted to get days of rain and there was great potential for flooding on the Mississippi.  We had a long day but were happy to get pumped out fueled up and put in a covered slip. That night and the next day it did rain steadily.  Thankfully it didn’t rain as much as they predicted.  In anticipation of the rain, they lowered the river. Then they didn’t get as much rain so the river is “wide open” but no major flooding.

You can see how low the water is in anticipation for the rains.
This entire marina, covered docks, fuel dock store and pool are all floating. The tall poles are what the whole place has to accommodate the Mighty Mississippi when she rises.
This is the Covered dock we were on at the end. They had a C-Dory event going on so the rest of this dock was all C-Dorys.
View from above overlooking part of the maringa with this majestic bridge behind.

Alton Marina is a lovely marina which is designed to take the rising waters.  We felt safe there if the river did rise significantly. They have a pool which we have enjoyed.  Many Loopers are here and more coming in every day.

We rode our bikes out to the dam and to the Pharmacy (Uphill both ways as always) twice. We have enjoyed docktails, haircut for Scott, laundry, wash and wax boat, went to church and a fabulous lunch at Fast Eddies.

 

Paddle wheeler mural on a building. Beautifully done.

The barber has an impressive collection of military patches, hats etc. He started with his own three chevrons from the Airforce and people have been bringing in additions to his collection ever since.
Natalie on her bike.
The church we went to had a magnificent altar and a great message.
Does anyone know what kind of tree this is? It looks to be in the pine family. Those round balls looked like very tight pinecones. Stumped us on that one.

Fast Eddie’s needs its own description.

All patrons must be 21. You must eat all food on premises. You must purchase a beverage.  But….they have ½ pound fantastic hamburgers for $1.99.  Brats, Hot Chick on a Stick, Steak or pork on a stick and fries. All 1.99 each. Some of the best shrimp I have ever had at 35 cents apiece. Man, what a place.  I can see why the rules.  They have to make up for the price of the food with a drink and I can see why they don’t do take out.  Very interesting concept and they are busy all the time.  Fun Lunch! On our last day in Alton 12 Loopers went there for dinner.  Great night! If you are looking for a salad forget about it, but they do have a diet plate.  1/2 the food, 1/2 the calories, Full Price. 🙂

They let you know right at the front door. Note you can buy iced tea or soda but it costs the same as a beer.

They have a full bar. Natalie had a Strawberry Shortcake frozen drink that was amazing.
Huge outdoor seating with a live band.
The gangs all here. Actually it is only about half the Loopers at the Marina.
This is the most beautiful bridge. The 7 cables in each strand are covered in yellow plastic. Lit up at night, it is a piece of art.
This was one brilliant sunset!

We enjoyed our stay in Alton.  At first we didn’t know if we would stay the 6 days which is their special, buy 3 nights get 3 nights free.  Due to the possible flooding and the river supposed to crest on the 11th, we relaxed, yet were busy all the time.  We needed to get back on the river for a rest.

Thanks for reading,

Karen and Scott,

m/v Last Call

Unique Random Photo of The Day:

This is two for one. The second one says “Black Sabbath Matters.”

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