Saturday, November 19, 2011

Colonel Crawford’s Olde Towne Holiday History Tours Are BACK in to Olde Towne Portsmouth.

It is more than a walk through the streets of Olde Towne Portsmouth, when you take one of Colonel Crawford’s acclaimed Living History Tours, it is a little bit of history come to life. Since 2002, Eric “Ricky” Price has portrayed the founder of Portsmouth, Virginia, Colonel William Crawford, and extolled the extensive history of this early colonial port.

The Holiday History Tour is a 60 to 75 minute stroll through the history, homes and hearts that created the “faire towne” of Portsmouth, and will cover approximately one mile. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. Prepare to be educated and delighted with this walking production, which “is never quite the same!”

Tours will be conducted Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday starting at 1:30 p.m. and will depart from the Courthouse Gallery at High and Court Streets. Tours will continue through December 31 – including Christmas Day.

Ticket prices are as follows: General Admission - $10.00 Senior (62+) and Military / two for $15.00 Children 8 and younger – FREE but not advised.
Fees are collected at the time of the tour.

Private Group tours with Colonel Crawford are available any day and time with ten or more advance reservations. To reserve a group tour, contact Colonel Crawford (Eric Price) directly at 757.391.0155 (message-quick return) to reserve a tour or email at ColCrawfordAndCo@aol.com

For more information call the Portsmouth Visitor’s Center at 393-5111.

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

You've got a friend at Mile Marker 0

Mile Marker "0" Marine Supply is located at the High Street basin, Portsmouth, Virginia

By Karen and Jeffrey Siegel
aCappella
Castine, Maine


Our own cruising this week brought us to Portsmouth, Virginia and mile marker 0 of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. While there we met the owner of a new marine supply store, Robert McBride. He told us that he wants to help cruisers coming through the area. He specializes in getting parts, holding them for arrival, and providing service above and beyond the call. We wish he hadn't said that to us.

Our generator's raw water pump started dripping while anchored off the Chesapeake a week ago. We knew a rebuild was coming but Westerbeke parts are difficult to get and we hoped it would wait until we got settled in Florida. Right after talking to Robert, the pump started spraying water. It needed attention now.

So we show up at the store at 9 am and give our tale of woe along with the part numbers. Let's see what you can do Mr. McBride. Normally, I'd expect Westerbeke parts to take a few days since the common distributors don't carry them. Two hours later I get a call - a new pump and a rebuild kit will be at the store that afternoon. That afternoon? Robert drove to Norfolk to have the parts available that same day.

Before dinner that night we installed the new pump and it's working perfectly. We'll rebuild the old one in the next month. The prices for everything were exactly what we expected. The service was way, way above our expectation though. Remember this store if you're passing through Portsmouth and need anything. Propane, parts, beer, anything.  Robert is more than a supplier - he's a friend to all of us.

www.activecaptain.com
The Interactive Cruising Guidebook

Mile Marker "0"
One High Street
Portsmouth, VA 23704
757-673-4816
milemarker0@cox.net

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Tis the Season...Boaters Traveling South on the ICW

Yachts fill up High Street Landing, Olde Towne Portsmouth, VA.

It is the season and the boating traffic on the Elizabeth river at mile marker "O" heading south for the winter months is now in full swing.  Each year the number of boaters discovering our quaint historic seaport is rapidly growing.  Boaters visiting for the first time are joining the ranks of the returning boaters who visit with us each season.  According to local sources, the marinas were booked solid this last weekend and so were Olde Towne Portsmouth Virginia's two public basins, with elbow-room only space available as many friendly boaters traveling in groups rafted together.  So were the number of boaters that had anchored out at Swimming Point, and the growing numbers are for the most not by chance.  According to Karen & Jeffrey Siegel of ActiveCaptain most boaters do not just happen up to a location.  They plan their cruising agenda months in advance and book their marina reservations then as well.  And marinas as well as other anchoring locations located north of Hatteras, North Carolina are full waiting for the November 1st date that hinders boaters from continuing farther south due to their insurance restrictions.  Also, the fuel costs here in Virginia are cheaper than in North Carolina, sometimes as much as .50 cents per gallon due to North Carolina added gas tax.

Betsy Cartier of Starboards Coffee Kiosk, our High Street Landing concierge who has been meeting and greeting the incoming boating traffic now going on 9 years stated "it's nice to welcome new boaters and also to see old friends from years past stopping in as they pass through Olde Towne".  Visiting boaters from nearby marinas amble over to the Kiosk for muffins and local maps and don't leave until this dynamic welcoming committee of one has inspired them to explore the area on foot. Make sure that you ask Betsy or David for a copy of the "Unofficial Boaters Guide To Old Towne Portsmouth" or you can download it here at "Welcome to Mile Marker "O" Blogspot by clicking on the picture of the guide located on the left column of this page.

A new addition to the High Street Landing is Mile Marker "O" Marine Supply. Make sure that you go in and meet owner Bob McBride and staff for your needed boating supplies and other necessaries or call him in advance and have your parts ready when you arrive.  His number is (757) 673-4816 or you can write him at milemarker0@cox.net.

Yachts raft together due to limited space at the High Street Landing.

Besides the numerous restaurants, taverns and pubs that boaters frequent that are located along the 7 block High Street corridor and of course the famous Commodore theater that everyone comes from all destinations to dine and watch a first run movie, this week boasts Olde Towne's famous Halloween events weekend.  First, is the 31st Annual Olde Towne Ghost Walk, Friday, October 28, 2011.  Based on the Jack-the-Ripper Walks in London, participants in the 31st annual Olde Towne GhostWalk will be treated to some of the most haunting stories of Portsmouthç—´ past.  Guides take spectators on a walk past haunted houses and mansions of Olde Towne, a 20-square block, 500 building area on the National Register of Historic Places.  At each house on the tour, actors in appropriate costume will retell the legends of ghostly visitations and things that go bump in the night. Click on the link above for details.

On Saturday, October 29, the City of Portsmouth features Portsmouth Museum Madness Noon-6:00 p.m. Enjoy a haunting day of Halloween fun at the Portsmouth Museums, including frightfully fun Arts and Crafts, Face Painting, and Wizardry!  Do it all with a $12.00 “Museum Madness” pass. Street Closure Notice: Both sides of High Street will be closed between Green Street and Crawford Street from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. for Museum Madness and Safe Trick-Or-Treat activities.

Annual Safe Trick or Treat in Olde Towne Portsmouth


 Also on Saturday is the Olde Towne Business Association's Annual Safe Trick or Treat in Olde Towne Portsmouth. For children up to age 12. Held along the seven historic blocks of High Street corridor between Effingham Street and Water Street.  It's a great evening to walk around Portsmouth's downtown and see the thousands of little ghosts and gremlins all decked out in Halloween attire.

Beyond Halloween, you may also want to walk up High Street Saturday morning to the corner of Court Street, just outside the Courthouse Galleries where they hold the weekly Olde Towne Farmers Market.  Held from 9 am to 1 pm, find a great assortment of fruit, veggies, eggs, poultry, meat, bread, herbs and more.

That's it for this post.  Hope you are having a wonderful journey south and please stop in and say hi! We're a friendly bunch here in Olde Towne Portsmouth.

Cheers,
Joe Elder
Skipjack Nautical Wares & Marine Gallery
http://milemarker0icw.blogspot.com/

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Backyard Bliss. Cruising the Southern Chesapeake Bay

October 2011 issue of Yachting Magazine

In a recent article written by George Sass, Sr., the Cruising Yachtsman for Yachting Magazine (October 2011 issue), George reviews some of his favorite destinations of the southern section of the Chesapeake Bay. No wonder that Portsmouth, Virginia was included in the mix. 

The article covers a wide range of favorite boating destinations, from Washington D.C. and Old Towne Alexandria on the Potomac River to Crisfield and Smith Island in Maryland. The author continues his adventure into Virginia where he visits Deltaville on the Rappahannock River and then on to Norfolk and Portsmouth on the Elizabeth, mile marker "0",  the gateway to the 1000-mile journey south down the AICW. 

Portsmouth, Virginia is a good stop for museums, shops and fine dining. Photo by George Sass, Jr.

Portsmouth, Virginia -- mentioned with its waterfront revival and two large marinas, Tidewater Yacht  and Ocean Marine Yacht Center -- is considered by the author as a good place to stay because of the short walking distance (along High Street) to our restaurants, shops and museums.

Though it's a short article and even smaller mention about Portsmouth in this Yachting Magazine article, it is still worth visiting the idea behind the inclusion. Portsmouth, Virginia's prime location on the Intra-Coastal Waterway is certainly a growing attraction and stop-over for the traveling yachtsman headed south in the fall and again north in the spring. 

The waterfront does boast two exceptional marinas with Tidewater and Ocean Marine. Boaters can also take advantage of short stays at both the North basin and the High Street basin, both with ferry stops and a short ferry ride to Norfolk's waterside and its big city offerings. 

Boaters arrive at the High Street basin at the foot of High Street, Downtown Portsmouth.

Portsmouth is known as one of Virginia's earliest and most historic seaports with the Gosport Navy Yard, now known as the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, and its very long and distinguished history of maritime "firsts". Portsmouth's maritime history dates back to 1620, when the land that is now Portsmouth was recognized as a suitable shipbuilding location by John Wood, a shipbuilder, who petitioned King James for the land grant. Portsmouth's shipyards have played a major role in every war since the settlement of our country and in 2012 celebrates its role during the 200th anniversary of  the War of 1812.  Portsmouth and the Navy Yard were attacked by the British under Adm. Sir John B. Warren and Brigadier Gen. Sir Sydney Beckwith, who were defeated at the Battle of Craney Island.  2012 is also the 150th anniversary of the "Battle of Hampton Roads," the first ironclad battle in naval warfare between the USS MONITOR and the CSS VIRGINIA. The VIRGINIA was built in 1862 on the burned out hull of the USS MERRIMAC at the Gosport Navy Yard.

The CSS VIRGINIA being constructed in 1862 at the Gosport Navy Yard.

Today, Portmouth's downtown boasts some of the finest restaurants, sports bars and pubs along the seven block High Street corridor, mostly chef and family owned and managed eateries with fast food selections around the London-Effingham Streets crossing. Portsmouth also has five interesting museums all within a short walking distance of the waterfront, including the newly renovated and expanded Children's Museum. The Olde  Towne historic district is filled with period homes and is one of the largest collections of early properties in the Mid-Atlantic.


Portsmouth offers a fine selection of antique shops and unique specialty stores.

You will also find a selection of antique shops and unique boutiques along the 12 historic squares of High Street and at the High Street basin on the riverfront. Though the downtown selection of stores have certainly dropped since the 2007 and beyond recessionary years, the small, privately owned stores are starting to slowly return and hopefully will again fill the empty voids that now line our downtown streets.

As an added note, Portsmouth has certainly seen a big increase in the number of visiting yachtsmen that have now discovered our quaint historic seaport and the wonderful offerings that are available to them. Find out for yourself why Olde Towne/downtown Portsmouth is considered "the best kept secret" of Hampton Roads. Not many cities can boast such a prime location on such a busy boating highway!










Thursday, September 15, 2011

Traveling Along the ICW and the Chesapeake Bay? Beware of Flood Debris From Hurricane Irene

Small boats moving at high speeds can be sunk easily by striking a submerged object

Normally this time of year, boaters have to be concerned about cooler water  temperatures, rapid temperature swings, and being more self-reliant as fewer  boaters are on the water to help in a potential emergency. With the recent  storms, however, you can add one more to  the list: a dramatic increase in the number of submerged objects lurking on or  just below the surface of rain swollen rivers, lakes and bays.

The fact is that small boats moving at high speeds can be sunk easily by striking a submerged object, whether it's a tree, parts of buildings, fences, landscape timbers or other debris washed down in recent storms.

What's the best precaution? Slow down after significant rain events and post extra lookouts  - the more eyes the better. It's really a problem for any boat as running gear and outdrives can be damaged and lead to water coming in.

Mile Marker "0" AICW  has these four tips:

Before you go: Have all of the safety and communications gear aboard  and ensure the bilge pumps are working and there is no debris in the bilge.  It's always a good idea to have an extra bailer or two aboard, such as a  bucket, emergency hand pump or even a cut-off detergent bottle. Also understand  that navigational aids may have shifted.

Stop for any "thud": If you hear a thud, always stop the boat immediately  and inspect the bilge or storage compartments for damage - then check again a  short while later. A crack can  open up after a boat has bounced around a while. Another sign of damage is the  boat may feel "funny" or less responsive, a sign that water is coming aboard.

Put on life jackets: If you find water coming aboard - even if it's just  a trickle - immediately put on your life jacket and notify the Coast Guard as  you could lose the power and the ability to send a distress call on your VHF.  It takes only seconds for a trickle to get worse.

Be prepared to improvise: If you do find a hole in the hull, bilge pumps alone  may not stem the tide. Use anything you may have aboard such as towels, wooden  bungs (keep them handy for plugging round holes such as prop shaft logs), or other gear to wedge into holes or cracks.

While traveling the ICW, make sure to stop by Mile Marker "0" Marine Supply located at the High Street basin in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia for all of your boating needs. Mile Marker "0" Marine Supply is ready to assist you 7 days a week and offers general vessel services such as preventive maintenance, diagnostics, inspections and diving. They also offer free delivery to all marinas.  The goal at Mile Marker "0" is to put you first and provide real value to all of their customers. For more information, please click on the link at Mile Marker"0" Marine Supply or call them at 757-673-4816.

The article above was kindly provided to us from the BOATUS pressroom. 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 including towing services  and boat insurance. It's Damage Avoidance Program helps boaters learn how  prevent injury or vessel damage using real-world examples from the BoatUS  Marine Insurance claims files and other boating safety resources. For  membership information visit www.BoatUS.com or call 800-395-2628.

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

AICW Primary Route from VA to NC and Dismal Swamp Canal-Alternate AICW Reopens- Great Bridge Lock Returns to Normal Schedule After Damaged Swing Arm from Hurricane Irene

Great Bridge Lock Closed due to Damage from Hurricane Irene. Photo by Patrick Bloodgood.
Postings from
Salty Southeast Cruisers' Net

Statute Mile 11.5- After being on a restricted schedule due to damage from Hurricane Irene, Great Bridge Lock has returned to a normal schedule. Thus, the primary North Carolina – Virginia Cut branch of the AICW (also known as the Chesapeake – Albemarle Canal) is now fully useable by cruising craft, excepting that there may be some floating and semi-sunken debris courtesy of Hurricane Irene, to watch for and avoid! Happy days, now the cruising community has a clear path for the fall, 2011 southward migration!

Public Notice, US Army Corp of Engineers, Norfolk District
Repairs to Great Bridge Lock, damaged during Hurricane Irene, in Chesapeake, Virginia, have been completed. Lockings have returned to normal, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
Great Bridge locks open on demand, but work in conjunction with the Great Bridge Bridge openings. Vessel operators may contact the Great Bridge lock at 757-547-3311 if additional locking information is required. Lock and bridge operators will monitor Channel 13.

 

Dismal Swamp Canal-Alternate AICW will Reopen September 7, 2011

We just heard from Captain Donna Stewart, director of the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center, at 1:10 pm, 9/6/11. She reports that the US Army Corps of Engineers has just announced the Dismal Swamp Canal Alternate AICW route will reopen tomorrow morning, 9/07/11, AND the locks at both South Mills, NC and Deep Creek, VA will once again be operating on their normal, four times a day opening schedule (openings at 8:30 am, 11:00 am, 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm).
As you may remember, locking hours were initially cut back on the Dismal earlier in the summer, due to drought conditions, and then the canal was closed entirely due to a forest/swamp fire. Well, the fire is all but out, and there is now plenty of water in the canal, both courtesy of Hurricane Irene. I guess something good came out of this great storm after all.
Donna assures me that the Corps boats have carefully checked the canal and Turners Cut for flotsam and jetsam. So, cruising craft should now be able to run the Dismal with no more than the usual cautions of going slowly so as not to stir up bottom debris.
What GREAT timing! Now, southbound AICW cruisers this fall have a choice of whether to take the faster North Carolina – Virginia Cut (also known as the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal) or the historic and ecologically interesting Dismal Swamp route. Happy cruising to one and all, whichever passage you choose!

Click here for more Virginia to North Carolina line news at Cruisers Net!

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

AICW Closed Between Virginia and North Carolina

AICW locks at Great Bridge, Virginia

AICW News from Salty Southeast Cruisers' Net

Due to a damaged gate and electrical problems – motors were submerged by flooding – Great Bridge Lock is inoperable. Engineers must wait for the water to subside before they can begin assessing the damage and attempting to dry out the electrical systems. They are unable to determine a reopening at this point. With Dismal Swamp Canal closed, this means that the AICW IS SHUTDOWN FROM VA TO NC! And this from Donna Stewart at the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center: there are trees down in the canal, and even with the 10-15 inches of rain received, there are still some 30 hotspots of fire in the park, so it will probably still be several weeks before the canal can be opened to navigation. All Corp Of Engineers equipment and crews are currently focusing on Great Bridge Lock.

For more information concerning news for the cruising community, follow the link here to Cruiser's Net.
Click here to visit the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway website.


MIle Marker "0" AICW

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Preparing Your Boat for Hurricane Irene



(WWLP) - As a boat owner, you know that preparing your boat for a hurricane is just as important as preparing your home. Here's some important safety tips for boat owners as you prepare for an upcoming hurricane.

• Boaters should continually obtain the latest available weather forecast for your boating area.
• Have a plan worked out with your marina operator so there are no questions or confusion when the time comes to tie up or pull your boat from the water.
• Identify hurricane holes and safe harbors in the area in case you are caught at sea.
• Realize that you may not be able to pull your boat out of the water. Precious time is lost if you are searching for gear as a storm approaches.
• Boat owners should assemble emergency equipment and supplies, as well as all of the necessary gear on board to properly tie down their vessel.
• Insure your vessel is as watertight as possible. Use duct tape and plugs to seal hatches, ports, windows, doors and vents.
• Remove all electronics, valuables and non-essential items.
• Have your insurance policies, boat registration, a recent photograph and description of the vessel, gear inventory, marina or storage lease agreement and important telephone numbers (local harbormaster, U.S. Coast Guard, National Weather Service, insurance agent) in a secure place off of the boat.
• When you are through, help your neighbor. It only takes one poorly tied boat in a marina to destroy an entire dock.
• Do not stay on the boat

For more information on how to prepare your boat for a hurricane, please  visit BoatUS hurricane resource center.

Always plan for the worst and hope for the best! 
Mile Marker "O"

Seawall Art Show 2011 Cancelled






Due to the impending storm headed towards our area this weekend the Seawall Art Show Committee has decided to cancel the show. 

Our first and foremost concern is for the safety of our artists and guests. This was a hard decision to make, but we feel it's the right one.


Stay safe everyone.

Best regards,
The Seawall Art Show Committee

Thursday, August 11, 2011

Seawall Art Show in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia



Saturday, August 27, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Sunday, August 28, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.


 If you want to find that one-of-a-kind gift for someone special, then the waterfront at Portsmouth, VA's historic Olde Towne is the place to be August 27th and 28th. High Street and the waterfront will be hosting the 41st Annual Seawall Art Show, with some 90 juried artists. As in previous years, expect to find a little of everything, from wood carving to oil paintings, handwoven clothing to art glass, fine jewelry to pottery, and more.


Marine carvings at the Seawall Art Show located in Olde Towne Portsmouth, VA.

With more than 30 years experience showcasing juried fine arts and fine crafts on the Portsmouth waterfront, the Seawall Art Show draws large crowds of art buyers to this prestigious event. With the assistance of the Portsmouth Museum and Fine Arts Commission, it is an all volunteer run show. Show proceeds always go to support the arts in Portsmouth.


Exhibitors tent at Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia's annual Seawall Art Show.

For more information about this annual event, visit their website at 2011 Seawall Art Show. 

Don't forget to also support Olde Towne Portsmouth's fine merchants and restaurants too!


Friday, July 29, 2011

The Coast Guard and City of Portsmouth Celebrate "100 Years of Flying"

The United States Coast Guard celebrates "100 years of Flying"

Portsmouth is planning its second Coast Guard City Celebration for Aug. 4 through 6.
The event is being held in conjunction with the Coast Guard’s 221st birthday and will also celebrate the 100th anniversary of aviation in the sea services, according to a city news release. Festivities include a free concert, an art and aviation exhibit, street festival rides and a barbecue.

For a list of events, visit the Coast Guard and the City of Portsmouth website



Friday, June 24, 2011

European-style bakery to Open in Olde Towne Portsmouth


 By David Cartier
A New Day in Olde Towne

Residents have been waiting for years for a bakery to come to the Olde Towne neighborhood.  Well, the wait is almost over.  Artisans Bakery & Café is scheduled to open in mid-July 2011.

Owners Georg & Karen Seyrlehner were looking to bring a taste of Europe to Hampton Roads. Their journey started last October. To the delight of many, the two Chesapeake natives chose historic Olde Towne Portsmouth. "We just kept coming back to Old Towne and this building", stated Seyrlehner. The bakery and café will be in a Queen Anne Victorian home at 711 Washington Street, just off the downtown High Street corridor.



Artisans Bakery and Cafe's new location at 711 Washington Street, Olde Towne Portsmouth, VA.

The couple wanted a location where they could provide high quality foods in a relaxing setting. Their dream was to open a bakery that would provide artisanal breads and pastries that they have experienced in their travels throughout Europe during their 14-year marriage. Click on the link here to read the full story about Artisans Bakery and Cafe.

Thursday, June 23, 2011

Va. authorities cracking down on drunken boaters


Virginia authorities will be setting up checkpoints and performing breath tests  this weekend.

Virginia authorities will be cracking down on drunken boaters this weekend.

Conservation police officers with the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries will be patrolling state's waterways, setting up checkpoints and performing breath tests over the weekend. It is part of Operation Dry Water, a national effort coordinated by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators.

It is illegal to operate a boat with a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or higher.

Last year, 15 people died in 105 reported boat accidents in Virginia.

Nationwide, almost 20 percent of boating-related fatalities are a result of alcohol, drugs or medications.

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

2011 Seawall Music Festival this weekend With the Original Rhondels

From Virginia Beach, Virginia, the Original Rhondels are a music tradition who have performed their hit recordings in almost every major city in the United States.

Get ready for some great music in Olde Towne this weekend at the annual Seawall Music Festival!
Looking  for the premier party and dance band in the southeast, a band with a big sound, a great show, incredible vocals, and powerful horns?  They're coming to Portsmouth.
Looking for a band that does it all....top 40, motown, disco, jazz/big band swing, beach music, blues?  The party starts this Friday June 10th.
Come see international recording artists, The Original Rhondels!  It all takes place at the 2011 Seawall Music Fesitval this weekend.  Click here for more information about the 2011 Seawall Music Festival.

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Ten Cool Things to Do this Hot Memorial Day Weekend in Olde Towne


It's Memorial Day Weekend - the unofficial start of the summer season. There's plenty to do right here in Olde Towne Portsmouth. So much that we wanted to help you, well, plan your weekend. Here is a sampling of what's going on over the Memorial Day Weekend. Be sure to get outside and enjoy the long holiday weekend. Read full story.

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Observing Memorial Day in Hampton Roads, VA- The Nation's Oldest Memorial Day Parade is in Portsmouth

The Nation's Oldest Memorial Day Parade is in Portsmouth, Virginia
May 30th, 2011

Portsmouth, Virginia's 127th Memorial Day Parade has been an annual tradition since 1884, making it the oldest Memorial Day parade in the United States. The parade (which is free and open to the public) starts at 11:00 a.m. (Rain or Shine) in downtown Portsmouth.

Annually, the Memorial Day Parade salutes the service and sacrifices of the men and women of the United States Armed Forces and celebrates Portsmouth’s proud military heritage. This year’s parade will include floats, marching band units, armed forces units, lots of excitement, and much more.

Rear Admiral-Select Gregory Thomas of the Norfolk Naval Shipyard will be the Grand Marshal for this historic parade.

The Parade Route The 1800 block of High Street at I.C. Norcom High School will be the starting point for the parade which will travel east on High Street; turn right on Crawford Street; and end at Columbia Street.

For more information, call the Portsmouth City Clerk’s Office at 757-393-8639.

Friday, May 13, 2011

Floating Debris in the River and Bay

Be on the watch for floating debris as you travel the ICW.

Mile marker "O" AICW would like to warn all passing boaters of floating debris in the Elizabeth River and the Chesapeake Bay. We have recently noticed an increase of visible lumber and trash in the river and basins and just removed a 4" X 4" X 16' board floating in the High Street Landing. Be especially careful if you are mooring at Swimming Point on the north end of Olde Towne Portsmouth- a lot of large wood pieces are washing up on the beach in front of the newly constructed seawall and along the waterfront residences. Heavy rains predicted this weekend and  early next week will multiply the debris as it washes into the estuaries and then into the river.

So please be safe while traveling through our neck of the river. We hope you'll take a breather and stop by for a visit with us in Portsmouth, Virginia!

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

America’s Waterway Watch- Keeping America's Coasts Safe and Secure

Protecting our homeland and America’s Waterways.

Reposted in part from Skipper Bob

Many of you will soon be making the trek north and cruising through the Norfolk/Portsmouth, Va area while heading for the Chesapeake and points farther north. We thought it prudent to pass on an important reminder for all boaters passing the Naval Shipyard in the Portsmouth/Norfolk/ Hampton Roads vicinity. The Navy has set up a security zone from the Elizabeth River Channel Lighted Gong Buoy 5 to the Elizabeth River Channel Lighted Buoy 11, on the south side of the channel. If you have the most current charts, this area is colored in magenta, not to be confused with the magenta ICW channel. This is an OFF LIMITS AREA and in the words of the U.S. Coast Guard, "Unauthorized vessels entering this RESTRICTED AREA may encounter USE OF FORCE procedures by patrolling security vessels." So please stay clear and keep to the charted channel because we can verify through personal experience that they are not fooling around. The machine guns mounted on their patrol boats further reinforce their resolve. Security can be contacted on VHF channel 14.

We at milemarkerO.blogspot would also like to point out that the security is once again heightened due to the killing of osama bin laden and concerns of the potential threat attack in the Hampton Roads area.
 
The U.S. Coast Guard, which asks the everyday American to be the extra eyes and ears of law enforcement in keeping our waterways safe and secure. Millions of Americans either work on or recreationally use our country’s numerous waterways. As the Coast Guard puts it, a person who spends much of their time on or near the water, already knows what is normal and what is not, and they are well suited to notice suspicious activities, including activities possibly indicating threats to our nation’s homeland security. We are urged to adopt a heightened sense of sensitivity toward unusual events or individuals that may encounter in or around ports, docks, marinas, riversides, beaches, or waterfront communities.

During our nation’s battle on terrorism, it is imperative that all Americans do their small part in assisting to protect our homeland, and America’s Waterway Watch is just one example of how the average person can lend a hand just by keeping their eyes and ears open to any suspicious activities.

In addition to everyday criminal activity, America’s coasts, rivers, bridges, tunnels, ports, ships, military bases, and waterside industries may be the terrorists’ next targets and with more than 95,000 miles of shoreline, more than 290,000 square miles of water and approximately 70 million recreational boats in the United States, the U.S. Coast Guard and local first responders can’t do the job alone.

That is where a program created by the Coast Guard, known as America’s Waterway Watch, comes into play.
According to the Coast Guard, all Americans should be aware of suspicious activities on and near our waterways.

Possible suspicious activity may include things like:
• People appearing to be engaged in surveillance of any kind, including taking notes, shooting video or photos, making sketches, or asking questions

• Unattended vessels or vehicles in unusual locations

• Lights flashing between boats

• Unusual diving activity

• Unusual number of people onboard

• Unusual night operations

• Recovering or tossing items into/onto the waterway or shoreline

• Operating in or passing through an area that does not typically have such activity

• Fishing or hunting in locations not typically used for those activities

• Missing fencing or lighting near sensitive locations

• Anchoring in an area not typically used for anchorage

• Transfer of people or things between ships or between ship and shore outside of port

• Anyone operating in an aggressive manner

• Individuals establishing businesses or roadside food stands near sensitive locations

• Small planes flying over critical locations

• People attempting to buy or rent fishing or recreational vessels with cash for short-term, undefined use

In addition, the Coast Guard suggests watching for possible suspicious vessels and individuals in locations such as:

 • Under and around bridges, tunnels, or overpasses

• Near commercial areas or services like ports, fuel docks, cruise ships, marinas

• Near industrial facilities like power plants and oil, chemical, or water intake facilities

• Near military bases and vessels, other government facilities, or security zones


The Coast Guard also offers these useful vessel security ideas:

1. Secure and lock your boat when not on board

2. Take the keys of the vessel with you

3. Disable the engine on stored or trailered boats, and make sure the boat is not easily moved

Quick Security Tip: Do not approach or challenge anyone acting in a suspicious manner. To report suspicious activity, call the National Response Center at 800-424-8802 or 877-24WATCH.

For immediate danger to life or property, call 911 right away.

For more information on the America’s Waterway Watch program, log on to the U.S. Coast Guard Web site at http://www.uscg.mil/

Monday, May 2, 2011

A Mother's Day Tradition Continues: The Gosport Arts Festival

The 41st Annual Gosport Arts Festival, May 7th and 8th, 2011
If it's Mother's Day Weekend, we all know it must be time for Gosport Arts Festival.  This year, it's the 41st year for the event - the 11th festival held in Olde Towne Portsmouth.  Plan to attend the event on Saturday, May 7 and and Sunday, May 8, 2011.  The hours are 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Sunday. Click on this link for the full Gosport Arts Festival article.

Friday, April 29, 2011

The Sky is Not Falling, But Hurricane Season Predicted to be "Active"


Keeping boaters aware of the need to make early preparations for the upcoming hurricane season is a tough job for the nation's boat owners group, BoatUS. That's because we're all human - it only takes of few years after a devastating hurricane before memories start to fade, leading to a little apathy.

With the prediction of an "active" 2011 hurricane season by the renowned Colorado State University Tropical Meteorology Project just out, BoatUS says the 72% chance that at least one major hurricane will make landfall should give boaters the reason to make one early preparation.

"If your hurricane plan is to have your boat hauled and maybe strapped down, talk to your marina staff now about their plans," said BoatUS Director of Damage Avoidance Bob Adriance. "It's the one simple, easy step that could lead to a big outcome - whether or not you still have a boat when the season ends on November 30. I don't want to tell people the 'sky is falling,' but the longer you wait to have that discussion the worse shape you could be in."


"It doesn't take a major hurricane to damage or sink a boat, especially if you choose to do nothing."


Doug Hillman of Sebastian River Marina and Boatyard in Sebastian, Florida, which was recently battered by hurricanes Frances and Jeanne, says it simply, "I need my customers to start contacting me now, because I may be too busy to help them later."

The Colorado State team also predicts that there is a 48% chance that a major hurricane will make landfall on the US East Coast, including the Florida Peninsula. The University also predicts a 47% chance that a major hurricane will make landfall on the Gulf Coast from Florida Panhandle west to Brownsville, Texas.

Adriance also reminds boaters, "It doesn't take a major hurricane to damage or sink a boat, especially if you choose to do nothing."

To help boaters make preparations, BoatUS has some free online "tools" available at the BoatUS Hurricane Resource Center at www.BoatUS.com/Hurricanes.

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

ActiveCaptain's Spring Contest

From our friends at ActiveCaptain- The Spring Sponsor Special Contest

 From the beginning we knew ActiveCaptain would be different. Our free guidebook is different - just the difference boaters want. Our Sponsor program is different too.

Many websites use banner ads. We hate banner ads. We've got some new and innovative ideas. Here's the first one. It's a contest.

Starting today thru June 1st we're having a contest for boaters who stay with one of ActiveCaptain's Sponsors and write a review about their experience. To qualify you must also fill out your captain details in My Card, entering your boat name, length, draft, and heights.


Ocean Marine Yacht Center In Olde Towne Portsmouth, VA is a new ActiveCaptain sponsor.

On June 1st, we'll tally up the counts. The 10 captains who stayed at the most Sponsors will get a 100% free, lifetime copy of PolarView for Windows, Macintosh, or Linux. This is a fantastic software chartplotter that works with all NOAA raster and vector charts and can open other vector data from ChartWorld. Even more chart data support is coming for Canadian and European boaters too.

In addition to those 10 PolarView licenses, another 10 copies will be given out at random to boaters who stay at a Sponsor marina and write a review. So even if you'll just be staying at a couple of Sponsor marinas, you'll get a chance at the prizes. The more you use our Sponsors, the greater your chance of winning the software. What's really cool is that PolarView supports all ActiveCaptain data offline rewarding your ActiveCaptain use.

It's all tied together - ActiveCaptain, our Sponsors, our software partners, and you. This is a new way for us all to work together to provide incredible value.

Make sure to let our Sponsors know that you're in it to win it and please thank them for being a Sponsor. Please don't write reviews for previous stays at Sponsor marinas - this is only for stays that happen between now and June 1st.

And as you pass by the non-Sponsor marinas wave your hat and tell them about the contest! If they only knew that just one boat coming in would pay for a year of sponsorship, they'd be getting your business.

More contests are coming. We know this isn't the best time for marina use in upstate New York, the Great Lakes, the West Coast, and Europe. We have other ideas for you guys too. This is just the beginning.

>>> Blazing the trail >>>

Parts of the Atlantic ICW continue to show hazard problems. Thanks to ActiveCaptain captains, we have more hazards with more up-to-date information than the Coast Guard has. And right now some of our most experienced cruisers have started their northward migration. They are documenting their findings, telling you what to expect. This is rough for them because they are blazing the trail - there have even been some groundings due to shoal changes.

If you come across a hazard with a comment older than a month or if the conditions you find are different than what is written, please write your own comment on the hazard. Watch for captain's Pascal and Bob423. Each one of them has over 1,000 points, is quite experienced, and is probably ahead of most snowbirds with recent findings.


>>> Watch for Sponsors >>>

While many ActiveCaptain users are already making an effort to support the Sponsors, you now have an additional reason, our spring contest. Here are a few of the Sponsors at the southern end of the northern migration of snowbirds.

Gulfport Municipal Marina welcomes Loopers and Snowbirds with their
friendly staff: https://activecaptain.com/X.php?lat=27.740450&lon=-82.695229&t=n&z=14

America Marine and Fuel in Naples offers volume and transient
discounts on their fuel: https://activecaptain.com/X.php?lat=26.137534&lon=-81.790477&t=n&z=14

What a great place Fort Myers is with two 1st Choice marinas - The City of Fort Myers Yacht Basin and Legacy Harbour Marina: https://activecaptain.com/X.php?lat=26.646230&lon=-81.871103&t=n&z=15

If you'll be heading to the Bahamas, look for Harbour Island Club and Marina:
https://activecaptain.com/X.php?lat=25.490544&lon=-76.637535&t=h&z=13

Remember to write a review of your stay to qualify for the free PolarView navigation software. And don't forget to thank them for supporting ActiveCaptain.


>>> Importing Routes: Nobeltec >>>

In upcoming newsletters, we're going to start a series about getting routes out of different software and hardware chartplotters and converting it to GPX format for use with ActiveCaptain.

We've received more requests about Nobeltec software than anything else so far so we'll start there.

Nobeltec is a Windows chartplotter with a very large following of users. There are many different versions of the software which makes it difficult to provide a specific set of instructions.

Starting with VNS 11, there is direct support for GPX import and export. All you need to do in that version is select the routes you want to transfer, and export them in GPX format.

For earlier versions, Nobeltec has their own export format called Open Navigation Format (ONF). All earlier versions support this archive format. All you have to do is export the routes you want to save in ONF format. It will create a file with an .ONF file extension.

GPSBabel won't read ONF files. This is where most Nobeltec users have gotten stuck. In the case of Nobeltec, get the other free utility called GPSU: http://www.gpsu.co.uk/

It's free and will directly read ONF files and convert them to GPX. The GPX file output from GPSU can be directly imported into ActiveCaptain's My Card routes database. We've done many route transfers already.

So Nobeltec users: archive your routes - keep them safe and available for use with other software. Let's get a bunch of your routes into ActiveCaptain. The route sharing we're implementing isn't just between users. It's also between your own devices and software. But you have to convert them to GPX and import them into ActiveCaptain.

The Charleston weather has turned warm. Heck, it's been downright sweltering by Maine standards. But everything is blooming and there are too many activities to count including the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War. We've been hearing the booms of the reenactment at Fort Sumter. So for now these Yankees are lying low. But we still manage to sneak out each morning to the dog park. You can follow Dyna and Dylan on their blog:
http://www.takingpaws.com/

Karen and Jeffrey Siegel
aCappella
Castine, Maine

Saturday, April 16, 2011

2nd Annual Boat & Nautical Yard Sale Returns April 16th at Ocean Marine


Here is your opportunity to sell, swap, barter or buy and visit with boating friends.

Ocean Marine Yacht Center will hold its 2nd Annual Elizabeth River Boat & Nautical Yard Sale and Flea Market on Saturday, April 16, 2011. The event will take place in the Ocean Marine parking lot on Wavy Street, south of the nTelos Wireless Pavilion at Harbor Center in downtown Portsmouth. It will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Got Nautical Stuff? Interested vendors should clean out their vessels and/or storage lockers for items like marine equipment, dive gear, marine products, clothing, electronics, antiques, fishing gear, nautical arts and crafts, boats on trailers, etc. In other words, if it's nautical, bring it!

Vendors will not be charged a fee; admission is free for all. Vendors should bring their own tables and/or tents.

To sign up, call Ocean Marine Yacht Center at 757-321-7432.

We recommend that you show up early because with most flea markets and yard sales, the best stuff will be leaving early. This is a great oopportunity to visit with your boating friends.

About Ocean Marine Yacht Center

Ocean Marine's prime location is just one half mile south of Mile Marker Zero on the Intracoastal Waterway, and its unrestricted access from sea. They are located on the southern branch of the Elizabeth River in Portsmouth, Virginia.


The Marina at Ocean Marine Yacht Center.

The Marina at Ocean Marine Yacht Center consists of 122 all-floating slips accommodating boats to 65' as well as 1500' of alongside dockage for larger (mega) yachts. All slips have water, telephone and cable television, and electricity hook-ups. Wireless Internet Service and a Courtesy Car are also available. Restrooms, showers, laundry room and ships' store are located in the Dockmaster Building.

A certified 'Green Marina', Ocean Marine Yacht Center was built to meet and exceed the stringent requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality.

Upon check in, you will receive a welcome package containing information about local shops, restaurants, pubs, museums and scheduled events on the downtown waterfront, all within walking distance of Ocean Marine Yacht Center.

Ocean Marine is more than just a marina. It's the most modern, state-of-the-art yacht repair facility on the East Coast of the United States. The facility provides refit and repair, dockage and storage to yachts of all sizes.

"Ocean Marine's biggest business its its megayacht repair facility, which is an environmental caretaker" - Marina Dock Age magazine.

The mega yacht repair facility is second to none, boasting a 1,250-ton Syncrolift capable of hauling yachts to 235' via a ground level rail transfer system to an impressive paint/repair building capable of housing two megayachts simultaneously. Both bays of the indoor paint repair facility offer a cascading water wall washdown system, smooth paneled walls, overhead and recessed surround lighting, pressurized ventilation system, and heated floors for year round operation. In addition, Ocean Marine has unrestricted access from sea and offers 1500' of alongside dockage. The Refit Projects link lists some of the most beautiful privately owned megayachts that have called to Ocean Marine Yacht Center since its inception in April of 2002.

At Ocean Marine, their technicians are qualified to repair engines, transmissions, air conditioning, refrigeration, steering and hydraulic systems. The skilled and well-seasoned yard crew handles fiberglass and gelcoat repair, bottom paint, stabilizer, propeller, shaft and strut repairs. In addition, Ocean Marine features an 80-ton Travelift, a complete parts department and engine showroom.

Ocean Marine Yacht Center, One Crawford Court, Portsmouth, Virginia 23704. 757.321.7432.








Thursday, March 17, 2011

Why Do So Many Boats Sink in the Spring?



BoatUS Spring Commissioning Checklist
 
 It's a sad fact: Every spring, shortly after being launched and commissioned for the season, boats sink while safely tied up at the dock, turning what should be a good time of the year into a real mess.

BoatUS' Seaworthy magazine, a publication that helps BoatUS members avoid accidents or injuries, has identified the top five reasons for springtime sinkings, and has a free Spring Commissioning Checklist to help boaters start the season right.

The Top Five Reasons Why Boats Sink in the Springtime:
 
 
This is one good reason why boaters need to inspect stainless hose clamps every spring.
 1. Missing or damaged hose clamps: These clamps are often removed in the fall to winterize the engine, and then forgotten about in the spring when the boat is launched. Tight spaces in engine compartments make it difficult to see some unsecured or deteriorated clamps.
 2. Unsecured engine hoses: Over the winter, freezing water can lift hoses off seacocks (valves).
 3. Spring rains: Combine heavy rains with leaking ports, deck hatches, cracked or improperly caulked fittings, chain plates and even scuppers clogged by leaves and your boat could be on the bottom soon.
 4. Broken sea strainer: Glass, plastic and even bronze strainer bowls can be cracked or bent over in the winter if not properly winterized, allowing to water trickle in when the seawater intake seacock is in the open position.
 5. Leaking stuffing box: If equipped, a steady drip from an improperly adjusted stuffing box (the "packing" around the prop shaft) has been known to swamp a boat.  

The BoatU.S. Spring Commissioning Checklist:

Before You Launch:

   1. Hose clamps should be inspected and replaced as necessary. Double clamping hose connections with marine-rated stainless hose clamps, or keeping seacocks closed when you are away, are wise moves.
   2. Inspect cooling hoses for stiffness, rot, leaks and cracking. Make sure they fit snugly.
   3. Replace deteriorated sacrificial anodes.
   4. Inspect prop(s) for dings, pitting and distortion. Make sure cotter pins are secure. Grip the prop and try moving the shaft - if it's loose, the cutlass bearing (on inboard drive systems) may need to be replaced.
   5. Check to make sure the rudderstock hasn't been bent.
   6. Inspect the hull for blisters, distortions and stress cracks.
   7. Make sure your engine intake sea strainer is not cracked or bent from ice, is free of corrosion, clean and properly secured.
   8. With inboards, check the engine shaft and rudder stuffing boxes for looseness. A stuffing box should only leak when the prop shaft is turning, and needs to be inspected routinely.
   9. Inspect and lubricate seacocks.
  10. Use a garden hose to check for deck leaks at ports and hatches. Renew caulk or gaskets, as necessary.
  11. If equipped, ensure that the stern drain plug is installed.
  12. After the boat is launched, be sure to check all through-hulls for leaks.

Engine Outdrives and Outboards:

   1. Inspect rubber outdrive bellows for cracked, dried and/or deteriorated spots (look especially in the folds), and replace if suspect.
   2. Check power steering and power trim oil levels.
   3. Replace anodes that are more than half worn away.
   4. Inspect outer jacket of control cables. Cracks or swelling indicate corrosion and mean that the cable must be replaced.

Engines and Fuel Systems:

   1. Inspect fuel lines, including fill and vent hoses, for softness, brittleness or cracking. Check all joints for leaks and make sure all lines are well supported with non-combustible clips or straps with smooth edges.
   2. Inspect fuel tanks, fuel pumps and filters for leaks. Clamps should be snug and free of rust.  Clean or replace fuel filters. Owners of gasoline-powered boats with fiberglass fuel tanks should consult a marine professional to inspect for any ethanol-related issues.
   3. Every few years, remove and inspect exhaust manifold for corrosion.
   4. Clean and tighten electrical connections, especially both ends of battery cables. Wire-brush battery terminals and fill cells with distilled water (if applicable).
   5. Inspect bilge blower hose for leaks.

Sailboat Rigging:

   1. Inspect swage fittings for cracks and heavy rust (some discoloration is acceptable).  Inspect wire halyards and running backstays for "fishhooks" and rust.
   2. Remove tape on turnbuckles and lubricate threads, preferably with Teflon. Replace old tape with fresh tape.
   3. If you suspect the core around the chainplate is damp, remove the chainplate to inspect and make repairs.

Trailers:

   1. Inspect tire treads and sidewalls for cracks or lack of tread and replace as necessary.  Check air pressure - don't forget the spare.
   2. Inspect wheel bearings and repack as necessary.
   3. Test tail lights, back-up lights and winch to make sure they're working properly. Inspect hitch chains.
   4. Inspect trailer frame for rust. Sand and paint to prevent further deterioration.
   5. Inspect brakes and brake fluid reservoir.

Miscellaneous:

   1. Check expiration dates on flares and fire extinguishers.
   2. Check stove and remote tanks for loose fittings and leaking hoses.
   3. Inspect bilge pump and float switch to make sure they're working properly.
   4. Inspect dock and anchor lines for chafing.
   5. Check shore power cable connections for burns, which indicates the cable and/or the shore power inlet must be replaced.
   6. Make sure your boating license and/or registration is up to date.  Don't forget your trailer tags.
   7. Review your boat insurance policy and update coverage if needed.
   8. Make sure you have properly sized and wearable life jackets in good condition for each passenger, including kids.  Check inflatable life jacket cylinders.
   9. Test smoke, carbon monoxide, fume and bilge alarms.
  10. Be sure to get a free vessel safety check from the US Coast Guard Auxiliary or US Power Squadrons. Find out more at www.SafetySeal.net.

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. 

Boater's Spring Commissioning Tips for Saving Gas

BoatUS has six tips on spring commissioning that can be done now to save you money on gas all summer long:


Do it Now or Pay Later

With gas prices forecast to remain higher than last summer, BoatUS has six tips on spring commissioning that can be done now to save you money on gas all summer long:

Lighten the load is one of easiest no-cost things to save on gas. Clear out all of that junk that's been stored aboard the boat over winter.

Get a tune-up: An annual tune-up is a must if you're truly serious about saving gas.

Check the prop: Props with little dings should be taken to a repair shop now. This is also the time to ensure you are happy with your prop's performance - have a discussion with your marina or local prop shop to ensure you still have the right prop installed based on your current boating needs.

Paint the bottom: For boats docked in salt or brackish water, keeping the fuel-robbing "green gunk" growth from adhering to your boat's hull can save a lot of fuel. But you'll need to ensure the vessel has a new coat of bottom paint put on, making it difficult for anything to grow on the hull bottom.

Check the trim tabs: Unbalanced boats chew up the gas. During spring commissioning, ensure that trim tabs function properly. Check the reservoir for leaks.

Join BoatUS for only $24 to take advantage of the fuel discount at over 300 BoatUS Cooperating Marinas across the country. All you have to do is find a marina near you by visiting the online BoatUS Member Services Locator (select the "Cooperating Marinas" box in the upper left). The discount can be as much as $.10 off each gallon. For more information on this exclusive BoatUS member discount, go to http://www.boatus.com/discountcenter.