Mile Marker O

The Lite Cylinder Propane Cylinder for Grilling, Cooking, Heating and Boating Applications

2012-01-07T13:19:00.000-05:00

The Lite Cylinder propane cylinder is great for numerous outdoor activities and perfect for boaters!

The Lite Cylinder- Composite Lightweight Non-Corrosive

The Lite Cylinder is a revolutionary propane cylinders available to the world. Whether you are ready to start up the grill, leave the land behind and sail, or hit the open road and go camping, Lite Cylinder propane tanks can help you get to where you are going. Lite Cylinder offers composite propane cylinders for grilling, cooking, heating and boating applications. Composite cylinders have numerous benefits that set them apart from metal propane tanks as they are lightweight and feature an easy to carry handle, are see-through so you will never be surprised by running out of gas. They also feature a flat bottom case to keep the cylinder from moving around, and they are also rust and corrosion free, which is great for those using Lite Cylinder on sailboats in salt water regions. Lite Cylinder can also be re-filled the same way that you refill your metal tanks.


The Lite Cylinder propane cylinder in blue.

No matter which application you are using your Lite Cylinder in, our design offers the ultimate in convenience, safety and accessibility. Lite Cylinder composite tanks were created to answer a need for the consumer. Research showed that many consumers were buying multiple tanks to make sure they had a back up for propane, as they could not see how much was left in the tank. Lite Cylinder tanks offer consumers the ability to have one tank that would fulfill their needs. This product is approved by the Department of Transportation. Green. Mile Marker "0"offers a range of Composite Lightweight Non-Corrosive cylinders that can be used for a wide variety of applications. Available in blue, green and white. Come by and see this new revolutionary cylinder and all of your boating supplies at our High Street Landing, Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia showroom or give us a call at 757-673-4816. Visit our website at http://milemarker0marinesupplies.com/.

The Lite Cylinder-easy to measure the gas fill.

ABOUT THE LITE CYLINDER

Are cylinders approved in most states?
Yes, cylinders are approved for use in every U.S. state.

What is an approval?

Lite Cylinders are approved for the manufacturing, marking, sales and use for Liquid Propane Gas containers by the Department of Transportation in the USA, .

Will a Lite Cylinder tank fit my grill?
Yes. Lite Cylinder tanks are designed to fit most standard gas grills.

Do Lite Cylinders rust or corrode?
No. The composite materials that make up both the cylinder and the outer casing are both non-corrosive materials.

Will the cylinder casing fade after a period of time in the sun?
Possibly. Though, Lite Cylinders do have UV protection and are made of polypropylene copolymer designed to resist color fading.

Will the cylinder withstand cold and hot outside temperatures?
Yes. Lite Cylinders are designed to withstand a full range of outdoor temperatures from -40 degrees F to 140 degrees F.

Does a cylinder have to be recertified and if so how often?
Re-certification is every 5 years for the US. This consists of visual inspection of the outer casing and pressure testing of the cylinder. Other countries may have differing times. Check with us for information on re-certification for markets outside the US.

What is the life of the cylinder?
The DOT and Transport Canada rate the cylinders for a life of 15 Years.

Can Lite Cylinders be used horizontally?
We have two specific models designed for horizontal use. the 20# and 25# horizontal cylinders.

Why is there no gas coming out if my cylinder is full?
Simply screw the black nut onto the connector as tight as possible. This should open up the line.

Why is my flame on my grill very low?
If your flame is now, you need to close the propane valve and open it back up.

I had my cylinder refilled at a propane dealer; why is it not full?
There is a limit to how much propane can be in each cylinder. It can only be fill to about 80% of the liquid capacity of the cylinder, so there will be an “empty” space at the top.

Dismal Swamp Canal - Closure for Lock Maintenance

2012-01-06T15:40:00.000-05:00

South Mill Lock, North Carolina.

On Wednesday, January 4, 2012, the Corps of Engineers will begin repairs to the South Mills Lock on the Dismal Swamp Canal. Therefore, the locks at Deep Creek, Virginia and South Mills, North Carolina will stop operating after the last scheduled locking at 3:30 PM on Tuesday, January 3, 2012. The Dismal Swamp Canal, Route 2 of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, will be temporarily closed to through vessel traffic until repairs are complete. The repairs are expected to take 60 to 90 days.

The Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal, Route 1 through the Great Bridge lock at Chesapeake, Virginia, will be open 24 hours per day, seven days per week. Operators will monitor Channel 13. Should you have any questions concerning this matter, please call 757-201-7642.

Reported by Bob McBribe, Mile Marker "0" Marine Supplies. for more information, contact Bob at (757) 673-4186.

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

2011-11-19T03:27:00.001-05:00

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.

You've got a friend at Mile Marker 0

2011-11-02T10:44:00.000-04:00

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

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

2011-10-25T12:25:00.000-04:00

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/

Backyard Bliss. Cruising the Southern Chesapeake Bay

2011-10-04T16:36:00.000-04:00

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!

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

2011-09-15T15:53:00.000-04:00

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.

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

2011-09-07T08:36:00.000-04:00

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!

AICW Closed Between Virginia and North Carolina

2011-08-30T12:22:00.000-04:00

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

Preparing Your Boat for Hurricane Irene

2011-08-25T11:58:00.001-04:00

(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

2011-08-25T11:07:00.000-04:00

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

Seawall Art Show in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia

2011-08-11T03:21:00.001-04:00

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!

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

2011-07-29T00:11:00.000-04:00

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

European-style bakery to Open in Olde Towne Portsmouth

2011-06-24T02:56:00.000-04:00

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.

Va. authorities cracking down on drunken boaters

2011-06-23T08:01:00.000-04:00

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.

2011 Seawall Music Festival this weekend With the Original Rhondels

2011-06-07T16:46:00.000-04:00

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.

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

2011-05-28T05:41:00.000-04:00

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.

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

2011-05-24T15:17:00.000-04:00

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.

Floating Debris in the River and Bay

2011-05-13T14:20:00.001-04:00

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!

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

2011-05-11T07:36:00.000-04:00

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/

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

2011-05-02T19:53:00.000-04:00

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.

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

2011-04-29T15:56:00.000-04:00

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.

ActiveCaptain's Spring Contest

2011-04-19T07:15:00.000-04:00

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

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

2011-04-16T07:08:00.000-04:00

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.

Why Do So Many Boats Sink in the Spring?

2011-03-17T15:20:00.000-04:00

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

2011-03-17T04:13:00.000-04:00

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.

Shopping in Hampton Roads: Skipjack's Nautical Store & Art Gallery in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia

2011-02-16T14:41:00.001-05:00

Skipjack Nautical Wares & Marine Gallery storefront located on the riverfront in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.

This Upscale Retail Store in Olde Towne Portsmouth features Everything Nautical for the Collector and Coastal Homeowner.

By Allen B. Graves

Portsmouth museums.

If you're planning a visit to Norfolk, Virginia Beach or any other cities in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, make sure that you save time and set your course to the quaint historic seaport of Portsmouth, Virginia for a fun-filled day of shopping, dining and experiencing the historical Olde Towne-Downtown riverfront area. Olde Towne's High Street corridor ( a seven block corridor from Effingham Street to the riverfront) is the heart of the downtown shopping and dining district. This seven block area boasts over 30 restaurants, pubs and eateries to choose from and is one of Hampton Roads finest dining destinations. High Street is also Portsmouth's "arts and antiques" district with a diverse selection of fine antique shops, art galleries, unique boutiques and five museums including the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum, and the Lightship Portsmouth Museum, The Virginia Sports Hall of Fame, Courthouse Galleries, and the newly expanded and doubled in size (reopening late April 2011) Children's Museum of Virginia .

Seaboard building

One of the most unique and best known stores in Olde Towne is Skipjack Nautical Wares & Marine Gallery. Skipjack is located at the rivers end of High Street and next to the High Street Landing or basin, where the paddle wheel ferry arrives throughout the day carrying passengers across the Elizabeth River from Downtown Norfolk to Olde Towne Portsmouth . One High Street is the address of the famous Seaboard Railroad building. The passenger rail terminal built in 1894 was a busy center for nearly sixty-years, during a time when the railroad dominated Portsmouth's economic activities, giving the city its motto, “where the rail meets the sea".

Schooner Virginia

This up-scaled nautical retail store and gallery is situated in the first floor level of the building with it's front doors opening onto the High Street Park and seawall and just steps away from the encased Hog Island Lighthouse Fresnel lens. Colorful vintage signal flags fly below trade signs painted in black with mounted raised gold letters stating "MARITIME ANTIQUES, NAUTICAL DECOR, MARINE ART and SCHOONER VIRGINIA". The dark-green painted storefront wood work surrounds wall to wall tall windows offering a picturesque view from inside of the bustling riverfront yacht and ship activities that travels the busy Intracoastal waterway. Once inside, you will be greeted by the proprietors of Skipjack, Joe and Alison Elder. This large, mostly open front showroom houses Skipjack's collection of nautical accessories, decor and wares- a special blend of handcrafted nautical items made exclusively for Skipjack together with their own nautical apparel and jewelry. Skipjack is also the official "SCHOONER VIRGINIA" ships store carrying SCHOONER VIRGINIA apparel and merchandise to help raise funding and awareness for the State of Virginia's ambassador vessel. Skipjacks broad and focused collection of nautical wares makes this the perfect Olde Towne shopping destination for the nautical enthusiast.

A great shopping experience for the nautical enthusiast at Skipjack Nautical Wares.

Schooner Virginia and other nautical accessories at Skipjack Nautical Wares


Nautical instruments at Skipjack nautical Wares and Marine Gallery

A view of Skipjack Nautical Wares front showroom.

To the back left corner is the entry into the main gallery that is split into two separate areas. The first section features a fine collection of both new and antique Chelsea clocks and barometers, old and new marine instruments, and ship models including a vast collection of ship in a bottles by North Carolina master model builder Jim Goodwin. The main gallery also houses their collection of vintage and out of publication books on maritime subjects and a portion of the original marine art and prints. Through the fabric-paneled walls is Skipjack's design center that accommodates their picture framing department, prints and a selection of antique and vintage ship grates set aside for custom nautical furniture such as coffee tables, side tables, and occasional tables

Ship in bottles by master model builder Jim Goodwin

Chelsea clocks & barometers at Skipjack Nautical Wares & Marine Gallery

The main gallery leads into the newest part of Skipjack's art gallery, the foyer gallery that displays the majority of original marine art blended with nautical antiques, sea chests, and three dimensional marine-themed works of art. Skipjack Marine Galleries changing art shows are shown in this long foyer space. Skipjack also leases the foyer gallery for private parties, business gatherings, wedding receptions and other small events.

A section of Skipjack's Foyer Gallery.

An original marine casting by Bill Osmundsen on display in Skipjack nautical Wares & Marine Galleries Foyer Gallery.

The upper deck level of Skipjack's Foyer Gallery.

Panoramic view of Skipjack, the Hog Island Lighthouse lens and the riverfront.

Preview 360 degree panoramic views of Skipjack's showroom by Virginia photographer Allen B. Graves.

Portsmouth Visitor Information Center

For more information about Portsmouth, Virginia and the historic Olde Towne district, you may also want to stop by the Portsmouth Visitor Information Center located at 6 Crawford Parkway in Olde Towne offers visitors an abundance of informational brochures about area attractions and is open seven days a week. (757) 393-5111, (800) PORTS-VA
Another information center is Starboards Coffee kiosk located at High Street Landing, at the corner of High and Water streets. Betsy Cartier is a great source for finding out what is currently happening in Virginia's quaint historic seaport. Also, David Cartier writes a column titled "A New Day in Olde Towne" that is by far the best source for Olde Towne news and events.

About the author: Allen B. Graves is a writer and photographer that resides in Charlottesville, Virginia. You can visit his website at http://www.viewva360.com/

Reviews Make a Difference

2011-02-16T12:26:00.000-05:00

By ActiveCaptain

The one feature that boaters seem to appreciate the most on ActiveCaptain is the reviews. Captains love to read them and love to write them. Everyone appreciates the opportunity to speak their mind and to see the uncensored opinions of others.

But what you might not realize is that your reviews can make a significant difference in the boating experiences of all of us.

We've had a unique perspective these past 5 years. Not only have we seen an ever increasing volume of user reviews, we've often interacted with the marinas who are receiving these reviews and have witnessed an interesting trend.

There was a time when it was not uncommon that a less than positive review would generate a call to us and even threats of a lawsuit.

Tens of thousands of reviews later we are finding an increasing number of marinas that are using their reviews, both positive and negative, to offer better services. The smart marina knows that when customers talk, they should listen. This is something we all benefit from. A great example of this happened last week.

Morningstar Marinas - Golden Isles, St. Simons Island, Georgia has 21 reviews and averages almost 5 stars. That's a pretty incredible accomplishment. But even the best business can have a bad day. Recently a boater complained in a review about the bathrooms. Golden Isles didn't make excuses or get angry. They took action. They fixed the problem with the bathrooms and then apologized to the captain who had the bad experience through an ActiveCaptain message.

You know the cool result of this example? That captain went back and added a couple of stars to their review for Golden Isles because they were listened to and the rest of their experience there was exceptional. How great is that?

The moral of this story? Your opinions are important, not only to your fellow boaters but also to the marinas you visit. Be heard, write reviews - and not just when things go wrong. A positive review lets a marina know what they're doing right so they'll keep doing it.

To see Golden Isles marker, go to:
https://activecaptain.com/X.php?lat=31.166176&lon=-81.415042&t=n&z=14

We at Mile Marker "0" AICW also very much appreciate your comments as well and want your stay here in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia and especially here in Olde Towne Portsmouth to be the best that we can offer. We encourage you to write and leave comments about your visit, our marinas and services available to you. This is how we can weigh our performance and see where we need to improve.

We're looking forward to seeing you again this spring and beyond. Let us know how we do. Have a great day!
Joe Elder
Mile Marker '0" AICW

A Backup GPS: BoatUS Smart Phone App Will Get You Home When Your Boat Won't Share Your Location

2011-02-15T11:55:00.000-05:00

ALEXANDRIA, Va., February 15, 2011 - When your boat breaks down on the water or runs out of gas, calling for an on-the-water tow is simple. The hard part, sometimes, is being able to tell the BoatUS towing fleet precisely where to find you, which can delay a safe tow home.

Now, Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) offers the only smart phone "App" that helps you call for a tow in a hurry and also adds helpful location and tracking features just for boaters, sailors and anglers. And you don't have to be a BoatUS or BoatUS Angler member to download the free App.
"The new BoatUS App can greatly improve towboat response times due to the accuracy of the GPS latitude and longitude technology built into these high tech phones," said BoatUS Vice President of Towing Services, Jerry Cardarelli. "The moment you hit the App's 'Call Now for a Tow' button, it automatically provides us with critical information before our crew even answers the phone. We think the App really adds a new layer of comfort and peace of mind."
Available for iPhones and Android phones, the App is available by going to www.BoatUS.com/app. Once uploaded to your smart phone and information is entered, the App is ready to go and gives boaters three choices: Call Now for a Tow, Share Your Location, and BoatUS Directory.

Call Now for a Tow
When "Call Now for a Tow" is activated, the App operates similarly to the roadside assistance operator system built into General Motors vehicles - data, including your boat's precise latitude and longitude, it's make, length, your emergency contact information, whether you have a working VHF radio aboard, and your smart phone number, are automatically provided to the BoatUS 24-hour dispatch centers before voice communication takes place. "The first thing we'll ask is if everyone onboard is safe, and then we'll use this critical information to arrange for a tow," said Cardarelli.
BoatUS members with the association's nationwide roadside Trailer Assist service can also take this App with them from the water to the road to summon help for a disabled vehicle or boat trailer (while towing). Trailer Assist will even winch your rig out of a slippery boat launch ramp when you're stuck in the mud.

Share Your Location
The "Share Your Location" feature makes it easy to privately send text messages or emails containing your latitude and longitude with a Google map link, alerting your friends to where the fish are biting, or where the big raft up is on Saturday afternoon.
Additionally, anytime the App is activated it automatically displays latitude and longitude at the top of the phone's display - regardless of cell coverage. This feature turns a smart phone into a backup GPS, essentially allowing boaters to use the latitude and longitude information to give to rescuers via VHF radio. (BoatUS reminds boaters that a VHF marine radio should be any boater's first choice for emergency communications.)
The BoatUS Towing App can also work well with your float plan, allowing you to easily text or email loved ones ashore, allowing them to "track" your trip on the BoatUS online Member Service Locator map. The App also gives smart phone users the option of seeing their own location on Google maps (when their cell phone's Internet connection is operable).

BoatUS Directory
Lastly, the "BoatUS Directory" feature allows boaters to join or renew membership with the association very easily over the phone, get a quote for BoatUS insurance, file an insurance claim, see BoatUS news online, or speak to the BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water.
For more information, go to BoatUS.com/app.

###

About BoatUS Towing Services:
Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) is the nation's leading advocate for recreational boaters providing over half a million members with a wide array of consumer services, including on-the-water towing assistance provided by TowBoatUS and Vessel Assist Pacific. Combined, these two towing fleets offer North American boaters the largest network of US and Canadian towing ports with over 290 locations and over 600 towing assistance vessels - more than double that of any other service provider.

Boaters, Anglers Will Now Need Extra Vigilance When Filling up at the Gas Station

2011-02-08T15:56:00.000-05:00

when E15 starts to appear in gasoline stations,
boaters must heed the warning on the pump and shouldn't even think about using it in a boat.

ALEXANDRIA, Va., February 7, 2011 - With the EPA's recent decision to allow the use of gasoline with up to 15% ethanol (E15) in 2001 and newer model cars and trucks,Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) <http://smtp.boatus.net/t?r=5&c=12206&l=1217&ctl=20384A:6FC1F9A8D816BD1214141FE9751FC738&>says that trailerboaters will need to remain extra vigilant when filling up their truck and trailered boat at the local gas station. That's because while E15 could be fine for the tow vehicle, it's not good -nor authorized by the EPA - for use with boats. A strong solvent, ethanol has been known to degrade marine fuel systems, damage engines, add safety concerns, and lead to expensive repair bills.

"When filling up at gas stations, boaters are used to pulling up to the pump and filling up the tow vehicle first, and then putting the same fuel nozzle into the boat," said BoatUS Director of Damage Avoidance Bob Adriance. "If that happens with E15, it could be a big mistake."

The EPA intends to put a warning on the pump - a small label with the exact wording yet to determined. "This is going to be a lot different from the choices offered to boaters today, where it's nearly impossible to misfuel gas or diesel engines, or where there are few consequences when choosing 87 octane over a higher 93 octane gasoline, for example," added Adriance.

All of this means that when E15 starts to appear in gasoline stations, boaters must heed the warning on the pump and shouldn't even think about using it in a boat. Here's why:

* *Going Lean isn't good:*In addition to hydrogen and carbon found in regular gasoline, ethanol also contains oxygen, which means less air (or conversely, more fuel) is required for combustion. The term "enleanment" is used to describe what can happen when there is too much air and not enough fuel. While most cars and trucks on the road today have closed-loop systems that car adjust to prevent enleanment, most boats have open-loop systems which do not, adding a greater risk of heat-related damage to your boat's engine with E15.

* *Compatibility questions:*Many components on a boat come in contact with ethanol-laden gasoline, including fuel lines, fuel tanks, fuel pumps, fuel injectors, carburetors, pressure regulators, valves, o-rings, and gaskets. The compatibility of these components with any blend greater than E10 is currently unknown. The failure of only one of these components in your engine could lead to failure or, worse, a fire or explosion.

* *A "good" thing isn't what it seems:*Phase separation is what happens when gas becomes over-saturated with water, leading the water/ethanol mixture to separate from the gasoline and fall to the bottom of the tank (where the engine's fuel pickup is located). However, since ethanol absorbs water more readily than gasoline and it burns harmlessly through the engine, adding more ethanol to gas will decrease the chance for phase separation. You'd think that would be a good thing, right?

However, as you increase the amount of water in ethanol, this mixture also becomes more acidic, increasing the potential to corrode metal, including aluminum fuel tanks.

Also keep in mind that once gas has phase separated, the only remedy is to completely empty the tank. While BoatUS believes fuel additives in general are a good thing, it has not seen evidence of any additive being able to restore phase-separated gas back to its original state.

* *Your warrantee won't help you:*Marine engines are only warranted for use with up to 10% (E10) ethanol.
For more information on ethanol, go toBoatUS.com/seaworthy/ ethanol.asp <http://smtp.boatus.net/t?r=5&c=12206&l=1217&ctl=20384C:6FC1F9A8D816BD1214141FE9751FC738&>.

Or, to ask a question or see a discussion on where to find ethanol-free gas at marinas, go the BoatUS ethanol message board athttp://my.BoatUS.com/forum

<http://smtp.boatus.net/t?r=5&c=12206&l=1217&ctl=20384E:6FC1F9A8D816BD1214141FE9751FC738&>.

We're All Blue at ActiveCaptain

2011-01-26T13:46:00.000-05:00

It's not our mood. It's our new hats! For 2011, recipients of the
much coveted ActiveCaptain hat will notice that their hats are
arriving in a new color. As the web site begins its 5th year, we
thought it was a good time for a change. The new hats are a
jaunty navy color and we think they look pretty nice.

One of our most frequently asked questions is, "Can I buy a hat?"
Well, sorry, but there is only one way to get a hat - you have
to earn it by getting 250 points for adding updates and reviews.
When marinas see that hat, they know you're a review writer and trust
us, it makes them act just a little nicer towards you.

After years of providing hats, we're now being asked a new question,
"Can I replace the hat I previously earned?"

This one made us realize that hats wear out. Or sometimes a spouse
wants one. We've heard stories of hats going overboard, hats left
behind, hats getting ruined from too much use (our favorite), and
other tearjerkers. Until now we've held firm. But who are we to deny?

We're happy to announce that very shortly we will have a way that
Captains with 250+ points can purchase a new hat. So you still need to
earn the status but now you can wear your hat without fear of loss or
destruction. Watch for the link in a future newsletter.

Visit ActiveCaptain's web store at Activecaptain home page.

The Salty Southeast Cruisers' Net and Waterway Guide Band Together to Promote "Fire Relief Fund"

2011-01-13T16:33:00.002-05:00

Fire at McCotters Marina, Washington, NC. Photo courtesy of Capt. Aubrey Moore, Washington Yacht and Country Club

The Salty Southeast Cruisers' Net and Waterway Guide Band Together to Promote "Fire Relief Fund" In Response to Dramatic Fire at McCotters Marina (Washington, NC)Yes, cruising friends, I know you just heard about this from me some 48 hours ago, but today we have news of a unique partnership to help those affected by this tragic event. Please read the joint Waterway Guide - SSECN announcement below.

Waterway Guide and the Salty Southeast Cruisers' Net, the two most trusted names. First at McCotters Marina Link to article on Water Guide and the Salty Southeast Cruiser's Net. for Southeastern USA cruising information, have joined forces to help those who lost so much, and gave so much, during the recent, dramatic fire at McCotters Marina in Washington, North Carolina. Those of you who have not yet heard about this tragic event can learn more from the Waterway Guide Discussion Board at: Waterway Guide discussion board

You can also link to this article from the home page of the Cruisers' Net at: Cruiser' Net

There were heroes aplenty in this tragedy, many of them fellow cruisers. A host of live-aboards lost everything they own, and others lost vessels that had undergone years of restoration work. The Red Cross is currently housing some of the affected cruisers at the local Days Inn in Washington, NC, but that offer of lodging will run out soon. With the North Carolina coast in the firm grip of old man winter, these brother and sister cruisers need our help!

Remains of the hulls of multiple boats after the fire.

So, in the spirit of the long standing tradition of cruisers helping cruisers, Waterway Guide and the Cruisers' Net are now jointly sponsoring a "Fire Relief Fund" to aid the 26 boat owners whose vessels were either totally destroyed or heavily damaged, and McCotters Marina, which lost a goodly portion of its dockage. At last report, the entire marina was still considered a "Haz-Mat" area, and no one was being allowed
back aboard their vessels.

Waterway Guide and the Cruisers' Net will jointly collect funds until 2/28/11. At that time, we will distribute all the collected funds equally to the affected boat owners, and a share to McCotters Marina. To get the ball rolling, Waterway Guide and the Cruisers' Net jointly pledge $300.00 to the Fire Relief Fund!

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE SSECN - WATERWAY GUIDE FIRE RELIEF FUND,
please send a check for any amount, made out to the "SSECN - Waterway Guide Fire Relief Fund," to:SSECN - Waterway Guide Fire Relief Fund
P. O. Box 67
Elon, NC 27244-0067

While checks are easier for us to process, you can also contribute via credit card by calling 336-266-1369. Please have your credit card #, expiration date, security code, and the amount you want to contribute, ready!

Thanks in advance to everyone who decides to help. Our fellow cruisers are counting on us, so don't delay!

Claiborne Young
Salty Southeast Cruisers' Net
CruisingWriter@CruisersNet.net mailto:CruisingWriter@CruisersNet.net
Cruisers' Net website.

Chuck Baier
Waterway Guide
cbaier@waterwayguide.com mailto:cbaier@waterwayguide.com
Waterway Guide website:

*Please donate generously. I can speak first hand what it is like to lose everything when our store Skipjack Nautical Wares & Marine Gallery together with our second floor residence was destroyed by an adjacent church fire. We would not have made it if not for the generous assistance from all of the wonderful people here in Hampton Roads and beyond! Please forward this message to all of your boating friends.

Scottish Walk, Step Lively to Welcome a New Year

2010-12-30T01:16:00.000-05:00

Participants clad in tartan and period dress from centuries past processed through the streets of Portsmouth to the sound of bagpipes and drums as a part of last year's annual Olde Towne Scottish Walk. (Amanda Lucier | File Photo The Virginian-Pilot)

The Virginian-Pilot
© December 30, 2010

By Joy Vann
Correspondent

Pull on your winter woolies and get ready to ring in the New Year Scottish-style with the 13th annual Olde Towne Scottish Walk in Portsmouth on Friday.

Revelers will gather at the corner of Queen and Washington streets for an old-fashioned holiday parade.

Founder and organizer Susan Cocke said this Scottish Walk was inspired by her family’s participation in Olde Towne Alexandria ’s Christmas Walk, which marked its 40th anniversary the first weekend of December. It’s based on the Scottish New Year’s Eve tradition called Hogmanay, a celebration of friends, family, hospitality, thanksgiving and well-wishing.

13th Annual Olde Towne Scottish Walk

Cocke started Portsmouth’s Scottish Walk in 1998, and she expects more than 2,000 people to participate. The event takes months of planning.

“There is much involved with contacting people outside of the area who come as tourists for this. We have people from California; Toronto; Canada; Washington, D.C.; and Baltimore who come every year,” she said. “ The musical pub/shop crawl that follows the event is the most fun, and needs more planning as musicians are asked to volunteer and coordinate with venues.”


The Olde Towne Scottish Walk is based on the Scottish New Year’s Eve tradition called Hogmanay, a celebration of friends, family, hospitality, thanksgiving and well-wishing.

Participants will include Boy and Girl Scouts of America, church communities, dog walking groups, Scottish societies and musicians, including local and regional pipers and drummers. A highlight will be the singing of Robert Burns’ “Auld Lang Syne” accompanied by bagpipes.

Walkers can rest their feet at shops and restaurants after the parade when free Scottish music will be performed at venues including Roger Browns, Baron’s Pub, Griff’s, Gosport Tavern and Montgomery Grill. Cocke said that participating businesses such as Skipjack Nautical Wares will offer free cookies and cider.

The evening will be capped off with a lighted boat parade on the waterfront. Cocke said that wraps up the formal event, but folks will then likely go to restaurants or private houses to count down the year.

Cocke, who is “partly” Scottish, said she organizes the walk and boat parade as a display of gratitude.

“This is my gift to the city and merchants to thank them for their service in the past year and wish them success in the year to come – per tradition.”

Joy Vann, joyvann@cox.net

Merry Christmas and A Happy New Years to You From Skipjack

2010-12-22T06:53:00.000-05:00

First winter snow in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.

New Marine Paintings by J. Robert Burnell: Exhibit Opens December 3, 2010 at Skipjack

2010-11-30T05:12:00.000-05:00

"Winona Morning" watercolor on paper by J. Robert Burnell

Portsmouth artist J. Robert Burnell grew up around the water in a family of watermen, and sailing his own boat since he was ten years old. He has sailed on nearly every type of workboat on the Chesapeake Bay. It's no wonder that Burnell's love of the water reflects so naturally in his marine paintings.

You won't have to go far to see one of the largest collections of Burnell's marine art all in one exhibit. Over 20 new acrylic and watercolor paintings by J. Robert Burnell will be on display and for sale in the 'foyer gallery' at Skipjack Nautical Wares & Marine Gallery at One High Street in Olde Towne Portsmouth. You will also be able to preview his nautical artwork on Skipjack's web gallery in conjunction with the show opening.

The exhibit opens Friday, December 3, 2010 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. during Olde Towne Portsmouth Virginia's monthly 'First Friday' event. The exhibit runs through January 25, 2011.

"Headin Home" acrylic on canvas by J. Robert Burnell

Award-winning artist J. Robert Burnell is recognized for his vivid depictions of life on and around the Chesapeake Bay. The subject is his favorite - each piece open and honest, providing a unique understanding of its mood and people.

One of the keys to Burnell's sucess on the canvas is the work he does outside the studio. Burnell believes in details. They are a reflection of his work. He has amassed a library of thousands of slides and photographs of work boats to which he constantly refers to for accuracy of detail.

Among his favorite subjects are the working boats and marine scenes of New England and the Maritime Provinces of Canada. He is equally conscientious of historical correctness, researching every object’s time, place and use. Each piece open and honest, providing a unique understanding of its mood and people.

About the Artist - J. Robert Burnell

"Evening Tide" watercolor on paper by J. Robert Burnell

Burnell began studies in architecture at Georgia Institute of Technology, studied printmaking at Old Dominion University, and participated in independent studies with John Pike, Edgar Whitney, Ed Betts, Don Stone, Rex Brandt, Robert Bateman and George Post.

From 1972 to 2002, Burnell was an instructor of watercolor painting at Tidewater Community College in Portsmouth, and has led summer workshops in watercolor and acrylic painting for over 30 years. He is a member of the American Society of Marine Artists and is listed in Archibald’s Dictionary of Sea Painters.

During his career, J. Robert Burnell has won numerous art awards including eight “Best in Show.” He has been honored with solo museum exhibitions at The Courthouse Galleries in Portsmouth and the Reedville Fisherman’s Museum, and group shows at the Rawls Museum Arts and Virginia Lifesaving Museum.

In addition to museum shows, Burnell had annual solo exhibitions at Atlantic Gallery in Washington D.C. during its operation. Other gallery exhibitions of his work have been offered by River Gallery in Chesapeake, VA., Cudahy’s Gallery in Richmond, VA., Turtle Creek Gallery in Dallas, TX., and Vincent Hester Gallery in Portsmouth, VA,. His work is also shown in the Maritime Gallery at Mystic Seaport, Mystic, CT., and Skipjack Marine Gallery in Portsmouth, VA.

His work is included in several museum and major corporate collections. Among them are the National Air and Space Museum of the Smithsonian Institution, Old Ebbitt Grill (Clyde’s Restaurants, Inc.), Branch Bank & Trust, Inc., Towne Bank, Bank of America, Inc., Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters, Nature Conservancy of Virginia, Bons Secours Health Systems, Inc. and Leesylvania State Park.

He was selected to create the signature painting for OpSail 2000, for the Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race in 2002, and three times for Norfolk’s Harborfest. Additionally, his work was selected for exhibition in the 2007 Mystic International at the Maritime Gallery of Mystic Seaport Museum.

When Robert Burnell is not painting boats, he continues to maintain and sail one of his own. You just might see him out on the Elizabeth River.

Colonel Crawford's Holiday History Tour Brings Life to Olde Towne Portsmouth

2010-11-25T06:19:00.000-05:00

By David Cartier
'A New Day in Olde Towne'

This holiday season, take a walk through the streets of Olde Towne Portsmouth, with one of Colonel Crawford’s Holiday History Tours.

You'll learn a lot about Portsmouth and it's a great way to stroll through Olde Towne and see the beautiful holiday decorations.
The Holiday History Tour starts in December 1, 2010. It's a little piece of Portsmouth Virginia's history that brings the holidays to life.
The 'Holiday History Tour' is a 75 to 90 minute stroll through the history, homes and hearts that created the “faire towne” of Portsmouth. It covers approximately one mile of the historic district in Olde Towne. Prepare to be educated and delighted with this walking production, which “is never quite the same!”
So who exactly is Colonel William Crawford? Not much has been written about the Colonel’s personal life, but here is what is known about the founder of Portsmouth. Crawford was a wealthy merchant and ship owner who, at various times, held office as the Norfolk County presiding court judge, high sheriff, militia lieutenant colonel, and representative of the House of Burgesses. Because of his militia service, he is frequently referred to as “Colonel Crawford”
The Colonel established the City of Portsmouth in 1752 upon 65 acres of land on the Elizabeth River that were a part of his extensive plantation.
Colonel Crawford’s vision for Portsmouth still lives on – 258 years later.

Colonel Crawford leads a tour through Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia

Today, there is a different Colonel Crawford that strolls through Olde Towne Portsmouth. Colonel William Crawford is a character created and performed by Eric Price while under contract with the City of Portsmouth in commemoration of its 250th birthday. Based on Portsmouth’s real-life founder, the Colonel is well versed in all things colonial and, of course, all things Portsmouth. After the celebration, Col. Crawford stayed to educate and entertain the citizenry of “Faire Portsmouth”, as well as visitors from her neighboring cities and places beyond.

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.
Walking tours will be conducted Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday starting at 7:00 p.m. and will depart from the lobby of the Renaissance Portsmouth Hotel & Waterfront Conference Center at 425 Water Street. Walking Tours are limited to 40 guests.

Advance Ticket prices are: Adults $10.00 / two for $15.00. Students & Seniors $8.00 / two for $15.00. With a Military I.D., Buy One Get One Free. Children 8 and younger – FREE.
Tickets can be purchased on the day of the tour with Col. Crawford.
Tours continue through December 23, 2010. Dress appropriately for the weather. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. Group tours and private events prevail.

Group 'Walking Tours' Available
Group tours with Colonel Crawford are available any day and time with ten or more advance reservations. “Over the last few years, we have done a number of group tours", states Price.   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, visit Colonel Crawford & Company at www.oldetownetheatricals.com.

DVD Video “PORTSMOUTH, VIRGINIA”- Jewel of the Elizabeth
Enjoy Colonel Crawford’s VIRTUAL Walking Tour of Olde Towne Portsmouth. The 60-minute DVD presentation was created as part of the 400th Anniversary Celebration of the founding of Virginia, in 2007. Follow Portsmouth’s 'Path of History' as you travel through time with Colonel Crawford from 1620 and the beginnings of “the oldest shipyard in America” through the Revolutionary and Civil Wars and beyond. Truly an adventure you will not soon forget.
See the DVD Trailer. You can also purchase the DVD's for a special price when you take the walking tour.
So, whether you wander around on your own, or take Colonel Crawford's tour, you’ll see an Olde Towne Portsmouth as a city that has preserved its character through three centuries of change.

About Portsmouth Virginia's History
Portsmouth history dates back to the settlement of Jamestown in 1607. Captain John Smith, while mapping lands surrounding Jamestown, sailed down the Elizabeth River and marveled at the lush beauty of the terrain.
The first settler on the land, which is now Portsmouth, was Capt. William Carver, who was issued a land grant in the mid-1600s. In 1672, Capt. Carver stabbed Thomas Gilbert and following Bacon's Rebellion in 1676, Capt. Carver was captured, recalled to England, was tried and hanged. His confiscated land was granted in 1715 to Colonel William Crawford, who in 1750 laid out a parcel of land into one hundred and twenty-two lots, commodious streets, places for a court house, market, and public landings for a town . . . and made sale . . . to divers persons . . . desirous to settle and build thereon speedily.
Naming the place Portsmouth, he presented it to Norfolk County. Portsmouth gets its name from the English naval port of Portsmouth, England.   In 1752 the general assembly 'enacted . . . that the said . . . parcel of land be . . . established a town . . . and retain the name of Portsmouth.' Thus, the The Colonel established Portsmouth in 1752. The 65 acres land on the Elizabeth River were part of Colonel Crawford's extensive plantation and were constituted as a town. The original town was enlarged in 1763, in 1811, and in 1899.
The town was laid out checkerboard style with 122 half-acre lots around its town square at High and Court streets. Streets were organized in a grid pattern with street widths alternating between 32, 50 and 100 feet. Each block or square was named for noted Virginians, Englishmen, or places in England or the United States.
Streets were named similarly. Many of the streets of the new town reflected the English heritage. High Street was named for the main commercial corridor in Portsmouth, England. It is 100 feet wide, with two narrow parallel streets of 32-foot widths (Queen and King streets), located to the north and south. Narrower streets served as alleys for High Street, facilitating the access to commercial buildings from the rear.
As you walk through our many period street names, such as London, Glasgow, and Court, to name a few, you can trace the roots of Olde Towne when William Crawford had the 65 acre plot laid out to imitate Portsmouth, England.   You will also find mounted plaques on imported English street lanterns that signify our many architecturally or historically significant houses. Because of its excellent location on the Elizabeth River, early Portsmouth was rich in waterfront commerce.

The town grew from the river inland. Col. Crawford built his home on Crawford Street, and most of the houses were built in the eastern portion of the city. In 1793 there were 300 homes and a population of 1700 people, and by 1806 there were 700 homes and 3,000 inhabitants. A rail line was built to handle the shipping of goods to and from the wharfs.
There is a statue of Col. Crawford (shown right) at TowneBank at High and Crawford streets.  A historical maker where Colonel Crawford's home was located is on the 100 block of High Street.
As a city is dedicated to preserving its heritage, Portsmouth presents an architectural view unrivaled in elegance and diversity. Colonial. Federal. Greek Revival. Georgian. and, Victorian structures – our Olde Towne Historic District – encompasses, in a single square mile, one of the largest collections of historic homes between Olde Towne Alexandria, VA., and Charleston, S.C.
The area north of High Street has been listed as the Olde Towne Historic District and is mainly residential. The style of the buildings vary by time period, with many Federal and Greek Revival houses located south and just north of High Street. As the turn of the 20th century, the Revival styles, such as Classical Renaissance, Gothic and Romanesque were incorporated into the construction of homes. However, it is during the Reconstruction period that Portsmouth built its grand churches, which dominate its skyline.
Located on High Street is Trinity Episcopal Church, one of the oldest (1761) of the city's lovely places of worship.   Among those resting in Trinity's churchyard is Commodore James Barron, the man who surrendered the Chesapeake to the British without much of a fight and who years later killed Navy hero Stephen Decatur in a duel. Next door to the cemetery is the Art Deco style Commodore Theater, named for the man who won the duel but lost his honor.
For more information on Portsmouth, Virginia, visit www.visitportsva.com. For the offical events website, visit www.portsvaevents.com.

Photo credits: Pictures of Colonel Crawford and Statue of Colonel Crawford by Clyde Nordan. Olde Towne residence photo courtesy of the City of Portsmouth. Colonel Crawford leading visitors by Joe Elder.

Alliance That Keeps ICW Working is Focus of Annual Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Conference Slated for Nov 18-19 in Portsmouth, VA

2010-11-17T16:40:00.000-05:00

Photo Caption: Gaining funds to dredge problem areas on the ICW, like this one in Georgia, is an annual but necessary chore for AIWA. (Photo credit: Troup Nightingale, TowBoatUS-Brunswick)

When: November 18 - 19, 2010

Where: Renaissance Hotel and Conference Center, 425 Water Street, Portsmouth, VA, 23704

What: The Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association (AIWA) will highlight the unique alliance that was created over a decade ago between recreational boaters and commercial navigation interests at its annual meeting, November 18 - 19 in Portsmouth, VA. It will also showcase how waterway users continue to collaborate to keep the waterway open while reinforcing its importance to the economy of the southeastern US and the nation.

A highlight this year is a luncheon presentation on last summer’s East Coast Ocean Policy Expedition with a team from Duke University that examined the waterway’s role as a transportation system as well as its identity with the fabric of life in the southeastern US. Led by Dr. Linwood Pendleton, ocean and coastal policy director at the university’s Nicholas Institute, the boating expedition covered the northern 200 miles of the Atlantic Intracoastal, from Beaufort, NC to Norfolk, VA, aboard Pendelton’s 38-ft trawler, Indicator.

Background: While tourism interests, the academic community and state and local governments recognize the waterway as an asset to the region, funds for dredging and maintenance are lacking. For that reason the meeting agenda includes a post-election update on the new Congress plus sessions covering the environment, tourism and coalition building. The conference begins on Thursday, Nov. 18 with a “State of the Waterway” presentation from the US Army Corps of Engineers, which is charged by Congress with maintaining the waterway.

Who: AIWA is the waterway’s principal advocate in the nation’s capitol and state houses. Its goal is to ensure the waterway remains a viable transportation link and economic engine, which has become an annual challenge.

For a full agenda and other information, go to Atlintracoastal.org. BoatUS — Boat Owners Association of The United States — is a charter member of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association.

First Friday Events at Skipjack & Riverview Gallery in Olde Towne Portsmouth

2010-11-04T08:21:00.000-04:00

Come and visit us this Friday evening at

Skipjack Nautical Wares & Marine Gallery

and Riverview Gallery

as part of Olde Towne Portsmouth's

First Friday Events!

Friday, November 5, 2010

5 p.m to 8 p.m.

"From Rockland to Hampton Roads"

November 5th to December 1st, 2010

featuring original coastal watercolor paintings by Virginia artist Shirley Cook.


"Eddies" watercolor by Virginia artist Shirley Cook.

Schrimshander Anthony Perry will be demonstrating

his delicate art form during

First Friday at Skipjack

Schrimshawed antique whales tooth by Anthony Perry

"Unforeseen Circumstances": A Novel by Debbiann Holmes

MEET THE ARTIST
Book signing with Portsmouth Novelist Debbiann Holmes

during First Friday at Skipjack

Finalist in the USA book awards for 2010 best book of the year in romance fiction!

ALSO

Riverview Gallery will be featuring the Norman Goodwin Art Show and ceramic sculpture show by students of B. Kobylinska and Kevin Turner on the guitar.

Skipjack Nautical Wares & Marine Gallery & Riverview Gallery will be open together for First Friday. Come and meander through both galleries during First Friday!

Light refreshments served.

Located at One High Street on the riverfront in historic Seaboard Railroad Terminal, Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia. For additional information, call Skipjack at 757-399-5012 and Riverview Gallery at 757-397-3207.

First Friday is a stage for local merchants & restaurants in Portsmouth's Historic Olde Towne and one of the city's most popular evening escapes. Held the first Friday of each month, Olde Towne Portsmouth's thriving arts & antiques community opens it's doors along the 12 historic squares of High Street located between Effingham Street and the riverfront where crowds of casual browsers as well as serious buyers come to each festive event to visit our fine art galleries, quality antique shops and unique specialty stores, some host receptions and art exhibition openings.

First Friday is held each month, rain or shine, year round. There is no admission fee for First Friday - participating galleries are open to the public.

Unforeseen Circumstances: A New Novel by Debbiann Holmes

2010-10-19T08:26:00.013-04:00

Debbi Holmes book "Unforeseen Circumstances" is available at Skipjack Nautical Wares & Marine Gallery

MEET THE ARTIST

Book signing with Portsmouth Novelist Debbiann Holmes

Friday, November 5, 2010

5 pm to 8 pm

Skipjack Nautical Wares & Marine Gallery

SIGNED COPIES BY THE AUTHOR AT SKIPJACK
Mystery and romance in modern-day Pirates of the Caribbean
New non-fiction takes off on the high seas
Available in:
6 x 9 Perfect Bound Softcover- $18.95
6 X 9 Dust Jacket Hardcover- $24.95

Cassandra’s comfortable life on board her boat in Virginia’s Portsmouth harbor is turned upside down when she falls for the captain of a visiting yacht. As the griping plot of Debbiann Holmes’ new novel, Unforeseen Circumstances (published by AuthorHouse) unfolds, Cassandra finds herself in the midst of secret pasts, mysterious men and modern day pirates.

Inspiration for the Book
Inspiration can come in many forms and can be different for many people. For Debbi, the inspiration came last year when she was struggling to find a good book to read with a mixture of romance, suspense and action. Her husband joking said, “Why don’t you write your own?” Debbi stated, “I don’t think he thought I would follow through on that comment!” Debbi eagerly got to work writing her book.

The storyline needed to have all the components she was looking for: romance, suspense and action. The idea came from stories she heard from “transients” that visit the dock, where she lives on her boat, about pirates in the Caribbean. She also had her nephew as a resource, who is in the Coast Guard, to provide stories about pirates coasting the Caribbean waters. She states, “I live on a boat so some of the experiences the characters have are interwoven from both my own experiences and fantasy.”

She had a co-worker read the book to get her opinion and see if was worth taking the time and expense to publish it. After her friend raved about the storyline and characters and encouraged her to follow through, Debbi began researching what it took to publish a book.

Patience is a Virtue

The good ole statement, “Rome was not built in a day”, is rule of thumb to keep in mind when writing and publishing a book. It takes both time and dedication to go through the process. Since she is a full time manager, the book was written at night and most weekends. “My husband found me disappearing from enjoying friends out on the dock, to being holed up in the bedroom, writing”, she states. Writing the story, for her, was the easiest part. She was able to finish the story in 3 months. Then it was time to design the cover, edit, and publish the book.

The cover was Debbi’s idea. She wanted to design a cover that would catch an individuals’ eye who is scanning the shelf for an interesting book to read. She utilized a photographer based on a referral and her daughter as the model. After 6 hours and over 80 different photo shots, she finally found the one that she imagined.

The road for editing was a little bumpy. She paid a student, who was working on their Masters in editing, to do the original editing. She didn’t think to go behind them to re-read the whole book. It went to the publishers and the first edition went out for people to buy. Luckily, only friends and family purchased the first edition and informed Debbi of misspellings, punctuation errors, and missing words. She immediately pulled it back out of print and had it re-edited by three different friends as well as going over the book herself an additional 2 times. “I have learned patience through this process and that has been the hardest thing for me”, she states. The second edition was completed and the book went back to printers. It is now available for purchase.

Upcoming Projects

Debbi is not finished pursuing her dream. She is currently marketing her first book and has a few book signings lined up. She is half way through the sequel to the first book, which many are anxiously awaiting. She also has 2 other ideas for books that are going to be a completely different story line from the first two. She wants to maintain the theme of boats and water in all of her books, making it her signature style.

Comments from Fans

I had the privilege of reading Debbi’s book, which I must say was simply amazing. I was so engrossed in the story line that I could barely put the book down. She did provide a little snip-it of the sequel in the back of the book and I choose not to read it because I wanted to be completely surprised. I, like many others, are eagerly waiting for the sequel to be finished.

“When I heard that Debbi had written a book, I went online that evening and purchased it. Just a few days later, I brought it to work and had Debbi sign it. I was very excited for her and showed the book to everyone I saw that day. I have to say, I really enjoyed reading Unforeseen Circumstances. The early references to local landmarks sparked my interest in the beginning. As I read on, I noticed that Debbi's descriptive story telling really made you feel as if you were right there with the characters. This book had a little bit of everything, Romance, Suspense and Action. There were times; I just couldn't put the book down. I am looking forward to the sequel.” By: Sharon Hughes

“The story is so intriguing; I immediately got immersed in the characters lives.
Debbi has such great way of making the reader feel that they are a part of the story. She's also a very descriptive writer. When she talks about the beaches and some of the downtown Portsmouth landmarks, I can completely envision myself there! By: Michelle Garrett

For more information on the book and Debbi please visit www.debbiannholmes.com.
You can also purchase Unforseen Circumstances at Skipjack's web store: Click here!

Tall Ship Lynx Makes First Portsmouth Waterfront Appearance at Schooner Days

2010-10-07T05:53:00.035-04:00

Privateer 'LYNX' will be participating in this year's Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race and Schooner Days in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia

The Lynx will make its' first Portsmouth waterfront appearance at Schooner Days from October 15 & 16, 2010. This two-day celebration offers numerous maritime-related activities, many are free to the general public.

The Privateer Lynx will join the over 40 vessels to sail from Baltimore to Portsmouth for the 21st Annual Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race. The race leaves Baltimore Maryland on October 14, 2010. Vessels start arriving on the Portsmouth waterfront sometime Friday October 15th - depending on wind conditions.
The Portsmouth waterfront from North Landing to beyond the High Street Landing will showcase over 40 schooners from local and distant ports and is considered the largest gathering of schooners in the world.

Schooner Days in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia October 15-17, 2010

Lynx, America's Privateer, represents the first ships to defend our freedom. She was designed and built to interpret a privateer or naval schooner from the War of 1812. The 114 ton Lynx is an interpretation of a privateer or naval schooner from the War of 1812. She is fitted with period ordnance and flies pennants and flags from the 1812 era making her one of the first ships to defend our freedom.

Color engraving of the original Baltimore Clipper USS LYNX.

The Lynx crew wear period dress and operate the ship in keeping with the maritime traditions of early 19th Century America. Lynx represents a “letter of Marque” Baltimore Clipper, considered to be among the finest privateer schooners ever built. Because of their swiftness and maneuverability, these ships were most effective as blockade runners and offensive weapons of war. Students and adults will recognize the War of 1812 as a significant element of American heritage and as a turning point in the development of our national identity. The educational early American history and science programs that are aboard Lynx meet specific State Standards.
The Privateer Lynx was hired to train the cast and crew of the hit movie Pirates of the Caribbean.
The Privateer Lynx will be offering Public Dockside Tours on Saturday and Sunday October 16 & 17 as part of Portsmouth’s '2010 Schooner Days’. Climb aboard and step back in time as you relive history and feel the adventure. On decks and below Lynx evokes the life, spirit, and atmosphere of a vanished age of sail.
‘Public Dockside Tours’ will take place Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 12 Noon. Once you step on board the Lynx, you'll be taking a giant step back in time. You will learn firsthand, the important role that Privateers played during the War of 1812. As you walk these decks of history, the crew of the Lynx will explain the Privateer concept and what the day-to-day life of a Privateer was like. Relax, stay as long as you like and investigate every part of this unique living history museum. This is truly an educational experience that is fun for children as well as adults. Once you've taken the dockside tour, you will surely want to sign on for a Adventure sail. A $5.00 donation is requested for the Dockside Tour.

A crew member prepares to fire a cannon aboard the Privateer LYNX.

Lynx is available for school field trips, private charters, team building, and receptions. Recipient of the American Sail Training Associations 2008 SAIL TRAINING PROGRAM OF THE YE AR AWARD and the 2008 TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE PERRY BOWL AWARD.
About the Priviateer Lynx
The Lynx Educational Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, non-partisan, educational organization, dedicated to hands-on educational programs that teach the history of America’s struggle to preserve its independence. For donation information, please contact the Lynx Educational Foundation at 866.446.5969. Their offices are located at 509 29th Street, Newport Beach, CA 92663.
For more information, go to www.privateerlynx.org

About Schooner Days
Schooner Days is a celebration of the world’s largest gathering of schooners along the waterfront of Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia. It's held this year in conjunction with the 21st Annual Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race from Baltimore to Portsmouth- racing to save the bay!

Schooner Days in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia October 15-17, 2010

Schooner Days was created in 2009 to commemorate Portsmouth’s rich maritime history with a variety of scheduled historical recreation events including demonstrations by shipwright artisans, maritime related musicians, costumed actors and even a hands-on building of a skiff! Other exhibits will be on hand to bring awareness for the need to preserve and improve the natural resources of the Chesapeake Bay.
For more information, go to www.schoonerdays.com

About the Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race
The Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race (GCBSR) was founded to promote public awareness of the Chesapeake Bay's maritime heritage and to encourage the preservation and improvement of the Chesapeake's natural resources.

Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race from Fells Point, Baltimore, Maryland 127 nautical miles down the Chesapeake Bay to Portsmouth, Virginia.

Proceeds of the race are donated to one or more charitable organizations involved in conservation of the natural resources of the Chesapeake Bay. To date, $137,624 has been donated to support children's education programs of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.
The race begins in Fells Point, in Baltimore, Maryland, and ends 127 nautical miles down the Chesapeake Bay in Portsmouth, Virginia. Entry is open to all schooner-rigged vessels.
More than 40 schooners are participating in this year's 21st annual race.
For more information, go to www.schoonerrace.org

The 'Atlantis' lands in Olde Towne

2010-10-02T01:51:00.001-04:00

The premier week of the move "Atlantis Down" will be shown in Olde Towne Portsmouth at the Commodore Theater.

October 1-7, 2010

Portsmouth’s High Street was closed to traffic Friday night as limousines rolled up to the Commodore Theater, klieg lights illuminate the skies, and stars tread the red carpet.

The occasion was the premiere of the science-fiction thriller “Atlantis Down,” filmed, spaceship and all, in Hampton Roads and the Outer Banks of North Carolina. The cast, headed by lead actor Michael Rooker, will parade. Parties followed. The movie will play for a week.

Executive producer Ethan Marten is a filmmaker and a showman. He acknowledges that it’s a big event for a little movie that doesn’t yet have a distributor and was made, according to his only budgetary statement, “for less than $1 million.”

Still, everyone has gotten on the premiere bandwagon, from the Italian Embassy in D.C. (honoring the film’s director) to the local Filipino community (honoring the movie’s leading lady) to the Virginia Film Commission (which contributed a grant to get it made) and proclamations from Virginia Beach and Portsmouth officials (where most of the film was shot).

About half the film was shot at First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach. Sets built at Studio 463 on Court Street in Portsmouth, just blocks from the site of the premiere, served for shooting interiors. One scene, depicting a desert wasteland, was shot in Kill Devil Hills in North Carolina.

The movie, set in 2025, begins in space. The shuttle Atlantis has become a private taxi between space stations. Rooker, whose breakthrough came as the title role in “Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer” in 1986, plays an alien who challenges a young astronaut to a game of chess. It becomes a psychological battle, pitting reality vs. illusion.

Marten and his family, particularly his father, have a history of ambitious film projects in the area. The Marten family built and managed Atlantic Film Studios, billed as Virginia’s first full-service motion picture studio. Ethan Marten founded 2nd Story Theater in the Ghent area of Norfolk. He became friends with Italian director Max Bartoli four years ago when both had award-winning films in the New York International Independent Short Film Festival – Bartoli for “Ignotus” and Marten for “Samaritan.”

A little more than a year ago, Bartoli, now located in Los Angeles, called Marten about a script called “Atlantis Down.” Marten encouraged him to bring the production to Hampton Roads.

“The script promised to be both entertaining and thought-provoking, and I could see how the whole thing could be filmed locally,” Marten said.

The two took the project to the Virginia Film Commission and got a governor’s grant.

“We had to be very time-conscious,” Marten said, “so it was a blessing that we learned that First Landing State Park could double for desert, tropical rain forest and swamps, just by moving the camera a bit.”

Six sets, including the spaceship, were constructed inside a building that was formerly a Masonic temple, built in the 1890s on Court Street in Portsmouth.

Rooker plays both father and alien. The actor has appeared in a variety of films that range from “Mississippi Burning” to “Sea of Love,” “JFK” and “Days of Thunder.” His role in “Atlantis Down” is ambiguous. He appears to be a father who punishes his young son severely for losing at chess. But he might not be a bad guy – just one who is trying to teach his son not to give up. The audience is asked to choose.

The cast includes local actresses Pamela Good, who plays the mother who may have died of cancer, and Kera O’Bryon as an astronaut. She is a veteran of local theater, including the musical “Guys and Dolls.” Other Hampton Roads cast members are Travis Quentin Young as the young astronaut and Darla Grese.

Hollywood personages that flew in for the premiere include cast members Dean Haglund (of “X-Files”) and Greg Travis of “Starship Troopers” and “Showgirls.”

“Atlantis Down” plays for a week (October 1-7) nightly at 7 p.m. and at 2 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday. Students with an ID will be admitted free on Monday. Fifteen percent of proceeds from Tuesday and Wednesday’s screenings go to Operation Homefront.

On screen, it’s something like “Twilight Zone Meets Star Trek.” Off screen, it’s a great deal of partying.

Here's a link to the Commodore Theatre- http://www.commodoretheatre.com/index.php

THE COMMODORE THEATRE is a luxuriously restored 1945 Art Deco style motion picture theatre presenting first run films with a fine dining restaurant within the main auditorium. 421 High Street in Olde Towne Portsmouth, VA 23704 (757) 393-6962. Just a short walk from the marinas and the High Street basin.

The NEW "Unofficial" Boaters Guide to Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.

2010-09-08T01:08:00.008-04:00

Welcome to Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia

Welcome to Olde Towne Portsmouth. Virginia's quaint historic seaport.

We love boaters and we hope that you are planning to visit us while traveling the ICW. Olde Towne Portsmouth is an historic seaport conveniently located at Mile Marker Zero of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway and we have the deepest natural harbor anywhere.

Buoy number 36 is mile marker "0" on the Intracoastal Waterway is located on the Elizabeth River between downtown Norfolk and Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.

The "unofficial" boaters guide to Olde Towne Portsmouth, mile marker "0" Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway

State law (no pump-out facility or electricity) prohibits Portsmouth from making its two basins or landings (High Street Landing and North Landing) officially available to overnight stays. But the landings are perfect
for tying up and enjoying the many great shops, restaurants and attractions in town. We also have 2 great marinas on each side of downtown Portsmouth waterfront: Tidewater Yacht Marina and Ocean Marine Yacht Center, both of which have transient slips and are conveniently located in walking distance to the many historic sites and museums, downtown shopping and numerous "chef owned" restaurants. You can also ride the downtown Portsmouth "LOOP" bus for FREE with numerous stops through downtown Portsmouth and even to the local Food Lion for groceries and other necessaries before continuing your journey on the ICW. This is one of your last accessible opportunities to replenish your coffers for 100's of miles with exception to the occasional convenience store.

We have 2 great marinas on each side of
downtown Portsmouth, Virginia: Tidewater Yacht Marina and Ocean Marine Yacht
Center, both of which have transient slips

If there is a piece of info we have overlooked, let us know! We intend the “unofficial Boater’s Guide” to be updated regularly. Write us at askus@skipjacknauticalwares.com

Skipjack Nautical Wares and Marine Gallery storefront
is located on the Elizabeth riverfront in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia, just slightly south of mile marker "0" and next to the High Street basin.

Welcome!

You can pick up a FREE copy of the "Unofficial" boaters guide at Skipjack nautical Wares & Marine Gallery located at One High Street (next to the High Street basin,) or download a copy here.

Earl Advancing on US Coastline

2010-08-31T16:52:00.002-04:00

Boat Owners Group Says 2008 Hurricane Has Lesson for Boaters

Hanna's Rains - Not Surge - Damaged Hundreds of Boats

ALEXANDRIA, Va., August 31, 2010 - Four days before 2008's Hurricane Hanna struck the South Carolina coast and ran up the eastern US seaboard, she was downgraded to a tropical storm. But that still didn't stop the damage to hundreds of recreational boats deluged by the storm's intense rains. And with Hurricane Earl now forecast on a parallel course just eastward of Hanna's old track, Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) is again urging boaters from the Mid-Atlantic to New England to protect their vessels from the forecasted heavy precipitation.

"Normally it's a hurricane's storm surge and high winds that cause the most damage to recreational boats," said BoatUS Director of Damage Avoidance Bob Adriance. "But a hurricane doesn't have to score a direct hit to sink boats. Heavy rains can cause significant damage, especially with boats stored on lifts, or those stored in the water that have their scuppers or drain holes clogged by leaves or other debris."

Adriance says boaters should be prepared to remove boats from lifts and store them in a safe area and ensure drains remain clear and any drain plugs are removed. Or, if your boat is stored in a slip it's a good idea to add extra dock lines and chafe protection. With any boat, windage such as sails or biminis should be removed.

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

The website offers easily downloadable storm planning materials, including a hurricane preparation worksheet, an in-depth Guide to Preparing Boats and Marinas for Hurricanes, and checklists for what to do before and after a hurricane strikes. Sample hurricane plans for boat and yacht clubs, as well as up-to-the-minute storm tracking tools with live satellite images are also offered. Marina and yacht club managers also have the free 24-page What Works, A Guide to Preparing Marinas, Yacht Clubs, and Boats for Hurricanes available, which shares success stories as well as failures of dozens of facilities that have experienced a hurricane over the last two decades.

While the safest location for a boat during a storm is on land, boaters may also want to ask their insurer if their policy offers help in paying for the cost of a storm-related haul-out. Boat owners seeking the services of a professional delivery captain to move a vessel to a safe location can go to the online BoatUS Captains Locator at .http://www.boatus.com/procaptains/

For more information, go to http://www.boatus.com/Hurricanes/

Olde Towne First Events

2010-08-30T07:04:00.004-04:00

FirstEvents - Olde Towne Portsmouth

First Friday in Olde Towne

Held the first Friday through Sunday of each month, Olde Towne Portsmouth's business community opens it's doors along High Street between Effingham Street and the riverfront. Events and activities include Arts to Antiques Flea Market, free museum admission, exhibit openings and art afternoons, and a lot more.

September 3rd, 2010

First Friday in Olde Towne 5 - 8 p.m.
12 Historic Squares of High Street

Lady Antebellum in concert

NEED YOU NOW is the title of Lady Antebellum’s second album, lifted from its leadoff track, which explores the desperate longings that make separated lovers yearn to reconnect in the wee small hours of the morning. But that “need you now” mantra isn’t just a refrain that exes leave on each other’s answering machines in the middle of the night. That message could just as easily serve as an SOS sent out to the group from fans and the music industry.
Showtime: 8:00 PM at the nTelos Wireless Pavilion
• Click here for concert details and ticket information

September 4th, 2010

Olde Towne Antiques to Flea Market

The Olde Towne Antiques to Flea Market Conveniently located in the Middle Street Garage at the corner of Middle & London streets and is held year round, rain or shine on the first Saturday of each month. Gates open at 10 a.m. and close at 2 p.m. Always Free Admission & Free Parking!

757-405-3500

Olde Towne Farmers Market

Olde Towne Portsmouth Farmer's Market 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Located on the corner of High and Court Street in front of the Courthouse Galleries Museum. Items for sale include fresh seasonal produce, flowers, plants, canned goods, jams, breads, honey and more. Check out the Portsmouth Farmer's Market Blog for the latest news.

Annual Labor Day Sidewalk Sale
Olde Towne Portsmouth
10am - 5pm

High Street corridor

Bargain hunters can expect to find treasures from a huge variety of merchandise on sale all along High Street in Olde Towne Portsmouth as the merchants take to the sidewalks. The event, held the last five years over Labor Day weekend, has proven so successful that it has become an annual event. Vendors selling jewelry, artwork and other interesting items will be part of the sale. Come enjoy antiques, art galleries and restaurants throughout the day.

September 5th, 2010

First Sunday Breakfast, Brunch, or Lunch Participating Restaurants: A Taste of Culture, Brutti's, The Coffee Shoppe, The Deck, Flagship, Foggy Point Bar & Grill, Gosport Tavern, Logan Raye's Key West Grille, Longboards, Olde Towne Bakery & Cafe, Paddy O'Brian's, Starbucks, Starboards, Stove.

40th Annual Seawall Art Show

2010-08-08T09:25:00.001-04:00

Top Art Buyers' Event
Portsmouth Art Show Expects Big Crowd

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 28th and 29th. High Street and the waterfront will be hosting the 40th 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.

According to the review of the 2008 Seawall show in Sunshine Artist (the national trade publication which covers this kind of show), you can expect to see a lot of art-savvy buyers. According to the reviewer, "most come to buy and not just kick tires." Earlene Lampman, one of the volunteer organizers and Artist Liaison for the show, estimates a crowd of about 15,000 visitors to the show this year.

Saturday, August 28, 2010 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday, August 29, 2010 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Admission to the show is free, as is the street parking on the weekend. Boaters can also dock in the High Street and North Landing basins or stay overnight at Tidewater Yacht Marina or Ocean Marine Yacht Center
Aside from works for sale by nearly 100 artists, the show also features a student art show, entertainment, and food. Artists vie for many thousands of dollars in awards gathered from exhibitor fees. The show is run by volunteers, and is supported by the Portsmouth Museum and Fine Arts Commission.

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.

Coast Guard Day Starts Portsmouth's Celebration

2010-07-27T03:10:00.014-04:00

By David Cartier
"A New Day in Olde Towne"

On August 4th, the City of Portsmouth kicks off a five day celebration - Portsmouth's 'Coast Guard City Celebration'. The event is to honor the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard and celebrate the City's elite status as a 'Coast Guard City'. Portsmouth is one of only nine cities in the country to receive the designation from the U.S. Congress.

It is no coincidence that the event starts on August 4th. August 4th is the 220th birthday of the U.S. Coast Guard.

The Opening Ceremony takes place at High Street Landing on Wednesday August 4, 2010 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Activities include: Color Guard; National Anthem, Aircraft Fly-over, Band/Singers, Speakers from United States Coast Guard and government dignitaries at High Street Landing.

August 4 is celebrated as Coast Guard Day to honor the establishment on that day in 1790 of the Revenue Cutter Service, forebear of today's Coast Guard, by the Treasury Department. On that date, Congress, guided by Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton, authorized the building of a fleet of ten cutters, whose responsibility would be enforcement of the first tariff laws enacted by Congress under the Constitution.

The Coast Guard has been continuously at sea since its inception, although the name Coast Guard didn't come about until 1915 when the Revenue Cutter Service was merged with the Lifesaving Service. The Lighthouse Service joined the Coast Guard in 1939, followed in 1946 by the Bureau of Navigation and Steamboat Inspection. Finally, in 1967, after 177 years in the Treasury Department, the Coast Guard was transferred to the newly formed Department of Transportation.

Coast Guard Day is primarily an internal activity for active duty Coast Guard personnel, civilian members, reservists, retirees, auxiliary, and dependents, but it does have a significant share of interest outside the Service. Grand Haven, Michigan, also known as Coast Guard City, USA, annually sponsors the Coast Guard Festival around August 4. Typically it is the largest community celebration of a branch of the Armed Forces in the nation.

In addition to celebrating their own day every year, Coast Guard members also participate as equal partners in Armed Forces Day activities. Click here to learn more about the events for Portsmouth's 'Coast Guard City Celebration'.
Photo of Portsmouth Coast Guard courtesy of the United States Coast Guard.

The NEW Unofficial Boater's Guide to Olde Towne Portsmouth Virginia

2010-07-22T05:20:00.002-04:00

This is the “unofficial” Boater’s Guide for our great neighborhood, Olde Towne. “Unofficial” since any descriptions may be colored by our personal opinions as business owners and residents of Olde Towne – this is not an official publication of the City of Portsmouth. We have worked hard to provide information specifically useful to boaters and to do so as accurately as possible.

State law (no pump-out facility or electricity) prohibits Portsmouth from making its landings (High Street Landing and North Landing) officially available to overnight stays. But the landings are perfect for tying up and enjoying the many great shops, restaurants and attractions in town. We also have 2 great marinas on each side of downtown: Tidewater Yacht Marina and Ocean Marine Yacht Center, both of which have transient slips (see “Marinas” for more info).

We love boaters and we’re glad you’re here or coming here! Olde Towne Portsmouth is an historic seaport conveniently located at Mile Marker Zero of the Intracoastal Waterway and we have the deepest natural harbor anywhere.

You can pick up a copy of the "Unofficial Boaters Guide to Olde Towne Portsmouth" at Skipjack Nautical Wares next to the High Street basin or at the Starboard Coffee Kiosk (also located at the High Street basin)

You can also download the guide as a pdf. file by clicking on the link here.

If there is a piece of info we have overlooked, let us know! We
intend the “unofficial Boater’s Guide” to be updated regularly.
Write us at askus@skipjacknauticalwares.com.
Welcome!
– the gang at Skipjack Nautical Wares
(One High Street next to High Street Landing, facing the river!)
http://www.skipjacknauticalwares.com

Sharing the Bay

2010-07-19T07:30:00.001-04:00

By Nicholas Alley

We have all been there: a beautiful afternoon, you are drifting along, and that small dot on the horizon becomes a full-sized container ship bearing down on you at 25 knots and blasting his horn. As he passes close enough to you that you can hear the hum of the engines and see that the the draft marks really are six inches tall, you change your underwear, and ponder the age old question "Is there a better way to share our waterways with other vessels?"

The sad reality is that even in the age of modern electronics, collisions between vessels do occur, and close calls happen every day. Commercial vessels are growing larger and faster, and recreational vessels are growing more numerous every year. When collisions occur, every one losses. The recreational boater loses the boat and possibly his or her life, and the professional loses his or her license and livelihood.

Often the problem is one of communication and/or expectations. the ship, tug or barge, or passenger boat expects to be able to use the channels and have predictable behavior from the surrounding vessels. The recreational vessels expect to use the waterways without fear of being run over. The reality is we have to work together to make this happen.

Some helpful ideas:
1) Review and follow the rules of the road. This doesn't mean "red, right, returning" or "sailboats always have the right of way." The navigation rules of the road are explicit and apply to everyone. It is your responsibility to know and follow them. They are available at most nautical store and online at http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/

2) Be predictable. Make your course changes early and obvious. It is hard to avoid someone who is swinging back and forth so his lights look like a Christmas tree or who is headed straight at you and alters course at the last minute.

3) Communicate. Turn your VHF radio to channel 13 and 16. Many VHF radios have duel watch, so you can listen to both. Commercial vessels monitor channel 13 to make passing, overtaking, and meeting arrangements. They also make "security" calls to let others in the area know their location and intentions. Listen and you can learn a lot about the traffic in your area and impress your friends. It is much easier to stay out of the way of that tug if you know where he is headed. If you do call a vessel on channel 13, be concise and short, saying something such as, "I am the white sailboat with the blue awning southbound of Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse. I am planning to run outside the green buoys."

4) Don't assume. Don't assume that the other vessel sees you, has you on radar, will or can give way, can maneuver as well as you can, or isn't broken down.

5) Be understanding. What is the other vessel trying to do? How limited is its maneuverability? Tug boats towing can be run over or capsized by their barges. Ships take a long time to slow down and stop. Sailboats are restricted in what courses they can sail. Many boats have visibility problems. Consider what the other vessel is going through and what can do to avoid a bad situation.

6) Avoid the shipping lanes. Stay out of the main shipping channels unless you have to be there. Stay to the right or even run outside the buoy lines if you can. Cross the channels at right angles and as quickly as possible. Many shipping channels have auxiliary or secondary channels for small craft.

7) Read the chart. There are many areas that are particularly busy or dangerous and are marked as such, including pilot boarding areas, restricted traffic lanes, etc.

8) Avoid being "that guy." A) "The deep-draft sailboat" sailing down the middle of the shipping lane at four knots not hearing the ships calling him on the radio. B) "Rodney" roaring straight at you, passing five feet down the side and waiving hello as you roll to death. C) "I think I can make it" crossing ahead of another vessel so closely that you disappear beneath the bow. D) "The racer" holding your course until the last minute so you can get the wind shift as it bounces off the side of the ship. E) "Fish until I die" getting three more casts in before before moving out of the way of the tug bearing down on you.

Some other things to help:
Tugs and tows transiting the Chesapeake Bay generally run the "deep water" on the eastern shore. Commercial vessels will generally run straight line routes "point to point," such as Bay Bridge to Thomas Point, to #83 buoy, to #78 buoy, to Cove Point, Smith Point and along the 76 degree10' longitude line to Thimble Shoals and Norfolk.

About the Author: Nicholas Alley started his sailing career teaching at the Annapolis Sailing School in the early 1980s and has since operated traditional wooden vessels and sail training schooners and coastal tug boats on the Chesapeake and beyond.

Questions and Comments: Do you have a question that you would like to ask Nick ? A comment to add? Please E-mail to cjosephelder@gmail.com

Visit "Cruising the ICW to Mile Marker "0" homepage by clicking here

Portsmouth Plans Coast Guard City Celebration

2010-07-11T12:08:00.009-04:00

By David Cartier

A New Day in Olde Towne

This party has been in the making for almost 200 years. It's 'Portsmouth's Coast Guard City Celebration' from August 4 to 8, 2010.

Last December, then Rear Admiral Wayne Justice, Commander of the Fifth Coast Guard District and Portsmouth Mayor Dr. James W. Holley III made a joint announcement. The City of Portsmouth received the highly coveted designation of "Coast Guard City" from the United States Congress. The announcement followed a nomination on behalf of Portsmouth by then Admiral Thad W. Allen and the completion of a rigorous application review by the United States Coast Guard.

“For almost 200 years Coast Guard members and citizens of Portsmouth have forged a relationship that has stood the test of time,” said Rear Adm. Wayne E. Justice, Coast Guard’s 5th District commander.

This year, the City of Portsmouth has planned a five-day celebration to honor the men and women of the United States Coast Guard. The event kicks of on August 4th, a day celebrated as Coast Guard Day to honor the establishment on that day in 1790 of the Revenue Cutter Service, forebear of today's Coast Guard, by the Treasury Department. This year it is the 220th birthday of the United States Coast Guard. The event runs thru Sunday August 8, 2010.

Listed below are the events that will take place August 4 to 8, 2010 for Portsmouth's Coast Guard City Celebration:

Wednesday, August 4, 2010 - Coast Guard Day

VIP Breakfast at Naval Shipyard Museum
9:15 a.m. to 9:45 a.m

Opening Ceremony
10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Color Guard; National Anthem, Aircraft Fly-over, Band/Singers, Speakers from USCG and Government at High St. Landing

Thursday, August 5, 2010

57th Annual Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Seafood Outing
5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The area’s best and oldest networking event includes a seafood buffet, adult beverages, live music, and business exhibits. Held on the beautiful Portsmouth waterfront, the Seafood Outing is a half century old Chamber tradition. In 2010, this iconic event will be held in celebration of Portsmouth’s special designation as “A Coast Guard City”. Entertainment by Portsmouth's own More Cow Bell. Enjoy mixing business with pleasure and admiring the sunset too!

This is a event by the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce. Click here, for tickets information. Tickets: Chamber Members: $30 and Non-Members $40. For additional Information, contact Sarah Kingsley at skingsley@hrccva.com or at 757.664.2507.

O.A.R. in Concert 8 p.m.

Platinum selling recording group O.A.R. just announced their Summer Tour, which will bring their critically acclaimed live show to 24 cities. O.A.R., who are currently working on their forthcoming seventh studio album, will make much-anticipated returns to several venues across the country including nTelos Wireless Pavilion.

Fans will not only get to hear some O.A.R. favorites this Summer like the smash hit “Shattered,” “That Was a Crazy Game of Poker,” and “This Town” but they will also be treated to some brand new music from the band’s forthcoming seventh studio album.

Over the last several months O.A.R. has made stops in all five band members’ home towns to write their next album.

Ticket Prices: $33.00 advance; $35.50 day of show. This is a General Admission concert.

Present a military ID at the box office or any Ticketmaster outlet and receive $3.00 off gold circle and lawn tickets purchased. Click here, to purchase tickets through Ticketmaster.

Friday, August 6, 2010

FirstEvents Music and Entertainment on High Street
5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Evening includes a Crew Race (5:30 to 6:30) plus music and refreshments at High Street Landing.

First Friday in Olde Towne
First Friday is a stage for local merchants & restaurants in Portsmouth's Historic Olde Towne and one of the city's most popular evening escapes. Held the first Friday of each month, Olde Towne Portsmouth's thriving arts & antiques community opens it's doors along the 12 historic squares of High Street located between Effingham Street and the riverfront where crowds of casual browsers as well as serious buyers come to each festive event to visit our fine art galleries, quality antique shops and unique specialty stores, some host receptions and art exhibition openings. 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. First Friday is held each month, rain or shine, year round. There is no admission fee for First Friday - participating galleries are open to the public.

Opening of Inspired Forms Exhibit
5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Featuring artwork by J. Howard Johnson, Larry Johnson. Dr. Rod Taylor and Reggie Gist on the saxophone will perfom in the courtyard. Light refreshments will be served. Presented by the Courthouse Galleries, Corner of High and Court St., Portsmouth. 757.393.8543
http://www.courthousegalleries.com/

NOTE: Water Street will be closed from High St. to Parking Garage entrance at Admirals Landing Friday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday, August 7, 2010

Bike Tour
7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
From nTelos Wirelss Pavilion

High Street Landing Events
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Displays and entertainment including USO, Tamaro Foundation, Hampton Roads Naval Museum, Tidewater Maritime Living History Assoc., Coast Guard, Coast Guard Auxiliary, Sonshine Artists plus guided tours of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum and Lightship Portsmouth.Olde Towne Farmer's Market 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Olde Towne Farmer's Market
9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Located on Court Street, items for sale will include fresh seasonal produce, flowers, plants, canned goods, jams, breads, honey and more.

Olde Towne Antiques to Flea Market
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Conveniently located in the Middle Street Garage at the corner of Middle & London streets and is held year round, rain or shine on the first and third Saturday of each month. Always Free Admission and Free Parking!

First Responder Cook-Off
1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
At High Street Landing

24th Annual Gospelrama
3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Featuring: • Davis & the Mighty Stars • Gospel Violinist Eric Taylor • The New Golden Trumpeteers • The Word Singers • The Joys • The Daughters of the King …and many more. For more information, call 757.393.0318. Sponsored by HOPS (Helping Others Progress Successfully). The event takes place at North Landing (Water Stage).

Counting Crows in Concert

Counting Crows has sold more than 20 million records and received an Academy Award nomination for “Accidentally In Love” from the “Shrek II” soundtrack. The band and particularly lead singer Adam Duritz are renowned for the energetic, passionate nature of their live performances. They frequently extend and rewrite songs live, adding extra verses or alternate middle sections and/or endings, sometimes fitting most of another of the band's other songs into the middle of the first. No two concerts are alike, even if the set list remains the same.
Ticket Prices: $49.75 reserved Orchestra; $39.75 reserved Gold Circle; $25 general admission lawn.
There is a $3 military discount off Gold Circle and lawn tickets. Bring the family, children 12 and younger are free on the lawn with a paid adult admission. Click here, to purchase tickets through Ticketmaster.

NOTE: Water Street will be closed from High Street to Parking Garage entrance at Admirals Landing Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The Traffic Circle will be closed from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Sunday, August 8, 2010

Memorial Ceremony
11 a.m. to Noon
Color Guard; Pipe Band; Piper; Singers; Speakers at High Street Landing

About the Coast Guard City Program:
The Coast Guard City program recognizes the communities that support Team Coast Guard across the nation. A city or municipality earns the distinction of being named “A Coast Guard City” by making special efforts to acknowledge the professional work of the Coast Guard men and women assigned to their area.

Coast Guard Cities regularly reach out to Coast guard personnel and their families and make them feel “at home at their home away from home.” The cities efforts illustrate a longstanding and enduring relationship with an emphasis on considerations the community has made for the members of the Coast Guard family. The Coast Guard is pleased to recognize Coast Guard Cities - those cities that have extended so many considerations to the Coast Guard family and their dependents.

The 'Coast Guard City' designation was created a little over a decade ago. On November 13, 1998, a law was enacted that allowed the city of Grand Haven, MI, to formally be called “Coast Guard City, USA”. Grand Haven’s designation was based on their long history of extraordinary support for Coast Guard personnel assigned to the Grand Haven area. The law also provided for other cities to be similarly designated with a 90-day notice of intent from the Commandant to the two authorizing congressional committees.

Other cities include Eureka, CA; Mobile, AL; Morgan City, LA; Wilmington, NC; Newport, OR; Almeda, CA; Kodiak, AK and Rockland, ME. These cities have made special efforts to reach out and acknowledge the professional work of the Coast Guard men and women in their area. Until today, Rockland, Maine had the distinction of being the last city to receive this recognition. Their designation came in June 2008. With this prestigious designation, Portsmouth becomes only the ninth community in the country to become "A Coast Guard City."

Portsmouth, Virginia - A Coast Guard City

The City of Portsmouth, Virginia has received the highly coveted designation of "Coast Guard City" from the United States Congress.

Rear Admiral Wayne Justice, Commander of the Fifth Coast Guard District and Portsmouth Mayor Dr. James W. Holley III made a joint announcement on December 16, 2009. The announcement followed a nomination on behalf of Portsmouth by Admiral Thad W. Allen and the completion of a rigorous application review by the United States Coast Guard.
“For almost 200 years Coast Guard members and citizens of Portsmouth have forged a relationship that has stood the test of time,” said Rear Adm. Wayne E. Justice, Coast Guard’s 5th District commander. “We take great pride living in Portsmouth and look forward to many more years of prosperity with the new honorable status of Coast Guard City.” The shared history of Portsmouth and the Coast Guard dates back to 1820 when the Lighthouse Service anchored its first lightship off Craney Island. In 1870, the Lighthouse Service boat depot and buoy service was established where nTelos Wireless Pavilion at Harbor Center is now located, and in 1874 the Sixth Life Saving District was established in Portsmouth.
Naming Portsmouth an official ‘Coast Guard City’ is certainly a fitting tribute to the longstanding and special relationship that the city, its residents and the business community have with the United States Coast Guard. This designation will bring an understanding and appreciation of the invaluable contribution that the United States Coast Guard brings to Portsmouth, Hampton Roads and the Commonwealth of Virginia.
What makes Portsmouth's designation unique is that the city received the distinction on their first try. Special recognition should go to the hard work by the Mayor's ilitary Affairs Commission in submitting the application for this honor. Other cities have not been so fortunate. Rockland, ME had to go back to the drawing board and resubmit their request. Elizabeth City, NC has tried twice and has yet to receive the honor.

The City of Portsmouth is being recognized for its ongoing relationship and efforts with local Coast Guard units, including the Fifth District, Atlantic Area, Base Portsmouth and Sector Hampton Roads.

History of Coast Guard Day

August 4 is celebrated as Coast Guard Day to honor the establishment on that day in 1790 of the Revenue Cutter Service, forebear of today's Coast Guard, by the Treasury Department. On that date, Congress, guided by Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton, authorized the building of a fleet of ten cutters, whose responsibility would be enforcement of the first tariff laws enacted by Congress under the Constitution.
The Coast Guard has been continuously at sea since its inception, although the name Coast Guard didn't come about until 1915 when the Revenue Cutter Service was merged with the Lifesaving Service. The Lighthouse Service joined the Coast Guard in 1939, followed in 1946 by the Bureau of Navigation and Steamboat Inspection. Finally, in 1967, after 177 years in the Treasury Department, the Coast Guard was transferred to the newly formed Department of Transportation.
Coast Guard Day is primarily an internal activity for active duty Coast Guard personnel, civilian members, reservists, retirees, auxiliaries, and dependents, but it does have a significant share of interest outside the Service. Grand Haven, Michigan, also known as Coast Guard City, USA, annually sponsors the Coast Guard Festival around August 4. Typically it is the largest community celebration of a branch of the Armed Forces in the nation.
In addition to celebrating their own day every year, Coast Guard members also participate as equal partners in Armed Forces Day activities. For more information on the United States Coast Guard, go to http://www.uscg.mil/

About nTelos Wireless Pavilion
The nTelos Wireless Pavilion is an architecturally striking entertainment venue on Portsmouth's waterfront that has become a landmark and a premier regional attraction. Part of the lush five-acre Harbor Center Festival Park, the nTelos Wireless Pavilion is unlike anything in Hampton Roads - or anywhere else for that matter. With 6,500 seats, the nTelos Wireless Pavilion is large enough to attract a wide variety of acts, shows, and performers, yet intimate enough so that every seat is in a great location. The intimacy of this venue is one of its greatest assets.

There are a number of restaurants in Olde Towne to enjoy dinner or drinks before or after the concerts - within walking distance. If you need overnight accommodations, the Renaissance Portsmouth Hotel and the Governor Dinwiddie Hotel are within walking distance of Harbor Center.

For a unique concert experience, rent a boat slip from Ocean Marine Yacht Center (shown right) and dock right next door! Ocean Marine is conveniently located on the Elizabeth River, directly adjacent to the nTelos Wireless Pavilion. For information on boat slip rentals, contact Ocean Marine Yacht Center at 757.321.7432 or online at http://www.oceanmarinellc.com./
From July 8- July 17 Celebrate their 10th Anniversary Season with a Special $10 Lawn Ticket.

Tickets will be available at the box office, all Ticketmaster locations, charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000, and online through Ticketmaster.
The Box Office will be open Monday thru Friday 10am- 6pm, Saturday, July 10 from 10am- 9pm, and Saturday, July 17 from 10am- 2pm. The Box Office will be closed on Sunday, July 11.
Get your tickets at the Box Office! There will be no additional fees! If purchasing through Ticketmaster, additional charges will apply. Courtsey photos provided by nTelos Wireless Pavilion.

Tickets available at the box office, all Ticketmaster locations, charge by phone or online at http://www.pavilionconcerts.com/ or http://www.ticketmaster.com/ or charge by phone at 800.745.3000. Convenience charges will apply.
How to Purchase nTelos Wireless Pavilion Concert Tickets (Helpful Links)

Individual Concert Tickets
Season Tickets
Seating Chart
Local Ticketmaster Locations
Box Office Information

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
PLEASE NOTE: All shows are rain or shine. All dates, times, and artists are subject to change without notice. A facility and parking fee is included each ticket price. Additional Ticketmaster charges will apply.

How to Reach nTelos Wireless Pavilion nTelos Wireless Pavilion, 901 Crawford Street, Portsmouth, VA 23704. Phone: 757.393.8181, Fax: 757.391.3249. http://www.pavilionconcerts.com/

Become an nTelos Wireless Pavilion 'Fan'on Facebook or 'Follow' them on Twitter. For more information on events in Portsmouth, go to http://www.portsvaevents.com./

Be a Patriot this Fourth of July Weekend

2010-07-03T07:48:00.000-04:00

First Friday events: FREE. Antiques to Flea Market: Admission FREE. Olde Towne Farmers Market: Admission FREE. Portsmouth, VA. Museums: Admission FREE. Patriot Days Celebration at the Portsmouth Shipyard Museum: Admission FREE. Watching the Fourth of July fireworks aboard the schooner SPIRIT OF INDEPENDENCE: SPECTACULAR. Celebrating the Fouth of July weekend at Virginia's quaint historic seaport: PRICELESS! Be a patriot! Visit Olde Towne Portsmouth, VA.

FirstEvents - Olde Towne Portsmouth

2010-06-30T12:47:00.002-04:00

July 2nd, 2010

First Friday in Olde Towne 5 - 8 p.m.
12 Historic Squares of High Street

First Friday is a stage for local merchants & restaurants in Portsmouth's Historic Olde Towne and one of the city's most popular evening escapes. Held the first Friday of each month, Olde Towne Portsmouth's thriving arts & antiques community opens it's doors along the 12 historic squares of High Street located between Effingham Street and the riverfront where crowds of casual browsers as well as serious buyers come to each festive event to visit our fine art galleries, quality antique shops and unique specialty stores, some host receptions and art exhibition openings.
First Friday is held each month, rain or shine, year round. There is no admission fee for First Friday - participating galleries are open to the public.
Sponsored by the Olde Towne Business Association | 757-405-3500

FREE: Three Exhibits, Entertainment, and Light Refreshments at the Courthouse Galleries 5:00-8:00 p.m. Enjoy this free event with admission to three exhibits on view at Courthouse Galleries: 2010 Outdoor Sculpture, Trains & Transportation, and Fairytale Art: Illustrations from Children’s Storybooks • Wine and refreshments will be served • Live Dixieland Jazz Music by Swing-Time Jazz Ensemble lead by Larry Weintraub • Art Activities • Next door, the Museum Shop offers unique gift items for sale including locally made arts, crafts, and more • This event is in conjunction with the Olde Towne Business Association’s (OTBA) First Friday Series Presented by the Courthouse Galleries, Corner of High and Court St., Portsmouth
757-393-8543 | www.courthousegalleries.com

Olde Towne Portsmouth Farmer's Market 5-8 p.m. Located on the corner of High and Court Street in front of the Courthouse Galleries Museum. Items for sale include fresh seasonal produce, flowers, plants, canned goods, jams, breads, honey and more. Check out the Portsmouth Farmer's Market Blog for the latest news.

July 3rd, 2010

The Olde Towne Antiques to Flea Market Conveniently located in the Middle Street Garage at the corner of Middle & London streets and is held year round, rain or shine on the first Saturday of each month. Gates open at 10 a.m. and close at 2 p.m. Always Free Admission & Free Parking!
Sponsored by the Olde Towne Business Association | 757-405-3500

Olde Towne Portsmouth Farmer's Market 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Located on the corner of High and Court Street in front of the Courthouse Galleries Museum. Items for sale include fresh seasonal produce, flowers, plants, canned goods, jams, breads, honey and more. Check out the Portsmouth Farmer's Market Blog for the latest news.

Third Annual Patriot’s Day!

Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum, corner of High and Water Streets
Lightship Portsmouth Museum, London Slip (foot of London Street)
July 3, 2010, Saturday, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Fee: Free Admission
Registration: No registration required

As a part of our First Weekend Series, the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum and Lightship Portsmouth will be celebrating their third annual Patriot’s Day on Saturday, July 3rd, 2010. From 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, step back in time! Enjoy craft demonstrations, musical performances, games, military drill, food and fun! This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum in collaboration with the Portsmouth Museums. As with all our First Saturday programs, admission will be FREE to both the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum and Lightship Portsmouth! Presented by the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum, corner of High and Water Streets | 757-393-8591 www.portsnavalmuseums.com

July 4th, 2010

Boating and the July 4th Holiday: Does Alcohol Mix with Water?

2010-06-30T08:52:00.003-04:00

The Busiest Boating Day of the Year and Alcohol's Influence

ALEXANDRIA, Va., June 29, 2010 - The July 4th holiday is expected to bring record numbers of boaters, sailors and anglers to the water. Along with hot dogs and apple pie, alcohol will be on hand for many on this national day of celebration. Boat Owners Association of The United States(BoatU.S.) has three tips that can help ensure it's also a safe holiday for everyone aboard.

· Designated drivers are good - but don't forget your guests. "To use a designated skipper would seem like welcome advice," says BoatU.S. Director of Damage Avoidance Bob Adriance. "However, having a designated skipper aboard may suggest to everyone else that they are free to drink as much as they want, and that's the trouble."

The BoatU.S. insurance claims files don't lie -- statistics show that sober boating guests are much more likely to be injured on a boat than the captain and regular crew. Adding alcohol to the mix only increases the risk for injury.

Adriance says guests' lack of basic boating skills are the main reason. "Someone who boats infrequently may not be familiar with wakes, docking, or boarding, which increases their chances of falling overboard," he said. "Boat operators need to really ask themselves, how much attention can I devote to watching inebriated guests while trying to safely make my way home?"

· For the boat's operator, even small amounts of alcohol increase the risk of an accident. The July 4th celebrations mean many boaters will be running at night. The challenge is that small amounts of alcohol lower a boater's ability to discern moving objects, faint lights, and unlit objects on the water, and it also takes very little alcohol to affect a person's night vision. Glare from a masthead light or the moon can significantly impair night vision when blood alcohol levels are as low as .01%, or about half a beer.

Alcohol also affects peripheral vision. Even small amounts affect a person's ability to judge the speed and distance of an approaching boat -- all conditions expected on recreational boating's busiest traffic time of the year.

· Sun, wind and waves take their toll. On the holiday weekend many boaters, sailors or anglers will stay out all day. However, a few hours in the sun combined with the wind, motion, noise and vibration typically found aboard a boat can produce "boater's hypnosis," which reduces an operator's performance as much as alcohol would. U.S. Coast Guard tests found that an operator who has two beers and four hours of exposure to the elements can be expected to demonstrate the equivalent performance of a rested operator who has had six beers.

The best advice? "Know when it's time to call it a day and save the alcohol for when you are safely back home," said BoatU.S. Foundation Director of Boating Safety Chris Edmonston.

For more information on alcohol and boating, go to www.BoatUS.com/foundation/guide/trip_12.html. To see how some boaters faired in a test of operating a boat under the influence, visit www.BoatUS.com/foundation/Findings/new_alcohol_boating.html .

GIANT WAVE VS. BOAT

2010-06-30T08:19:00.002-04:00

Care to comment? Write to cjosephelder@gmail.com. Have a fun and safe 4th of July Weekend!

Comment from Kim Carver- Over a year ago I commented on this youtube video about how idiotic this man was for taking a two year old out to sea by himself. What was this guy thinking? And look how the rescue workers nearly die during the incident. One of the people in this helicopter chimed in - apparently the guys' sheets had fouled the prop and rudder and he'd completely lost steerage. Maybe he lost control of the sheets while changing diapers?

Comment from Linda Anderson- Ya know Kim.... I wondered about the child too. Perhaps it's good the economy has tanked for a bit. Too many idiots buying boats without any thought process (and many times training) as to the dangers at sea. Risking not only themselves but the lives of the rescuers. Seems to be more of that in the last ten years. I see that here in our own little harbors on the Great Lakes too. No experience, never crewed - buy a boat one day - sail across Lake Michigan the next. WTF?

Don't want to drive to nTelos Pavilion? Bring your boat instead!

2010-06-24T14:54:00.002-04:00

Enjoy nTelos Pavilion concerts at Ocean Marine Yacht Center

Rent a boat slip from Ocean Marine Yacht Center and dock right next door! Ocean Marine is conveniently located on the Elizabeth River in Olde Towne Portsmouth, VA, directly adjacent to the nTelos Wireless Pavilion.

For information on boat slip rentals, contact Ocean Marine Yacht Center at 757-321-7432 or online at www.oceanmarinellc.com.

Visit nTelos Pavilion's website for upcoming events at http://www.pavilionconcerts.com

23rd Annual Cock Island Race- June 18 & 19, 2010

2010-06-15T04:53:00.007-04:00

Starting line at Portsmouth's Annual Cock Island race

23rd Annual Cock Island Race
2010 DATES:
June 18th : 8 p.m. - 11 p.m.
June 19th : 7:30 p.m. - 11 p.m.

WHERE:
North Landing
Portsmouth, Va
Neighborhood: Olde Towne Portsmouth

Called the "Best Sailing Event on the East Coast" by landlubbers and sailors alike, this waterfront sailing classic features Friday and Saturday night live entertainment. Saturday is Race Day on the Elizabeth River.

COCK ISLAND RACE EVENTS SCHEDULE:
Friday night: Cool'In Out on stage: Seafood Festival at North Landing Park
Saturday: 9:00 am Race starts
7:30 pm Awards presentation
8:00 pm Island Boy on stage: Seafood Festival at North Landing Park

For more information, visit the City of Portsmouth's events website at http://www.portsvaevents.com/
or call 757-393-8481.
For race information, go to Portsmouth Boat Club at http://www.portsmouthboatclub.org/

* Warning to boaters traveling the AICW near mile marker "0" The North and High Street Landings (also referred to as the North and South basin or High Street basin) will be filled with sailboats from Cock Island Race participants throughout the June 17th-19th weekend. We suggest that you stay at Tidewater Yacht or Ocean Marine. You may also choose to moor your boat at Hospital Point, just a short distance from Tidewater Yacht and the North Landing. This is an exciting weekend here in Olde Towne Portsmouth, so stop by and share in the fun!

Seawall Music Festival

2010-06-11T10:37:00.001-04:00

Live Music on the Portsmouth Waterfront

June 11-12 2010

Come out and enjoy FREE entertainment from local and regional acts. Saturday night music followed by Fireworks at 9:30.
Vendors include: Jay's Barbecue, Shakey's, Dominos Pizza, and Mr. Cream Cones.
Special apperance by the "Mack Mack Game Bus"
Friday:
6:00PM - 8:30PM: GoodLife Band
8:30 PM - 11:00PM: The Original Rhondels

Saturday:
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Swingtime
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Jesse Chong
4:30 PM - 6:00 PM: Joe Tann
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM: RaJazz
7:30PM - 9:30 PM: Bak N Da Day

Kalmar Nyckel in Drydock At Ocean Marine Yacht Center, Portsmouth, VA

2010-06-06T07:58:00.002-04:00

Kalmar Nyckel under sail . Photo by Laura Ann Haggerty-Spangler

The Kalmar Nyckel arrived at Ocean Marine Yacht Center for drydock repairs and bottom painting. Here's a number of pictures of the Kalmar Nyckel in drydock with the crew and yard crew hard at work.

Capt. Lauren takes her into the slip. We just barely fit, but on slack tide, no problem!

The Syncro-lift brings the ship out of the water. This year we weigh 309 long
tons...Putting on a bit of weight, last year we were 306 long tons.

The ship is ready to be pulled along the rails, but Luke's going to need some help! Luke Synder

Bill Boston removes the old worm shoe.

Jeff Emmons prepares the fore foot shoe (also known as the worm shoe) for a new shoe.

John Marcone, caulker extraordinaire, works on the starboard side of the ship.

John Marcone applies bottom paint onto the Kalmar Nyckel

The crew who sailed her down and the yard crew come together for a picture.

The pictures were taken by the crew of the Kalmar Nyckel with these photographers listed in no particular order: Sharon Dounce Litcofsky, Nolan McDermott, Richard Huse, Lara Whitmore, John E Marcone . Visit the Kalmar Nyckel's facebook page and preview the total photo albums as the work progresses. Kalmar Nyckel on Facebook . For more information about Ocean Marine Yacht Center, visit their website at: http://www.oceanmarinellc.com/

FirstEvents in Olde Towne Portsmouth, VA

2010-06-03T01:57:00.003-04:00

Held the first friday through sunday of each month, Olde Towne Portsmouth's business community opens it's doors along High Street between Effingham Street and the riverfront. Events and activities include Arts to Antiques Flea Market, free museum admission, exhibit openings and art afternoons, and a lot more.

For additional information about this weekend's events, go to A New Day in Olde Towne by David Cartier and PortsVaEvents

June 4

First Friday in Olde Towne: 5 - 8 p.m.

12 Historic Squares of High Street

5 - 8 p.m., Courthouse Galleries Parking Lot - The Olde Towne Farmer’s Market has items for sale including fresh seasonal produce, flowers, plants, canned goods, baked goods, jams, breads, honey, and more!

Check out the Portsmouth Farmer's Market Blog for the latest news at Portsmouth Farmers Market

June 4

THE KEELS OF VICTORY: The City & the Shipyard, 1921-1945

5 - 8:00 p.m. - The museum's newest permanent exhibit, The Keels of Victory, will discuss the history of Portsmouth and the Norfolk Naval Shipyard during the 1920’s and the Great Depression. The exhibit will also examine the role of the city and the shipyard during World War II. Topics highlighted in the exhibit will include warship construction, Portsmouth’s wartime homefront, and the shipyard’s “Rosie the Riveters.”

Enjoy refreshments, living history, and World War II era music while touring our newest exhibit. Admission is FREE.

Presented by Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum

2 High St.
757-393-8591
http://www.portsnavalmuseums.com/

June 4

Hot-Time in Olde Towne

5 - 8:00 p.m. - Offering demonstrations in the courtyard and galleries. Featured are hot wax make-n-take demonstration with printmaker and art educator Martine Strohmeyer and hot glass demonstration with master glass artist Ed Francis of the Visual Arts Center at Tidewater Community College. Adult beverages and light refreshments offered.

Presented by the Courthouse Galleries, Corner of High and Court St., Portsmouth

757-393-8543
http://www.courthousegalleries.com/

June 5

First Saturday

The Olde Towne Antiques to Flea Market

Conveniently located in the Middle Street Garage at the corner of Middle & London streets and is held year round, rain or shine on the first Saturday of each month. Gates open at 10 a.m. and close at 2 p.m. Always Free Admission & Free Parking!

Sponsored by the Olde Towne Business Association

757-405-3500

June 5

Olde Towne Portsmouth Farmer's Market

9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Open on the first Saturday of the month through November 7. Located in the first block of Middle Street, between High and Queen Streets, adjacent to the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame and Museum. Items for sale will include fresh seasonal produce, flowers, plants, canned goods, jams, breads, honey and more.

To become a vendor (there are no fees or costs to participate) please contact Andrea Graham at 757-537-9482 or 757-397-2616 or via email at agrahamm11@cox.net.

June 5

THE KEELS OF VICTORY: The City & the Shipyard, 1921-1945

10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. - Discover the rigors of shipbuilding through hands-on activities, talk with costumed World War II soldiers & sailors, and learn about the role of lightships during the war as you walk the decks of the Lightship Portsmouth. Admission is FREE.

Presented by Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum

2 High St.

757-393-8591

http://www.portsnavalmuseums.com/

June 6

First Sunday Breakfast, Brunch, or Lunch

Participating Restaurants: A Taste of Culture, Brutti's, The Coffee Shoppe, The Deck, Flagship, Foggy Point Bar & Grill, Gosport Tavern, Logan Raye's Key West Grille, Longboards, Olde Towne Bakery & Cafe, Paddy O'Brian's, Starbucks, Starboards, Stove

The Keels of Victory: the City and the Shipyard, 1921-1945

2010-05-25T23:05:00.001-04:00

Launching of the U.S. Ship Shagri-La

Laying Down Keels of Victory in the Newest Exhibit at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum

Opening on June 4, 2010, is the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum’s newest permanent exhibit, The Keels of Victory: the City and the Shipyard, 1921-1945. The exhibit will discuss the history of Portsmouth and the Norfolk Naval Shipyard during the 1920’s and the Great Depression. The exhibit will also examine the role of the city and the shipyard during World War II. Topics highlighted in the exhibit will include warship construction, Portsmouth’s wartime homefront, and the shipyard’s “Rosie the Riveters.” Keels of Victory opens with a reception from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm on June 4th inside the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum. Enjoy refreshments, living history, and World War II era music while touring our newest exhibit

The opening weekend activities continue at the museum on Saturday, June 5th, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Discover the rigors of shipbuilding through hands-on activities, talk with costumed World War II soldiers & sailors, and learn about the role of lightships during the war as you walk the decks of the Lightship Portsmouth. As a part of our First Saturday programs, admission will be FREE to both the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum and Lightship Portsmouth!

To find out more about this special program please contact Corey Thornton at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum at (757) 393-8591. http://www.portsnavalmuseums.com/

Have Boaters Forgotten About Hurricanes?

2010-05-25T22:35:00.000-04:00

Hurricane Season Begins June 1; BoatUS Urges Preparations Start Now

ALEXANDRIA, Va., May 25, 2010 - Last year's Atlantic hurricane season saw the formation of just nine tropical storms -- the fewest since 1997. And with news headlines focused on the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, marina operators in the Gulf and Atlantic seaboard are questioning whether boaters are distracted or have simply forgotten about making annual storm preparations for the upcoming hurricane season, which begins June 1. Adding to the operators' worries are forecasts warning that 2010 could be a much more active hurricane season with as many as 18 named storms.

On Florida's east coast, Sebastian River Marina & Boatyard owner Doug Hillman is concerned. "Unfortunately, some of us have short memories," said Hillman, who recalls the last significant storm that struck his region five years ago. "There doesn't seem to be a sense of urgency this season."

Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) is advising recreational boaters in hurricane states to start making plans now to protect their boat from damage. "If you wait until a storm watch is posted, it may be too late," said BoatUS Director of Damage Avoidance Bob Adriance.

To make storm preparation easier, BoatUS has free resources online for boaters, boat clubs, marinas and private dock owners that can help them survive hurricane season:

BoatUS Hurricane Resource Center at http://www.BoatUS.com/hurricanes : The website offers easily downloadable storm planning materials including a hurricane preparation worksheet, an in-depth Guide to Preparing Boats and Marinas for Hurricanes, and checklists for what to do before and after a hurricane strikes. Sample hurricane plans for boat and yacht clubs as well as up-to-the-minute storm tracking tools with live satellite images are also offered.

BoatUS Captains Locator at http://www.BoatUS.com/procaptains : While the safest location for a boat during a storm is on land, boaters may also want to ask their insurer now if their policy covers any of the costs of a storm-related haul-out. With help from the Locator, boat owners can seek the services of a professional delivery captain to move a vessel to a safe "hurricane hole" or to a haul out facility. If moving the boat is not possible, BoatUS suggests owners contact their marina now to enroll in hurricane "clubs".

Help for Boat Clubs, Yards and Marinas: Written for marina and yacht club managers, the free 24-page What Works, A Guide to Preparing Marinas, Yacht Clubs, and Boats for Hurricanes shares success stories as well as failures of dozens of facilities that have experienced a hurricane over last two decades. The guide covers floating docks with tall pilings, strapping down boats ashore, developing hurricane clubs for customers, dealing with boats at fixed docks, moving boats to hurricane holes, and how to install better moorings. Also included is a sample Marina Hurricane Preparation Plan that can be customized for any boating facility, as well as a Hurricane Preparation Worksheet that can be copied and given to individual boat owners. To download a copy of the guide, go to www.BoatUS.com/hurricanes . To get a paper copy, call 703-823-9550 ext. 3525.

Portsmouth to Salute Armed Forces with 126th Memorial Day Parade

2010-05-18T22:42:00.001-04:00

The nation’s oldest annually held parade turns 126 this year! The City of Portsmouth presents the 126th Annual Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 31st at 11 a.m. parade starts at 11:00 a.m. (Rain or Shine) in downtown Portsmouth. The first parade started in 1884.

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.

Grand Marshall Rear Admiral Wayne E. Justice, Commander of the Fifth District of the United States Coast Guard, will be the Grand Marshal for this historic parade, the first since Portsmouth was named an official “Coast Guard City” in December 2009.

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.

Hog Island Light at High Street Landing, Olde Towne Portsmouth, VA

2010-05-17T07:59:00.001-04:00

The old Hog Island Lighthouse Fresnel lens was originally
from the Eastern Shore of Virginia and is now on display at the
High Street Landing in Olde Towne Portsmouth.

There is always a plethora of photo opportunities around and about Mile Marker Zero, whether it be the constantly changing river traffic of all different designs, the quaint shops and museums, the one-of-a-kind historical sites, all with some of the best weather in the U.S. as a backdrop. *Here is just one of the unique sites found on the bank of the Elizabeth. You can't miss this one. It sits at the doorstep of Skipjack Nautical Wares & Marine Gallery. Link to photo Comment and picture from Clyde Nordan.

*Image emailed to Chance's human.

Welcome to Mile Marker "O" Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway: Please share your experience with us!

2010-05-15T08:17:00.001-04:00

Welcome to Mile Marker "O" Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway: Please share your experience with us!

Cruising the ICW Near Mile Marker "0" Please share your experience with us!

2010-05-15T08:06:00.007-04:00

Boaters visiting Olde Towne Portsmouth at the High Street Landing

Have you recently visited Portsmouth, Virginia or plan to visit us as you cruise along the Atlanitic ICW? Please share your experience with us as well as other boaters traveling the ICW! Your opinion matters, so let us know what we can do to improve your stay.

Please E-mail your comments to cjosephelder@gmail.com (pictures are great so please include them) or leave your comments below so we can post them on this blog site: Welcome to Mile Marker "0" AICW.

You can also stop by and visit us at Skipjack Nautical Wares located at the High Street Landing, tell us in person and pick up our NEW Unofficial Boaters Guide to Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia!. We look forward to hearing from you and have a safe and memorable trip as you pass through the Virginia waters of AICW and beyond! Click here to go to our most recent Mile Marker "0" blog posts.

The New Colony Theater Presents: the Alborado Trio

2010-05-13T08:05:00.003-04:00

Friday, May 14, 2010 at 7:30 p.m.

The Alborado Trio performs at the New Colony
Theater , Friday, May 14th at 7:30 PM.

Enjoy cafe music done with style and elegance. Experience this wonderful chamber music ensemble and delight in the music of Viennese cafe society - perfect for the intimate confines of the New Colony Theater! The group includes Lee Jordan Anders - piano, Jeff Phelps - 'cello & Jorge Aguirre - violin.

Tickets prices are $12 adult , $10 senior, student & military. Only full-price tickets can be purchased on-line. Click here, to purchase tickets online. Discount tickets (with ID) can be purchased at the door. Tickets are sold on a general admission basis and are non-refundable. Tickets can be picked up at the New Colony Theater Box Office.

The New Colony Theater as a total of 267 seats. All seats have great visibility. There are no bad seats in this intimate hall

Tickets are on sale now by telephone at 757.625.1212 and/or in person at the New Colony Theater. Tickets are also available at Starboards Coffee Kiosk at High Street Landing.

The New Colony Theatre is located at 430 High Street in Historic Olde Towne Portsmouth-just a few short blocks from the High Street Landing and the North Landing where you can dock your boats for free. You may also wanr to vist our numerous restaurants and pubs, specialty stores, boutiques and galleries as well as The Virginia Sports Hall of Fame and city museums including the Courthouse Galleries and the Portsmouth Shipyard Museum.

Olde Towne Portsmouth-the Jewel of the Elizabeth!

Mile Marker "0" AICW Event: 40th Annual Gosport Arts Festival May 8th and 9th in Olde Towne Portsmouth, VA

2010-05-02T05:31:00.002-04:00

40th Annual Gosport Arts Festival in Olde Towne Portsmouth, VA

by David Cartier
Author "A New Day in Olde Towne"

If it's Mother's Day Weekend, it must be time for Gosport Arts Festival. This year, it's the 40th year for the event - the 10th festival held in Olde Towne Portsmouth. Plan to attend the event on May 8 and 9, 2010. The hours are 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Weekend activities will be held along the High Street corridor from the Elizabeth River to Dinwiddie Street in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia's quaint historic seaport. Proceeds from the event will benefit Edmarc Hospice for Children.

Traditionally, more than 135 artists have represented a wide variety of mediums, styles, tastes and cultures. Past shows have included artists presenting oil, watercolor, pastels, charcoal, pencil, pen & ink, mixed media, photography, pottery, sculpture, fiber, stained glass, jewelry, metal, wood, clay, clothing, furniture, musical instruments, paper and much more.

Many Olde Towne galleries, antique and specialty shops, fine dining establishments, and cafés will feature special offerings.

An Artist in Action stage and entertainment stages will feature events by artists and performers. The Edmarc Kid's Park will be set up in front of the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, for face painting and creating Mother's Day gifts. Artisan demonstrations and make-'n-take activities for children will take place in the courtyard of the Courthouse Gallery at High and Court Streets.

"The arts festival has something for everyone from the kids to grandma," said Millie Johnson, Director of the Gosport Arts Festival. "We've put a lot of effort into making navigation of the Gosport Arts Festival and Open House easy for our visitors." adds Millie. In its 40 years, the juried Gosport Art Show has donated over $400,000 to Hampton Roads communities.

Visit the Gosport Arts Festival website at http://www.gosportartsfestival.com/

Boaters: Both Tidewater Yacht Marina and Ocean Marine yacht Center are both just a short walking distance to this event. You can also dock your boat at both North and High Street Landings on a first come basis.
Ride Portsmouth's Downtown "LOOP" for FREE to get around our downtown area. The LOOP will also take you to Food Lion for groceries and other necessaries. There are LOOP stops at both North and High Street landings.
Questions? e-mail me at cjosephelder@gmail.com or give us a call at Skipjack Nautical Wares at (757) 399-5012

Mile Marker O

The Lite Cylinder Propane Cylinder for Grilling, Cooking, Heating and Boating Applications

Dismal Swamp Canal - Closure for Lock Maintenance

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

You've got a friend at Mile Marker 0

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

Backyard Bliss. Cruising the Southern Chesapeake Bay

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

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

AICW Closed Between Virginia and North Carolina

Preparing Your Boat for Hurricane Irene

Seawall Art Show 2011 Cancelled

Stay safe everyone.

Seawall Art Show in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia

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

European-style bakery to Open in Olde Towne Portsmouth

Va. authorities cracking down on drunken boaters

2011 Seawall Music Festival this weekend With the Original Rhondels

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

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

Floating Debris in the River and Bay

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

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

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

ActiveCaptain's Spring Contest

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

Why Do So Many Boats Sink in the Spring?

Boater's Spring Commissioning Tips for Saving Gas

Shopping in Hampton Roads: Skipjack's Nautical Store & Art Gallery in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia

Reviews Make a Difference

A Backup GPS: BoatUS Smart Phone App Will Get You Home When Your Boat Won't Share Your Location

Boaters, Anglers Will Now Need Extra Vigilance When Filling up at the Gas Station

We're All Blue at ActiveCaptain

The Salty Southeast Cruisers' Net and Waterway Guide Band Together to Promote "Fire Relief Fund"

Scottish Walk, Step Lively to Welcome a New Year

Merry Christmas and A Happy New Years to You From Skipjack

New Marine Paintings by J. Robert Burnell: Exhibit Opens December 3, 2010 at Skipjack

Colonel Crawford's Holiday History Tour Brings Life to Olde Towne Portsmouth

Alliance That Keeps ICW Working is Focus of Annual Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Conference Slated for Nov 18-19 in Portsmouth, VA

First Friday Events at Skipjack & Riverview Gallery in Olde Towne Portsmouth

Finalist in the USA book awards for 2010 best book of the year in romance fiction!

Unforeseen Circumstances: A New Novel by Debbiann Holmes

Tall Ship Lynx Makes First Portsmouth Waterfront Appearance at Schooner Days

The 'Atlantis' lands in Olde Towne

The NEW "Unofficial" Boaters Guide to Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.

Earl Advancing on US Coastline

Olde Towne First Events

FirstEvents - Olde Towne Portsmouth

Lady Antebellum in concert

40th Annual Seawall Art Show

Top Art Buyers' EventPortsmouth Art Show Expects Big Crowd

Coast Guard Day Starts Portsmouth's Celebration

The NEW Unofficial Boater's Guide to Olde Towne Portsmouth Virginia

Sharing the Bay

Portsmouth Plans Coast Guard City Celebration

Be a Patriot this Fourth of July Weekend

FirstEvents - Olde Towne Portsmouth

Boating and the July 4th Holiday: Does Alcohol Mix with Water?

GIANT WAVE VS. BOAT

Don't want to drive to nTelos Pavilion? Bring your boat instead!

23rd Annual Cock Island Race- June 18 & 19, 2010

Seawall Music Festival

Live Music on the Portsmouth Waterfront

June 11-12 2010

Kalmar Nyckel in Drydock At Ocean Marine Yacht Center, Portsmouth, VA

FirstEvents in Olde Towne Portsmouth, VA

The Keels of Victory: the City and the Shipyard, 1921-1945

Have Boaters Forgotten About Hurricanes?

Portsmouth to Salute Armed Forces with 126th Memorial Day Parade

Hog Island Light at High Street Landing, Olde Towne Portsmouth, VA

Welcome to Mile Marker "O" Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway: Please share your experience with us!

Cruising the ICW Near Mile Marker "0" Please share your experience with us!

The New Colony Theater Presents: the Alborado Trio

Mile Marker "0" AICW Event: 40th Annual Gosport Arts Festival May 8th and 9th in Olde Towne Portsmouth, VA

Top Art Buyers' Event
Portsmouth Art Show Expects Big Crowd