Phatwater on the Natchez gauge, today, is at 31.06′, about six and a half above this date last year.  Reports continue to pour in regarding the Chicago Shoreline’s wind conditions and high waves from this past weekend. Several Phatwater paddlers were present, and all had difficulty it seems.  There were no Zeuglodon sightings, however, and none who capsized did so as a result of a “fluke”.

We were not without our own wind situation yesterday, on our trip up to Rifle Point.  Although I hadn’t an anemometer on hand, handheld, I can say with some experience that we experienced a typical blow-up of 20-25+ mile per hour winds and whitecaps out of the east.  In fact, the wind was so significant, on our return, the 90th W meridian was blown across the state and under our boat, snagging on our rudder as it passed beneath us, and almost flipping us at sunset.  Quick action on Melissa’s part prevented us from absolute catastrophe, however, and we were able to arrive safely at the ramp, drenched not from the great Muddy, but from the sweat of our toil.

At this time I would like to add to the confusion concerning hotel accommodations for this year.  The Natchez Grand Hotel, which is situated on the Bluff, about two blocks upstream from Natchez Under-The-Hill, now has rooms available.  The Church Convention has had their block released, and we have been granted it.  There is a Phatwater Rate available, though I am not certain at this time what it is.  I am attaching the contract that was sent to me yesterday.  You should be able to view it, but if not, I will post the rates later.  I have to meet with their representative tomorrow.  Just know that the Natchez Grand is the site of the SHUTTLE the morning of the race.  There will be plenty of parking available at the Natchez Grand, for those arriving for the shuttle from parts beyond.  Here is the Word File containing the info:

Phat Water

If you have any questions, as always, call us.

All For Now-KB