Metro Jacksonville

Long ago, Jax was well known for it's fabulous river cruises. People would come from all over to cruise the St. Johns on vacation. Nowadays, private boats and docks line both shores of the river. But what can travelers and those without boats do to enjoy it?

Do you realize that some of Jax's most incredible tourist sites are accessible and right by the river? They are:

1.Riverside Arts Market and Cummer Gardens
2.Landing
3.Wharfside
4.Shipyards/Kids Kampus
5.Jacksonville University
6.The Zoo
7.Jax Arboretum (would need access created)
8.Fort Caroline
9.Mayport Future Cruise Terminal/Future Nuclear Carrier

Families going south on 95 or north would see signs to take the tour. Southsiders could pick up the boat at the Garden or Ft Caroline to go downtownl.


Now imagine if you could take that tour on a cool HOVERCRAFT! Give it a cool name like River Run or something. Local restaurants can pay to cross market and give discounts to families who visit several stops.

I think we have a bias to think all of these are great "tourist" sites because we want them all to be.  If I was a tourist (probably passing through Jax to get to St. Augustine, Orlando, or Miami) I would be enticed by the Cummer, the Landing, the Zoo, and Fort Caroline IF the marketing were done properly.  The problem is that driving from one place to the next along our long, wide, and often wake free zone river takes a long time in and of itself and most of these places are miles and miles apart, especially by river.  I would concentrate on just making the urban core areas more accessible by boat and more heavily advertised, and just keep on running and expanding River Taxi service.

For accessing the Zoo or Fort Caroline by riverfront, I would keep on advertising that to Jax residents or those nearby in coastal FL and GA who like to explore by boat (and those passing by along the intracoastal).  As for Mayport, there is not near enough there right now to entice enough tourists to visit to make it feasible for a company to run river tour type stuff.  Once we get the new LCS fleet and new aircraft carrier, waterfront development, and hopefully a new and awesome cruise terminal, it would make sense to do a riverboat tour of the area from the Jetties to Fort Caroline (which is actually not too far from there by river) and Sisters Creek to Fort George.

Finally, I think hovercraft are pretty expensive.  That would mean that an investor would have to have a pretty solid guarantee/idea that he will make that initial money back in a reasonable time, meaning there has to be enough demand and enough tourists, and the whole thing has to be done exactly right with the right marketing, the right routes, the right timing, the right pricing, etc, and there is not a lot of precedence with similar tourist programs, so it would be quite difficult.

I like the thinking, though.

If done properly it could be a great idea.  How about  an amphibious vehicle of sorts, similar to the ones Boston and San Diego has.  I truly think it could work.

Wasn't there an accident, not too long ago, involving amphibious vehicle that tangled with a barge......I want to say in the North East somewhere? Not too enthusiastic about half trained helmpersons! It is an art to control anything on the water safely even at low speeds!

Quote from: simms3 on August 04, 2010, 01:13:47 PM
I think we have a bias to think all of these are great "tourist" sites because we want them all to be.  If I was a tourist (probably passing through Jax to get to St. Augustine, Orlando, or Miami) I would be enticed by the Cummer, the Landing, the Zoo, and Fort Caroline IF the marketing were done properly.  The problem is that driving from one place to the next along our long, wide, and often wake free zone river takes a long time in and of itself and most of these places are miles and miles apart, especially by river.  I would concentrate on just making the urban core areas more accessible by boat and more heavily advertised, and just keep on running and expanding River Taxi service.

For accessing the Zoo or Fort Caroline by riverfront, I would keep on advertising that to Jax residents or those nearby in coastal FL and GA who like to explore by boat (and those passing by along the intracoastal).  As for Mayport, there is not near enough there right now to entice enough tourists to visit to make it feasible for a company to run river tour type stuff.  Once we get the new LCS fleet and new aircraft carrier, waterfront development, and hopefully a new and awesome cruise terminal, it would make sense to do a riverboat tour of the area from the Jetties to Fort Caroline (which is actually not too far from there by river) and Sisters Creek to Fort George.

Finally, I think hovercraft are pretty expensive.  That would mean that an investor would have to have a pretty solid guarantee/idea that he will make that initial money back in a reasonable time, meaning there has to be enough demand and enough tourists, and the whole thing has to be done exactly right with the right marketing, the right routes, the right timing, the right pricing, etc, and there is not a lot of precedence with similar tourist programs, so it would be quite difficult.

I like the thinking, though.

I agree with you RE the no wake zones.

They're ridiculous, and extend from the I-95 bridge through all of downtown. It takes a half hour just to get through downtown, especially if the tide is against you, and double-especially if the sherriff's boat or marine patrol is lurking around to give you a ticket.

The whole thing is made even more ridiculous by the fact that there are giant cement seawalls covering every inch of both sides of the river in this location, not much traffic, and high-rise bridges that don't generally require waiting (except for some big sailboats need to raise the acosta bridge). In short, no reason for no-wake. There aren't many manatees hanging around in a 10kt current either. Not sure why that area is no-wake other than the River City Marina. Even then the zones could be shrunk significantly.

There is an opportunity right now to Enhance the Tourist Experience of Jax by using our St. Johns River our American Heritage River and the legislation is 2010-604 and is pending a vote by our 19 members of the city council.

The legislation gives The Failed Shipyards/Landmar property back to the people of Jacksonville. The opportunity to enhance the tourist experience can be accomplished by adding an amendment to the legislation that would keep the 680' Promised Public Pier separate from the other 44 acres.

Mayor Peyton is opposed to doing this. I think that it is a mistake and that is why this issue should be a city wide city council and mayoral campaign issue.

Cindy Laquidara and Steve Rohan have both indicated that an amendment can be attached to the current legislation that would keep the 680' Promised Public Pier separate from the 44 acres. The Pier is the longest one next to Berkman Plaza.

So if the administration won't ask for the amendment then should the council? Id say yes.

In my opinion an Enhanced Tourist Experience would be catapulted in Downtown Jacksonville if this Promised Public Pier were to open immediately.

Call your favorite councilperson and ask them if they will sponsor an amendment. The legislation is pending before the city council right now.

What do you mean back to the people of Jacksonville? Does that mean it can't be sold? Does that mean the council will be responsible for building a park there? Based on their incompetance in the past, I don't know if I wouldn't rather have a good private venture take a shot at developing it as a park/entertainment venue.

Quote from: CS Foltz on August 04, 2010, 08:25:46 PM
Wasn't there an accident, not too long ago, involving amphibious vehicle that tangled with a barge......I want to say in the North East somewhere? Not too enthusiastic about half trained helmpersons! It is an art to control anything on the water safely even at low speeds!

Yes there was an accident involving an amphibious vehicle, I think Delaware.  But the fact that it was amphibious had nothing to do with it I'm sure.  An accident is an accident.

Thanks Seraphs.............big difference between a real boat and an amphibious vehicle! The vehicle is extremely slow and not really quick to respond to rudder and throttle inputs! You want to keep away from tugboats also even in a boat, but thats just me!

Chris.............your forgetting that violation of "No Wake Zones" result in money in City and State coffers! Coast Guard can also violate and thats Federal! Either way, someones going to pay money because wake zone violations allow your vessel to be boarded and inspected and that can be expensive!

Quote from: rjp2008 on August 05, 2010, 12:17:14 AM
What do you mean back to the people of Jacksonville? Does that mean it can't be sold? Does that mean the council will be responsible for building a park there? Based on their incompetance in the past, I don't know if I wouldn't rather have a good private venture take a shot at developing it as a park/entertainment venue.

I'm with you  100% when you say you would rather have a good private venture take a shot. I'm saying that you can make that happen immediately by the city council attaching an amendment to 2010-604 that would make the 680' Promised Public Pier separate from the 44 acres.

If the future plan for the 44 acre is a private entertainment venture that is OK. If it is sold that is OK.  We are getting this property back. Not skill just dumb luck. Keep the Pier separate. The vibrancy that can occur is if this structure is allowed to create its own rules for those private entrepanuers who want the freedom to create a need that can be satisfied with different businesses. Access can be expanded to hours of operation.  The use of containers at this time with the opening of the Panama Canal can be an added benefit.

Who is your council representative?

Henry Flagler and Donald Trump ;) I dont live in Jax yet.

Quote from: CS Foltz on August 05, 2010, 06:59:37 PM
Chris.............your forgetting that violation of "No Wake Zones" result in money in City and State coffers! Coast Guard can also violate and thats Federal! Either way, someones going to pay money because wake zone violations allow your vessel to be boarded and inspected and that can be expensive!

Ha you got that right.

I got 9 safety tickets on one stop from this a$$hole marine patrol. He was citing me for everything under the sun, and then he got to the expired fire extinguisher and I blurted out "you idiot, it's got a full halon system, I don't even have to have a fire extinguisher." He responded "well you DO have one, and it's expired." I said "So if I throw it overboard right now, you can't give me a ticket?" with the thing in my hand. His response: "No, then I'll cite you for littering."

All about the $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

Anyone going to see the Blue Angels or Downtown to see the Navy ships on the northbank? Hope to do both.

Use the River. Just wanted to take this opportunity that in my opinion this upcoming city council and mayoral campaign election is HUGE if Public Access and Economic opportunity will be expanded within our Downtown Jacksonville Overlay Zoning District 2003-627.

If you happen to be Downtown just think of Jacksonville not only being a military town but imagine if we maketed our city as a serious player for international shipping by using retrofitted containers on our Promised 680' Downtown Public Pier.

The discussion needs to happen now on how we are going to "USE THE RIVER!!!!"

Quote from: ChriswUfGator on August 06, 2010, 08:49:52 AM
Ha you got that right.

I got 9 safety tickets on one stop from this a$$hole marine patrol. He was citing me for everything under the sun, and then he got to the expired fire extinguisher and I blurted out "you idiot, it's got a full halon system, I don't even have to have a fire extinguisher." He responded "well you DO have one, and it's expired." I said "So if I throw it overboard right now, you can't give me a ticket?" with the thing in my hand. His response: "No, then I'll cite you for littering."

All about the $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

+1,000,000 and land cops have gotten the same way.  Let's bust the good people who rarely ever break any sort of draconian violation because we know we can suck the money out of them and they'll be easier victims than the real criminals.  I will say I would love to see more of those redneck cigarette boat groups and (no offense if you have one) those Sea Ray types go down.  I have found that people who drive ugly boats or super fast boats often either a) have no courtesy and/or b) drive as if they aren't licensed and don't know the rules of the channel.

I do think it should be no wake in between the FEC bridge and 50 ft. from the Main St (plus I enjoy slowing down through downtown), but no wake all the way to the Hart is retarded.  The MP has really cracked down on people in the Ortega River because people anchored illegally up and down the river (I'm talking all those decrepit sailboats) complain.  How about the MP do something about all the illegal sailboats!!!!!!

And thank God the manatee scare is over.  Remember a few years ago (like 6-10) the environmentalists were trying to scare the bejesus out of people by making it seem like there was one manatee left and an a**hole boater was most likely going to run over it?  After real studies were done it was found that the boaters weren't even close to the largest reason why manatees weren't as frequently in the St. Johns and that there were still plenty of them!  I'm all for protecting the little fellows in reasonable ways, and that means no wake when closer to shores/shallow waters and cleaning up our river, not doing away with boating/taking advantage of our beautiful God given river.  Oh and I have personally seen crab pots stuck on manatees, maybe that's more of a problem??  It would also help if we had warmer winters/were closer to the Gulf Stream.  They can't really even survive in our colder waters for half the year anyway.

Ah the memories of the years spent at my parents marina, and my affection for paddling into the smallest creek or most obscure river wreck I can find.

It was one of those weird evenings when a fog had settled over the river so thick visibility to the front of the canoe was about it. I was killing my final minutes before a return to civilization tied off on a long bow line to a wooden channel marker. Fish must have all left town because I don't recall having any or even removing my gear for that matter... Water carries sound and that whole hour or two there was this weird "thump, thump, thump..." sound which I would have sworn came out of the water from no particular direction.

All at once the "thumping" changed to my immediate north, and I looked up to see a giant black wall coming straight for my canoe. I would bet any book of records that I am the ONLY MAN TO EVER PLAIN A CANOE! Yes darling I got back to dry land and decided to become an airship fan! LUFTSCHIFF! Luftschiff mein count, Luftschiff!

As for our "other" attractions, you must ask yourself would you stop off the interstate in Kansas to visit a sidewalk alongside a river? How about a collection of elephants and monkeys? An empty riverside ampatheater? a replica fort? A national wetland with uh, wet land? If you answered yes with enthusiasm to any of these choices, welcome to Jacksonville. America's only diamond that want's to remain COAL!

I agree, we could do SO MUCH BETTER... but will we?  Go JAGUARS!

OCKLAWAHA

I too had a run in with one of those barges when I was younger, down south on the saint johns around astor. Scary.

Quote from: simms3 on October 24, 2010, 11:36:07 AM
The MP has really cracked down on people in the Ortega River because people anchored illegally up and down the river (I'm talking all those decrepit sailboats) complain.  How about the MP do something about all the illegal sailboats!!!!!!

+100

The people who complain to the cops (or at least from what I've heard) are the guy in the white aft cabin trawler that is always tied up at the end of the easternmost cement dock at Lamb's (who comes out yelling and cussing whenever anyone goes by), and the people who live on that black snailboat that looks like a fake pirate ship moored between Sadler and the bridge.

About those snailboat moorings, you're right about that also. There are only like 10 or 15 dedicated buoys, but somehow there are always two or three times that many boats. A transient mooring is only legal for a few days, meaning a good chunk of those boats are illegal. Seems like if they don't like it, then they shouldn't illegally moor there.

Quote from: simms3 on October 24, 2010, 11:36:07 AM
And thank God the manatee scare is over.  Remember a few years ago (like 6-10) the environmentalists were trying to scare the bejesus out of people by making it seem like there was one manatee left and an a**hole boater was most likely going to run over it?

Unfortunately, everyone remembers, because the state used it as an excuse to quadruple the amount of retarded no-wake zones all over the place. The worst offender has got to be that 5+ mile long one south of Saint Augustine. Most people just run outside to avoid the wake zones, which of course defeats the whole point of creating the intracoastal waterway, which was intended to provide a safe and efficient inshore passage for boaters. As with everything, the cops have turned it into another revenue generator.

A few years ago in that same stretch of waterway, south of St. Augustine, I watched a manatee trashing it's life away in the shallows with it's intestines hanging out.  The boat that had hit it was fifty yards down the waterway on the shore with its outdrive hanging by cables.  It was one of those boats that we call SSOS boat (stupid shits on a shingle).

The manatees don't have any alternative routes or speeds; we do.

It get really impatient in the no wake zones too until I remember the sight of that manatee.

thank you, dog walker.  simms & chris were kind ov pissing me off there, and you were a lot more articulate than i'd've been.

I think as Dog Walker and certainly I kind of alluded to the problem is not with courteous boaters who have grown up around the water, have an appreciation for the wildlife, and know the rules of the channel.  The problem lies with dumb idiots who should not hold a license and who have no respect for other boaters and certainly not the wildlife.  I know that many boaters have run into manatees before, but I know sooo many boaters myself and I know nobody personally who has run into said manatees.  The boaters I know are respectable and should not be punished unfairly for all the idiots out on the water in their tacky boats and their whacked out PWCs who the state gives a license to anyway.  Is that so hard to understand?

I think the same thing goes for the road.  There are those of us who have never caused or been in a wreck, but we are made to be completely on the lookout for all the idiots on the road and we are often punished by default by certain draconian laws because some people can't/shouldn't drive.  I have run over 1 squirrel before a long time ago and that was the most I have ever hit with my car (and I felt bad...it was on my own street and I probably could have gone slower), but I see dead dogs, cats, birds, all sorts of animals everywhere, I see idiots cutting from the right lane across 3-4 lanes of traffic to make a left without any sort of signal (let alone regard for the other drivers or potential pedestrians), etc.  They should not have a license!  They aren't even patient, courteous, or wise enough to just go around the block?  You have the same sorts of people who drive boats.  They will be pushing 4000 rpms no more than 30 yards from shore, clearly outside of the channel and clearly where the manatees are.  You'll have sailors going through the Ortega Bridge with their sails up (clearly illegal).  You'll have speedboats and dumb people cutting you off and pulling water (thus creating a huge wake) while passing through the narrow channel or opening of a bridge (there is a line you know), AND what's more they'll flick you off in the process probably because they think you're going too slowly.

So kuroiketsanuhana can't spell your name, please familiarize yourself with the real situation out there.  You will never (well maybe rarely but not that I have ever heard of) encounter a manatee in the marked channel where you are supposed to pass anyway.  There are boaters who have no concept of what a channel is or its purpose and they will speed wherever they please (until they launch onto a sandbar and injure themselves and/or their passengers i which case it's hard to sympathize).  And btw what is your profile picture of???

To further my point, Chris (and Dog Walker), how many times have you seen an idiot rip right by an anchored boat where people are fishing?  And obviously this anchored boat is not anchored right in the channel, it is either closer to shore or in known fishing holes not in the channel so the speeder is also not in the channel and/or close to shore.  Not only is the idiot passerby cutting right across potential fishing lines that could injure him and/or his passengers, he is not displaying any sense of courtesy.  Ummm thanks for providing a huge wake, scaring off the fish, making a noisy and close encounter thus interrupting and ruining the conversation or peace and quiet they were having, and potentially clipping their lines!  It's incredible what you will see on the water.  And sometimes these idiots will wave to you "in courtesy" like one normally would, but they are oblivious to the fact that they actually are not being courteous AT ALL!

Thankfully with all of the algal blooms and foam there have been far less boaters on the water than in the past.  I would rather see more boaters who know what they're doing and no algal blooms/foam, but that what be too much of a Christmas wouldn't it?

Quote from: simms3 on October 25, 2010, 04:18:20 PM
So kuroiketsanuhana can't spell your name, please familiarize yourself with the real situation out there.  You will never (well maybe rarely but not that I have ever heard of) encounter a manatee in the marked channel where you are supposed to pass anyway.  There are boaters who have no concept of what a channel is or its purpose and they will speed wherever they please (until they launch onto a sandbar and injure themselves and/or their passengers i which case it's hard to sympathize).  And btw what is your profile picture of???

your previous post sounded a lot like 'well screw the manatees anyway'.  also, please familiarize yourself with how horrendously condescending it is to ask someöne to 'please familiarize yourself with the real situation out there.'

my profile picture is ov rozz williams (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rozz_Williams), from the cover ov the premature ejaculation album wound ov exit.  he's one ov my heros, and with all the arson goïng around in springfield, my previous avatar (the one with the torch) didn't seem so cute anymore.

[edited to fix spelling and rambling.  i've been a little bad about both today]

Quote from: ChriswUfGator on October 24, 2010, 03:13:14 PM
I too had a run in with one of those barges when I was younger, down south on the saint johns around astor. Scary.

You went there?  You're brave!

We used to take boating trips with other families we knew down to either River Bend or the Florida Sportsman, both in Welaka, and from there we would explore, ski, fish, whatever.  The only qualification to go was you had to have a Grady White, lol, which everyone had.  One time we decided to explore past Lake George further up the river and we slowly went through Astor.  Wow wow wow, these people were like out of a horror movie.  They all came out on their docks to observe us and it was creeeepppyyy.  We quickly turned around and went back to the other side of Lake George.  Ew, what a place LOL.

And on the note of douchebag boat captains/passengers (you know the kind that really was responsible for manatee deaths and boat accidents), well perhaps the highest concentration of them in one spot is at Silver Glen Springs on the west side of Lake George.  Packed full of rednecks, speedboats, Sea Rays, PWCs, and just general ew.

In less than 4 hours there will be a meeting in the St. James building at city hall on a piece of legislation. 2010-856 a one mile BAN on economic opportunity for a transient vendor that wants to do business within in 1 mile of a permanent business that has a similar product or service.

WAKE UP.

If the Waterways of the St. Johns River our American Heritage River are not exempt from this legislation with an amendment then we will not....

USE THE RIVER!

Be concerned.

Making a scene on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative and experiencing a Downtown Destination River Activity was me. I had a blast and can't wait to share with the world how much fun it is to kayak and fish under one of the 7 brand new Jacksonville Waterways NO FISHING signs.

Caught a beautiful red. CG7 knows the spots and is in a position to divulge the hot locations. He wasn't along on this trip but I hit the same locations. Very short trip. On the water just over an hour.

Who's next? 

That's the beauty of floating on Waters of the State.And we must assume the
" No Fishing " posted directive applies to land based persons.

What a picture,signature Jacksonville Urban Waterway Adventure:
fisherman in kayak, no scenic horizon in this case, but rather a metal grate overhead ( oooops.....not to divulge the location) and stretched between fishing rod in one hand and fish in the other......VISIT JACKSONVILLE sign.

Field & Stream front cover

Another Downtown Destination River activity took place at Sidney Gefen Park on the Northbank. CG7 and Da Monster were there.

It couldn't happen at the Marina by the Fire museum. It couldn't happen at Metropolitan Park. It couldn't happen at SHIPYARDS III.  It did happen At Gefen park. Took lots of pictures.

A bonus was a full Vivian Harrell blue garbage bag. 

I am Downtown.

And that is what I did today. Anyone want to kayak and fish Downtown under the brand new no fishing signs? I've got some fiddlers and we can show the world a Downtown Destination River activity that has just been taken away from the people of Jacksonville.

Does anybody care?

After making a scene at our empty marina and putting in at the new kayak launch which I must say that I was able to do and it wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be. None the less I did not venture out into the river because the current was ripping and an inexperienced canoer or kayaker would have been swept out with the outgoing tide and you are going to no mans land. So I stayed in the empty marina. Had a good bite but lost it.

So then I took it to Sidney Gefen Park and did another cleanup. Ran into Da Monster and its always good seeing him. Pulled out the 4X8 sheet of Plywood. It looks like someone may have pulled out the tire. Got out a big foam mattress and working on the pipes and some other big pieces of wood. A good Vivian Harrell blue bag. There is no doubt that this mulch laden beach could be returned to a thriving sandy ecosystem. It Khan happen.

Who's next to say "I am Downtown?"

I am Downtown.

Did it again today. Put in at the kayak launch at the marina on the Northbank and was fishing under the new no fishing signs that nobdy has a clue as to who authorized.

Anyway had a double hookup in less than an hour. Another Downtown Destination River Activity that you are no longer allowed to participate in unless you are in a boat. It wasn't in Waterways and its not being reported anywhere.

Big cleanup effort will be coming to Sidney Gefen Park. It Khan happen.

Who's next to say "I am Downtown?"

Noone, I suggest that certain restrictions to shore  based fishing are reasonable,appropriate within the Downtown setting?

Pick your battles and kiosk points

As to 'NO FISHING ' Signage directives the driver,funding etc  information is likely available with a little research,just as was Chelsea Street creek bank clearing activity.

Sounds like the fishing......catching skills are evolving,cool!  To fish Downtown yields a certain connection.

"I am Downtown."
We Khan all be Downtown too.

Took an out of town guest and we started with take out from Robert's eatery. We immediately took it to Sidney Gefen Park and enjoyed our lunch. Threw out a fishing line and enjoyed the vibrant activity that we were a part of. Somebody and I don't know who but they deserve huge pats on the back because the sandy beach and the vegetation and shrubs were cleared out. Was it a jail detail or the weekend community service detail or just some die hard volunteers? Sydney Gefen Park can and should be an additional kayak launch.  A safe launch.

After lunch we took it to Stonewall and Chelsea St.and paddled under the Times Union on McCoys Creek.   

Weather is warming up ideal conditions to showcase a Downtown Destination River Activity. Special shout out to any regional partner. Any media outside of Duval county.

Special shout out to anyone who promotes economic freedom and Public Access  to our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative within an Independent Authority.

The ships are scheduled to depart Mayport Naval Station the morning of Monday, April 30, and sail up the St. Johns River to moor near Jacksonville Landing around noon. We are hoping to welcome the tall ships in grand style; Fort Caroline is planning a cannon salute as they pass the National Park, and we invite those along the river to “wave them in” and for boats of all sizes to “sound their horns” as the flotilla makes its way to Downtown. We intend to provide other ships with the chance to participate as well, and for amateur photographers and videographers to be able to share their images online. To upload the name and details of your vessel or for information on sharing your photos and video from the day,  visit www.Commemorate450.coj.net

Visit website: http://www.coj.net/commemorate450/events/all-events/tour-a-french-vessel.aspx

02roadking super information. Definately quailifies as a Downtown Destination River Activity. Probably also explains why Khan's yacht is not moored Downtown as to make room for the tall ships.

RK have you been under the TU on McCoys Creek or the Duval county courthouse parking lot? If not would you like to go?

I found this in Folio:
Jacksonville's first paddle race taking place downtown on the St. John’s River to benefit the North Florida Land Trust.
3 Mile and 8 Mile Races with a Festival and Music on the Southbank of the St. Johns River Saturday, May 5, 2012
http://www.rivercitychallenge.org/

^Another great Downtown Destination River Activity

Who wants to Make a Scene Downtown and participate in a wholesome Downtown Destination River Family Activity  on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative?

Great tide conditions today. The Tall Ships are Downtown. Welcome aboard!

The city reorg 2012-212- Pending legislation. For Who?

I am Downtown and why you aren't.

450 years of History and I was a part of it today by Making a Scene on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative in what may be soon known as an Independent Authority Zone.

Put the kayak in at the city marina at Metroploitan Park and paddled against the current to the two French tall ships Belle Poule and Etoile. They were docked on the Northbank next to the Hyatt. Talked with some onlookers and one guy was getting ready to paint a picture of the ships.

Brought the fishing poles and went under the Duval county courthouse parking lot and caught two nice reds 19" and 21" didn't stay long. In fact I rode the outgoing tide back to the city marina.

The people of Jacksonville should be concerned and outraged if legislation is not attached to 2012-212 and addressing the pier. SHIPYARDS III

Still haven't heard back from the Riverkeeper. Berkman-Where are you? Urban Core CPAC meeting in 6 days.

I am Downtown and why you aren't.

Great conditions this afternoon for fishing under the brand new no fishing signs from the Hyatt to Metropolitan Park (Not before Waterways). Does anyone know the penalty for trespassing at the marina at Berkman Plaza-Plaza at Berkman. Or is it true that there is a PUBLIC ACCESS slip for the people of Jacksonville. Anyone?

Urban Core CPAC meeting tomorrow.

I am Downtown and why you aren't.

Yesterday I put in at River City Brewing kayak launch a day after participating in the first River City Challenge kayaking race. What a Great event.  I had waited for the afternoon to catch an outgoing tide.

I just want everyone to know that if you are going to kayak Downtown you need safety spots.

I was in the water and as soon as I got past the slips at the marina that were pulling you in. It was an outgoing tide. The wind just kicked up. I was immediately tracking and heading to the Hyatt. The river turned into white caps and I'm hitting some good swells. It turned sporty real fast. The outgoing tide and the wind made for a hard paddle. I just made it across and sought shelter under the Duval County courthouse parking lot.

So anyway I set up under a grate and two JSO officers on bikes saw me fishing. I had a couple of hits but didn't set the hook. I could see the clouds gathering and the officers had checked backed with me. I told them that I may have to use the empty marina at Berkman because there is no other safety option on the Northbank.

Anyway, an hour or two later and the river was back to a slick calm and I was able to paddle back to RCB. What another awesome trip. Little Vivian Harrell clean up. I was now catching the incoming tide and a super relaxed effortless paddle back.

Who's next?

I am Downtown and why you aren't.

Who's next? Tide conditions are beautiful right now. Anyone?

I am Downtown.

Today was another epoch paddle to reclaim Public Access and Economic Opportunity to our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative in our yet to be voted on and approved by city council Downtown Independent Authority Zone. (2012-212, 2012-213)

I made a scene at another identified canoe and kayak launch location that was part of a submission list that was generated at the special Jacksonville Waterways Commission FIND subcommittee meeting that was chaired by Gary Anderson and included outgoing Duval county FIND representative Mike Messiano.  Councilman Don Redman, chair of Waterways was also in attendance. 2012-273 was this years FIND grant application and the canoe and kayak launch at the Duval county school board is another future safety zone and launch for joining Mayor Alvin Brown in making Downtown a Destination.

I arrived at the school board around 1. There was a man fishing and throwing a shrimp net for his bait. Rodney had just gotten there and was enjoying the beautiful day. I unloaded my kayak and as I was preparing another kayaker was paddling by in a touring kayak. It was an outgoing tide.

Years ago when I had the pleasure of kayaking Downtown this is where Howard Soloman and our group got out of the river. But today it was a launch location. It was an outgoing tide and I wanted to check out this location for going over to Berkman Plaza-Plaza at Berkman and the adjacent Shipyards/Landmar Historic Promised 680' Downtown Public Pier. Once in the water you are paddling immediately and you are paddling against the current. The river traffic was non existant for my paddle over but you are fighting the current and so it wasn't a straight shot across the river. The key is to get over to the piers as quick as possible.

I took it under Berkman Plaza and wanted to fish under the brand new no fishing signs that wasn't before Waterways. I had a time crunch but still had an opportunity to throw out a hook. Had a nice hookup but lost it in the pilings. It was less then an hour and I'm taking it back to the school board.

So this is  the trip back. I'm at the marina at Berkman. You are sheltered in this part of the river. I'm next to the riverwalk and my paddle is hitting the bottom its about 4 or 5' I'm looking at the pier and thinking how cool it would be to just get out at that safety zone and then go up to Mark's and have a cold one.

Instead I'm getting ready to head back to the school board. Its an outgoing tide and a good wind that is giving the river some rolling swells. At this time there are a number of boats (3) that are just booking it and you wonder just where do the no wake and manatee zones are because now you see these waves in the distance and they are coming toward you. The outgoing tide is pulling me in toward the pier and as the waves approach you have to turn and take the waves on straight or risk being swamped at the same time you are being drawn into the pier and I time a maneuver so that I can then paddle under the pier I emerge just two holes down from where these two fisherman are fishing and using the trolling motor to stay right up next to the pilings. For me this was another lesson in identifying safety concerns.

There are other boats that I encounter but they are not creating a wake and I just take it across the river and I'm at the sandy beach of the old JEA generating station. I take it back to the school board and Rodney is still there. He had a nice trout and a croker. There was another father and his daughter throwing out a line. It was another good test to share with everyone  as we want to tell everyone to VISIT JACKSONVILLE.

Who's next?

UC CPAC meeting in two days.

I am Downtown and why you aren't.

How accessible is Hogans Creek these days?

Quote from: billy on June 03, 2012, 11:36:24 AM
How accessible is Hogans Creek these days?

Public access totally CRUSHED. Open invitation to anyone who wants to kayak and fish under the brand new no fishing signs not before Waterways.

Join me.

Otherwise.

I am Downtown and why you aren't.

After yesterdays Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting I went to Sidney Gefen Park and one of the parking signs was ripped from its base and just laying there. Monroes was there and I grabbed some food truck fare. City trucks were there and doing a cleanup. Was there this morning and the ripped sign is still just laying there in the parking lot.  Has anyone else noticed this? We are a joke.

Have another unbelievable fishing report from Berkman Plaza and fishing under the brand new no fishing signs not before Waterways. Will post more later. The Public Trust just crushed.

VISIT JACKSONVILLE
or
DON"T VISIT JACKSONVILLE

I am Downtown and why you aren't.

Quote from: Noone on June 03, 2012, 12:12:16 AM
.......................Instead I'm getting ready to head back to the school board. Its an outgoing tide and a good wind that is giving the river some rolling swells. At this time there are a number of boats (3) that are just booking it and you wonder just where do the no wake and manatee zones are because now you see these waves in the distance and they are coming toward you. ........................I am Downtown and why you aren't.

It's 25mph in the channel between Main Street and the green bridge. Where the edge of the channel is varies.  Planing hulls will generally "wake" you more at slow speed. Big boats depending upon hull design can be a problem at any speed.

After attending the 6/13 Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting which was another wake up call for this community I immediately wanted to take it back Downtown and illustrate for this community that we use to be a Great River.

My first stop was to Sidney Gefen Park to see if the parking pole  and sign that was ripped from its base was still there in the middle of the parking lot. Upon arrival there is a police car in the empty lot. His door is open and he is also parked by one of the street lights that has also been ripped from its base and is now being used as a garbage can. I park next to the parking pole and sign that is still laying in the middle of the parking lot. I walk up to the officer and asked if he was writing an incident report about these two incidents and he is not. I'm just thinking that its a good thing that there is an active piece of legislation for more surveillance cameras in high crime areas. Walk down to the kayak launch and I'm just looking at all the new garbage that is  just littering the bottom and moving forward are we going to do anything for this simple fix?

I've seen enough. WTF- Want To Fish?

I was originally going to put in at this location but decide that I wanted to take it to Mayor Brown's official kayak launch at Metro Park. I drive over and put in at the empty marina. Its about 9 and I'm ready to continue to attempt to show everyone in joining Mayor Brown in making Downtown a Destination and not a pass through. The water levels are still high and its still a slow deliberate incoming tide. The river is calm and no wind so it just makes for a safe paddle out and taking it Downtown.

I paddle by Hogans Creek and the total destruction of the bridge and  habitat that was and use to be a unique entrance to an Urban Waterway Destination.   MJ I bet you have all the pictures to illustrate this and none of this before Waterways. Great restoration project. So anyway I continue on and take it to the piers and wanted to hug the riverwalk to Berkman. Is it just me or do we now have some new giant tires for docking a boat on the most northern pier?

The paddle out and I'm tuned in to First Coast Connect and I'm listening to Melissa Ross. It was still an incoming tide with the water levels are high and I decided that I would try fishing around the no new fishing signs around the empty marina at Berkman. There was just one boat. I brought some poles and I was using live shrimp. My first hookup was a spotted trout about 19" and some people walking on the riverwalk stopped and watched as I got it in the kayak. The fishing was awesome.

The highlight for the trip was meeting a couple from Michigan who were staying at the Hyatt and the guy said that he had wished that he had brought his fishing pole. He is asking me why the marina is empty. He points to the pier and is just making the comment of how neat it would be to be able to fish on one of those piers. I said "sir you are preaching to the choir."  I said that is Shipyards III.

I told him that if it wasn't for the high tide that I'd be underneath Berkman and the Duval county parking lot which is next to the Hyatt. They were impressed with that. While I'm talking with them I still have the radio on and I'm catching part of the show with Speckman and Ross. Can't wait to take them one of these days. 

This trip was just a little over an hour. The wind has picked up and I needed to take it back. The slick calm of the river has been replaced by a slight chop. I arrive at the empty marina and for me this is another example that can be taken to our Regional Partners and to the Commissioners of FIND.

We are so LOST.

Who's next?

I am Downtown and why you aren't.

The fishing was awesome.

On Fathers day my son and I made a scene at a Downtown Destination and participated in a Downtown River Activity that will want me to write to Mayor Brown and Dave Roman and say WTF-Want to Fish? We had a blast.

Earnest Street, May have to take you kayaking and fishing and we can do some early tailgating with some smoked trout. I'm surprised at how well it turned out.

I'm still rather new to this and don't consider myself to be an expert by any means but it was a back to back reality check on a window of opportunity that is closing fast. The Historic Promised 680' Downtown Public Pier. Shipyards III.

Our trip started at the empty PUBLIC marina at Metro Park around 9:30. It was an incoming tide and the paddle to the one boat PRIVATE marina at Berkman was very pleasent.   

My son has always outfished me and that is exactly what happened again. He had a nice 18 or 19" trout in the yak right away and we caught a variety of fish. Talk about a routine. The couple that was visiting our city from Michigan were taking a morning stroll and were leaving later in the day but it was nice to talk with them again.

We didn't stay long. with the slack tide and the start of the outgoing it was another effortless paddle back to the empty marina at metro park.

We are Downtown and why you may never be.

Who's next?

Quote from: billy on June 03, 2012, 11:36:24 AM
How accessible is Hogans Creek these days?

I am Downtown.

Billy, Hogans Creek is officially accessible. Somebody pinch me. Springfield, did anyone know?

5 days after attending Mayor Alvin Brown's press conference at Tillie Fowler Regional Park and his new announcement of People and Parks connection where the newest kayak launch at Catherine St. was on the List that was handed out by Dave Roman I had to start Independence day with a paddle at this location and share it with all of you.

I'm wearing Mayor Brown's new trail adventures t shirt. Low tide is around 4:30 and it's almost 3:30. A man with the city is there when I arrive and is checking out the place. The official kayak launch logo is there and a special shout out to Vivian Harrell and the Arlington Jaycees that recently did a major cleanup at this location to get it ready for everyone. What an awesome launch location in total shade with a tree canopy that you can only dream of.

With my kayak in the water an outgoing tide and the sandy bottom that has two wood storks feeding a few 100 yards up you wanted to get out to the river. The paddle out was OK with the only hesitation being the rapids. The shopping cart depth meter chart was showing two wheels and just above the handle bars.

The paddle out to the dredging and restoration project that was never before Waterways at the mouth of Hogans Creek was swift with the outgoing tide. In the river as was the case in the creek was the abundance of bird activity. Saw so many ospreys. The fun part of the paddle was taking it under the piers and creating a straight shot over to Berkman Plaza-Plaza at Berkman. Took it under Berkman and the Duval county courthouse parking lot and was fishing under the brand new no fishing signs that wasn't before Waterways.

Caught 3 trout, 1 red and 5 croakers. Just kept the two 20 inch trout.

The trip back was interesting and also a heads up on why if you do venture into the darkness of some of these cavernous depths of intrigue that you continually be aware of how the tide fluctuates. I wanted to get back underneath and that is why I planned the trip for a low tide. But the windows of opportunity can close fast.

The fishing was good but it was time to leave. The water levels are rising but the tide is still heading out. Full moon too. I emerge at the Riverwalk at the corner of Berkman just as the river taxi is making a loop. The pier is in front of me and instead of going through one of the openings I did coming out you are going around it. Mayor Brown, Dave Roman, Aaron Bowman just 5 days ago and all the TV stations were there to cover it but I hope that during the 2013 FIND grant cycle that we can all look at the first 25-50' of the Historic Promised 680' Downtown Public Pier Shipyards III as a safety zone and kayak launch.

I fished at the mouth of Hogans and caught some croakers. Taking it in with the incoming tide the shopping cart depth meter chart is showing one wheel exposed. The bird activity was strong and saw so many ospreys especially at the end of the piers. Taking the kayak out wasn't bad.

The challenge moving forward will be creating organic clusters of positive activity that will contribute to a holistic energy that will continue to tell everyone to VISIT JACKSONVILLE.

I am Downtown and why you aren't.

Who's next?

Good news!

I am Downtown.

For the second time I put in at Mayor Brown's newest kayak launch on Hogans Creek at Catherine St. And had another memorable experience on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative.

It was an outgoing tide and the recent rains has brought back a lush green look to the area. The water was clear and had a nice paddle out to the river. The shopping cart depth meter chart was showing two wheels exposed. Lots of bird activity which was nice to see.

The river was calm and after making it around the first pier I took it underneath the other piers on my way to the caverns of Berkman Plaza - Plaza at Berkman and the Duval county courthouse parking lot. I was using live shrimp and fishing under the new NO Fishing signs. I'm trying some new spots and within 10 minutes I' hooked up with what I thought was a 30" red. What a fight. I was going to release the fish so when I netted it I had it on the side of my kayak so my net was precariously laying on the side of my kayak. I'm getting ready to measure the fish. And my net falls into the water. Oh Well. The red measured 26" so in the cooler.

Caught another 26" that I let go. Had another big hit that broke my rod tip on one of the poles. Finished with 3 croakers, 3 catfish and one 18" drum. Some of these were caught under the Shipyards/Landmar  680' Downtown Public Pier.

The trip back was pleasant. Spent more time under the various piers this time out. There is a lot of work being done right now to connect the Riverwalk at the end of Berkman. FOOD truck rally. With a long distance frisbee throw contest next to Bay St. Pier Park Park. Why not?

The trip back wasn't too bad even though the wind had picked up slightly. The tide had turned and it was now an incoming. The shopping cart depth meter chart is showing two wheels exposed. Same as the trip out. I ended up keeping the red and drum.

Who's next?

When in the mood and capable of visual and intellectual assault I head for Downtown Jacksonville Waterways via small craft.

Understand there is an event this weekend.

Probably about time to follow up on certain McCoys "homeless" camps.

Just filed a police report with JSO.
Had 5 kayaks stolen from my residence.
They were single seat sit ins.
Field
Miss Fixit
Capt.
Peejayess
Other MJ'ers if you have pics let me know with a PM.
These were some of the ones that we used together to make a scene Downtown.
If any of you have some pics please hold on to them.
There are some identifiable things and I hope an arrest is generated.
just targeted the sit in single seat and passed on the tandems sit on tops.
Thanks MJ'rs will keep you posted.

Two days after attending the signing by Mayor Brown of the creation of another Authority and the focus is Downtown I wanted to see for myself if I will be able to say with confidence Visit Jacksonville or don't Visit Jacksonville. Do I still have concerns? Yes.

So in continuing to join Mayor Brown in making Downtown a Destination and not a pass through I brought my tandem kayak and put in a River City Brewing. I was greeted at the ramp with the train whistles blowing and a 4engine Norfolk Southern. Very impressive. Two guys were throwing a cast net for some finger mullet to do a little fishing before they had to go to work.

I brought my poles and some fiddler crabs. There were a number of things that I wanted to check out given the tides and the recent conditions of rainfall and continue to focus on the safety issues that I can take to Dave Roman and the commissioners of FIND.

before I started I traded some fiddlers for some finger mullet. The guys were super and so off I went. departure was around 3:50. It was a strong outgoing tide. You are immediately being pulled into the RCB marina. Once in the river I took it over to the caverns of Berkman Plaza-Plaza at Berkman and the Duval county courthouse. This should have been low tide but with all the rain it creates a false sense and you just need to be aware of it. tried some different fishing spots and some exploring. It is without a doubt a Downtown Destination River Activity.

After emerging next to Berkman and again just staring at SHIPYARDS III the Historic Promised 680' Downtown Public Pier you just want to tell the world why have we continued to destroy the Public Trust in this community. The reason I'm saying that is because storm clouds have gathered and I'm again in a precarious situation. I put in at River City Brewing and the river is getting choppy. Again what a safety issue to just know that if we had a pocket pier next to the Riverwalk and The Shipyards/Landmar Pier I could immediately get out and be safe. But that's not the case.

The tide has changed and its an incoming. where do you go if you happen to be in the heart of this Northbank area. Options are few. I'm not going to Hogans Creek or the marina. I need to get back to RCB. The rain is approaching. The piers that are Downtown each have unique characteristics. The 680' although close is not the better option. I opt to Take it to the second pier and when the rain started falling about 6 Downtown I was in a safe place on the water. Had the fishing pole out while I was waiting for the shower to pass and had a super hook up. Lost it in the pilings but there was a lot of screaming off that reel.

Again for me it was another eye opener in kayaking Downtown and understanding the safety zones that are needed when things go bad. And if you think for a second that they never will you are so wrong. It was awesome to share this shelter with the pigeons that were occupying the underneath nooks and crannies. When the sun started to shine again it was now safe to take it back to RCB.

I am Downtown with Mayor Brown.

Who's next?

The new DIA Board was announced.

So today making a scene and joining Mayor Brown in making Downtown a Destination and not a pass through was me and North Miami (KG). We launched at RCB. I arrived about 7:35 for our 8 o'clock launch. Brought two tandems. Brought the cast net to try and catch some finger mullet and was successful in getting some bait. Are you ready for this at the boat ramp about 25'out is a manatee. How cool is that. Dolphins are breaking the surface just outside the marina and an osprey is perched on a pole next to RCB and we aren't even in the water yet.

The arrival of NM is a reunion of spirit to get out and celebrate our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative in our new Downtown Authority zone.

The river is a sleek calm and when you do anything with NM I know for me it's a feeling like we are on Spring Break and let's get this river party started. And that what we did. I have been desperately wanting to take him over and show him my favorite fishing spots. It's an incoming tide and you have to continue to paddle to get to your destination.

We immediately took it over to the brand new no fishing signs that was never before Waterways next to Berkman. Its 9 o'clock and I've got First Coast Connect on with Melissa Ross. Talk about Making my day. I'm just getting set up and two guys are walking by and ask "any luck?"  At that point the rod is bent over and it's a respectable 17" trout.

NM is about 50 yards away and it's not long and he is landing his own trout. At this point of the show Melissa Ross is interviewing the group that wants to bring the USS Adams Downtown and they are talking about the Shipyards/Landmar Pier III that we are just staring at.
It's not even an hour and we have two trout. We take it to the pier and try our luck in some spots with little results. We take it around by the Riverwalk and go over to the second pier that is a safety zone in an emergency if you find yourself stuck on the water.

The rest of the trip was trying different spots and techniques. NM caught a nice flounder. And on the way back to RCB I went back to my go to spot and had a nice catfish. Again with people from the Riverwalk watching. It's a spectator River.

The tide was still coming in and it was a relaxed float back to RCB. Another adventure with NM and it was like we had the whole Downtown to ourselves. Boat traffic for a Friday holiday weekend was manageable.

We are Downtown with Mayor Brown.

Who's next?

YOu want a downtown river story?

Last weekend I went fishing. But not the usual way.  Time was carved out for the day on the boat, I decided in favor of running the boat to my fishing spot instead of driving the truck. So off from Mandarin I went at a cool 35mph.  Stopping along the way to look for shirmp and mullet for bait I came up wet from cast netting but not well fixed for bait.  I slowed for downtown and the 25mph channel restrictions.  Arriving later than usual at the Browns Creek Fish Camp I got some live shrimp and proceeded to catch fish in my local honey holes.  A nice redfish decided to follow me home form Redfish Bend.

So with fish in the cooler I started back. The wind and wave and tide combined into a short chop that really beat the boat and the driver. It was uncomfortable.............until I got downtown. The chop disappeared. The wind was blocked.  It was better. I cruised through downtown to the Arts Market dock pausing to watch three swimmers and their escort kayak head out for the Main Street Bridge.  I landed at the dock and secured the boat. I found some superb peaches at the Arts Market and some fish and chips for lunch. 

Back at the dock I lounged under the bimini and enjoyed the rest of my fruit punch.  I got a call and had a nice conersation with a lady Gator at the beach.  The swimmers returned. People walked along the river walk. A few asking questions and making small talk.  It was nice. 

So around three o'clock I headed back to Mandarin with a full belly, fish in the box, some great peaches and a date for Sunday. It was a good day downtown.

^Nice post

Today was a beautiful day to make a tactical kayak paddle in a yet to be identified zone under a new Authority in an attempt to transform previous failed Downtown promises was a conductor assistant that will be joining Mayor Brown in telling the world to VISIT JACKSONVILLE?

Put in at the new kayak launch at Bee and Utah with an outgoing tide. The bird activity was strong and being rather new at this location it was a pleasant surprise. Great Blue herons, Ospreys, red tail hawk, green herons, bait fish everywhere.

With the recent rains there was always enough water to make a paddle in and out to the river. tried a different strategy and didn't venture to far from this location which is right across from the stadium. Caught an 18" red on the incoming tide on a shrimp close to shore.

Did a Vivian Harrell 1 blue bag cleanup and left the shoreline a little bit cleaner.

Beautiful day to promote, celebrate, and access our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative.

I am Downtown with Mayor Brown.

I am Downtown with Mayor Brown.

Will be making a scene and a tactical paddle and having a blast especially around the brand new No Fishing signs that was never before the Jacksonville Waterways Commission. Plan on doing a Vivian Harrell blue bag clean up.

Have a tandem. If you want to see an issue up close and personal that will soon escalate to the Governor, our regional partners, Governmental agencies give me a call. 904-434-0839

It is not required but I would just ask that if you are interested that you write a check for a buck to the City of Jacksonville. Write 2009-442 on the check. Also write Artificial Reef Trust Fund on the check.

Former and current elected officials or if you served for a personal benefit on a Board write a check for $2.00

Last trip out took two others and we caught 3 Reds, 5 catfish,  croakers, Drum, about 20 fish. Kept a 21 inch Drum that we took home for the Jag game. This all happened in less than 3 hours on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative.

We Khan Make It Happen.

3 days ago after listening to the fishing shows it was time to make an epoch tactical kayak paddle from another kayak launch that was discussed at a special FIND subcommittee meeting for canoe and kayak launches that was attended by then chair of Waterways  city councilman Don Redman and outgoing FIND commissioner Mike Messiano.

The Duval county school board was an inviting early launch location that had one man fishing and joggers just enjoying the early morning weather. The tide was high and still incoming. I made a couple of casts for some bait but to no avail. The reason for the paddle wasn't so much a fishing trip but another logistical exploration into kayaking safely Downtown. Also I wanted to take it to Hogans Creek and check out the dozens of survey stakes and markers.

It was an easy launch and I brought a Keep Jacksonville Beautiful blue bag for a Vivian Harrell Blue bag cleanup. I started on the Northbank and finished near the Historic Promised 680' Downtown Public Pier Shipyards III. The paddle over was pleasant. Still early in the morning and river traffic is light. After the pier I hugged the piers and going against the tide took it to Hogans Creek.

The massive dredging project that was never before the Jacksonville Waterways Commission had a plover greeting me as I was a 100 yards out from going under Bay St. Into the Maxwell House plant and in the first clump of habitat tree vegetation is a Kingfisher now being flushed and heading up the creek to Washington and Beaver.

It's a beautiful morning about 9 am now and the homeless camp to the left has a fellow sleeping next to the 8-10 drop that if he rolls to his left he is going right into the creek. My paddle by does not disturb his slumber.  Going past the shopping cart depth meter chart you can't even see it. The tides are high and I'm able to touch the bottom of the bridge as I go underneath.

Near Duval St. I flush the kingfisher again and the sound and distinct flight pattern is a welcoming sight. At this time a great blue heron has jumped from a limb and a stark contrast is just entering your thought perspective as these two birds have begun to fly away from you to a spot that is still ahead of you with even more cover and lush habitat that you know will have even more nature greeting you once you make it through this Downtown Destination.

The reflections off the water were mirror like for the whole trip. Farther up a red tailed hawk flew to a branch just 30' from me. Left before I could take a picture. Up around the bend as I get closer to Washington and Beaver the survey stakes are everywhere. I flush the Kingfisher for a fourth time and it has been the one bird that has just been everywhere on the creek. I make it to Washington and Beaver and there is maybe 5" of clearance under the road.

The paddle back was equally as relaxing. The person is moving now because I'm paddling against the current. The river was slowing down and the current wasn't ripping as hard as it was earlier. When I got back to the School board launch the guys were still fishing and everyone was enjoying the outdoors and the River.
Let's continue to provide a spark of enjoyment for all those who want to participate.

Who's next?

I am Downtown.

After attending the first Public meeting of our new DIA in city hall and I hope that they will continue to meet at city hall it was time to take it to one of our greatest natural assets that intersects our Downtown. So on Friday morning I wanted to Make a Scene on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative.

The start of this tactical urban kayaking adventure took place at one of Mayor Brown's new kayak launches. The Public boat ramp next to River City Brewing. About 3 or 4 boats were launching when I arrived about 8:30. In fact one of the guys gave me a hand carrying my kayak down because the ramp was full. Rush hour at the ramp. That was nice to see.

The timing and the purpose of this Public Awareness paddle was to continue to gather data that can be taken to Dave Roman, the administration, the DIA, Waterways, Commissioners of FIND,  and any other Govt. agency that will recognize that water related activity on our Waterway will continue to promote Jacksonville as a Destination and not a pass through as it relates to Downtown.

The clouds were ominous and the wind was picking up. It was an outgoing tide and so I did alter my initial trip that I wanted to take especially with the magnitude of the very first Board meeting of our new Downtown Authority. Again, you are immediately paddling so as not to be drawn into the piers of the marina. It can turn from good to bad immediately.

So I began tracking and maintaining a perpendicular coarse beyond the marina to the open river. For me it was a short break as now you want to start tracking across the River. My destination was Berkman Plaza-Plaza at Berkman. Other than the boats launching at the boat ramp river traffic is light.

I take it under Berkman and my goal on this trip was to attempt to listen to Melissa Ross and First Coast Connect on 89.9 fm and see if I could catch a fish then take it back to the boat ramp after the show. The Week in Review and the media round table had me tempted to want to call in especially when they were talking about the armory as a homeless shelter. Has anyone been by to take a look at 601 East Church St. That's next to Hogans Creek?

You can hear the people on the Riverwalk. The calm of an urban Destination Activity that should be shared and not restricted. So fishing under the brand new No FISHING signs that was never before Waterways the show is starting to draw to a close. I've had a couple of bites but not able to set a hook. I'm just using dead shrimp and moving around. The rod bends and I'm moving. The fish is hung up and I'm just being patient with this one. It seems to have worked itself out of the obstruction and when I get it to the kayak it's a 20 inch red. Mission accomplished. Hey Ross! You need to experience this. I know you are a trooper.

With the show over and sitting at the marina at Berkman I'm just staring at SHIPYARDS III. Where on the Northbank can I exit the water safely? I just mention it from a safety point. The show is over and now I'm taking it back to RCB against the current. The tides were such that I'm catching the last of the outgoing. Big difference. It's not ripping but it's a nonstop paddle to get back.

Florida Georgia next weekend. Who wants to start out Florida Georgia weekend with a tactical urban kayaking paddle and listen to Melissa Ross on First Coast Connect?

I am Downtown and why you aren't.

Who's next?

Anybody want to Make a scene Downtown on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative in our new DIA CRA zone? Call me 904-434-0839
I'll be making a tactical urban kayaking paddle and it can be easily changed to accommodate a tandem experience for someone who wants to see Jacksonville's own  Downtown NPS. (National Pier Scene.)

I am Downtown and why you aren't.

How are things on/around Hogans Creek these days?

I'm All In and why your not.

Last Thurs. after attending pint night at Blackcreek Outfitters which was a benefit for the St. Johns Riverkeeper and the guest speaker was Mark Woods from the Times Union who was giving a presentation on his yearlong exploration of the National Parks for the NPS it was time to make a scene on a Downtown Destination River Activity. Mark's pictures, explanations, and experiences had the standing room crowd attentive to every detail that he brings to his work.

And in that spirit of exploration that's what I did Sun. Morning. In keeping with Mayor Brown wanting to make Downtown a Destination and not a pass through I put in at the school board bldg. It was about 8 am the fog was starting to burn off. Outgoing tide and there were people jogging and a family was fishing on the Riverwalk. I brought the tandem and the purpose of the paddle was to do a 2 bag Vivian Harrell blue bag cleanup and take it to Jacksonville's  own version of the NPS ( National Pier Service).

I started the cleanup on the sandy beach of the adjacent JEA property. the river was calm and light boat traffic. The Jags were playing later on and Khan's yacht was visible on the Northbank. The paddle over wasn't bad and I just tracked for the northern most pier. I hugged the walls of the Northbank and took it all the way to Berkman Plaza-Plaza at Berkman. Going under Berkman I then took it all the way to Khan's Yacht.

The sun was shining. People were tailgating. The train was crossing the bridge. I kayaked around the yacht and people were just enjoying some coffee on the deck. The paddle back going with the current was very relaxed. The trip was just an hour and a half.

Billy, I haven't been on Hogans Creek recently. The reason is I'm just having too much fun just kayaking and fishing right Downtown. Next time your in Jacksonville just let me know and we'll go.

Who's next?

HUGE river announcement made at the end of the DIA/CRA in the USA Board meeting yesterday.

So as soon as the weather breaks who wants to make a tactical urban kayak paddle by making a scene in some of the most restricted Downtown zones on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative?

Special shout out to anyone outside of Duval county.

I'm All In and why you aren't.

Quote from: Noone on December 13, 2012, 07:05:35 AM
HUGE river announcement made at the end of the DIA/CRA in the USA Board meeting yesterday.

Which was?

It wasn't the Shipyards III Pier. Although it could still make the Super Duper back room door 2013 FIND grant application cycle list thanks to Boyer, Crescimbeni, and Love who are demanding another noticed meeting after the disastrous 12/12/12  Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting.

Quote from: Noone on December 14, 2012, 03:03:04 AM
It wasn't the Shipyards III Pier. Although it could still make the Super Duper back room door 2013 FIND grant application cycle list thanks to Boyer, Crescimbeni, and Love who are demanding another noticed meeting after the disastrous 12/12/12  Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting.

So what was it?

PeeJayEss, No disrespect but there were other people there and it would just add so much if someone else posted the HUGE announcement. It should be in the minutes of the next DIA/CRA in the USA Board meeting in 5 days.

Anyone that reads this and wants to make a tactical urban kayaking paddle Downtown this morning on the Northbank that will be fun and an informational gathering expedition and the information obtained will be shared with the DIA/CRA, City Council, FIND, And especially the next noticed subcommittee meeting on our SECRET FIND 2013 grant application cycle that up until this point has been a total destruction of the Public Trust pretty much like last year just give me a call. 904-434-0839.

I am Downtown and why you aren't.

Just had  a cancelation. low tide later in the afternoon. Anyone want to kayak Downtown? Anyone want to write a check for a dollar to the city of Jacksonville for 2009-442 the Artificial Reef Trust Fund. Not required for this kayaking adventure. Obviously sportier conditions. That's when it's nice to know there are more safety zones in place in case conditions are rougher.
2013 FIND grant application cycle still wide open.
904-434-0839
We'll Make It Happen
Happy New Year.

Why is Jacksonville the way it is? And after attending Jacksonville' CoWork Jax and the standing room crowd for there Fastpitch event last night it was time to make another tactical urban paddle to provide a spark that will continue to showcase to the world why Downtown is a Destination and not a pass through when it comes to our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative in our newly created DIA Zone.

It was a beautiful day to be on the water and I launched from a waterfront Public Access Street end for the first time to begin this epoch adventure. it was an outgoing tide and I was in the St. Nicholas area. My Destination was to take it Downtown to the Northbank Riverwalk and fish under the brand new No Fishing signs that was never before the Jacksonville Waterways Commission.

It was an outgoing tide and you are just paddling from start to finish. The boat traffic was very light and a calm river that made the trip very enjoyable. I made it a point to take it under all the piers as I made my way over to Berkman Plaza, Plaza at Berkman.

It wasn't one of my better fishing outings but I didn't get skunked either. Had two catfish and one trout. The one catfish was quite large I couldn't put both my hands around his head. The trout was about 15"

The Riverwalk was active with joggers and walkers. The trip back with the outgoing tide was very easy. On the Southbank past the JEA parcel on the shore were 4 Great Blue Herons and an osprey sitting on a sign. the Herons were spaced out about 50' apart and as I drifted past each one took to flight in a pattern that you would see at an airport. The low climbing altitude to a northerly location was just graceful and to just see it duplicated over and over was the highlight of this trip.

The positive benefit is that if more access points are provided then more people would be engaged.

Noone.............some people like to paddle in the city. Some people like to paddle in the woods. I find Silver River,  Ockalawa river, Crystal River river, Suwannee River, Steinhatchie, and the Upper St Johns to be more relaxing.  Hontoon Island, Blue Springs, Itchnatucky (sp) offer their own adventure and peacefull ness.  The tunnel under the Times Union Building, the creek by the coffee plant, although unique, does not get it for me.

OS and that's fine. Way back when before a DVI Board meeting there were some presentations from kayak outfitters that target and specialize in the remote wilderness locations that are these National, State, Preservation and Public Parks. It is a unique adventure from my perspective on kayaking Downtown. I'm not knocking those areas. I just find it exhilarating when you hear the train and if you happen to be right there in the river when it is just overhead.

And right now I give total props to Mayor Brown. It was exciting to join him today on the OCEARCH and what will no doubt be a huge successful Public, Private, Partnership going forward. congratulations Mayor Brown. The marine programs with the Universities and Colleges in the region will benefit with this extended learning tool.

OS, Ben JCCI, We all need to kayak Downtown before 2025. OS, hope your cracking a smile. I know Ben is. Would love to read about your trips to those other areas.

Planning a RICO paddle for Downtown tomorrow. Special shout out to anyone outside of Duval county with jurisdictional knowledge. Tides look good in the am. I'll bring a radio and we can listen to 89.9 First Coast Connect with Melissa Ross.

After attending the 3/11/13 Ethics Commission meeting where the Publics right to speak at a noticed meeting is moving forward and then attending the 3/13/13 Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting that had Commission members questioning all sorts of questionable expenses and accounts which has you just thinking "Are you sure that this isn't somehow tide into this Allied Veterans scandal somehow." We are so LOST. The St. Johns River, An American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative.

So in the spirit of RICO.  Friday morning I was standing on a legitimate Mayor Alvin Brown kayak launch location at River City Brewing ready to embark on a tactical urban kayak paddle to the other side of the River to fish under the brand new No Fishing signs that was never before the Jacksonville Waterways Commission and to check out the Jim Love, Kevin Kuzel Berkman floating dock compromise next to Shipyards III that was misrepresented to the Waterways Commission by OGC during the 2013 FIND grant application process.

The weather was beautiful. Chamber of Commerce day. No wind. it was the last of the outgoing tide and the paddle out to the River was easy. I was tracking across and the Ocearch vessel that just tagged a great white shark off our coast was docked on the Northbank. The river was empty and you are going with the tide and there is that moment that you are so proud of this city and you want to share it with everyone.

Once on the other side I took it under the courthouse parking lot. I brought some fishing poles and had some shrimp. I have a Capt. Roger Bump pro series bait bucket that I use as a food cooler (Inside joke).  It's insulated and I'll throw some ice packs and on this trip I had some chicken wings with ranch dressing. And at this point I subscribe to the Norman Rockwell approach to fishing. I had 3 poles in the water. And I'm just enjoying the chicken wings with the ranch dressing. I finished the treat with a Bloomburg 24 oz. fountain drink and it was at this point that the rod is over and it was a 17" trout.

I take it outside and I'm now along the Riverwalk.There is a biker group staying at the Hyatt along with numerous other people and it's a constant Q&A'S about this area.

The tide has now changed and the river is still a sleek calm. very little boat traffic. I take it out to the river and I'm just going with the flow back to RCB and the legitimate Mayor Alvin Brown Kayak launch. In the past when going from one side of the river to the other you just want to book it. The reasons are numerous. Boat traffic, current, wind. but on this particular day the tide has just changed and I wanted to be in the middle of the river.  Very slow moving.

The highlight for the trip was a pelican off my starboard side about 25 ' and just gliding about 2'above the water. We are in the epicenter of Downtown and to have this experience and to know that a few blocks away you could be sitting at a park bench in Hemming Plaza. ( Are the table and chairs in or out?) The pelican continues on and it's these spontaneous centers of stimuli that just surrounds you when you are allowed to participate in these organic opportunities of active engagement.

Whenever I think of a trip Downtown especially from the water it's where do I want to engage. just after the pelican the sound of the Railroad greets the community. In the distance it's a 4 engine Norfolk Southern. So cool!

The paddle into RCB has all the window seats filled with people looking out the window and I'm waving to some.

Key meetings coming up.
JCCI
DIA
FIND

Visit Jacksonville?

I am Downtown and why you aren't.

Sounds like a great day, Noone!  Thanks for sharing it with us.  It was a beautiful day to be out.  We rode our bikes up to Friendship Fountain at sunset.  Probably more people out walking around enjoying the evening than I have seen on a non-special event weekend.

Quote from: Noone on March 16, 2013, 05:51:25 PM
... and there is that moment that you are so proud of this city and you want to share it with everyone.

Couldn't agree more!

Planning a Downtown RICO paddle. You tell me if Public corruption is alive and well on our Waterways. Open to anyone.

I am Downtown and why you aren't.

Two days out from the 6/7/13 DIA subcommittee meeting of the Downtown Experience. Will there be an agenda? Who is on the committee? Anyone going?

Has anyone seen the agenda for the Oct. 4, 2013 Downtown Experience Committee meeting of our new DIA/CRA in the USA?
Don Shea is gone.
Jim Bailey is gone.
Don Harris is gone.
DIA signed away their power to negotiate to OED prior to the new guy Aundra Wallace. Not good. over $4,000,000 bucks what a joke.
2013-384 Will an amendment be attached for 24/7 access to Hogans Creek. Be concerned.
Ram dock is only open when Ram is open. Not good.
Governor Scott, your going to love this one the Jim Love, Kevin Kuzel, 26' Berkman Floating dock compromise SHIPYARDS III misrepresented by OGC to the Jacksonville Waterways Commission during the 2013 FIND grant application process. We are so LOST.
Sydney Geffen Park kayak launch.
Tom Ingram School Board kayak launch.
Don Redman, Scott Wilson Public/Commercial floating dock at Shipyards III prior to the RFI, RFP at the Downtown Experience Committee meeting of the DIA. Anyone?
Southbank Riverwalk- What is the status of the Public or Private floating dock? Anyone.
Palms Fish Camp- A million bucks and you never even opened the door. Sign me up!
2009-442- The Artificial Reef TRUST fund. FDOT- Where the heck are you? It's not you it's us (Jacksonville)
USS Adams- A positive benefit for enhancing the Tourist Experience and using our St. Johns River an American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative in our new highly restricted DIA zone.
Paul Astleford CEO of Visit Jacksonville- the new guy just 10 months on the job identifies 32 organizations that are hindering Tourism in Jacksonville. Can we all say "RICO".
The Public Trust has just been crushed in this community.

Ben- JCCI, we need to kayak Downtown before 2025.

Now new Waterways signage. Downtown Experience Committee meeting of the DIA just 3 hours out. Anyone going? This is all positive.

I got to enjoy the river last night on a dinner cruise hosted by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH).  ASALH is in town this week and having their conference at the Hyatt. Great group, great river experience.

That is super and to have two MJ history buffs could only enhance the Tourist Experience of Jacksonville on our River.

Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting one day out. 9:30 am in council chambers. Anyone going? Has anyone seen the new Waterways signage that is DOWNTOWN? Don Redman and Scott Wilson are aware of the issue. Surprise!

Super props to the new guy Paul Astleford the CEO of Visit Jacksonville who has identified 32 organizations that  are hindering TOURISM. Can we all say RICO.
Anyone want to make a donation to 2009-442 the Artificial Reef Trust Fund? FDOT-Where are you? Its not you, its Jacksonville.

The Jim Love, Kevin Kuzel, 26' Berkman Floating dock compromise SHIPYARDS III misrepresented by OGC to the Jacksonville Waterways Commission during the 2013 FIND grant application process. Governor Scott, Adam Hollingsworth please help. Paul Astleford, you nail it man.

RAM dock only opened when RAM is open. Not good.

Tides are looking good.

Who's next?

New Signage on our Downtown Waterway.

Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting today at 9:30am council chambers. Anyone going?
DIA meetings today. Anyone going?

Paul Astleford the new guy with Visit Jacksonville nails it when he identifies 32 organizations that are hindering Tourism.
The total crushing of the Public Trust.

Will there be a FIND update today at Waterways? Does this community have a clue as to what is happening on our Waterways.

Public, Private, Partnership? That is something that may need a name change.

One day out from the two Public meetings on our new CRA/DIA in the USA that will guide us for years to come. Anyone going? Anybody care? Will my Dist. 4 city council representative be there for both of these meetings? We are so LOST. Hey, when you have one of the CRA consultants use a Public comment period to tell DIA board members that people go to jail I know that would make sure that my butt was there. Somebody ask councilman Redman because he is chair of Waterways what is going on with FIND. I'll bet your going to love the answer.

Anybody want to donate a buck to 2009-442?
No Shoes
No Shirt
No Money
No Problem- Visit Jacksonville

So after reading JAX Chamber president Dan Davis and his point of view in the Times Union about the London trip I immediately made a cup of tea and using my Royal Caribbean insulated beverage container took my tea and kayak to Jacksonville's Downtown International Redneck Kayak Launch that is next to the school board and right next to the brand new Country Boy JEA fence. What was wrong with the old fence? How much did that cost? That had to have been a cost cutting goal in the recent $1.9million bonus pay.
Forget swamp land. I have a JEA house that I'll sell you.

Weather conditions were JAX Chamber, DIA chillin, OED spacin. The day after Florida, Georgia was equally as exciting and it is something that we all still want to be a part of. There were some people already walking, jogging, and fishing on the Riverwalk. This time my goal was to do a respectable Vivian Harrell Bluebag cleanup and leave it on the JEA concrete that can only be accessed from the water. Overstreet, you may be all over this one. There is a $5 Hess gas card in an envelope on top of the blue bag. Seriously. I hope someone claims it.

The highlight of this short paddle was when I rounded the corner to this isolated unique stretch of urban wonder that is a sheltered cove that had an osprey, a great blue heron, egrets, and other wading birds just perched and standing in what was almost arms length distance from each other. Contrast that with a pride of lions, cheetahs, and leopards, in an open grassland scene that you think about in a movie or magazine.  It was the birds that one by one took to flight as the open waterway closed with my incoming arrival. This happened Downtown today. I'll take it.

Environmental Ethics- Vince Seibold

When people ask me are we are going to be getting more Public Access and economic opportunity to our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative in our new highly restricted DIA zone. I say NO!

I am Downtown and why you aren't.

I am Downtown with Mayor Brown.

After attending a bunch of recent meetings and hearing more Backroom deals you just want to get ready to tell the world don't VISIT JACKSONVILLE!

But being a team player and wanting to join Mayor Brown in making Downtown a Destination and not a pass through I launched my kayak at the mayor Brown kayak launch at Metropolitan Park marina.

Weather conditions were not ideal. Overcast skies, slight drizzle, outgoing tide, the wind wasn't a factor which was the main reason that I decided to even give it a try. It was about 2:30 and my ultimate destination originally was going to be Berkman Plaza- Plaza at Berkman. The Jim Love, Kevin Kuzel 26' Berkman floating dock compromise Shipyards III misrepresented by OGC during the 2013 FIND grant application process. 

With live shrimp and all packed up when I exited the shelter of the marina I was immediately met with the strong outgoing current and my destination was so far away in the distance. Once past the marina I am now paddling back another potential kayak launch and that is the existing floating dock that is at Shipyards which nobody can use. Don't believe me just ask Scott Wilson he was sitting right next to me while this was being discussed before the RFI, RFP on Shipyards at a DIA meeting. Pull the tape. I digress.

So I'm paddling against the current and again you can't help but think of the options that you are being given by our leaders. I anchor up and I caught a couple of catfish. I love it when you catch a catfish and you can't wrap your hands around its head. So now I'm fishing and then it dawns on me do the gates get locked up at 5? I don't know. So now I'm just taking it back in. Caught another catfish in the marina. Short trip. But it was fun. How can you share it with more people if you don't open the access to the river? 2013-384 Active piece of legislation. 24/7 Public Access to Hogans Creek.

DIA Board meeting 4 days out. 5 pm 1St floor city hall.

Who's next?

Our weather still far better than most of the rest of the country- a Downtown Waterway Adventure bonus.

Quote from: Noone on November 16, 2013, 08:17:40 AM
After attending a bunch of recent meetings and hearing more Backroom deals you just want to get ready to tell the world don't VISIT JACKSONVILLE!

you attend so many of the meetings, some might think you were in the back room

Back seat. Front seat. I'm on Board with the USS Charles F. Adams in Jacksonville. Tides look awesome this afternoon for a BOLD Urban Core tactical paddle of Hogans Creek. I'll be doing a cleanup and fishing. If anyone wants to join me and donate a buck for the USS Adams and be All In then give me a call.

The resolution of support at the 11/20/13 DIA Board meeting says to join the whole room.
www.adams2jax.org
Special shout out to
Any group that wants to participate in a positive project for Jacksonville.
Scout leaders.
Any media organization.
Any politician that is running in Florida
Governor Scott
Any Hooter Girls, Past, Present and Future
Any of the revolving DIA Board members
Any IBM'ers if they are still in the country
Anyone with OGC before we waive residency requirements
RICO interns
Any FIND Commissioners

Yesterday was a Pre NFL (North Florida Loses) paddle in what may be one of the biggest playoff games of highlighting the extraordinary restriction of Public Access and Economic Opportunity in our new highly restricted CRA/DIA in the USA zone that will have everyone being challenged on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative.

And answering the call for another adventure in making Downtown a Destination and not a pass through was NM, KG, North Miami, Know Growth.

The weather was Jax Chamber, DIA Chillin, and OED Spacin. We met at the official Mayor Brown kayak launch at River City Brewing- NOT ARLINGTON. Its Dec. and NM is in shorts and arrives with the spirit of adventure and enthusiasm that you want to say Welcome to Jacksonville!

We briefly talked with a man named Bruce who was loading up and we were taking the second shift as we unloaded to take advantage of the outgoing tide. Our goal was to take it over to the Northbank and fish under the brand new No Fishing signs that was never before Waterways. Where would we have launched on the Northbank? RAM dock? NFL-( North Florida Loses) I digress.

With our kayaks in the water it's immediate photo ops. The river is calm and it's at this critical point that you stay focused and paddle against the current past the marina so as not to be pulled in. Once in the open water it is a very relaxed paddle over to the Northbank.

We were catching the conditions just at the right time and once under the first No Fishing sign it was game on. We tried a new spot and to share this adventure with NM and some of the other areas of Downtown from the water just adds to the excitement that it is truly everywhere that you are allowed to engage our River that you feel the connection and are part of a positive experience that is trying to happen in this community.

It wasn't too long and with some adjustments that we had a hook up and an oversized red in the yak. Sign me up! This trip was more about the exploring and sharing the vibrancy of an activity with a friend that has you going over, under, around, all the catchy buzz words that you can think of but in the end we are Downtown right here and Making It Happen.

The paddle back had us leaving and for me I'm just staring at Shipyards III and how nice would it be to exit right there and go up to Mark's and have a cold one. But No! The paddle back had us still catching the outgoing tide but barely. We tracked back over with little wind and a calm river and there was one boat and the water taxi and that is all that we encountered in our trip back to RCB. Think about it. This is how empty our Downtown is from the water. One boat was docked at Berkman.

Back at River City Brewing and the next time we are going in for a cold one to celebrate our continuous attempts to bring awareness to what still has the potential to be a vibrant Downtown.

One day out from a huge DIA subcommittee meeting of the DIA. 4pm Ed Ball building first floor. Bring your egg nogg.
Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting in 6 days.
City council in 5 days.
FIND is coming back to the region. We are so LOST.
And our new CRA/DIA in the USA is wrapping up. This is our NFL (North Florida Loses) plan. Maybe not.

Paul Astleford is a hero.
Ben-JCCI we need to kayak Downtown before 2025

Who's next?

Planning a RICO paddle today.
Last home game of the Jaguars.
Remember the St. Johns River.

Planning another RICO paddle Sat. Or Sunday. Anywhere between 10-5. Can be shorter or longer. Looking for anyone that will donate a buck to the group bringing the USS Charles F. Adams to Jacksonville. A positive project. I have a two seater kayak. Shoot me a pm with a phone number and you will see and understand this statewide issue in our new highly restricted DIA zone.

Governor Scott- Let's get to work.
Adam Hollingsworth are you in town?


I am Downtown and why you aren't.

Can vote for two people. Please share what power they have or you perceive they have.

Thanks for voting.

2/1/14 was another Downtown Destination River Activity for the record books as we all continue to join in making Downtown a Destination and not a pass through on our St. johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative in our new highly restricted DIA zone.

Caught two catfish and just enjoyed the vibrancy of an area that is coming alive. The Downtown Experience subcommittee meeting of the DIA will be Friday 2/7/14 at 4 pm it's floor city hall.

Did anyone read Littlepage today?
I'm All In.

Wanted to bump this. 2 hours out from 2014-22 and OUR property tax money. Legislation will be in Finance and RCD. Open to the Public. Did anyone read Littlepage today?

Please Vote.

Think of it as practice for One Spark.

2014-22 and more Backroom deal stuff. We are so LOST.

The 2014 FIND grant application projects are in two committees Finance and RCD. Open to the Public. Did everyone read Littlepage today?

My favorite FIND project.

The Jim Love, Kevin Kuzel 26' Berkman Floating Dock Compromise (Shipyards III) misrepresented by OGC during the 2013 FIND grant application process.

Brilliant! Congratulations councilman Love Dist. 14

Please vote. I was Donwtown today and using the River in a positive way.

Please vote. Don't have to write anything. Huge announcements are coming. For those who have voted. Jacksonville thanks you.

Wanted to bump this list (thread)

Who wants to vote now after the TU 2/21/14 Front page headline about access to the Timucuan?

Please vote.

DIA meeting at 10 1st floor city hall. Then Scott Wilson told me about the DVI Board meeting at 12 at the Suntrust Building. It is an opportunity to see who will have the courage to put an immediate moratorium to the demolition of the Southbank Riverwalk in front of the Duval County Public Schools Building that is next to our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative in our new highly restricted DIA (Food Truck) zone.

Have an email in to the Riverkeeper
Visit Jacksonville- Yeah Right!
Public, Private, Partnership
Vision 2025- Ben, we need to kayak Downtown way before 2025.

Who wants to join the Armada?
Please vote!

I am Downtown and why you aren't.

Where is the Riverkeeper?

I emailed Mayor Brown.

Please Vote.

DIA meeting tomorrow. City council in 5 days. Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting in 6 days and a presentation on the $15,000,000 Southbank Riverwalk Project. Scott Wilson feel free to jump in here.

Any truth to the rumor for a canoe, kayak, Stand Up Paddleboard launch at MOSH?

Ben- JCCI, we need to kayak Downtown before 2025

Today at the 3/7/14 DIA,  AKA (Fun Committee)  Subcommittee meeting of the Downtown Experience had a presentation from one group that will just rock it on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAl Innitiative in our new highly restricted (Food Truck, Kayak) DIA zone.

Chair Tony Allegretti oversaw a very positive and open meeting that allowed Public comment after every presentation and kept it moving so well.

More later. Please vote.

Are people able to vote?

Two hours out from the 2/11/15 Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting. Anyone going?
Was in Palatka 2/9/15 when Duval county told Putnam county that we are blowing up Rodman.
Last night at the 2/11/15 Jacksonville city council meeting 2014-560 our new CRA/DIA was passed by the Jacksonville city council
Today at Waterways is the illegal water taxi 2014-412.
Will the Super Duper downtown docking zone map be shown on the overhead?
How about the 2 NEW floating docks on the Southbank 2014-190. One vendor? Or a SUSTAINABLE option for the little guys?

I am Downtown and why you aren't.

Who's next?

Tera Meeks at the podium on 2015-37 Find projects. Can watch live on coj.net

Jim Robinson at the podium now on Liberty St.

Quote from: Noone on February 11, 2015, 09:26:31 AM
Tera Meeks at the podium on 2015-37 Find projects. Can watch live on coj.net

Passed 9-0 with the Crescimbeni amendment that took out the Northbank bridge at Geffen to have that money put into a separate account.