PHOTOS & COMMENTARY FOR THE GREAT STEAMBOAT RACE OF 2006

Being the co-judge and co-emcee of the Great Steamboat Race with Chef Joe Cahn was an adventure in itself, believe me!  With his big booming voice he doesn't need a microphone, and I never know what he's going to say or when he's going to say it!  Chances are, however, no matter what he says, he's going to make you laugh! 

When the Delta Queen Steamboat Company decision makers decided to pair us up 12 years ago as co-judges for the Great Steamboat race of that year, Joe & I had never met each other before.  Our mandate has always been to consistently communicate to the passengers of both boats, who are competing against each other all the way up the river, that the whole thing is just for fun!

Joe and I have since become very close friends in the real world.  We visit with each other every chance we get; and we regularly talk on the phone.  He always makes me laugh!

As you know, I wasn't able to make regular blog postings while traveling up river.  This was a little frustrating from time to time.  Even when we arrived in St. Louis I couldn't get a steady wireless internet connection (!)   But as I've mentioned, part of the charm of the river is the feeling of being isolated from "the real world."  On the Delta Queen in particular, out there in the middle of the river, time seems to stand still.  It's a place where stopping in the aft cabin lounge to work on a jig-saw puzzle seems totally natural.

PHOTOS & COMMENTARY

I've added many photos for you to see, and quite a bit of commentary about the Great Steamboat Race of 2006.   It was a pleasure to be part of it, and I thank Franz for the opportunity to communicate to you with words & photos.

All the best.

BODINE