This series of photographs were taken upon the occasion of 
the President of the Society and his brother attending the
AAPM convention in New Orleans in September of 2002.

A serious hurricane had just ripped through the area and we
were not at all sure whether or not we would even be allowed
to fly into New Orleans. Fortunately the weather cleared just
before our arrival and we experienced no trouble.

When reservations were made for the dinner cruise we mentioned
that we were officers of the Winona Steamboat Racing &
Historical Society. The reservationist connected us with the
public relations personnel and it was suggested that we come
down an hour early so we could tour the boat before it was
loaded with passengers.  We couldn't wait!!

We both felt quite important when we presented ourselves at
the ticket booth, we were taken aside, presented with an
informational pamphlet and escorted past nearly 400
passengers waiting in line!

We were introduced to the Captain and taken aboard before
anyone else was allowed to board! The Captain directed us to
Nick Rosselli and Nick passed us on to the pilot house! WOW!
Nobody is allowed up to the pilot house, but we were!

I made a serious gaff when we entered the pilot house! The
young man seated at the pilots chair looked so young ... I
asked if he was the "cub"!!  ooof!

He said he was Captain Steve "Nick" Nicgulin!! I attempted to
make a profuse apology by commenting how young he looked. He
told me he had been a Captain for eighteen years. I felt
terrible. But he was most gracious!!

I wish to thank Captain Nick, Don Houghton, Nick Rosselli,
and all the officers, staff, and personnel of the New Orleans
Steamboat Company for thier most generous hospitality!

I heartily recommend the experience of Str. "Natchez"

It was unforgettable!!

The food was great, the service was great, the band was great
and we enjoyed the music tremendously (even bought their CD).