Efforts increase to save Delta Queen

HANNIBAL, Mo. (AP) -- One-hour ceremonies are planned in St. Louis, Alton, Illinois, and other Mississippi River cities in case this year's voyages of the iconic Delta Queen are her last.

The 82-year-old sternwheeler is headed for the scrapheap unless it gets another exemption from the Safety at Sea Act.

Supporters are stepping up efforts to save the passenger cruise boat.

The Queen has wooden decks, and federal law requires fireproof construction.

Critics have charged the debate is more about party and constituency politics than it is an effort to keep passengers safe.

The Hannibal Convention and Visitors Bureau says a mothballing of the Queen would "be a loss historically."

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Information from the Hannibal Courier-Post, http://www.hannibal.net/