Blinker Spring 2017

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1 - WOW Chef Series (B) 2 - Prime Rib Buffet (M) 2-3 In-Water Power & Sail Technology Show (M) 4 - Q With a View (M) 7-11 Helly Hanson NOOD Regatta (M) 8-11 Neill Clinic (B) 9-11 Power Fleet Cruise to Michigan City 13 - Big Smoke I (M) 14 - WOW Wednesday Night Racing (B) 15 - Sailing School BBQ & Open House (B) 16 - Tacos & Tequila (M) 16 - CSF Friday Discussion 17 - CSF Sailing Saturdays (M) 18 - Father’s Day Brunch & BBQ Buffet (M) 20- PF Special Needs Cruise (M) 20- WOW Happy Hour (M) 22 - WOW Come Sail Away (B) 22 - Music in the Mac Bar (M) 23 - FAC Family Watersports Party (B) 24 - Associates Dock Party (M) 25 - 71st Annual Fleet Review 29 - WOW Come Sail Away (B) 29 - PF Sight Impaired Cruise for Youth 30- June2-Junior Race Week Regatta(B) 30- Friday Summer Music Series (B)

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New Member Orientation (M) Ladies’ Fashion Show (M) Prime Rib Buffet (M) Match Race Clinic (B) Island Goat Dinner (B) WOW Come Sail Away (M) Taste of Belmont (B) Rickover Regatta (B) Mother’s Day Brunch (M) Music in the MAC (M) Authors Corner (M) Perspectives Lunch (M) Women’s Match Racing Clinic Regatta (B) Howl at the Full Moon (B) Auto Show Brunch (M) Match Racing Starts (B) WOW Come Sail Away (B) CSF Friday Discussions (M) Friday Summer Music Series (B) Sailing Saturday (M) Thunderhead Party (B) Flag Raising & Memorial Day BBQ (M) Colors Ceremony (M) Club Closed (M)

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CSF Cruise to Hammond, IN Monroe Station is Open 4th of July (B) (M) Old Guard Race (B) PF Cruise to Kenosha Prime Rib Buffet (M) Warning Gun Party (M) Cruising Mac Start Sailors’ Dock Party (M) Start of the 109th Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac, presented by Wintrust Grand Hotel Porch Party (Mac) Sailor’s Celebration (Mac) CSF Friday Discussions (M) WOW Happy Hour (M) CSF - Sailing Saturdays (M) WOW Come Sail Away (M) Music in the Mac Bar (M) Friday Summer Music Series (B)

Correction:

In the list of Race to Mackinac CYC Member 1st Place Winners (page 24, Blinker, Fall 2016) the following was left off the list: TOA Bruce Danly & James Mitchell Section 7 Chicago-Mackinac Trophy


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Spring 2017

Calendar of Events 2017 Regatta Calendar From The Helm New Faces at Chicago Yacht Club New Members Chicago Yacht Club Honors Ceremony 35th America’s Cup in Bermuda America’s Cup in Chicago Key West Race Week In-Water Tech Show, Power & Sail Orange Bowl Regatta Getting to Know Peter Holz Campaign for Tokyo 2020 WOW! What’s the Buzz All About? Belmont Update What’s in a Name? The CYC Power Fleet 2017 Power Fleet Calendar Making Fitness a Priority Yacht Club Thespians at Belmont 2017 Cruising Sail Fleet Calendar The History of the CYC Library Sailing World Cup Miami Chicago Yacht Club Foundation News Chicago Boat Show New Player in the Chicago Sail Racing Scene CY-Scene 2017 CYC Race to Mackinac Schedule

On Our Cover: Commodore Leif Sigmond’s Farr 40, Norboy. Cover photo by Sara Proctor ˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org

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2017 Regattas APRIL 2017 April 22-23 April 29 & May 6

Central Baker Qualifier Match Race Clinics

MAY 2017 May 13 May 19-21 May 24-Sept 27 May 20-Sept 23

Rickover Regatta Women's Match Racing Clinic Regatta Belmont Skyline Racing Yacht Fleet Series

JUNE 2017 June June June June

2-4 7-11 8 -11 30- Jul 2

USMRC Grade 3 Qualifier Helly Hansen NOOD Regatta Neill Clinic Junior Race Week

JULY 2017 July 14 & 15

109th CYC Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust

AUGUST 2017 August 10-13 August 12 August 18-20 August 24-27

Verve Cup Offshore Regatta Verve Cup Distance Race Chicago GRAND SLAM Verve Cup Inshore Regatta

SEPTEMBER 2017 September 8-10 North American Challenge Cup September 16 Sheldon Clark Regatta September 27-Oct 1 Farr 40 North Americans September 30-Oct 1 Timme Angsten Regatta

OCTOBER 2017 October 14-15 October 14 October 28-29 October 1-Nov. 12

High School Autumn Classic Regatta Intercommittee Challenge Autumn Invitational Grade 3 Match Race Fall Frostbite Series

NOVEMBER 2017 November 4-5

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Blinker | Spring 2017

Great Lakes High School Championship


2017 CHICAGO YACHT CLUB VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP

From the Helm

The phrase “Your Lake, Our Passion, Your Community” takes on a different meaning for each member and family at Chicago Yacht Club. There’s something here to appeal to every member whether it’s traditional on the water activities or exploring new interests including cooking, fashion or acting. This edition of the Blinker shares perspectives of our members from their experiences this season.

Flag Officers 2017 Leif Sigmond, Commodore Lou Sandoval, Vice Commodore Nick Berberian, Rear Commodore Rick Lillie, Secretary Martin Sandoval, Treasurer Past Commodores Greg Miarecki Gerald Bober Board of Directors Cyd Archer Sandy Curtiss Ian Fisher Michael Frerker Frederick Hagedorn Ted Jones Don Maxwell Edward McNulty Roger MacDougall Elizabeth Newman Kenneth Nordine Sarah Renz Christopher Thomas Dr. Regan Thomas 2017 CHICAGO YACHT CLUB EXECUTIVE STAFF General Manager Dwight Jenson, CCM Controller Kyle Babcock Assistant Controller Patrick Daly Executive Chef Larry Asher Sous Chef Silvestre Salgado Food & Beverage Director Kristin Aleshire Catering & Events Director Christina Barbaro Member Services Manager Melissa Harkenrider Dining Services Manager Jason Hess Membership Marketing Director Emily Giaimo Communications Director Tracy Gladden Human Resources Director Daisy Aponte Belmont Chef/Manager Jill Dedinsky On the Water Director Jay Kehoe Sailing School Director Julia Melton Keelboat Director/ Belmont Dockmaster Chuck Nevel Regatta Manager Elizabeth Dust Dockmaster Colin Maloney Employee of the Year Danny Rosas

I want to extend a warm welcome to the new members who have joined the CYC family. We have many on the water and signature social events for our members and I look forward to seeing you at the Club this year. The summer sailing season is almost here and as your new Commodore, I’m looking forward to making it the best yet. We were fortunate with a warmer than usual winter in Chicago and attendance at the Club reflected that. This winter, Chicago Yacht Club members were also active in participating in Race Committee and some were busy sailing around the country and around the world. In this issue of the Blinker, you’ll find out more about the upcoming America’s Cup World Series in Bermuda and how Chicago Yacht Club’s On The Water Director, Jay Kehoe, is putting together an event that is not to be missed. Matt Knighton gives you an inside scoop into how SoftBank Team Japan is gearing up for the race and gives details on why Chicago should pay attention.

There’s much to recap as you will read ahead in our member’s stories about various Club events including the Race to Mackinac Awards Banquet, CYC Honors Ceremony, Orange Bowl Regatta, Key West Race Week and the Sailing World Cup Miami. Find out about upcoming events from our popular Women’s Committee, CASRA, Cruising Sail Fleet and get a sneak peek of the Power & Sail In-Water Tech Show. The power fleet also has a great article this issue on how they named their yachts and the stories behind them, which can’t be missed.

I want to thank my friends and fellow Flag Officers Lou Sandoval, Nick Berberian, Rick Lillie and Martin Sandoval, as well as our General Manager, Dwight Jenson. We have many exciting events planned in the coming months both on and off the water and it is an honor to serve as your Commodore for the next two years.

LEIF SIGMOND, COMMODORE sigmond@chicagoyachtclub.org ˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org

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71st Annual Fleet Review Save the Date!

6XQGD\ -XQH Ň0RQURH 6WDWLRQ Brunch 11 am - 2:30 pm Parade of Boats 12:45 pm Sunday BBQ following parade New Awards! Champagne Flutes for all participants! This is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy champagne, brunch and meet other CYC members. No boat? No worries! Sign up to be a passenger at the Front Desk or watch the Parade of Boats from the Club's patio. Register your boat early, the committee would like to have more than 30 boats participate! Contact Committee Chair, Bill Bloom with questions at Williambloom3@gmail.com

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Blinker | Spring 2017


Editorial Advisory Board Jane Vartan

New Faces

Managing Editor Tracy Gladden

Commodore Leif Sigmond

Contributors

Jeff Mills Jill Dedinsky Greg Miarecki Rick Lillie Philip May Kevin Toborek Bill Bloom Leif Sigmond Laura Sigmond Peter Holz William Hannay Alina K. Dix Tanya D. Whitehead Matt Knighton Jay Kehoe Julia Melton Dillon Paiva Philip May Pat Marek Nancy Marek Rhonda Thomas Maggie Shea Libbi Dust

Photo/Image Contributions

Tom Barnard Alexander Curtiss Charles Lamphere Eric Moore Christina Barbaro Emily Giaimo Matt Knighton/SoftBank Team Japan Willie McBride, US Sailing Team Jen Edney, US Sailing Team

Publication information. Blinker (USPS 104020), issue number 407, is published triannually (Spring, Summer, Fall) by the Chicago Yacht Club Communications Committee, 400 E. Monroe St., Chicago, IL 60603-6493. The subscription rate is $25 annually, available only to Club members. Copyrighted by The Chicago Yacht Club. Periodicals postage paid at Chicago, IL and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Blinker, Chicago Yacht Club, 400 E. Monroe St., Chicago, IL 60603. Printer. Blinker is printed by Kjellberg Printing, Inc., 805 W. Liberty Dr., Wheaton, IL 60187. Phone 630-653-2244. Publication policy. We publish articles about club activities and members and their participation in competitive and recreational sail and motor yachting. Our purpose is to recognize those who contribute to the organization and operation of the club and its activities, and to promote member interest and participation in club functions as well as civic and military affairs. Members are invited to contribute to the contents of the magazine. Postmaster: Address Change Service Requested, please send to Chicago Yacht Club, 400 E. Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603.

ISAAC CLARK, HEAD COACH

As Head Coach of Chicago Yacht Club’s Junior Sailing Program, Isaac manages and coaches most junior sailing at Belmont Station. He coaches the varsity high school teams during the fall and spring seasons and coaches the Club’s 420 race team over the summer and winter seasons. Isaac was on the sailing team at William and Mary and graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Geology with a minor in Marine Science. Before coming to Chicago Yacht Club, Isaac was the Sailing Program Director at Christchurch School in Virginia.

NICK CHADWICK, FLEET DIRECTOR

Nick joined Chicago Yacht Club in the fall of 2016. Nick brings a wealth of experience, expertise and knowledge to the Club's programs and current team. He has 20 years of experience in the marine industry running multiple international race programs across all levels including Nations Cups, ISAF World Championships and Olympic Programs. Nick continues to assist in the Women's World Match Racing Tour and Adaptive Sailing Solutions. He looks forward to serving the Club and sharing new levels of international excellence and expertise with the team to progress Chicago Yacht Club’s ambitions.

TRACY GLADDEN, COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

Tracy is Chicago Yacht Club’s new Communications Director. She comes to the Club with more than 10 years of experience in public relations, marketing, communications and television broadcasting. Tracy is from Arlington Heights, Illinois and received her Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from Columbia College Chicago. Tracy spent the past six years working in public relations in the private sector, for non-profits and for a government agency. Prior to her experience in public relations, Tracy spent five years as a television news reporter. Her television career took her to many states including Alaska, Hawaii and Texas. ˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org

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Ahoy New Members by JEFF MILLS he New Members Committee was created to ensure smooth sailing as you transition into “Club Life� when joining Chicago Yacht Club. The New Members Committee, under the leadership of Melanie Husk and Jeff Mills has been gaining momentum since they took over last year. Whether its hosting a Blackhawks Brunch, Happy Hour Mixers, or a New Members Orientation, the New Members Committee is here to make you feel at home. One of the traditions we have at Chicago Yacht Club is the pineapple flag representing new members. A pineapple is the universal symbol of warmth, welcome, friendship and hospitality. These are the very qualities that we want to share with our new members. So, if you are a new member to the Club, ask your server to place the pineapple flag on your table. If you are visiting the Club and see this flag, please take a few moments to introduce yourself and check in on the newbies! While we discuss the water and the Club, we are happy to help you get your “sea legs�. Whether that means answering questions, making introductions, steering you towards the right committee for you to join, helping you find activities like Women on the Water, family activities to enjoy with the kiddos, or helping you get a ride on Wednesday Night Racing, the New Members Committee is here for you. We are always happy to meet up with members new and old so if you have any questions, needs, wants, or if you just need someone to hang out with, please let us know. We’d be happy to let you buy us a beer!

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Blinker | Spring 2017

Jeff Mills and Melanie Husk

Our Pineapple table flag.


Membership

Associate

New Members:

Adam Daniels Title: Senior Manager Retail Operations Company: Walgreens

Regular

Colleen King

Gordon Boulger

Spouse: Lauri Scott Casler

James King

Spouse: Laura Boat: Laser Title: Director of Global Sales Company: Chica Unicom Americas Nicholas Manusos

Spouse: Heidi Boat: Silver Dragon, Beneteau, Cruising Sail Fleet, Burnham Harbor Title: Principal Company: Utility Product Solutions Stan Day

Spouse: Dana Boat: Lines, MJM, Power Fleet, DuSable Harbor Title: Founder, President Company: SRAM Corporation

Spouse: Lauren Boat: Inconseavable, Cobalt, Power Fleet, Burnham Harbor Title: VP Business Development Company: Baxter International Richard Mascia Spouse: Sofia Title: Managing Principal Company: HOK Inc

Michele McVey Spouse: D. Timothy Boat: Old Glory, Boa, Cruising Sail Fleet, Belmont Harbor Title: Consultant/Engineer Company: Madison Design Partners Chris Ryba Spouse: Joy Boat: Loon, Pacific Seacraft, Cruising Sail Fleet, Belmont Harbor Title: Attorney Company: Segal McCambridge Conrad von Peterffy

Raymond Burchett

Gerthrude Cameron

Title: Project Accountant Company: The Walsh Group Joseph Rossi Jr. Boat: 4 Play, Caravelle, Power Fleet Title: Owner Company: Grocery Guys, LLC Kimberly Smallwood Spouse: Anthony Title: Oncology Nurse Practitioner Company: Rush Medical Center

Mateo DiBlasi

Victoria Flatley

Steven Hardee Taylor Hasson

Hobie James

Gillian Perrell

Christopher Sharpless, III James Wagner

Margaret Carr

Barbara Falconer Richard Gaston

Past Commodore, Ray Green Thaddeus Hajduk Richard Kruke

Past Commodore Theodore Lake Jr. Jacob Weglarz

VETERAN MILESTONES: Regular to Veteran I Robert Washlow Veteran I to II Nolan Levine Dr. Michael Morgenstern Ruth Ann Moorman Albert Rose Jr. William Smith

Juniors Spouse: Elizabeth Title: Owner Company: Schenker Storen AG

IN MEMORIAM:

Veteran II to III George Lombard Arthur Theriault Dr. Joseph Caruso Stephen Morris

˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org

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Chicago Yacht Club Honors Ceremony In December, Chicago Yacht Club honored members who achieved great things in sailing around the world at the CYC Honors Ceremony.

CYC Honor Roll:

Chicago Yacht Club’s Honor Roll recognizes national and international achievements by Club members. Honorees include Olympic medalists, America’s Cup skippers and others who have honored our Club through their contributions to the sport of sailing.

TAYLOR CANFIELD

Left to Right- Evan Jahn, Todd Reynolds, Marcus Thyman, Taylor Canfield, Commodore Leif Sigmond, Lindy Thomas, Don Wilson, Dick Sterns, Chuck Lamphere, Past Commodore Greg Miarecki.

CYC Lifetime Achievement Award: BUDDY MELGES

• 1964 Olympic Silver medal - Flying Dutchman • 1972 Olympic Gold Medal - Soling • 1978 Star World Champion • 1979 Star World Champion • 12-time World Champion (5.5 meter, Star and Skeeter Ice Boat) • 3-time Yachtsman of the year (1961, 1972 and 1978) • 1987 Americas Cup Heart of America (Chicago Yacht Club) • 1992 Americas Cup Winner 10

Blinker | Spring 2017

DICK STEARNS

DON WILSON

• Ranked #1 in World Match race rankings • 1st Congressional Cup three-peat (2014, 2015 & 2016) • 2nd World Match Race Tour (season champ) • Named Skipper of China One sailing team • 1962 Star World Champion • 1963 Pan American Games-Gold Medal • 1964 Olympic Games Silver Medal • 7 Winner of Star North Americans

• 1st place Bermuda M-32 Series • 1st Harbor Springs M-32 Series • 1st Verve Cup M-32 Series • 1st Grade 3 CMRC at CYC Match Race • 1st NOOD T-10’s • Chairman ACWS Chicago


CYC Distinguished Service Award: TOD REYNOLDS

• Event Director for America’s Cup World Series Chicago • Chicago Event Director ACWS Fukuoka (Japan)

CYC Hall of Fame Induction LINDY THOMAS

Farr 40 North American Championship HELMUT & EVAN JAHN

Helmut Jahn & Evan Jahn were honored for their victory aboard Flash Gordon in the Farr 40 North American Championship held in Chicago, IL.

LEIF SIGMOND & MARCUS THYMIAN

Commodore Leif Sigmond & Marcus Thymian battled the entire time, never leading until the last race!

The CYC Hall of Fame Award honors those individuals who have dedicated their lives to the betterment of sail racing, are leaders and innovators in the sport, and deserve permanent recognition in Lake Michigan sailing history.

J-111 North American Championship:

Michael Mayer and Karl Brummel’s Kashmir won by 7 points among a fleet of 15 at the 2016 J/111 World Championship in Newport, RI. Photo by Cate Brown

Left to Right, Past Commodore Greg Miarecki, Lindy Thomas & Gail Turluck, Secretary of the Lake Michigan Sail Racing Federation. Lindy Thomas has won trophies in most of the events in which he has raced: 24 of 41 Chicago Race to Mackinac races, 7 of 18 Port Huron to Mackinac races and Tartan 10 Nationals in 1978.

CYC All-American Honorees: ALEX CURTISS & MALCOLM LAMPHERE

Malcolm Lamphere – Yale ‘18; ISCA All-American

Alexander Curtiss – St. Mary’s ‘16; ISCA All-American www.chicagoyachtclub.org

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On the Water with Jay – 35th America’s Cup in Bermuda

by JAY KEHOE

want to thank the members of Chicago Yacht Club, because of all our hard work last June, I have this dream position as On the Water Director for the 35th America’s Cup. It is really unbelievable what is happening here! So, what am I doing? Right now, myself and about 100 other organizers are in the final planning stages, putting together the 35th America’s Cup Challenger Series and Finals. It’s a two month long regatta event that will be sailed in Bermuda’s Great Sound, culminating in crowning the next winner of the America’s Cup. It’s a herculean effort as fans from around the world come to see seven teams, from seven nations, vying to be the one that competes against Oracle USA to sail in the finals this June. To say I am overwhelmed daily by the detail is an understatement. I’m going to return to Chicago Yacht Club with many new skills and a keener eye for details! I’m learning that planning for everything makes life go smoother. We are preparing for so many contingencies, to insure the event goes smoothly in the face of so many variables.

I

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Blinker | Spring 2017

My day normally starts with a challenging commute to the ACEA (America’s Cup Event Authority) Office on Front Street. Challenging because I am on a bicycle, on the wrong (left!) side of the narrow, crowded road. Other days I have to be at Dockyard, the regatta base, so I have the commute of a lifetime, zipping in a RIB across the Great Sound at sunrise. From there, it’s meetings with teams, staff, sponsors, volunteers, and other stakeholders all day until - a sunset drive home. Many of you remember how precisely choreographed our fleet of stake and marshal boats was at the Chicago ACWS Event. Apparently, our ACWS event was the best of the entire series! Our precision is exactly what the ACEA wants at the America’s Cup Finals in Bermuda. I’ve developed it and now I’m finalizing the plan for the AC regatta support boats. We are nailing down the spectator boat locations and the Super Yacht (80’-300’) Program, a complicated aspect we did not have in Chicago. I am generally on the water daily, scoping out and finalizing the specific Super Yacht positions in different race areas. We have to fit 30-50


Superyachts in their own GPS-coordinated spot on the race box. This task is further complicated by depth restrictions in the Great Sound. This week the wind is blowing hard, over 20 knots, and the teams are headed out to test their small jibs and heavy airfoils. When I watch the 50foot America’s Cup Class boats fully power up, it is crazy how fast these boats are. I am so excited about the lessons I am able to bring back to Chicago Yacht Club when I am done here: • Contacts with the management for premier regattas that want capable venues like ours • Revised event planning process for planning regattas to up our game! • Sponsor activation tips, critical evaluation of little things to make sponsors happy • Trends for managing huge events, communications and timelines. Beyond waterside, and into sponsorship, social and media plans Finally, I have to say thank you to the Flag and Dwight for granting my leave to be down here in Bermuda! It is an amazing experience and I know it will benefit the Club for years to come.

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The 35th America’s Cup and Why Chicago Should Pay Attention by MATT KNIGHTON photos by MATT KNIGHTON/SOFTBANK TEAM JAPAN

t the end of each day at SoftBank Team Japan, all of us get an email from our Performance Director, Scott Babbage, with the daily technical analysis from that day’s test session – numbers and plot graphs pulled from the hundreds of sensors onboard our America’s Cup Class race yacht, Hikari.

A

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Blinker | Spring 2017

Two weeks ago, Scott began including a new number at the top of the e-mail: the number of days until the start of the America’s Cup Qualifiers. Today that number read 81. With less than three months to go, I figured this to be the perfect time to paint a picture from the

continued on page 16



THE 35TH AMERICA’S CUP continued from previous page

“team perspective” of the America’s Cup legacy our city has created and for Chicagoans, what’s at stake in Bermuda this June. Already it seems the America’s Cup controversies and dramas have reached a fever pitch. Why is Land Rover BAR slower than the other teams and can they recover in time? Will Emirates Team New Zealand’s bicycle grinders prove to have an edge? Is foiling the future of the sport? However, one controversy has grabbed the attention of fans more than the others: the unprecedented recent agreement by five of the teams to lay down a framework for the next two editions of the event. Opinions aside, this announcement – that the Cup cycle would maintain it’s current style of racing format, general yacht design, the Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series, and shrink the time between finals from three to two years – puts Chicago in a prime position to become the new home of the America’s Cup. The success of last June’s Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series Chicago can not be understated. The sentiment that amongst all the teams was that it was the undisputed favorite stop of the nine-city world tour – including Bermuda. In conversations with several skippers, sailors from every team, as well as organizers and the phrase that keeps being repeated goes something like, “[deep breath] … wow, Chicago was a whole different level.” Breaking it down, there are four elements that together have everyone in the Cup world still buzzing about the chance to sail in our city again: the weather, the crowds, the market, and the venue. The biggest question mark in organizer’s minds before the Chicago event was how consistent the weather would be to facilitate racing their new breed of foiling catamarans. That was quickly silenced the Friday of the event when Lake Michigan delivered what was one of the best sailing days of the entire tour. Upper-wind limit foiling conditions on a sunfilled afternoon punctuated by two capsizes was an incredible opening number that the Cup organizers needed following two venues with no wind. Then the wind machine shut down and Saturday had no wind. Here was the key part 16

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though that leads into the second point – despite the glassy water, the crowds didn’t seem to care. I can still remember motoring around in the team chase boat with the AC45 in tow during the postponement and hearing the cheers of the thousands of Chicago boaters. The sailors were beside themselves grinning and laughing, boaters were throwing parties, the crowd at Navy Pier was cheering – we even had several beers chucked onboard the yacht. Everyone was having a good time and in the end, isn’t that what one wants in a sporting event? Look at everything from NFL tailgating to NASCAR, fans want to have a reason to have fun. Chicago’s boaters gave the event – for the first time – the reception it craved and the teams loved it. The market can’t be overlooked as well. From a commercial side, many of the team’s felt that Chicago provided the biggest reach for their sponsors – particularly defenders Oracle Team USA. That bodes very well should the defender successfully retain the Cup. While Bermuda has proven to be an excellent venue to train sailors and test boats year-round, it lacks the large commercial presence a city such as Chicago can provide. This is key. Even for SoftBank Team Japan, Bermuda’s location has been a hurdle many times with Japanese journalists unable to take on the long journey to get there. Chicago is a direct flight from Tokyo. Lastly, Navy Pier presents a proven venue for Cup organizers. Anyone who has been to “The Viaduct” in Auckland, New Zealand understands what a purpose-built facility for a large-scale sailing event should look like. Navy Pier proved to be that venue and more last June. For the first time in this cycle, all of the event village was easy to navigate and contained – a fact the teams raved about given most of the other locales had split venues requiring shuttles and water taxis. With proposed improvements to the site in the works, the Pier takes a large question out of the equation for Chicago’s hosting proposal. All of the above create a scenario that should see every Chicago boater tuning in to see how the 35th America’s Cup unfolds this June. Keeping in mind that Emirates Team New Zealand chose to not participate in the framework agreement – their new boat design could yield big gains but also big loses – should any of the other five team’s win Chicago is in a great position to bring another World Series event, and possibly the finals themselves, back home.


Key West Race Week Celebrates 30th Anniversary by ALINA K. DIX y the time mid-January rolls around in Chicago, we’re experiencing subzero, bonechilling temperatures and wading through several feet of snow. Although this was not the case this January, it does not change the fact that Key West Race Week is a welcomed getaway. For 30 years, Key West Race Week has been the winter hotspot for racing sailors. One change this year was the Race Headquarters’ location, which moved to the Waterfront Brewery. This was a huge improvement and made for better post-race debriefs and parties. It was also the location of a panel discussion on the future of US regattas lead by Chicago Yacht Club’s On The Water Director, Jay Kehoe, and members Dick Neville, Dawn Riley, Rob Weiland, Terry Hutchinson and Taylor Canfield. For me, this year marked my second trip to the event as a part of Chicago Yacht Club’s Race Committee. I was excited to again be working with Laura Sigmond on the second weather markset boat on the Division 1 Circle (big boats). We would be setting the weather mark for the J111 fleet and as an added bonus, we were in a prime location to watch the TP52 fleet. Sunday was practice day and it started off with the Race Committee team meeting. It was great to see so many familiar faces from the

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L to R: Alina Dix, Laura Sigmond and Libbi Dust at Key West Race Week. ˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org

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previous year. Next up were practice races! Conditions were a bit choppy and windy, but it was sunny and warm: a beautiful day. Then, wham! A huge wave broke over the bow of the boat drenching Laura and I and we quickly put our foul weather gear on. This is why we have practice day! Monday (Day 1): Similar conditions but bigger waves. Learning from the previous day, we fully dressed before we left the dock. The wind and waves did little to hinder the TP52s and the fleet remained tightly packed up and down the course. The J111s also triumphed in these conditions, but tended to be more cautious at mark roundings. Two races down., the week was off to a great start. Tuesday (Day 2): Conditions were a repeat of Monday. Two more races down. After Day two, the finishing orders were starting to show some consistency. The heavier air and choppy seas proved to be beneficial for some, but not others. Wednesday (Day 3): Lots of changes and not just in weather. The seas and wind calmed, which brought about huge changes in finishing order. I was relocated to line-lighter on the pin boat. Three races per fleet and two fleets, that’s six starts to keep an eye on! Even with smaller fleets, those last

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30 seconds before the clock hits zero are tense! Also, having a TP52 pointed directly at you doesn’t help! Clean start! Now for the J111s, clean start. Two more races to go. Thursday (Day 4): Postponed. Time to go shopping. By lunchtime, the wind was scheduled to fill in, but we all know how accurate weather forecasting is. However, we went out and by some miracle the wind filled in on time. Two races brought about more changes in finishing order and a mutli-way tie for first place in the TP52 fleet. Friday (Day 5): It’s Friday already? Where did the week go? Light winds and calm seas, but we only needed one more race per fleet to complete the series. Bang! Finishers are crossing the line and just like that, we’re done. Boats are packed up, scores are tabulated and everyone gathers for one last party. It’s bittersweet at the end of a regatta as we start looking forward to next year.


CYC Power & Sail In-Water Tech Show 017 marks the 6th Annual Power & Sail InWater Tech Show. From its modest beginnings in 2012 this event held at Monroe Station has grown over the years to become a major Club event. The continuing goal of this two-day event is to highlight Chicago Yacht Club to the Lake Michigan yachting community and perspective members by demonstrating the Club’s leadership in the nautical arts. This is accomplished by showcasing the latest in power and sailing yacht technology and is in keeping with the mission of the Chicago Yacht Club to encourage, promote, and develop knowledge, participation, and enjoyment in all aspects of yachting. This family friendly FREE show will once again highlight the latest technology, style, design, and construction features available from various manufacturers of different styles of power and sail yachts in the Great Lakes market. Representatives from the participating dealers and manufacturers will be present to answer questions and discuss the features of the vessels that are open for touring during all event hours. In addition, attendees will enjoy daily seminars on topics relevant to all boaters during the show along with exhibits in the main dining room. All members of the Chicago Yacht Club, power and sail, cruiser or racer, are invited and encouraged to attend this invitation-only event. The Club also invites all boat owners with a slip or can in the Chicago harbors along with individuals from its perspective member list. The dealers cull their databases of boat owners and prospects and invite that group to attend. Each year this event has resulted in new members joining the Club as a result of an invitation from a dealer. Last year’s event drew over 400 invitees who enjoyed touring 27 yachts from 10 dealers, free drinks and appetizers, live music, seminars and

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exhibits as well as a hands-on safe boating demonstration for the whole family. It was a perfect day with bright skies and warm weather. Special thanks go to Wintrust and BMW as major sponsors for their generous support. This year’s event will be held on Friday, June 2nd from 2:00 to 9:00 pm and with new extended hours on Saturday, June 3rd from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Over 13 dealers with 30 to 40 new yachts are participating along with various exhibitors and seminars. Music will once again be provided by the Buffet cover band South of Disorder a show favorite. Chef Larry and the Club staff will serve a delicious assortment of complimentary hors de’ oeuvres and drinks to all attendees. Visit the Wintrust display and take a test drive in a new BMW while you’re there to check out their offerings. What better way to spend a day or two at the Club! Mark your calendars today! Talk to your family, friends, dock mates and anyone who you believe would be a good addition to the Club and get it on their calendars. It promises to be even bigger, better and more exciting than ever! ˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org

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Orange Bowl Regatta by JULIA MELTON

hicago Yacht Club sailors raced to sunny South Florida this December to participate in the Orange Bowl International Youth Regatta held at Coral Reef Yacht Club. Chicago's Opti sailors were led in a 260-boat fleet by Peter Barnard who was 7th in Blue fleet, Ethan Hanley and Lake Sanford were 23rd out of 89 boats in the club 420 fleet, and Will Davies led the Laser group in 19th place. Conditions in Miami were beautiful during the four-day regatta with light winds in the first three days followed by medium to heavy winds on Friday. The Orange Bowl Regatta is one of the most challenging regattas of the year because sailors compete against top sailors in the country and in the world. Chicago Yacht Club sailing coaches said they saw a lot of improvement from the 34 sailors who participated. We would like to thank the coach's phenomenal efforts in transporting our equipment and working with our sailors and thank the parents for their support in this adventure. The Laser course had four Chicago Yacht Club sailors coached by Assistant Coach at the US Naval Academy, Dillon Paiva. For each of the sailors, this was their first major event in the Laser Radial class.

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That alone would be enough to cause most sailors to be nervous while walking around the boat park among multiyear Orange Bowl veterans and past champions. This was Coach Paiva’s first time working with this group of Laser sailors, but it left him wanting more. “I really liked working with this group of kids. They all stayed positive the whole event and soaked up all the coaching I could give them,” said Paiva. The Chicago Yacht Club Laser team left the 2016 Orange Bowl Regatta with new tan lines, new friends and a long list of lessons learned.


Getting to Know Peter Holz “Growing up on Lake Michigan, I definitely prefer sailing on a lake. Lake sailing is much more unpredictable than ocean sailing, making every day a little different.” – Peter Holz What quote from a sailing icon is most memorable to you or what is a personal quote you live by or favor? “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take” Wayne Gretzky. One of my great friends Drew Shea and I sailed lasers for four summers at Chicago Yacht Club. After every tough day on the water or bad race I used to hear this: “A bad day on the water is still better than a good day at work”. How soon after you learned to sail did you begin racing? I started sailing school at age 6 and by age 8 or 9 I was traveling around the country competing in Opti Green Fleet events. I fell in love with racing, traveling with the team, and being competitive on the water from a young age.

Which do you prefer lake or ocean & why? Growing up on Lake Michigan, I defiantly prefer sailing on a lake. Lake sailing is much more unpredictable than ocean sailing, making every day a little different.

Have you experienced the effects of pollution in the water? Unfortunately, I have and it is terrible. It is surprising how often you see debris and garbage in the water at some of the most beautiful venues. The good news is, the sailing community is much more aware of pollution and has taken great steps to combat it by making regattas more ecofriendly.

What are you goals in Match Racing this year? In recent years, our team Windy City Racing has climbed the international rankings to 21st in the world and 2nd in the U.S. Our goal this year is pretty straight forward, we want to break in to the top 15 in the world and number 1 in the U.S. On top of that, we had a tough finish in last year’s U.S. Match Racing Championships, and this year, our goal is to win USMRC and bring the trophy to Chicago Yacht Club. Our team is looking to build off the success of recent years and continue to grow as one of the top match racing teams in the U.S.

What inspires you most about racing? Nothing inspires me more than winning with the

L to R: Peter Holz, Will Holz, Mikie Whitford

team. I grew up playing hockey very competitively, and I tried to bring the edge, intensity and team mentality I learned playing hockey, to every race. There is nothing better than building a team and thriving as a group.

What advice do you have for young adults starting to compete on a larger level? Get out and sail! It’s as simple as that. In order to start competing at higher levels, people need to get on the water and sail in every regatta, practice and discipline. When I was younger, that’s what I tried to do, from dingy fleet racing to keelboat match racing, I jumped on every opportunity to get on the water and sail. Chicago Yacht Club and the Chicago Match Race Center have great programs and regattas throughout the summer which provide a great platform to learn about match racing. How does Chicago stand as a sailing city in comparison to the rest of the world? Chicago is one of the best sailing cities in the world. From a match racing perspective, Don Wilson and the Chicago Match Race Center have made Chicago the go-to destination for match racing. The Chicago Match Race Center showed some of the world’s best sailors that Chicago is one of the best natural sailing venues in the world. Now that they are teamed up, the sailing world can experience top level match racing, one of the most prestigious yacht clubs in the world, and one of the best racing venues all at once. www.chicagoyachtclub.org

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Roble/Shea Sailing USA Campaign for Tokyo 2020 “We both feel very proud to represent Chicago Yacht Club on the World Sailing circuit and hopefully at the Olympics.” – Maggie Shea photos by JEN EDNEY AND WILLIE MCBRIDE, US SAILING TEAM YC members Stephanie Roble and Maggie Shea have teamed up on the 49erFX, a highperformance double-handed skiff, in a campaign for the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympic Games. Steph and Maggie have been teammates for the past ten years primarily on the match racing circuit, and they are now shifting gears to fleet racing for this new challenge.

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“I am incredibly excited about this campaign and we’re going to do everything we can to put ourselves in medal contention for the Games in 2020. Maggie is the best teammate I could ask for, and we are ready to work hard and put forth our best on this long journey!” Stephanie Roble, 2014 US Sailing Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year

Since graduating from Old Dominion University in 2011, Steph has been sailing professionally in Melges 20, Etchell’s, and J/70 classes. Maggie graduated from Connecticut College in 2011 and has been campaigning in the 49erFX for the past three years with various skippers. Last year, Maggie crewed for Sally Barkow of Team Magenta on the World Match Racing Tour. Together Steph and Maggie have won the Women’s International Match Racing Series and multiple match racing national championships, and they plan to carry that momentum onto the Olympic circuit. “I’m grateful that I have time in the 49erFX under my

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belt because I learned a lot from all my previous skippers, but I’m so excited to finally be sailing this boat with Steph. We push each other to be better every day and we somehow manage to have fun doing it. I know we have the skill set and work ethic to succeed, and now we just need to put in the hours. We both feel very proud to represent Chicago Yacht Club on the World Sailing circuit and hopefully at the Olympics.” -Maggie Shea

Steph and Maggie began their skiff sailing career at Chicago Yacht Club in 2005 when CYC lent the team an old, beat-up 29er. They used that boat to train and compete in the Youth Championships in 2007, and totally fell in love with sailing fast. The first six months of their campaign will be a sprint to log time in the boat in Miami and Long Beach. The next few years will be focused more on the Sailing World Cup international circuit, but until then, they’re trying to put as much time in the boat as possible. Their next regatta is Kiel Week in June, then the 49erFX European Championships in July; both events will be held in Kiel, Germany. The team is currently targeting one hundred days on the water before the 49erFX World Championship in Porto, Portugal this August. Follow Steph and Maggie on Facebook Roble/Shea Sailing USA. If you’d like to join the team and make a tax-deductible donation to Roble/Shea Sailing, visit the ILYA’s Donation page: ilya.org/association/donations/payments.html.



WOW! What’s the Buzz All About? by LAURA SIGMOND he Women on the Water (WOW) at Chicago Yacht Club have been busy at work providing educational, entertaining and fun events for the all women of CYC. With over 30 dates scheduled on the 2017 WOW calendar we are able to offer many opportunities and choices for women to get involved. There is something for everyone to enjoy. Back by popular demand both the Winter and Summer Sailing Series continue to grow. The women had a strong showing of 40 participants on opening night at Monroe Station with the kick off of the new WOW season. The Winter WOW Series: The Water is Calling is a series that meets approximately every other week from February to May. The classes are taught by women for women and cover everything you need to know to get ready for the upcoming season on the water. It is a very casual environment that enables women to attend when their schedule allows whether it be for only one or several classes or the entire series. Women with a variety of interests from all areas of the Club and who have different experience levels in racing, power boating, cruising and Race Committee come together to learn and share their knowledge. Chef Larry’s delicious dinners are the perfect finishing touch to these fun evenings. The connection this atmosphere offers is WOW’s primary commitment to cultivate an attractive environment that engages women on a consistent and frequent basis at Chicago Yacht Club. The Summer series, WOW Come Sail Away Series, runs from May-September. During the warmer months at Belmont Station the women can apply their practical knowledge sailing on the Sonars. Thanks to Mary Ann Lillie, the series has expanded this year with additional dates to include Wednesday Night Beer Can Racing at Belmont on select evenings. This is a great opportunity for women who sign up for the entire summer series. Let’s not forget Match Racing and Ladies’ Skippers Race also slated again for this summer, details coming soon.

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Women’s Committee L to R: Diana Sandoval, Nancy Berberian, Laura Sigmond, Mary Ann Lillie, Sonia Sandoval, (not pictured Dr. Chris Albanis, Lydia Lutzow).

Look for Ladies’ Happy Hours offered on both Tuesdays and Fridays this year as well as our signature events including the Harvest Wine Dinner, Networking Club Crawl and Holiday Party. Not to mention our Annual Chicago Yacht Club Women’s Committee Luncheon and Fashion Show on May 3rd. This year’s theme is Be Bold! Be Beautiful! Be You! Celebrating You, the Women of CYC. We are excited again to support the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation. The day's events include boutique shopping paired with a fashion show and luncheon. Nancy Berberian has diligently persevered to bring us a superb variety of vendors from which we can shop our hearts out! Plan to stay the day to enjoy shopping and fashion for a great cause. New this year is the Chef Series which will highlight the exceptional culinary talents of Chicago Yacht Club’s Chefs both at Monroe and Belmont (April 30th, June 1st, November 2nd). There are few more surprises we are still working to bring to you that you will not want to miss! Check out the WOW calendar for dates and times. Whether you are a long-time member or a new member and have not had the WOW experience we invite you to discover for yourself what the buzz is all about! As a testament to all the wonderful women of WOW, you know if you have attended our events that as women of Chicago Yacht Club we pride ourselves on the energy and camaraderie we bring to the Club. We look forward to seeing you often on and off the water.


Belmont Update by CHEF JILL DEDINSKY lmost five years ago, I made one of the biggest decisions of my life. I packed 60 boxes, sold everything else I owned (including my car) and moved my son and dog to the Windy City. I figured what was the worst-case scenario? I move back to St. Croix because I hated Chicago? I had to at least try. So here I am almost 5 years later, loving my life and job. I remember walking in to Belmont Station with Mr. Clark, the General Manager at the time, and thinking I’d be lost here. There were closets, doors, stairwells and turns everywhere. At the same time, I was very excited and knew my mom would be so very proud of me if I got the job. Now here we are, moving in to my fifth season. Looking back, we’ve held so many very cool events at Belmont. Let’s start with regattas! We’ve hosted the North American Championships for the Beneteau 36.7’s, Farr 40’s, J-111’s, Melges, T-10’s, Etchells, J-70’s and the Stars. Every year, we host the North American Challenge Cup and have our annual regattas like the Verve and the Sheldon Clark. Plus, we have had all of our junior regattas. We also hosted the Blind Worlds in 2015 and added Match Racing to our list this year. Belmont is also a favorite place for celebrations including weddings, anniversaries and baptisms. We have had princess birthday parties, 100-year birthday parties, Halloween parties and ugly sweater parties. We’ve celebrated the lives of those we loved so very dearly and whom loved Belmont. Belmont celebrated its 90th birthday with me. Every year we the Pink Pony arrives and the Smelt King and Queen get crowned. Of course, let’s not forget the Big Kahuna! Dinners, and more dinners! Wine, cigar, pasta and movies. From Island Goat dinners, to roasted goat dinners (Go Cubs Go!) you name it, we’ve had it. We competed locally at Millennium Park and won as a team! I competed on the Food Network and also won! There is a spirit among my team that just cannot be beat. More than anything, Belmont has become my second home. My son has grown up here and I am seeing all my favorite kids do the same thing right before my very eyes. I am so very lucky to have become part of this team and I thank you for this amazing ride.

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What’s in a Name? The CYC Power Fleet SOUTHERN CROSS ED MCNULTY I spent a great deal of time in the southern hemisphere, particularly in Australia where I observed the constellation, Southern Cross. When I returned to the United States I thought that it would be a great name for my boat and ever since we have named every one of our boats, both sail and power, Southern Cross. We also are partial to boat names that are not to cutesy.

LAKEHOUSE ED AND CARRIE FALKENHAYN It all started with a Christmas present trip to Miami in February 2013. By coincidence the Miami Boat Show was right across the street from our hotel. It was the first boat show that we attended in many years and we were amazed! We already owned a ski boat and we were thinking about getting a lake house to enjoy. The boat show changed our thinking, so the competition began. We shopped the boat show and found many we liked and when we got back to the hotel, I immediately started to search for a lake house. In June of 2013, for Father’s Day, we attended the 31st boat show and it was there Carrie first found a boat that really got her interest. To make the competition equal between a house and a boat, we spent the following weekend touring the lakes of southern Wisconsin for a future home. We compared benefits of each and the boat won, hence the name Lakehouse.

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MARETIME ROBERT KELMAN My wife's nickname is Mare so MareTime seemed like a nice, nautical pun to adorn the transom of our newly purchased Sabre 42 salon express. Built in Maine, our new boat will spend this summer cruising us to many of Lake Michigan's ports. Our prior boat was named Mare Soleil, but no one could pronounce it when we visited other harbors so even though it was a triple threat (wife's nickname, sea and sun and my favorite Chardonnay in 2002) we decided to avoid explanations to harbor masters when making slip reservations – and have gone less clever.

RELENTLESS SAM AND BESS EKSTEIN, HATTERAS 53 As a recovering sailboat racer, Relentless defined the approach I used when racing, always focused towards winning. I always said, “I'm not a competitive guy, I just want to win”. Now with a power boat, we are Relentless in our quest to enjoy the water in comfort having fun! SOME DEVIL (SOME ANGEL) LARRY BASIL & CONNIE BROHMAN

In July of 2014, we purchased our 2004 Sea Ray 600SS from a broker in Seabrook, Texas. The upper structure and hardtop had to be removed so the boat could be shipped overland via flatbed semi to Northpoint Marina in Winthrop Harbor IL. We had a devil of a time with the logistics of running a 65' long x 16' wide x 17' tall boat across 4 states, but somehow it all worked out. Once there, we re-


assembled it, and began a major re-fit of her soft goods and electronics. As for the name, we christened her Some Angel (Some Angel) after one of Connie's favorite Dave Matthews songs of the same name. The name has grown more and more spot on as we've gotten to know the boat, as she's some angel on the water, a smooth-riding and well-balanced performer. And then she's some devil too - especially when we open her up to top speed - she surprises even us sometimes. COOKIE'S CUTTER COOKIE MERENS The boat name Cookie's Cutter, was created by my husband. As boats are referred to as female, he gave it my name! To keep the name nautical, he added "cutter", which is another name for a "freighter", i.e., coast guard cutter!

ZEN KAT ERIC KALNINS After purchasing our Sea Ray, we wanted to come up with a name that not only represented us, but also underscored the significance of family. Our journey in the pursuit of the perfect name started with a few cocktails and ended with the name Zen Kat. The "Z" represents our oldest son Zachary, the "N" represents our middle guy Nicholas, and the "Kat" represents our youngest child, Katarina. By the way, please don't ask Melanie if the "E" represents Eric, because it doesn't.

LADY LIDDELL LLOYD SERGENT The name comes from Buff’s maiden name. Usually that is reserved for bigger yachts but I thought it was appropriate for our first boat since Buff got me into the whole boating scene.

CAMP DAVID DAVID BARUCH The name of our boat is Camp David. My name is David and it’s the only place I’m allowed to be President.

RHONDA C RHONDA C. AND REGAN THOMAS

My dad, Dick Churchill, was Commodore of the St. Joseph, Missouri Yacht Club that boated on the Missouri River. Every year from the time I was 5 he built a boat and named it after his little girl (me) Rhonda C. The first Rhonda C was built in our garage and trailered in January from Missouri to the Florida Keys where it was first launched in the Atlantic Ocean. My parents later became excursion boat captains and operated our family run Bridgeport Marina on Lake of the Ozarks. My dad died young in life and when Regan and I started

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WHAT’S IN A NAME continued from previous page boating we named our boats the Rhonda C in honor of my father. This is a picture of me in the Keys when our first Rhonda C was launched. This is also a picture of Commodore Dick Churchill driving the Rhonda C from its maiden launch in marathon in the Florida Keys. IN RECESS LISA GASTON I am a Judge in the Circuit Court of Cook County and when I am on the boat, court is in recess!

INCONSEAVABLE NICK AND LAUREN MANUSOS Our boat name is Inconseavable after the movie Princess Bride (with a different spelling than the actual word). We chose it because our family loves the movie Princess Bride. We all quote the movie.

SOL E MAR II JOHN AND TAMMY WHELAN Is a 2016, 550 Prestige Flybridge. Our last boat came with the name and we liked it so we kept it! We used to think it meant "sun and sea" in Italian, but upon further investigation found out it's actually Portuguese! It is the first new boat we have purchased. We enjoyed the process of bringing her "home" to Chicago from the port of New Jersey where she arrived from France.

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ARARAT NICK AND NANCY BERBERIAN We named our boat Ararat in recognition of our Armenian heritage. Mt. Ararat pictured here is a national symbol of Armenia and the place where it is believed that Noah’s Ark landed. MIRAGE CAPTAIN WALTER "SONNY" LISOWSKI DuSable Harbor, Slip, B19. Why did I name my boat, Mirage? Wanted a name that could fit on a License Plate, with room to spare. And that’s the TRUTH.

SON'S TOO VII CHUCK ANDERSON I have been boating with my family since I was 8 years old. My parent’s last boat was a 36' Chris Craft which they sold in 1975. My father missed boating. In the early eighties our family was looking to get into boating. We were looking for a boat and my father would consult and lent a helping hand when we bought our 25' Sea Ray in 1985. The understanding was that he and my mother could use the boat anytime during the week and they were always welcome on the weekends. Hence the name Son's Too, meaning son's also. We also have two sons Brian and Keith. They seem to believe it is all about them! The VII signifies that our Riviera is our seventh boat.


BRIGADOON BEENA AND MARTIN JOSEPH Our boat is named after a well-known book and play, Brigadoon, about a Utopia in Scotland, and a favorite book of Martin’s mother, Corrine. Our last three boats have been named Brigadoon. The current one a 50’ SeaRay. EXPERIENCE ROD BENSZ To us, boating is all about the “Experience” and this experience is different for everyone. It could be the experience of family time, gathering with friends,

For Sale “Dawn”

1980 42’ HATTERAS LCR MARK II TRAWLER 2000 MILE RANGE TWIN DD 4-53N ENGINES 8 KW GENERATOR. TWO HELMS 48 MILE RADAR, AUTO PILOT, BOW THRUSTER. ACCOMODATIONS FOR SIX. NICELY EQUIPT. AIRCONDITIONING, NEW CARPET. $ 95,000 Contact Fred Gorr: fredexgorr@gmail.com OR Holland Yacht Sales: (616) 335-3144

traveling, fishing, or even competing. The water is a great place for people to experience all sorts of fun. Our logo at B & E Marine has been “Experience Fun”. It is our hope that everyone has a fun experience on the water.

DEALERSHIP DAVID KREMIN This is my "for me" new boat. Its old name is still on it Dealership I purchased it from a gentleman who owned some car dealerships around Mackinac Island. It was a long car ride to get there but worth it! I was a member years ago, and owned a 42 carver for 15 years and I was docked at Belmont. I sold it 6 years ago, and at the end of last summer purchased a 55-foot Carver and rejoined the Club. It is great to be back into boating and the Club! So, the old saying that the 2 best days in a boater’s life are.... It also is when you get back into boating, so now I have 3 greatest days so far! The original boat’s name was "Birdie Boat" which was the originals owners name with a picture of a goofy bird on the transom and I kept it because it was so silly people remembered it and laughed. The first owner owned a frozen chicken dinner processing company and apparently sold the boat because he wanted the money to add a taco food processing division to his business. I think this new boat will be named "My Girlfriend". SCUBA DOO MARCO FIDANZA Our boats have been named Scuba Doo. We currently have Scuba Doo III and IV. It's myself, my daughter Helena Fidanza 10years-old and my son Gianmarco Fidanza 13-years-old. They are experienced "lakers" having cruised as far as Mackinac Island. The boat name is from my passion for scuba diving - mostly in warmer climates like Fiji. Scuba Doo has been a fun boat name in the Chicago harbors for over 20 years.

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2017 Power Fleet Events Education Committee: America’s Great Loop Presentation-April 19, 6 pm at Monroe: Presented by Power Fleet members Kristin Berg and Randall Schmidt. Meet the Power Fleet –April 27 at Monroe: The PF will kick off the 2017 season with a “Meet the Fleet” event to meet fellow power boaters. Chicago Yacht Works sponsor. Chairs Rob Hannah and Rhonda Thomas. Predicted Log Training – May / June at Monroe and Belmont: Members of our P-Log team will provide Predicted Log training and stories of the joys of competition. Chairs: John Vignocchi and Vitaly Slobodsky. Power and Sail In Water Tech Showcase – June 2–3 at Monroe: CYC Monroe docks will be filled with beautiful new boats, exhibits of the latest technology and educational seminars. Chairs: Pat and Nancy Marek and Sherwood and Nancy Bollier. Power Fleet Cruise to Michigan City – June 9-11: A grand way to start the boating season with a venue close enough for an easy commute for land-lovers. Chairs: Beena Joseph and David Baruch. Special Needs Cruise – Tuesday, June 20; Rain Date June 27 at Monroe: A classic Power Fleet event for guests with special needs including lunch followed by a cruise on the lake. Chair: Yelena Mirochnik. Fleet Review – June 25 at Monroe: This traditional Club-wide festive parade of decorated boats passes by a viewing stand at Monroe and is followed a champagne toast with the Flag. Sight Impaired Cruise –June 29 at Monroe: Youth from Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind & Sight Impaired enjoy lunch followed by a cruise on the lake. Chair: Tanya Whitehead. Chicago River Cruise and Barbeque – July 1: We will cruise down the Chicago River to Chicago Yacht Works for a barbeque and fun-filled afternoon. Chair: Rob Hannah. Power Fleet Summer Cruise to Kenosha – July 7-9: Detail to be determined. Chairs: Chuck and Rita Anderson and Ed and Nancy McNulty. CYC Annual Club-wide Cruise to Racine –August 4–6 / Extended Cruise: For those wishing to extend the CYC Annual Cruise, an extended cruise is being planned. Air & Water Show –August 19-20 at Monroe: CYC Club-wide events. Sight Impaired Cruise –August 15: Guests from the Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind & Sight Impaired enjoy lunch followed by a cruise on the lake. Chair: Tanya Whitehead. Dock Party – Friday - Sunday, August 25-27 at Monroe: A return to the traditional Power Fleet CYC dock weekend party with Power Fleet reserved slips and music and grilling Saturday night. Chair: Rhonda Thomas and Cookie Merens. Holiday Party – Friday, December 8 at Monroe: This holiday celebration has always been a wonderful way to cap off the year. Chair: Peg Vignocchi. POWER FLEET MEETINGS are at Monroe at 6:30 p.m.: Thursday, April 20; Thursday, May 25; Wednesday, June 21; Thursday, July 20; Wednesday, August 16; Wednesday, September 20; Thursday, October 19; and Wednesday, November 16.

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Blinker | Spring 2017


Making Fitness a Priority by KEVIN TEBOREK, CHICAGO YACHT CLUB MEMBER and OWNER OF CROSSFIT E-TOWN ith Spring upon us, most of us are thinking about getting our boats out for the season. As we start creating our work lists, one thing that is often overlooked is, no, not boat work…but fitness for us and our crew! How many times have you heard from your fellow sailors (or maybe you have even said it) after a long day of racing “man I am wiped out” or “man, my back hurts from all those sail changes”. Sailing is a sport just like any other. By increasing strength, stamina, and our flexibility we can dramatically improve our overall experiences on a boat. With a fitness center on almost every block of the city selling ‘fitness’, it’s hard to understand what you should be doing. Honestly, most people in the fitness industry don’t really know because they have never defined it. The only fitness model that I know that has defined it is CrossFit (research the 100 Words of Fitness). Using this as a platform, let’s start defining “Sailing Fitness.”

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WHAT DOES SAILING FITNESS MEAN? Possessing the physical ability to maneuver around your boat, work in the bilge, haul all sailing related equipment, and perform any activity related to sailing on any given day. Having the physical and mental ability sail (or race) your boat 100%, and at the end of a long and windy day, having the energy, and physical capability to do it again the next day. Now that we have a definition, we can design a program around your specific needs. We need to be strong, have muscular and cardiovascular endurance, as well as flexibility. These things don’t come easy, but with the right program, they all can be achieved. The first step in fitness is self-assessment. You need to assess your overall physical condition and health. Once this is done, you can assign priorities to work on and then both short and long term goals. Now we need to find a place to work on them. You can tackle these goals at home; however, I find that surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals with similar fitness goals makes all the difference. Personal training is a great option as you will have a dedicated trainer working with you to help you achieve your goals. However, this can be a bit pricey. Another great option is your local CrossFit Box. Scary, right? Not really. There is a reason there are over 15,000 affiliates. This stuff works by creating very effective and safe, hour-long workouts that are different every day. They combine cardio, weightlifting and high intensity training in fun, group environment.

Kevin, Carrie, Morgan & Connor Teborek. Try the sample Bodyweight & Weighted Workout exercises and see how they work for you. They will shock your systems, force overload and demand greater performance which, after practicing these and a multitude of other combinations for a good two to three weeks, directly improving your physical strength. Taking care of yourself should be your number one priority this season. Not only because it will help you around your boat and/or the racecourse, the overall health benefits gained from making fitness a priority will allow you to continue enjoying the water for years to come.

Whatever route you go, make sure you focus on three main things while working out: Form, Technique, and Range of Motion. If your coach or trainer doesn’t mention these things and hold you accountable to the, it’s time to find someone else to work with.

EFFECTIVE WORKOUTS Here are some basic movements you can use to create effective workouts. Do not try these without being properly trained first. Strength and Cardiovascular Training: Squats, Burpees, Push Ups, Sit Ups Endurance Training: Indoor/outdoor cycling, jump roping, and rowing Strength Development: Deadlifts, Shoulder Presses, Squats ˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org

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Yachtsmen Depict the Gilligan’s Island Court Martial by WILLIAM HANNAY

his January, Belmont Station transformed its dining room into a desert island as an audience of 75 watched the harrowing adventures of the crew and guests who had – unfortunately for them -- gone aboard the mighty S.S. Minnow for “a three-hour tour” that went horribly wrong. An all-star cast of Yacht Club thespians enacted an episode of the hit TV series Gilligan’s Island entitled “Court Martial.” The episode had originally been broadcast on January 9, 1967. Although 50 years have passed, it was clear that the humor of the play remained as sophisticated and as timely as any 5th grade knock-knock joke. The presentation of this teleplay by Chicago Yacht Club’s Entertainment & Education Committee continued the theme of “justice on the high seas” that was begun last year with the performance of an original drama about the Mutiny on the Bounty court martial. The 2017 show of course was much more whimsical. Audience members suffered along with the Skipper when he was unfairly court-martialed in absentia (over the shortwave radio) for losing the Minnow and thrilled to Gilligan’s dream of being captured by Caribbean pirates in the 18th Century. Who can forget powerful dialogue like the following: MRS HOWELL: The Skipper is such a dear, Thurston. When we get off the island, don't you think you could buy him a little token of our esteem? MR HOWELL: I know just the gift for a sea-faring man, the Queen Mary! MRS HOWELL: Oh, what a marvelous suggestion! It'll go so well with his blue eyes! (You’re not laughing? You may be right. Maybe you had to be there to get the joke!) Those playing roles in the Gilligan’s Island production with spectacular flair and timing were Club members Greg Miarecki as the Skipper, Ted Towey as Gilligan, Ted Jones as the Professor, Melanie Derleth as Ginger, Dwain Lutzow as Thurston Howell III, and Alice Martin as Mrs. Lovey Howell, with staff member Christina Barbaro as Mary Ann. The script was honed and the play directed by Club member Bill Hannay, who also directed last year’s Bounty Court Martials. The next

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Blinker | Spring 2017

time you venture out into Lake Michigan, remember Gilligan’s theme song: “The mate was a mighty sailin' man, The Skipper brave and sure. Five passengers set sail that day, For a three-hour tour, a three-hour tour.”


Cruising Sail Fleet 2017 Calendar Friday, May 19

CSF 3rd Friday TOPIC: Intro to doing the North Channel Dinner (ala carte - Main Dining Room)

Alan Haag Tom Falck

Monroe

Tom & Mary Falck

Monroe

Saturday, May 20

CSF Sailing Saturday

Friday-Saturday, June 2-3

Power and Sail in water tech boat show

Monroe

Friday, June 16

CSF 3rd Friday Tom Falck & John Zienda Topic: Crossing the Lake & Technology - AIS, and How to use the DSC function on your VHF Radio Dinner - Main Dining Room, ala carte

Monroe

Monday, May 29

Friday-Saturday, June 9-11

Saturday, June 17

Sunday, June 25

Saturday-Sunday, July 1-2 Friday, July 14, Cruising Div.

Saturday, July 15, Racing Div. July-August

Friday, July 21 Saturday, July 22

Friday-Sunday, August 4-6 Sat.-Sun., August 19-20 Friday, August 25

Saturday, August 26

Memorial Day

Chicago NOOD

CSF Sailing Saturday

Fleet Review - Saturday Evening - All Fleet Dock Party - Sunday (6/25) - Fleet Review on your boat or join another CSF boat.

Tom & Mary Falck

Feleet Review Committee Review reception hosted by CYC

CSF Cruise to Hammond Saturday - Cruise to Hammond Sunday - Cruise back to Chicago

Jackie Sloan

Mac Race Start

Mac Race Committee

North Channel Flotilla/Meet-Up Several Options: 1. Flotilla with Alan and Lisa Haag or meet them from time to tim in North Channel 7/8 - Alan & Boat leaves Chicago for St. Ignace 7/15 - Lisa Drives to St. Ignace 7/16 - Depart for Meldrum Bay, Canada 7/29 - Return to St. Ignace 7/30 - Lisa drives to Chicago by 8/4 8/4 - Alan returns boat to Chicago by 8/4 2. Tom & Mary Falck departing from St. Ignace 7/19 (after the Mac Race) Meet up with them from time to time

Alan Haag & Tom Falck

Monroe/Belmont

Monroe Monroe

CSF 3rd Friday Topic: Dinner - Main Dining Room, ala carte CSF Sailing Saturday

CYC Club Annual Cruise to Racine Air & Water Show

CYC Board

Racine

CSF 3rd Friday Dinner - Main Dining Room, ala carte

Monroe

CSF and Family Activity Committee Cruise to 31st Street

Monroe/31st Street

Friday-Sunday, Sept 8-10

Cruise/Drive to New Buffalo

New Buffalo

Saturday, September 16

CSF Sailing Saturday/Ladies Skipper Regatta

October 5-9

Annapolis Sail Boat Show

Monday, September 4

Friday, September 29 Saturday, October 29

Saturday, December 2 Sunday, December 31

Labor Day

2017 Planning Session (6:30 pm) CSF Annual Meeting (7:00 pm)

CSF End of Season Celebration/Awards

CSF Holiday Celebration

Felicia & Lars Wilhelm, Marcia Moore

Monroe Monroe Annapolis, MD

Monroe

Monroe

New Years Eve at the Club. Ring in the New Year with fellow CSF members! (CSF tables to be reserved) ˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org

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History of the Chicago Yacht Club Library by TANYA D. WHITEHEAD, PHD, CYC LIBRARIAN he Chicago Yacht Club library has a history as long as the Club. One of the honored positions created during the Club’s first year was that of CYC Librarian. In 1875, the Librarian who doubled as the Club Secretary, Charles E. Kremer, was already looking towards maintaining records for future generations of members. He collected the history of officers and kept minutes of meetings, storing the charts and records away from water and the threat of mildew. One can imagine him carrying the materials under his arm as he briskly walked across muddy, horse and buggy clogged streets, on his way to one temporary meeting place after another. How amazed he would be to see our Club library, as it is now. In 1962, another librarian of note, Samuel M. Clarke, published a pamphlet of Chicago Yacht Club trophies and focused on finding and preserving all available historical records from the past, actions that still benefit the Club to this day. As the current Chicago Yacht Club Librarian, I’m managing the shift of our Club to another new agethe electronic age. We have created a set of library pages on our members’ side of the CYC website. After signing in, members can find the library by clicking on the table of contents. The online library has a full reference section, including the Blinkers going back to the creation of the Club, as well as full PDF files of important Club publications such as The First Hundred Years and the Seventy-Fifth Anniversary pamphlet. You may view the list of books we have on the shelves, find electronic books to download, and links to resources online including training on knot tying to current weather conditions and racing tips. The library is still accessible in person and is located in the Board Room at Monroe Station. It welcomes members to take a break from the daily whirlwind of activity and look through some of the collectible books on the shelves. Members may also check out books on the honor system- be sure to sign out the book when you take it home so we know where it is. As your CYC Librarian, feel free to contact me to

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Samuel M. Clark

Charles E. Kremer, 1875

Our Library website landing page.

share your ideas for the library, the needs you may have for any new library services that we may offer, and provide any tips you have about the location of books that would be at home on the CYC library shelves.


Sailing World Cup Miami by ALINA K. DIX

or the past 28 years, Miami has served as the mainstay in the winter sailing circuit for sailors campaigning for the next Olympic Games. As the first event in a three-part series, Miami kicked off a new year of competitions. The week began on Sunday with meetings and boat launchings. Coral Reef Yacht Club’s lawn was decorated with flags from each competitor’s country, which made for a picture-perfect Opening Ceremony. The competitors had already been practicing and training for months, so Monday was really a practice day for members of the Race Committee. Like the sailors, it is crucial to check all equipment and verify that everything actually works properly. There’s nothing worse than an ever-leaking mark or an empty horn canister. We had every intention of going out into Biscayne Bay to practice course setup, but the heavy breeze prevented such a practice. Tuesday was the first day of racing and I was on the course designated for 470 men and women and Finns. This was my first time setting trapezoid courses but as the week went on, the trapezoid course became less and less daunting. 470 men and women fleets got sailing without too many kinks or changes. When the Finns came out in the afternoon, the wind had died down a bit, but they still got two races in. Wednesday brought about similar conditions to the previous day, but with wind coming in from a different direction. The fleets rotated and the Finns sailed in the morning and 470 fleets in the afternoon. Two more races for each fleet and we came in to a painting worthy sunset. Thursday and Friday brought about similar shifty conditions. On both days, we ran racing rather late, with the sun almost fully set as the last boat crossed the finish line. Not the best plan, but

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we had to get races in. Plus, it made for a great photo-op. Saturday began with no wind; the postponement flag went up and we waited and watched as a pack of cigarette boats went hurdling through the racing area on a Poker Run. Good thing we had to postpone because that’s the last thing you want driving through a racecourse. Eventually the breeze filled in enough that we could get some sailing in and complete the series. Sunday was Medal Race Day. The top 10 in each fleet competed for the top three spots. To be fair, this was a horrible day for sailing. While there was wind, it was cold and raining. Wet sails are not fast sails. Also no one really enjoys sailing in the cold, even if it is “Florida cold”. The courses that held medal races the day before had lucked out even if they didn’t have a lot of wind. The week concluded as it began with a ceremony on the lawn of Coral Reef Yacht Club. ˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org

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Chicago Yacht Club Foundation Change of Watch by PHILIP MAY

erald F. Bober, Past Commodore of the Chicago Yacht Club, has been elected President of the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation. Jerry is professor of hospitality and tourism management at Roosevelt University, an avid sailor, veteran of the US Coast Guard, and a lifelong Chicagoan. He follows Past Commodore Gibby Vartan who served as the Foundation’s President for 10 years. Group Photo: CYC Foundation past and present officers, trustees and friends. Seated L to R: Chris Past Commodore Mitchell, Jane and Gibby Vartan, Sandy Curtiss, Jan Kramer. Standing L to R: Robert Christie, Commodore Walter “Gibby” Vartan Lief Sigmond, Philip May, Grant Crowley, Carla Carstons Herr, Beth Brooks, Jim Armstrong, Cyd Archer, took over as President of Sarah Alger, Victor Chigas, Past Commodore and current President Jerry Bober. the Foundation in the summer of 2006. He worked tirelessly and successfully over the next ten years to create a WHO DOES THE FOUNDATION SUPPORT? foundation worthy of the Chicago Yacht Club. At the end of the December 2016 meeting, Gibby’s last as • Chicago Public School’s Rickover Academy president, a surprise reception was given in his • Sea Scouts honor to include an award presentation. The Board • Chicago Christmas Tree Ship of Trustees of the Foundation is comprised of both • North American Challenge Cup for members and non-members of the Chicago Yacht handicapped sailors Club. His service is summed up in a toast given by • Chicago Yacht Club Sailing School former trustee – Michael G. Mayer: • Programs involving Chicagoland youth “I was there at the beginning (1991). We meant • Chicago Park District Foundation’s well, but lacked focus and a defined mission. Gibby Endeavor Activity delivered both, adding the structure and discipline • Chicago Maritime Police we needed to take this perfect platform for • US Coast Guard Foundation encouraging love for our lake in our youth and making it something we are all proud of today. • Chicago Maritime Museum Because of Gibby, this charitable foundation will be around to do good work for generations. It is another wonderful legacy that he leaves for our Club.” these venues are scholarships, access to sailing The Foundation was founded in created in 1991 to competitions, restoration projects or any other bring awareness and appreciation of the nautical arts financial support, the CYC Foundation is dedicated and traditions to the Chicagoland community, and to to memorializing the rich history of Lake Michigan broaden the horizons for our youth and physically and developing maritime traditions. The CYC disabled through nautical training and boating Foundation is a 501(c)3 corporation, to which activities. The Foundation supports venues that introduce people at many levels to nautical contributions are tax deductible, and relies on CYC educational and on-the-water activities. Whether member contributions as its major source of funds.

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Past Commodore Walter G. Vartan

Foundation activities support a variety of grants, scholarships, and educational activities–maritime themed activities for youth, including programs to teach elementary and secondary school students basic to competitive sailing, water safety, and leadership skills, as they learn about the history,

ecology, commerce, and recreation of Lake Michigan and the Great Lakes. The Foundation is working with teachers to encourage STEM education. The Chicago Yacht Club Foundation is also interested in supporting activities that relate to memorializing the rich history of Lake Michigan and those who have contributed to the development of our maritime traditions. Museums and restoration projects are funding options. The Foundation is especially proud of its support of disabled sailors through the nationally recognized North American Challenge Cup. Another lauded activity is the CYCF-Inland Seas “Leadership, Sailing and Science” program, which includes a STEM curriculum, aboard a tall ship for teen girls. Scholarships that are need and merit based have supported youth enrollment in programs offered by a variety of organizations, beyond those provided by the Chicago Yacht Club. The generous contributions of Chicago Yacht Club members to the CYC Foundation has allowed the Foundation to achieve its superb record of achievement in community service in concert with the Chicago Yacht Club. The Chicago Yacht Club Foundation shall strive to continue its array of good works in our community. For more information visit chicagoyachtclub.org.

˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org

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Not Strictly Sail A New Player in But Many New the Chicago Sail Acquaintances Racing Scene by RICK LILLIE and EMILY GIAIMO, MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

by GREG MIARECKI, PAST COMMODORE his year, there is a new player on the Chicago sail racing scene - the Chicago Area Sail Racing Association, or “CASRA.” CASRA is a new organization consisting of representatives from the five major racing yacht clubs in Chicago. In addition to Chicago Yacht Club, four of our sister clubs are founding members - Burnham Park Yacht Club, Chicago Corinthian Yacht Club, Columbia Yacht Club, and Jackson Park Yacht Club. Together, through CASRA, our five clubs are working to reimagine sailboat racing in Chicago. The group has made a substantial amount of progress in a short time. Since it was founded in November, CASRA has created a new website at chicagosailracing.org, held meetings with representatives of Chicago’s various one-design fleets, created the first Chicago racer survey in more than 15 years, hosted the first town hall meeting for Chicago racing sailors in decades, published a 2017 schedule of events, and began discussions with potential sponsors. CASRA has many good things planned for 2017, including a Junior Race Week scheduled for late June, improved scheduling of already-existing events, the development of a new website, making race entry easier and more intuitive, a new series of casual races designed for new racers and those who are looking to compete without some of the intensity associated with some of our premier events, simpler race documents, new distance races, and an increased focus on charity sailing events. We are also looking to involve power boats in CASRA programming, and have plans in the works for some power boat focused events. Rear Commodore Berberian and I serve as the Club’s representatives to CASRA. I am pleased to report that the level of dialogue and cooperation between our clubs has been outstanding, and we look forward to a great 2017 season - working together with our friends around Chicago’s lakefront.

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he Chicago Boat, RV and Strictly Sail Show may sound like a strange combination but it still attracts those seeking sailing and boating as we offer it on Lake Michigan. For many, it’s a way to casually talk to Chicago Yacht Club members and staff and to learn more about the Club’s educational opportunities for adults and kids and get the details on membership incentives. This January, the CYC Membership Committee and Club staff manned the booth for five days with a 22-person team. We had the most attractive booth which was built to resemble a teak and holly boat deck with a dramatic rotating overhead sign situated adjacent to the larger sailboats. Armed with well-focused information about our club, we spoke with nearly 250 attendees and collected contact information from more than 100 people, up 25% from last year. Questions from booth visitors covered a wide array of topics including the sailing school, paddle boards, regattas and membership. Our Sonar fleet and the robust Women On The Water program were the most popular subjects. Thanks to our members and staff for spending time at the boat show, we have already welcomed many new Chicago Yacht Club members.

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Blinker | Spring 2017


CY-Scene

RACE COMMITTEE DINNER (Titanic)


CY-Scene

RACE TO MACKINAC AWARDS BANQUET



CY-Scene

COMMODORE’S OPEN HOUSE


CY-Scene

CHILDREN’S HOLIDAY PARTIES


CY-Scene

NEW YEAR’S EVE


CY-Scene

2017 PINK PONY PARTY


CY-Scene

NEW MEMBER SPONSOR DINNER

ASSOCIATES MARDI GRAS

ST. PATRICKS DAY

DANCING WITH THE STARS


˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org

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