2022 Winter Blinker

2022 CHICAGO YACHT CLUB

VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP

FLAG OFFICERS

Nick Berberian, Commodore

Lisa Curcio Gaston, Vice Commodore

Raymond Groble, Rear Commodore

Laura Sigmond, Secretary

Michael Kovacs, Treasurer

PAST COMMODORES

Lou Sandoval

Leif Sigmond

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Elizabeth Barrett

Steven Dorfman

Steven Knoop

John Leahey

Kurt Lentsch

James Murray

Scott Sims

Nancy Synder

Samuel Veilleux

CYC PROFESSIONAL STAFF

Jim Williamsen – General Manager

MONROE STATION

STAFF

Melissa Czyz – Membership Director

Stacy Friedman –Communications Director

Abbie Wilson –Design & Social Media Specialist

Jennifer Muir – Member Relations Manager

Keith Brennan – Controller

Jessica Jacobs – Assistant Controller

Karen Gonzalez – Billing Manager

Larry Asher – Monroe Executive Chef

Michael Blankner – Catering Director

Oscar Barrera – Catering Assistant

Nolan Sanchez – F & B Director

Alana Soogrim – Floor Manager

John Bandel – Monroe Bar Manager

Betsy Myers – Member Services Manager

BELMONT STATION STAFF

Chuck Nevel – Regatta Manager

Katie Tinder – Education Director

Hector Guzman – Head Coach

Flor Cerutti – Single-Handed Coach

Michael DiPlacido – Dockmaster

Marc Anderson – Belmont F & B Manager

Raul Polidario Jr. – Belmont

Executive Chef

Michael Ramos – Belmont Sous Chef

Aléjandra Medina – Belmont Coordinator

FROM THE HELM

DEAR CLUB MEMBERS:

What a wonderful 2022 season on and off the water, thanks to the extraordinary efforts of our Club’s Committee Chairs, the volunteers serving on those Committees, and our Club’s dedicated staff. The depth and breadth of activities that took place at the Club would not have been possible without the enormous time and hard work devoted by these individuals. Thank you to everyone!

As a result of those efforts, our major regattas fully returned, including the 113th Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust with restored docking capacity for most boats on Mackinac Island. That made possible a truly exceptional Sailors Celebration filled with a massive number of highly energized participants at Mission Point after facing the challenges of the Race. The excitement of the Verve was also significantly enhanced this year with the addition of the Blue Angels appearing at the Club to join the celebration. At the beginning of the season, we helped support the inaugural Chicago SailGP hydrofoil races. Presentations were made by competitors and others at the Club each night. At the end of the season, we hosted the J/88s North American Championship. The Chicago Regatta presented by Wintrust also raised more than $162,000 for children’s causes this year.

Our traditional events kicked off with the 76th Annual Fleet Review, followed by our In-Water Tech Show, fleet cruises throughout Lake Michigan, Community Outreach Cruises, Navigational Rallies, Wednesday Night Skyline Series, Sail Fast Thursdays, Match Racing, and the Women on the Water Friday night series. Our Sailing School, Crew U, and Adult Education programs were sold out. The Club’s fleet of Sonars and Tom28s were extensively utilized, and a 25’ Sea Ray Power Boat was added for member rental along with a Duffy Electric Boat. On land, our Nautical Education Series expanded to 15 different programs. We had a wonderful series of speakers as part of the WOW Leadership Series, as well as several Membership Mixers, and the always favorite Special Events and Dinners at Belmont and Monroe, including the Wine Dinners. There was something for everyone all season long.

Thanks to your efforts through our member referral program, we also added more than 120 new members who share our passion for the water. They are in addition to the record-breaking number of 140 new members last year. The new Belmont facility is underway with the construction of the base barge commencing last June. Delivery is expected this spring to be ready to thereafter build the stucture on top. The last two years emerging out of the pandemic have been challenging, but thanks to your commitment and support together with all the Club has to offer, the Club remains strong, and the future is bright. That’s especially true as we look forward to the leadership of the Club’s first woman Commodore Lisa Curcio Gaston. Having served closely with her over the past two years, there is no doubt in my mind she will be absolutely terrific!

Nancy and I continue to look forward to seeing all of you on and off the water.

Sincerely, Nick Berberian Commodore, Chicago Yacht Club commodore@chicagoyachtclub.org

A LETTER FROM THE MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

BY MELISSA CZYZ

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

I first want to say thank you to all of the Chicago Yacht Club’s members & staff who have already made me feel so welcomed. For those of you who I haven’t had the opportunity to meet yet, my name is Melissa Czyz, and I’m proud to serve as your new Membership Director. I’m an Omaha native and graduated from the University of Nebraska. I made the decision to move to Chicago almost 12 years ago and currently reside in the Lakeshore East neighborhood. I love our city’s amazing architecture, the food, the sports teams, our beautiful lakefront & the overall energy you feel when you’re walking around our great city!

Before starting my new chapter at Chicago Yacht Club, I was the Membership Director at The Mid-America Club & The Metropolitan (Clubcorp/Invited Clubs) for more than eight and a half years. I’ve enjoyed working in private clubs, because it allows me to not only build relationships but to also enrich lives by introducing prospective members to the Club. I’ve seen the many friendships created, celebrations shared and the true sense of community one can gain by joining a club. I hope that the next time you visit the Club you introduce yourself to me. I would love to learn about you and what Chicago Yacht Club means to you.

Although I wasn’t here for most of the year, 2022 was a great year for membership with 120 new members and counting. I want to thank every new member sponsor and endorser!

We welcome our 2022 class of new members! We are so happy to have you join the CYC community. Thank you for being a Member and supporting the growth of Chicago Yacht Club. I look forward to meeting you all in the near future, and please don’t hesitant to reach out!

The Steps to Join

CHICAGO YACHT CLUB

STEP ONE

Complete an application and a short essay that expresses interest in on-the-water activities.

STEP TWO

Have one (1) current member sponsor and one (1) current member endorse. If the candidate for membership does not know any current members, they should reach out to the Membership Director for an introduction.

STEP THREE

Sponsor and endorser will complete a questionnaire on behalf of the candidate.

STEP FOUR Admissions Committee Interview

STEP FIVE Board of Directors Approval

✶The membership process takes two to six weeks.

Contact me at membership@chicagoyachtclub.org for more information on the membership process. Cheers!

Melissa

Czyz

Membership Director

membership@chicagoyachtclub.org

NEW MEMBERS

REGULAR

Neil Book

Spouse: Sharon Chicago, IL

Boat 1: Playbook, 61’ Sirena Harbor: Burnam Sponsored by Kyle Stenzel

Duncan Bourne

Spouse: Leslie Logsdon Chicago, IL Sponsored by Brian White

Chris Covey Spouse: Tanya Covey Naperville, IL Reinstatement

David Gould Spouse: Laura Gould Chicago, IL

Boat 1: Fearless, 43’9” Jeanneau Harbor: DuSable Sponsored by Michael Davies

Joseph Griffin Chicago, IL Sponsored by Joey Chiappetta

Mouhannad Kantar, MD

Spouse: Nancy Fakhereddine Chicago, IL

Boat 1: Epicurean, 70’ Arcon Harbor: Burnham Sponsored by Scott Rickey

Andrea Krasinski

Spouse: Jon Subak Chicago, IL

Boat 1: Fast Pegasus, Sea Ray Harbor: Belmont

Boat 2: Baby Pegasus, Dragon65 Reinstatement

Gary Lauger Swedesburg, IA

Boat 1: Gmsply, 24’ | Harbor: Aries Reinstatement

Donna Lee Chicago, IL Sponsored by Diane Foote

John & Fannie Mancini Forest Park, IL Sponsored by Stephanie Van Vlerah

Adam Marshall Deer Park, IL Sponsored by Gary Feracota

Bernard & Suzanne McDonald Chicago, IL Reinstatement

Randy Mehrberg Chicago, IL Reinstatement

C. John Mostofi Chicago, IL Sponsored by Kevin Bell

since December 1, 2022

Jeff & Beth Wrona-Murphy Chicago, IL Sponsored by Lisa & Byron Ehrhardt

Richard & Mary Beth Murphy Chicago, IL Sponsored by Nancy Berberian

David Myatt Chicago, IL Sponsored by Amy Schwartz

Dana Nelson Chicago, IL Sponsored by Keith & Laura Ferrio

Dave & Carol Polito

Hoffman Estates, IL

Boat 1: Quality Time, 42’ Sea Ray Harbor: 31st Street Sponsored by Kevin Dwyer

Ian Rahal

Glen Ellyn, IL

Boat 1: Copper Mine, 65’ Sea Ray Harbor: Belmont Sponsored by Jeff Pierce

Dale Sana Olympia Fields, IL

Boat 1: Lori’s Liner, 43’ Bayliner 4387 Motor Yacht | Harbor: Hammond Sponsored by Jerry Miarecki

Dr. Edward Tivador

Spouse: Maggie Tivador Chicago, IL

Boat 1: BabyPower, 32’ Sea Ray Sundancer | Harbor: DuSable Reinstatement

Maude Tremblay

Spouse: Daniel Parker Chicago, IL Sponsored by Diane Foote

Richard Tucker

Highland Park, IL

Boat 1: Journey, 45’ Tiara Harbor: Burnham Sponsored by Rick Strusiner

Jeff Turner

Spouse: Mary Turner Clayton, CA Sponsored by John Beckstedt Reinstatement

Charles & Beth Vacala Chicago, IL Sponsored by Jim Mescall

ASSOCIATE

Ioannis Agadakos Chicago, IL Sponsored by Tom Sublewski

Isabelle Augensen Chicago, IL Sponsored by Tom Sublewski

Adam Baechler Chicago, IL Sponsored by Alice Martin

Brendan Baker Chicago, IL Sponsored by Mark Gerwig

Joseph Benoist Chicago, IL Sponsored by Matt Keagy

Mark Bernstein Chicago, IL Sponsored by Jeff Mills

Ashley Brower Chicago, IL Sponsored by Rick Reed

Shawn Clark Chicago, IL

Boat 1: Reflection, 58’ Sirena Harbor: Burnham Sponsored by Kyle Stenzel

Lindsey DeVar Chicago, IL Sponsored by Jeff Mills

Bryan Enriquez Chicago, IL Sponsored by Colleen King

Sean Eshaghy Chicago, IL

Boat 1: Rare Breed, Streblow Harbor: Lake Geneva Sponsored by Peggy Snorf

Scott Ferron Spouse: Alison Louw Deerfield, IL Sponsored by Ivy Williams

Ian Fitzgerald Chicago, IL Sponsored by Ivy Williams

Isabella Isett Chicago, IL Sponsored by Ivy Williams

Dimitrios Kornaros Chicago, IL Sponsored by Nick Naber

Danae Kornaros Chicago, IL Sponsored by Nick Naber

Remi Louvot

Spouse: Sa Zhao Chicago, IL Sponsored by Rodger Owen

Brooke Lucas Chicago, IL Sponsored by Katrina Orlov

Marija Michalczyk Chicago, IL

Boat 1: Hummingbird, 14’ Vagabond Harbor: Private Lake Sponsored by Laura Sigmond

William & Sara Oakes Chicago, IL Boat 1: Wayfairer, Sabre Sponsored by Bruce Rosenzwig

Sabrina & Zachary Sprintz Chicago, IL Sponsored by Meg Ainley

Emmanuel Wynant Chicago, IL Sponsored by Greg Miarecki

Aaron Young Chicago, IL Sponsored by Ivy Williams

JUNIOR

Kellan Martin Chicago, IL Sponsored by Mark Passis

Jack Shuttleworth Chicago, IL Sponsored by Karen Zupko

THE PERKS OF CLUB MEMBERSHIP

BY DIANE FOOTE

New Club Members, you may remember the exciting Club features you heard about at a prospective member reception, but now that you’ve joined, you may not know how to access them. Seasoned members certainly have their favorite aspects of the Club. But even they may need a refresher. The Membership Committee is here to help!

My family first joined the Club to take advantage of the youth sailing programs and opportunities for racing. My son was seven when he started out and discovered a love of small boat sailing and racing. There are so many facets of CYC’s On-the-Water offerings. From the Frostbiting spring and fall race series to sailing just for fun, Sonar and Tom 28 sailboats are available to charter. We also really appreciate the Belmont lockers. There’s nothing better than being active on the lakefront on a hot summer day and having access to a place to clean up and then grab a drink or bite to eat! Knowing you can dock your boat at either Belmont or Monroe is such a convenience. It feels like you’re on vacation in your own city. Another benefit: Belmont tender service. You don’t

need to row out to your boat or go all the way around Belmont Harbor if your boat is moored on the north side. The Belmont tender service will get you there. My husband has been known to take the tender, and we’re moored on the south side of the harbor! In addition, dinghy space is available at both stations. In fact, the Club is the only place in Monroe Harbor to offer it. And dock carts are available for gear-hauling.

EDUCATION

Learning at CYC doesn’t only happen on boats, and it isn’t limited to summer. On- and off-water instruction are available year-round. The programs are open to the public, but CYC members can register in advance and get a discount. We’re sailors, but my son and I took the power boating safety class and learned so much that will benefit us in any type of boat. And now we can rent the Sea Ray! We also enjoy visits from guest speakers, including leaders in the boating community. These events are usually free to members with registration required.

DINING & SPECIAL EVENTS

When it comes to dining or hosting a special event, CYC members can choose between two fantastic destinations with access to the lakefront. Belmont is casual with frequent food and drink specials. Monroe offers fine dining in the Main Dining Room and a casual atmosphere at the Mac Bar. You can take out-of-town guests to either location to impress them. Monroe is also a great spot for hosting business meetings and meals. The themed events, including Halloween and holiday parties are always a hit. And parking privileges are another benefit. Even when spaces are filled up with special events, the Club usually provides discounted or free parking in nearby lots. All you need to do is ask the front desk for a parking pass. Speaking of transportation, the Bears game shuttle is a great deal. You can catch a ride to Soldier Field from Monroe for only $10. Or just watch the game from the comfort of the Mac Bar.

RECIPROCITY

You may not realize the Club offers tremendous incentives for travelers. If you’re on the road, you can take advantage of reciprocity. Look for a local yacht club carrying reciprocal privileges with CYC! You will need to present proof of membership in good standing, such as a letter from CYC or your Club membership card. Our family takes advantage of this at least once a year at the South Haven Yacht Club in Michigan. Closer to home, CYC partners with the Union League Club. The arrangement allows members of both clubs to enjoy each other’s facilities. CYC is ranked on the top ten list of U.S. yacht clubs, according to Platinum Clubs of America. It is a prestigious network, and we’re proud to be a part of it. You’ll find several invitations here. All you need to do is download the Platinum Club Net app and register for an account.

GIVING BACK

Club members have the option to join dozens of committees to serve this nonprofit organization. You can seek out committee-sponsored events in our weekly newsletter Dock Lines. And if you’re not sure which opportunity is right for you, guidance is just an email away: membership@chicagoyachtclub. org. The club offers many chances to get to know new people, take on leadership roles and engage in activities. You can also contribute to the CYC Foundation - a 501(c)3 charitable organization committed to providing opportunity for all, regardless of age, special needs, or income, to experience the joys of boating. Visit the CYC Foundation website at chicagoyachtclubfoundation.org to learn more.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

CYC truly is what you make of it. There’s no place like it along the lakefront. It’s our home base on the water and not just for boating. Watching the Air and Water Show? Take in the view while enjoying access to air conditioning, clean restrooms, and food & drink. Taking in the Navy Pier fireworks? There’s no place better than the Monroe patio. Simply out for a run, walk or bike ride? Stop in for something cold to drink. Need to get out of the house but not quite ready to return to the office? Do some work with a view. While you’re there, strike up a conversation with your fellow members–possibly the best benefit of all. I’ll see you there! ✶

CHICAGO YACHT CLUB: ROSTER OF THE OLD GUARD 2022

THE OLD GUARD IS COMPOSED OF THE 25 MEMBERS WITH THE MOST SENIORITY

The first date is when the member joined the club. The second date is the date of election into Regular membership.

Wallace J. Stenhouse, Jr.

Gene McCarthy

Charles Bidwill

Lawrence Keogh

Peter Barrett John Buenz Deane Tank

Robert McLallen

James Bouma

Thomas Munizzo

Samuel Wm. Sax John Mannion Jr.

James Riley Patrick Ryan

Arthur Atkinson, MD Fred Gorr

Jerome O’Neill

Michael Wilke

Richard Van Mell

Donald Bensing

Robert Zeman

Louis Cosentine John Massey Peter Thornton Tom Carr

1944 / 1957 1956 / 1958 1948 / 1959 1954 / 1960 1950 / 1961 1960 / 1964 1963 / 1963 1958 / 1965 1959 / 1965 1965 / 1965 1966 / 1966 1966 / 1968 1954 / 1968 1968 / 1968 1965 / 1968 1954 / 1969 1969 / 1969 1969 / 1969 1955 / 1971 1958 / 1970 1969 / 1970 1961 / 1970 1971 / 1971 1971 / 1971 1962 / 1972

UPDATE FROM THE OLD GUARD

BY GENE MCCARTHY

The Old Guard, comprising the 25 longest tenured regular members of CYC, held two marvelous events in July, the Old Guard Cruise and the Old Guard Annual Sail Race. The cruise was preceded at Monroe Station by a wonderful luncheon prepared by Chef Larry. Six Old Guard members and seven friends and spouses took part. Unfortunately, attendance was seriously limited by illnesses. After lunch, the group boarded Sonny Lisowski’s beautiful power yacht, Mirage, for a cruise of the lakefront from Burnham Harbor to Belmont Harbor and returned to Monroe Harbor. The cruise lasted most of two hours and was thoroughly blessed with Sonny’s descriptions along with beautiful weather.

The Annual Old Guard Sail Race, organized by Committee Chair Stan Mehaffey and run by Assistant Chair Mark Croll, saw some very tight racing a week later at Belmont Station. Again, the pandemic and illnesses severely limited attendance, as only three of the five committed competitors were able to participate: Peter Barrett, Rick Van Mell and Gene McCarthy. The Race Committee of Chris Collins, Barbara Mehaffey and Mary McCarthy employed the new GPS controlled BOT for the racecourse. The course was set as a double windward leeward in a light south breeze. At the start, Rick chose to cover Peter, both on starboard tack going

offshore. Gene elected to go toward shore. At the windward mark, Rick rounded first with Gene about four boat lengths behind and Peter about ten lengths behind Gene. Rick elected to sail dead downwind while Gene chose to reach a little. That tactic worked as Gene rounded the leeward mark ahead of Rick by about four boat lengths. Upwind, Gene headed back to shore while Rick went to sea. Little changed as Gene held the lead with Rick behind and Peter followed. That order remained on the final downwind, and Gene crossed the finish line ahead of Rick and Peter. All three competitors were past champions of the Old Guard Race.

At the awards ceremony, this year’s unique Jefferson Cup was awarded to the competitors and race committee. All were thanked for participating and say they look forward to next year.

SAVE THE DATE:

Our next race is Friday, July 14, 2023, and there will be a dinner and award ceremony afterward. ✶

Robert Zeman and Peter Barrett at Monroe Station

Old Guard Cruise in August 2022; Top left to right: Rick Van Mell, Tom Carr, Thomas Munizzo; Bottom left to right: Arthur Atkinson, Gene McCarthy, Peter Barrett

A REFLECTION ON THE 2022 SEASON

BY REGATTA MANAGER CHUCK NEVEL

I’m compelled to reflect on the past season before I get all dreamy about 2023. 2022 was one of the most memorable seasons we’ve had on the water in a long time.

A FAST AND FURIOUS RACE TO MAC

The 2022 Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac was thrilling. The weather was “perfect,” and a good number of boats participated. According to some, it was fast and furious, while others said it was furious and fast. I guess it depended on where your boat was during one of the many squalls that rolled through the race. How fast was the race, you ask? Here is a fun fact – in 2021 Eagle One finished at 23:46:50, the only boat to finish on Sunday. In 2022 Proof finished at 23:13:17, 51 other boats finished in front of her. Whitehawk was the first to finish in 2022 on Sunday at 05:04:13. Despite the 60+ mph winds, waves, thunder and lightning, everyone was safe and had a grand time! I hope you are all looking forward to another great race July 22, 2023.

Verve Cup - Offshore

AUGUST WAS PACKED FULL OF EVENTS!

The World Match Race Tour Chicago Grand Slam brought seven exciting teams from five different countries. Australia, New Zealand, France, Ireland, and the United States competed. The event was held at our Belmont Station and sailed on the Club’s Tom 28s. Teams battled it out in a series of thrilling races. In the end, it was Team USA’s Chris Poole who took home the win. Chris defeated Australia’s Cole Tapper in a heated battle. The World Match Race Tour returns to Chicago Yacht Club August 17 - 20, 2023.

The Verve Cup – Offshore and Inshore were exhilarating! Since the Offshore Verve Cup was held over the Air and Water Show weekend, not only were there three days of great racing for 99 boats, but the Blue Angels came by on Saturday night. Not to be outdone, the 71 Inshore Verve Cup team battled strong in moderate to heavy breezes. A highly competitive J/70s had a fleet of 28. CYC’s John Heaton finished second. The Club will host the J/70 class North Americans September 18 - 24, 2023. The J/70 class is anticipating 80+ boats. This will be one of the largest J/70 events ever held in the Midwest, and CYC is thrilled to host it. Monroe will host the 2023 Offshore Verve Cup August 11 - 13, 2023. Inshore Verve Cup will be held at Belmont August 26 - 27, 2023.

Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust - Racing Starts

In addition, impressive numbers of youth sailors and skipper/owner volunteers turned out for the Commodore Cup Junior Twilight Navigation Race August 26. This was the Club’s largest event in recent history. Seven boats and 35+ junior sailors enjoyed a sporty start with a quickly dying breeze. Unfortunately, the breeze died so much two of the boats did not finish, but all in all the kids had a great time with fun and prizes provided by Crowley’s Yacht Yard. Congratulations to team Kaze, Sirocco VI, second and Painkiller 5 placing third. The 2023 Race is planned for Monroe August 25.

SEPTEMBER WAS A WHIRLWIND

September rolled up quickly with three great events – Chicago Regatta, Sheldon Clark, and the J/88 North Americans. With 47 entries in the Chicago Regatta, the peppy winds let ten divisions have a great time racing and helped provide funds for three charities. We can’t thank the sailors (and Powerboats) enough for their contributions to fundraising this year. The Sheldon Clark Regatta had 66 entries, with 11 different divisions. The day started light, but the winds and waves built. By race two, we were looking at close to 15 to 18 knots of breeze and two-to-fourfoot waves. Most sailors hung in to finish the day, but some threw in the towel and went early to the Big Kahuna Party.

Nine J/88s used the Sheldon Clark for their tune-up, segueing into J/88 North Americans. The J/88 fleet saw a wide range of conditions during the four-day regatta, some days experiencing very light winds and others encountering solid gusts. Conditions varied so much that it was difficult for any boat to gain a consistent lead. Thursday featured northerly winds topping 20 knots for much of the day, with five- to seven-foot waves. The waves were especially high in the afternoon, and the wind made it difficult for most boats to have consistent results throughout the day. The exception was

CYC’s own John Leahey and team Dutch. Dutch won the first three races on Thursday and followed up on Friday with two top-three finishes. John and team Dutch (Dan Burns, Matt Clark, Will Holz, Colin Richards and Mike Rusin) went on to win the Corinthian Division and the top overall boat! Congratulations to team Dutch.

These are the highlights. We also had RYF, Cruiser Navigational Rallies, Old Guard Regatta, Skyline Series at Belmont and Monroe. Frostbiting, Singlehanded Halloween regatta and the Inter-Committee Challenge. We ended with the MISSA Great Lakes High School Championship.

WHAT A SEASON!

Dreaming of 2023 and reflecting on 2022, a heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped me run these events. Our Race Committee has more than 100 volunteers, and they are all amazing people. I couldn’t do it without them!

In addition, a huge thanks to the staff that supported our regatta efforts - from the Front Desk, Maintenance, Front of House, Kitchen, Dock, and On-the- Water team and the behind-the-scenes administration, accounting, membership and communications teams! You ROCK! Now as the snow falls, I will look out my window, sit and dream about how awesome 2023 will be! ✶

Team Dutch wins the J/88 North American Championships

KEELBOAT COMMITTEE

BY AUDREY MENSE & ROBERT HANN, CO-CHAIRS

Greetings from the Keelboat Committee, the Club’s one-stop shop for sailing programs, racing clinics, and bikini-clad sailing instructors. (Chuck can really rock a two-piece!) Do you want to learn how to sail? We’ve got you covered. Are you interested in learning to race? We can help you there, too. Do you want to crush the bones of your competition day after day on the race course? We’re here for it!

For those who aren’t familiar with them, the Club has two awesome keelboat fleets - the Sonars and the Tom 28s. The Sonars (which we’ve been told we absolutely cannot call the “bumper boats”) are excellent for learners who, coincidentally, may or may not bump into everything in the harbor. Whether you’re starting with sailing basics or taking up a new skill like team or match racing, Sonars are the way to go. In contrast, the Tom 28s require a bit more know-how, but they are a rip-roaring good time and can be mastered in one summer. The Toms are also equipped with a platform on the back for a camera crew (don’t blame us, they were rigged that way by the match racing center many moons ago), so if you don’t give two hoots about sailing but want some awesome selfies for all 16 of your Instagram followers, this is a good option. (#sailing #imonaboat #blessed #ummwheresbelmont)

To the left is a handy chart that shows all of the sailing programs the Keelboat Committee offers, as well as

some bonus programs offered by other committees and some of the Club’s coaches. As you’ll see, there’s literally something for everyone and for all skill levels. And if you have any questions about what’s right for you, you can reach out to the OTW staff. Registration for the 2023 keelboat programs will open to members soon, so keep your eyes peeled for updates about when and where to register!

We are looking forward to seeing you on the water this summer!

*OMG, relax, we’re kidding. Chuck will not teach in a bikini. He’ll be wearing the Club’s standard issue Juliet flag Speedo, obviously. ✶

The CYC Sailing School is coming off a fantastic 2023 on the water! With planning well underway for Summer 2023, we’d like to share some 2023 program information with the CYC Membership. Registration for CYC Members opens January 1, and registration for Non-Members begins February 15.

Please register early to ensure that you receive a spot in your preferred classes and sessions.

More information and class descriptions can be found at: https://www.chicagoyachtclub.org/sailingschool

PLUMM’S SUMMER CAMP ENDEAVOURS

BY PLUMM DE LA CRUZ

My Chicago Yacht Club (“CYC”) summer began Monday, June 13, 2022, at Belmont Harbor on Lake Michigan. Originally, I only signed up for session one of beginner 420 sailing summer camp. But after taking a two-week break for a flying camp, the water was calling me back, and I couldn’t say no. So, I ended up signing up for sessions three and four. This year’s CYC summer was unforgettable! I was invited to a behind-the-scenes tour of SailGP and met some of the USA team. I went to Navy Pier to watch the race over the weekend. It was very exciting to see all the boats sail by. I look forward to seeing the San Francisco SailGP race in May 2023.

I think my favorite part of CYC summer camp besides sailing, of course, was making new friends and learning new things! This summer was very special to me, and I created a stronger passion for sailing. Sailing has become a very special part of me.

After summer sailing I became interested in sailing Lasers. I will admit I was nervous, but once I became more familiar with the Laser, I gained more confidence. Later in the Laser class, my dad surprised me with my own Laser boat! I know for sure that Winnie (my boat) and I will have a ton of fun out on the water.

I want to thank my coaches Andy Recalde, Daniel Sandoval, and Natalie Becker-Stevens for all the fun we had on the water this year. Also, I can’t forget to thank Flor Cerutti for being such a awesome coach. Tarkan Bolat has also been really awesome!

I plan to continue sailing over winter break in Fort Myers, Florida with Winnie and maybe a little 420 sailing. I can’t wait to get back on the water, feel that breeze and feel that good sailing adrenaline! “Ahoy!” ✶

Q&A WITH FLOR CERUTTI: CYC’S SINGLE-HANDED COACH

1. HOW HAVE THE SAILING PROGRAMS EVOLVED IN RECENT YEARS?

In 2021, we started an interesting project. The main goal was to build up our Race Team again.

As a Single-Handed coach, I oversaw the Optimist and Laser classes. In May 2021, the Laser and Optimist teams had fewer than ten sailors. Last November we closed the fall season with 41 sailors registered in the Single-Handed Race Team. In addition, we inaugurated the Opti Lime and Laser Masters teams. The latter is aimed especially at our adult members who are interested in expanding their sailing skills and want to feel the wind and water up close.

With this tremendous growth, and above all thanks to the great support of the Board members and the club management, we can continue planning and working on new projects that expand the possibilities of bringing sailing to all our members.

2. HOW IS THE CLUB INCORPORATING FOILING INTO THE PROGRAMS?

Thanks to the agreement CYC reached with SailGP, we have opened a door to the world of Foiling. From my humble point of view, Foiling is the future, if not the present, of the sport. One of our goals is to become a reference in the Foiling world in the USA, and why not? What is very clear is that we have interesting goals to keep working on to keep growing and improving.

3. WHAT’S HAPPENING IN FLORIDA THIS WINTER?

Last year, we started the first winter program. The proposal was aimed at our youngest sailors, the Optimist class sailors. The program was a success, generating nautical activity at a time of the year when the sailors of this region usually stop. In addition, sailors from other teams joined us, and that was a great added value for our young members.

This year, we went a step further. With the enormous support and trust of the Board, we extended the offer to more classes.

4. HOW LONG DO THE PROGRAMS RUN?

Until mid-April, the Club offers four winter programs for the youngest sailors in the Optimist (green and RWB) and Laser Youth classes. We also added a Laser Masters program.

The goal is to give our members the opportunity to sail, train, compete and keep improving throughout the winter.

We have an agreement with the Clearwater Community Sailing Center to welcome and base us there for the whole season. Clearwater is an awesome spot to practice. The sailing conditions are fantastic and varied. This allows us to sail with different conditions compared to Chicago.

5. WHAT ARE THE ACCOMODATIONS?

The area offers excellent lodging. We reached an agreement with the Clearwater Beach Marriott Hotel. It’s offering a special discount to all members registered in our winter programs. It is one minute away from the Sailing Center.

This is a tremendous opportunity for our members. Reserve your spot, buy your airline tickets, book your hotel and pack your sailing clothes, sunscreen and sunglasses. We will be waiting with boats ready to sail!

6. WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO IN THE NEW YEAR?

The human value of our teams is undoubtedly one of the pillars of the growth we have achieved.

One of my main desires is to be able to keep working for all these wonderful people and families and to continue to contribute so that CYC continues to be the Club of excellence that it is. ✶

113 TH RACE TO MACKINAC

CRUISING 3 Cruising Division

Mise En Place - Paul Thompson

Intangible - Tom Falck

1.

3.

Obsession - Matt & Stephanie Nurre

2.

1.

Jasmin - David Ormesher

Roxy - Don Condit

Dakota - Steve Sickler & Ray Groble

DOUBLEHANDED 1 Doublehanded Division

Hokey Smoke - Richard Stearns & Bill Zeiler

McQueen - Justin Acker

Exile - Andy Graff & Scott Eisenhardt

1.

Cynthia - Andrew Grootendorst

Odyssey - David Bohl

Providence - Greg Miarecki

2.

SECTION

Meat - Brian Kennalley, Edward Mui, & Craig Roehl

SECTION 8 Mackinac Cup Division

1.

Veni Vidi Veatchi - Jason Veatch

J/105 Mackinac Cup Division

3.

Kinship - Josh & Laura Lutton

Sealark - Clark Pellett

SECTION 7 Mackinac Cup Division

NoMaTa - Daniel & Jill Leslie

Kinsail - Doug Blackburn

Rambler - Benjamin Wilson

3. Northstar - David C Gustman 2. Goat Rodeo - Robert Evans 1. Smee Again - George Miz

SECTION 6 Chicago-Mackinac Trophy Division

J/109 Mackinac Cup Division 3. Elevation - Tim & Cathy McGuire 2. Paradigm Shift - Dave Dickerson, Steve Daube, John Brofman & Shawn Lord 1. Rosa del Mare - Rose & Tom Eslinger

BENETEAU 40.7 Chicago-Mackinac Trophy Division

3. Bad Habits - Mark Hanke

2. Sociable - Robert C. Arzbaecher

1. MOJO - Nick Gibbens, Rich Murphy, & David Normandin

SECTION 5 Chicago-Mackinac Trophy Division

3. Old School - Adam Prettyman

2. Evvai - Matthew Songer

J/120 Chicago-Mackinac Trophy Division MONOHULL DIVISIONS 1st to Finish Racing Monohull Divisions • 2nd Place Section 1 Royono Trophy Recipient Natalie J | Philip O’Niel III

3. Eagles Wings - John J Gottwald 2. Carrera - Rod Spearin

J/111 Chicago-Mackinac Trophy Division

3. Utah - Bradley Faber

2. Warlock - Tom Dickson

1. Nosurprise - Scott Sellers

SECTION 3 Chicago-Mackinac Trophy Division

3. Main Street - William F Schanen III

2. Mas Tiempo - Colin Booth

1. Sin Duda! - Lindsey Duda

SECTION 2 Chicago-Mackinac Trophy Division

3. Ohana - Tor Hough

2. Stripes - Bill Martin

1. Loki - Robert Christoph

1. Eagle - Jerry & Shawn O’Neill

SECTION 1 Chicago-Mackinac Trophy Division

1. Sufficient Reason - Mitchell Padnos WINNERS OVERALL WINNERS & MAJOR TROPHIES CRUISING DIVISION 1st to Finish Cruising Division • 9th Place Cruising 1 Ile Aux Galets Cup Recipient Whitehawk | Christopher & Peter Thornton 3rd Overall Cruising Division • 2nd Place Cruising 2 Pirate | Jeff & Cathy Henderson 2nd Overall Cruising Division • 1st Place Cruising 2 Jasmin | David Ormesher 1st Overall Cruising Division • 1st Place Cruising 3 Vanenna Cup Recipient Obsession | Matt & Stephanie Nurre

SECTION 4 Chicago-Mackinac Trophy Division 3. California Girl - Robert Eger 2. Hot Ticket - Michael Kirkman 1. Proof - Michael Fozo & Robin Kendrick MACKINAC CUP 3rd Overall Mackinac Cup Division • 2nd Place Section 8 Legacy | James & Scott Sorbie 2nd Overall Mackinac Cup Division • 1st Place Section 8 Dark Star | Dan McGraw & Matt Krogstad 1st Overall Mackinac Cup Division • 1st Place Tartan 10 Erica | Brian Kaczor CHICAGO-MACKINAC TROPHY 3rd Overall Chicago - Mackinac Trophy Division • 1st Place Section 4 Sufficient Reason | Mitchell Padnos 2nd Overall Chicago - Mackinac Trophy Division • 1st Place Section 1 Denali 3 | William F McKinley 1st Overall Chicago - Mackinac Trophy Division • 1st Place J/120 Clark - DeRoy Trophy Recipient Proof | Michael Fozo & Robin Kendrick

3. Heartbreaker - Robert L Hughes 2. Natalie J - Philip O’Niel III 1. Denali 3 - William F McKinley

REFLECTING ON A WILD RACE TO MAC

BY ADAM COLLINS

As the calendar turns from 2022 to 2023 and people look back wistfully on the year’s events, any sailor who competed in the 113th Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust will no doubt have memories that will last a lifetime.

In one punch after another, a string of strong storms rocked the Racing and Cruising divisions Saturday evening and Sunday morning. The two divisions experienced the storm systems in very different ways. The Cruising Division had nearly a 24-hour head start and was already farther north in the lake near Ludington and Manistee, Michigan; the Racing Division boats were located between Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Grand Rapids, Michigan.

When the first round of storms hit, the winds shifted dramatically from south to north for the Racing boats. The Cruising Division’s version got more of a push from the south, further propelling them up the Michigan shoreline.

Chris Bedford, the Race to Mackinac’s weather router, said that while storms like those experienced during this year’s race are not uncommon in the summertime, he doesn’t recall a whole night of storms like this. “Usually, it’s a one and done kind of thing, but this year it was something we refer to as training, which is one storm after another.”

The conditions tested pre-race planning, safety preparation and sailors’ nerves and made the race one for the history books. By the end of the first evening, there were reports of blownup main sails, exploded spinnakers and broken equipment, but no serious injuries.

As Rocky Levy, sailing aboard Dakota, the second boat to finish in Cruising 1 said in an early morning social media post, “We’ve had 50-knot winds knock us down and a bunch of things broke, but not our spirits!”

Aboard Philip O’Niel III’s TP52 Natalie J, the first race boat to finish, weather planning and practice were crucial. “We took our main down when it hit 40 knots

and saw 69 knots at one point. The team had already talked through the scenarios, so when it happened everyone knew what their job was,” he said. “It was a big deal, but it wasn’t a big deal; everyone jumped in and did what they planned on doing. When it was over, we got back to racing.”

Across the Cruising and Racing Divisions, 20 sections earned podium flags. Winning the overall ChicagoMackinac Trophy for best overall large boat (typically 40 feet and above) was the J/120 Proof owned by Michael Fozo and Robin Kendrick of Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan; and the Mackinac Cup winner (awarded to those under 40 feet) was the Tartan 10 Erica, owned by Brian Kaczor of Chicago. In its inaugural race, the Wintrust Sailing Team earned a section win in the Beneteau 40.7 class. “It was everything and more than I could have expected for my first distance race,” said Rich Murphy of Wintrust, the Race’s presenting sponsor. “What an incredible experience to do this with our team.”

“With one of the fastest, toughest and most exciting races in years, we saw yet again why the Mac is America’s Offshore Challenge,” said Sam Veilleux, Chair of the 113th Race to Mackinac. “Regardless of how each individual boat finished, every single sailor who competed in this year’s Mac can stand proud as part of the community of people who have taken on the challenge. I can’t wait to see everyone back on the water in 2023!” ✶

HANDS-ON SAFETY AT SEA SEMINAR

BY MATTHEW GALLAGHER

Nearly 30 offshore sailors, including five local Sea Scouts and their leaders, spent a day learning key safety lessons at a U.S. Sailing Hands-On Safety at Sea seminar presented in partnership between the Storm Trysail Club and the Chicago Yacht Club October 1, 2022.

Moderator Rich DuMoulin (Storm Trysail Foundation Chairman and past Commodore of STC) led a team of dedicated member-volunteers in classroom work as well as hands-on use of flares and fire extinguishers, but the highlight of the day was an afternoon on the water. Chicago area volunteer boat owners took the students out in lumpy conditions on a brilliant fall afternoon on Lake Michigan. Practical instruction on crew overboard (COB) prevention and recovery were aided by use of the ‘dummies’ DuMoulin brought with him to Chicago. These dummies (custom made by UK Sailmakers and past Commodore Butch Ulmer) allowed for realistic hands-on practice in recovering COB. CYC’s Belmont Station provided a superb venue and even allowed for practice with life rafts and inflatable PFDs in the harbor adjoining the club.

This is the first time STC and CYC have worked together to present a Safety at Sea Seminar. “The two clubs are both leaders in safety education in the U.S.,” said CYC Rear Commodore and STC member Ray Groble. “It makes perfect sense that the two clubs work together. We were thrilled to have Rich join us - a true leader in cutting-edge Safety at Sea training.” In the spring, the two Clubs collaborated for an online session which served as “Part I” of this seminar. It included training on the safety ethos, weather, damage control and more.

“It was fantastic that we had so many Sea Scouts and their leaders join us for the seminar,” said Du Moulin. “They are the future of offshore sailing, and Storm Trysail Foundation is proud to provide grants supporting the two local Sea Scout ships in Chicago. Making sure they and other sailors are safe when they go offshore is what Storm Trysail is all about.”

The event was supported by Western Great Lakes Station Captain Michael Hettel and other STC members in the area, as well as CYC’s fantastic on the water staff led by Chuck Nevel, the regatta manager. Special thanks to the owners of the three boats who volunteered: Dakota (Ray Groble & Steve Sickler), Painkiller 5 (Alice Martin), and Vayu (Ron Buzil).

Those who successfully completed the course and who complete the necessary online segments are eligible for the U.S. Sailing International Offshore Safety at Sea With Hands-On Training Certificate, a prerequisite for many of the world’s great offshore races. ✶

J/88 NORTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

BY GREG MIARECKI

In September, the Chicago Yacht Club hosted the J/88 North American Championships. The J/88 is a 29-foot performance keelboat and is one of the up and coming classes in the sport of sailing. Each boat typically sails with a crew of six persons. The local fleet, known as Fleet 4, is the largest J/88 fleet in the United States, and many of its members are also members of the Club. Past Commodore Greg Miarecki served as chair of the regatta, Past Commodore Leif Sigmond served as its Principal Race Officer, and Rear Commodore Ray Groble served as Chief Judge for the event. The Chicago Yacht Club Race Committee provided superb race management for the 26-boat fleet. Mother Nature gave the competitors a little bit of everything, as conditions varied dramatically during the four-day regatta. Thursday featured northerly winds topping 20 knots for much of the day, with five to seven-foot waves. Friday’s conditions offered light and lumpy conditions, with southeast winds in the six-to-eightknot range for much of the day. Saturday brought lighter southwesterlies and a smoother sea state. And the finale on Sunday offered west to northwest winds in the ten-15 knot range, with gusts topping 20 knots. The Club rolled out the red carpet for the competitors, offering free pours each night and a semi-formal dinner for the teams on Saturday. Club members and competitors, together, enjoyed a luau-themed dinner by Chef Larry (complete with a roast pig) on Friday evening. More than 250 members and sailors joined the fun, rocking to the sounds of Libido Funk Circus, one of the top regatta bands in the United States.

Competition was intense. Fellow CYC members John and Jordan Leahey won overall honors in the regatta. Sailing in the Corinthian Division, Dutch also took home the prize for the top Corinthian boat. Dutch won in convincing fashion, scoring four bullets in the 12-race series. “Sailing with nearly two dozen

other J/88’s in a championship regatta was an awesome experience,” commented John Leahey, Dutch’s skipper. “We saw a little bit of everything in this regatta, and the competition was outstanding. It was great to see so many teams doing well at various points this weekend,” Leahey added.

Many other Chicago Yacht Club members also did well in the regatta. Lindsey Duda’s Sin Duda! scored two wins apiece in the 12-race series. Michael and Grace Gillian’s Julia won Saturday’s contests with a 1-2-3 performance in the three races that day, good enough for a thirdplace finish in the Corinthian division. The J/88 fleet is looking forward to competing in many Chicago Yacht Club races in 2023 and keeping the class’s North American trophy at Chicago Yacht Club. ✶

A RETURN TO THE RACECOURSE

BY AMY BAXTER FELDER

One of the most unique characteristics of sailboat racing is a mixing of the generations. In few other sports does a person find his or herself teamed up and working intimately with folks who are decades older––or younger. I’ve sailed with people of all ages, seen older men and women with crazy, windswept hair and red cheeks on day three of the Mac race, and chatted for hours with younger racers about data and on-thewater trends. These experiences highlight the fact that sailing is a lifelong sport and a journey that, over time, can be both slow and fast, winding and straight. And the truth is that regattas will always be there, even if I can’t. If I can’t get the time off work or have other overarching responsibilities that leave regattas off the table for a period, there’s always next year, or the next. For us amateur racers, there’s sometimes a break in racing because life gets in the way. I think that’s especially true for women, who may take time off work and sailing to start families. For others, a drift away from racing may just be due to circumstance, such as a move across the country. The beauty of sailing is that you can always return to the racecourse, even after a 20-year break. Such was

the case for my mom, Beth Baxter, who told me at the beginning of the summer that she missed racing and wanted to get out on the water, in any type of boat, for any length of time.

“I raced because I loved being on the water and loved the competition,” Beth told me. “But life with three children and a challenging career got in the way, and I stopped competitive sailing 20 years ago. When I saw photos of my daughter sailing in Newport recently, I began to long for that feeling of competition: checking the wind on the line before the start, jibing or not jibing at the rounding mark, watching for lifts, all the little moments that go into a boat race.”

With this mission in mind, I pulled up Google and started looking for an event we could do together in the Chicago area. I landed on the Sunfish Women’s North Americans Championship, which was taking place in late September at Lake Bluff Yacht Club. With a low cost and low barrier to entry, I signed us both up right away, booked charter boats, and helped my mom get registered with the class. We started discussing logistics and soon realized a lot had changed since the last time my mom had raced – a windward offset mark and gate marks were new concepts to her.

Amy Baxter Felder and Beth Baxter at Lake Bluff Yacht Club

Beth Buckingham Baxter and Janet Baxter at Belmont Harbor, 1970s

I knew the event would be competitive, being an NA Champs and a world qualifier, but I also knew my mom would be able to easily manage a sunfish in virtually any conditions. Even without racing, my mom was still a fantastic sailor. It was the perfect place to return to racing, and we were both delighted by the warm welcome from the class of racers who helped us both throughout the weekend with our equipment and navigating the Lake Bluff beach. We encountered a mix of generations in the fleet that helped relieve some of my mom’s nerves, and it was an extra surprise that she knew several women from her racing days on Lake Michigan decades ago.

We sailed ten races over two days in Lake Bluff, sometimes with heavy wind that made everyone sore by Sunday morning. In this case, the results weren’t important to my mom and me. What mattered is that we were out on Lake Michigan racing together. We rigged together, joked about how our wetsuits made us look, discussed wind conditions coming down from the bluff, and made several new connections while cracking lobsters at LBYC’s Saturday night soiree.

Three Chicago Yacht Club members raced the regatta, each with a different goal and experience––me, Amy Baxter Felder (4th overall), Abigail Bennett O’Keefe (top junior), and my mom, Beth Buckingham Baxter. If there’s a takeaway from the weekend, it’s this: Age will never bar anyone from the racecourse.

“What did I learn? What was it like? Very humbling! I didn’t think I would win, but I did think I could be competitive with the back of the fleet. I was wrong. There were a handful of women my age and older who sailed well,” Beth said. “And I learned from them that when I’m ready to retire, if I choose that, I could find a place to sail and race as much as I want. My time window is not closed, I could choose this again.” ✶

2022 Sunfish Women’s North Americans Championship

INTERCLUB COMPETITION COMMITTEE

BY BRIDGET GROBLE

I would like to reflect on the Interclub Competitions at which CYC was represented over the past year. We competed in four events throughout the year, with a total of 18 members proudly representing our Club. Three of the regattas were fleet races, with one being an all-women’s fleet race, and the fourth a world-renowned interclub match race. Sailors competed in a wide variety of boats: J/22s, Catalina 37s, J/105s, Sonars, and RS21s. The season was highlighted by a fourth place finish at the Seawanhaka Cup.

As all of this season’s competitors can attest to, interclub regattas take a high level of skill, adaptability, and teamwork. Sailors must be able to quickly learn new boats, be adaptable to sailing with new teammates, and foster teamwork skills in order to be successful. The Interclub Competition Committee has its sights set high for 2023—we hope to compete in at least eight

events this season and rejoin the Interclub team racing circuit. If you are interested in becoming involved in, or learning more about Interclub racing, please reach out to cycinterclubcompetition@gmail.com, any committee member or me. ✶

YEAR IN REVIEW: SEA SCOUT SHIP 5870

BY ROBERT BIED

2022 was an exciting year for CYC’s Sea Scout Ship. The Sea Scout program teaches leadership, accountability, and self-reliance through maritime and nautical programs. Programming this year incorporated sailing and power boat instruction, nautical education, museum visits, boat maintenance, camping and swimming instruction. The Ship volunteered at many CYC events including Memorial Day Observance, Fleet Review, Special Needs Cruise, Old Guard Cruise, Staff Appreciation Cruise, and the Chicago Lighthouse Cruise.

Each year, the Chicago Yachting Association selects a recipient for its ‘Sea Scout of the Year’ award. The 2022 recipient is Thomas Corter of CYC’s Sea Scout Ship 5870. Thomas served as the Boatswain (youth leader) of the Ship. He was instrumental in the restarting of our Ship post Covid shutdown and recruited eight Scouts to join in his efforts. Leading by example, Thomas was always the first to volunteer and was present at all the Ship’s volunteer events. He led the efforts to transition to the new Sea Scout uniform.

Thomas and fellow Sea Scout, Porter Jihaad, operated a marshal boat during the three-day SailGP event assisting in keeping the race course free of stray vessels. Every Tuesday, from October through May, Thomas volunteers his time as a swimming instructor at the Our Lady of Perpetual Hope parish pool in Glenview.

Thomas is a recent graduate of Northridge Preparatory School in Niles and is currently attending the Great Lakes Maritime Academy in Traverse City. The Academy educates and trains deck and engineering officers for the commercial shipping industry. ✶

JOIN CHICAGO YACHT CLUB’S SEA SCOUT SHIP 5870 “PRIVATEER”

We are a BSA co-ed youth-led program for sailing/power craft. All are welcome: ages 14 - 21.

No Chicago Yacht Club membership required only an appetite for adventure, learning and fun. We teach leadership, stewardship and self-reliance through a maritime/nautical based program. Our adult leadership has multiple years of sailing and power craft experience. We have large and small boats (power and sailing) for boat handling instructions, meet monthly at the club facilities for shore based education and help the Chicago Yacht Club wherever needed. Sailing and power craft use in the summer, bonfires in the fall, Christmas tree ship offload and Capt. Schuenemann graveside ceremony in the winter, boat maintenance in the spring and swimming instruction throughout the fall/winter/spring.

How would you like to Retire As You Desire? I have created a strategy called the "Navigation Process" to help you navigate through any seas in retirement. I talk about this strategy in the book I published, The Yachter's Guide to Early Retirement. If you would like a copy of the book, send me an email today! Bill@bloomfinancial.us

Bill Bloom offers securities and investment advisory services through Woodbury Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance services offered through Bloom Financial, CO., which is not affiliated with Woodbury Financial Services, Inc. All other listed entities are unaffiliated. Woodbury Financial Services and Bloom Financial, CO. do not offer tax or legal advice.

BY TAYLOR DUNPHY AND IVY WILLIAMS

REFRESHING BELMONT CAMPUS

Our replacement journey began in 2017, when we held focus group discussions and town hall meetings to learn how members used what we lovingly refer to as “The Barge” and to understand our future needs for the main clubhouse structure. Having paused because of the pandemic, we are now moving forward by asking current membership for input before finalizing plans. The Board of Directors is taking care to create a refreshed Belmont design plan with a focus on the future of our Club. Please visit the website for the most updated information!

A NEW BARGE, A NEW ERA

The final design will serve future generations of membership for years to come. Belmont 2.0 will include flexible spaces that serve a variety of membership needs and wants, often simultaneously. Belmont is the facility where members engage in boating, sailing and racing, youth instruction and family-friendly water activities in a fun casual social environment. It is also where we gather in a casual space to just enjoy the company of fellow members. While Belmont is near and dear to our hearts, the current station is not conducive to flexible and simultaneous use spaces. The new facility will usher in a brand new age of onthe-water activities for all ages. It will allow for a more dynamic representation of how we spend our time on the water and be available throughout the calendar year. This means more opportunities for the Club and staff to serve you and membership as a whole, even during the large member events held at Belmont on a regular basis! Take a look at our current progress, and please visit the website to learn more! ✶

OUR EXPERIENCE: 2022 NORTH AMERICAN INVITATIONAL

BY LOREN WOLF

Imagine you are in an unfamiliar body of water; you do not know the tides and currents, and you certainly are not familiar with the shoreline and navigational marks in the area. Now, you are asked to predict how long it will take you to go from point A to point B, B to C, etc., over a course that is 30 nautical miles and approximately four hours long. Did I mention that you are limited in the use of your electronic navigational tools (certainly no timepieces), and you are on a boat that is totally unfamiliar to you? Welcome to the North American Cruiser Association (NACA), North American Invitational (NAI) 2022 in Long Beach, California.

For the second year in a row, CYC navigational rally champions, Kenn and Loren Wolf, represented the Chicago Yacht Club at the NAI along with a team of fellow CYC rally contestants, Dave and Laura Zehner and Walter “Sonny” Lisowski.

This year’s 30 nautical mile course consisted of 15 waypoints (marks). The marks included ranging channel markers that were approximately five nautical miles away, looking for a white Racon buoy when in reality it appeared to be a red buoy because it had lost most of its paint and; looking for a light pole that was hidden in the vegetation on the shore of an island. Contestants were provided with the course a few weeks before the actual contest. Kenn plotted the course using Coastal Explorer program to develop a list of course headings and distances to each mark. I would be calling the marks for the team and spent my time looking at as many Google Earth photos as I could find to visualize the marks as described in the course material. Not everything is on Google Earth!

Rally rules had two unusual twist this year: 1) contestants were able to use a GPS speedometer 2) they could ask the race committee observer (timekeeper) what the clock time was at each mark. The helmsman would be able to determine if he/ she was going too fast or slow with respect to their predicted time, and this would add a whole new set of calculations that had to be made on the fly. A team effort was definitely needed to run this course.

Kenn was the helmsman and leader of the team. Laura assisted Kenn by giving him the calculated headings and speed for each leg. Dave was the statistician and kept watch with the range finder to make sure we were at the prescribed distances from each mark. The range finder could not take a reading through the isinglass enclosure of the fly bridge so Dave got his exercise that day by running up and down the stairs to the fly bridge. Maintaining the proper distance from the marks is an integral part of the contest. Sonny was recruited from our team to serve as an observer on another boat. During the competition, he protested the distance from a mark of one of the contestants. Ultimately, that captain was able to prove

One of the marks on the course

he was within the prescribed distance and went on to win the rally with only a .58% error!

Members from the Long Beach Yacht Club volunteered the use of their boats for the rally. Boats were assigned to the contestants by luck of the draw. Two days before the contest, we were given four hours to become familiar with the performance of our assigned boat, La Vie Vivante.

Kenn put the boat through measured mile time trials at various RPMs to determine optimum running speed. This proved to be a little challenging because the mechanical tachometers were mounted absolutely flat, about 2.5 feet apart, on the horizontal surface of the helm. Kenn had to stand and move side to side to view the tachs and try to synchronize the engines. Finally, he gave up and went by the sound of the engines. Another part of our trial run was to determine the turning radius of the boat. As we were making hard-over turns, the owner came up from down below and politely asked Kenn if he was planning on making a lot of tight turns during the contest. Kenn explained that he just needed to get an idea of the turning radius, port versus starboard and asked him why. The owner calmly explained that the packings were leaking and water was coming in every time he made a hard-over turn!

On race day, we were ready to go. Kenn and Laura were constantly adjusting the throttles to maintain our predicted speed. Speed and course adjustments had to be made to compensate for wind, current and Long Beach boat traffic. One course heading had us calling a mark that was the center point between two oil platforms that were about two miles apart. Our heading was a diagonal line between the two platforms (the designer of the course purposely made this a difficult mark to call). Kenn and I had a discussion as to how I was going to make this difficult call. Kenn came up with a very “high-tech” solution - use the edge of a piece of paper over the radar screen to line up the two platform images, and call the mark when the icon for the boat appears at the edge of the paper. We nailed it exactly!

It was a fun and challenging day on the water! The Long Beach Yacht Club was a great host and our thirdplace finish with 1.285% error off of our predicted time was the icing on the cake. ✶

Dave and Laura Zehner, Walter Lisowski, Loren and Kenn Wolf

Captain Kenn Wolf and Laura Zehner on the day of the contest

“La Vie Vivante”

NEW YEAR, NEW FOCUS AND A RENEWED CRUISING SAILING FLEET

BY RICK REED

The Cruising Sailing Fleet has a new focus for the new year. We will be offering a robust calendar of events with the goal of attracting participation from those in the CSF who have a boat and for other CYC members without boats who want to socialize and cruise with us.

As an example, this year we will introduce the Wednesday night Fireworks Dinner & Cruise. Once a month at 6:30 p.m., we’ll meet in Monroe Station for dinner and sit together. There we will decide who wants to go for a cruise to watch the fireworks from the water and who wants to watch dockside. No boat?

No problem. You’re invited to jump on board with someone who does!

Besides CSF-sponsored events, like the Fireworks Dinner & Cruise, we also will host CSF Table Events, where we

piggy-back onto a CYC event and reserve a table or two to sit together and socialize. This could be at a variety of club events such as: a WOW event, a Nautical Education seminar, Winter Curling, Thanksgiving Dinner, Sunday Brunch or the NYE Party. We will just be sitting together at the CSF Table (members, friends and family, with or without a boat), promoting camaraderie and participation. Watch for CSF Table Events on the Club calendar soon.

To get started for 2023, we will have our monthly CSF committee meeting on the second Tuesday of the month followed by a monthly dinner for all to join in the following Friday.

We then start the sail season off with a Meet the Cruising Sailing Fleet in April and end the season with our Awards Banquet in November.

In between, we have three threeday cruises planned and four oneday cruises, the last one being the end of season day cruise to Belmont Station for the Club’s lobster dinner. In addition, we will have two charity lunch & cruise events, an employee and family appreciation cruise, and the Ladies Skipper Race. We plan for an active, social and sailing fleet in 2023.

Officially, to be a member of the Cruising Sailing Fleet or to be on its committee, you need to own a boat. However, to join us for any CSF Event, to cruise or socialize with us, you only need to be gregarious! Please join us, with or without a boat. Welcome aboard!✶

WOMEN ON THE WATER COMMITTEE

BY NANCY BERBERIAN

The Women’s Committee of the Chicago Yacht Club continued its active schedule, both on the water and on land. Once again, the Friday night WOW Sonar Series was sold out this year. Whether the ladies wanted to improve their sailing skills or simply gaze at beautiful sunsets, there was something for everyone to enjoy in the Sonars on Lake Michigan. Thank you to Ivan and the Adult Education staff for another fantastic season.

We were equally active on land. For the Leadership Series, we were thrilled to welcome Vice Admiral Sandy Stosz, who shared her many experiences as the first woman in a male-dominated field. Through her challenges and triumphs, she revealed how she developed her own leadership philosophy. Thank you to Admiral Stosz for inspiring us and for your many years of service.

We were also able to squeeze in one more pastry class with CYC’s amazing Pastry Chef Faith, who showed us how to make ganache. Once we learned the secrets of whipping up a batch of ganache, Chef Faith shared decorating and baking tips just in time for the holidays.

Traditional fall events, including the Harvest Wine Dinner, WOW Night of Networking Club Crawl, and An Evening with Wintrust were all tremendous successes.

This year’s Day of Service was held at The Chicago Lighthouse, where volunteers worked with visually impaired adults. The volunteers were amazed at the many services The Chicago Lighthouse provides and felt grateful for the opportunity to help those in need.

The year concluded with the WOW holiday party. The ladies shopped the Kendra Scott jewelry collection and decorated delicious treats under the guidance of Pastry Chef Faith. The Leadership Series also concluded that night with Dee Robinson who shared her thoughts on courage and signed copies of her new book.

A special thank you to all who served on the Women’s Committee and CYC staff for all their hard work and great ideas these past two years.

Happy holidays and best wishes for a healthy, happy new year!✶

Nancy Berberian with the Chicago Lighthouse Volunteers

Dee Robinson, Chef Faith and Nancy Berberian at the Holiday Party

WOW Friday Night Sailing

CHICAGO REGATTA CELEBRATES A DECADE OF CHARITABLE GIVING

BY NANCY SNYDER & ED FALKENHAYN, CO-CHAIRS

Racers, casual boaters, and shoreside enthusiasts who participated in the 2022 Chicago Regatta presented by Wintrust achieved a new record of generosity in 2022. The event gave more than $162,800 to our three charitable partners: Comer Children’s Hospital, SOS Children’s Villages Illinois and the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation.

As we celebrated the tenth year of the Chicago Regatta, the largest growth in contributions came from our donors, including a donor at the new diamond level and 11 donors at the platinum and gold levels. The event also showcased amazing generosity from 30 silver-level donors and 44 donors at the bronze level. Many thanks to all our medal donors for their gifts to our charitable organizations.

Team fundraising through the Leaderboard exploded with nearly $99,000 in donations from coast to coast as friendships around the country were connected to our local waterfront community. Racing boats were required to set up a Leaderboard team to be scored, contributing to the donations and helping spread the word about this charitable event.

Congratulations to the Leaderboard teams that assembled the largest donations and get their names added to the Chicago Regatta trophy: Chuck and Rita Anderson’s Son’s Too VII, a power yacht, Ed and Carrie Falkenhayn’s Lake House, a power yacht, and Pinnacle Foundation’s Vincitore, a racing yacht. We look forward to the Leaderboard continuing to connect friends and family with the Chicago Regatta.

Nearly 50 boats registered for the day of racing, which included the Chicago-Shuffle distance racing, WindyCity buoy racing and Second-City Dragon Force 65 racing. Competitors enjoyed changing conditions, starting with a light southeasterly breeze that built to a moderately brisk breeze from the east-northeast. Combined with the abundant sunshine, it was a day of champagne sailing with clear views of the city’s shore and skyline. In the afternoon, the Dragon Force 65 racers gathered for a series of fun, but competitive races, attracting onlookers to Monroe’s south patio.

Monroe Station Patio during the Light-Up-Your-Boat-Show

The My-Kind-Of-Town party featured a strolling Cityof-Neighborhoods dinner with culinary favorites from Pilsen, Devon, Wrigleyville and Greektown, and music from Sons of Chicago, led by our own Gary Feracota. His band delighted guests with a mix of dance music and Chicago blues. The Light-Up-Your-Boat Show featured an exciting, timed lighting of many of the club’s most elegant vessels.

We offer our enormous gratitude to presenting sponsor Wintrust, along with the continuing support and generosity of Pinnacle Yachts and Pinnacle Foundation, and our new sponsor Javi’s Ranch Water.

A special thank you goes out to the 31 people on the planning committee—volunteers and staff—for their hard work. There are a surprising number of complex elements to this day long event! Monthly meetings started in January. The sub-committees started meeting in March, all for an event taking place in September. When the day came, our volunteer Race Committee did a great job managing our racecourses, and the yacht club staff contributed countless hours and passion to the event, making it a true highlight of the Club’s season!

We are grateful for the tireless work done to ensure our community’s generosity and love of the water continues helping the city’s most deserving children. Support from donors, sponsors and boaters was outstanding as the pieces of this event came together, and our community came through with more generosity and enthusiasm than ever before. The 2022 Chicago Regatta thanks you for your participation and donations, and we look forward to seeing you next year. ✶

THANK YOU SPONSORS & MEDAL DONORS

®

DIAMOND LEVEL

Barbara Bebee

PLATINUM LEVEL

Commodore Nick Berberian & Nancy Berberian

The Duda Foundation

Carrie & Edward Falkenhayn

Gary Feracota

Andrew & Patty Hurst

Donald Wilson

SILVER LEVEL

Charles & Rita Anderson*

James Armstrong David Baruch

Peter & Elizabeth Barrett

Michael Belsley*

Jeffrey Bernacchi

Mark Birringer

Frank Ten Brink

Carrie And Nick Camino*

Will Conrardy

Bruce Danly Jr.

Cal Falkenhayn

Vice Commodore Lisa Curcio Gaston

Lisa Scully

Nancy Snyder

Stuart Townsend

The Whitford Family Jane Stroud Wright Trust

BRONZE LEVEL

David Ainley

William Ankenbrandt

Cyd Archer*

Denise Ashurst*

Dj Banovitz

Past Commodore Jerry Bober & Sandy Bober*

Kathleen Capodice

John Leahey

Rick Lillie

Walter Lisowski

Josh Lutton

Jamie MacArthur

Nicholas Manusos

Michael Mayer

Erin Mitchell*

James Murray

David Neenan

Ken Nordine & Janice Dale

Shawn O’Neill

Abbey Paving Co. Inc.

Lisa Roth

GOLD LEVEL

Jude And Bill Bloom

Mary & Tom Falck

Kurt Lentsch

Past Commodore Greg Miarecki & Dr. Chris Albanis*

Randall Schmidt

Rear Commodore Ray Groble III

Anthony Hadley

Treasurer Michael J. Kovacs

Cari Murray Kremer

Warren Levins

Nicholas Manusos

Tone Martin David Mueller

Cari Murraykremer

Eric Oesterle

Raymond Oral

John Roberts

Christopher Chatain

Shark Clark

Antoni Czupryna

Chuck Blasgen & Kerry Dematteis

Raymond Douglas

Kevin Foote

Michael Frerker

Emmy & Matthew Gallagher*

Charles Gerstner

Andrew Graff

Jonathan Karmin

David Kornreich

Ann Rundle*

Steven And Trish Salk*

Kendra Scott Llc

Thomas Sublewski

The Sigmond Family*

Scott Sims

Adam Sunderhaus

Samuel & Sonja Veilleux

Christopher Whitford

Kenn Wolf

Ashley Wood

* = Member of the CYC Foundation

“LEAD HER SHIP” PROGRAM IS GIVING YOUNG WOMEN SAILING CONFIDENCE

BY MEGAN MCNICHOLS MAHON

Chicago teen Sky Edmonds worried she’d be homesick over the course of five days sailing on a tall ship on Lake Michigan. Alice Bakkum wondered if she’d be able to fall asleep on the boat. Emily Kohler was nervous about swimming in the lake. Yet the same eight teenage girls, who just days earlier had quietly filed onto a bus bound for Detroit, arrived back home from their sailing adventure brimming with excitement, stories and new friendships.

Now in its 12th year, the CYC Foundation’s “Lead HER Ship” program offers underrepresented Chicagoland girls ages 14-18 an opportunity to learn to sail, lead and work together as a team during a five-day, live-aboard cruise on Lake Michigan. In July, the young women sailed from Detroit to Suttons Bay aboard a tall ship

operated by the Inland Seas Education Foundation, the CYC Foundation’s partner in the program since 2015.

“We hoped it would be a transformational experience for the young women,” said Cyd Archer, CYC Foundation Board Vice President. Based on feedback from the girls – and their confident demeanor after the trip – that goal was achieved.

“You see the girls when they’re leaving for the trip and they’re all pretty quiet. They don’t say much – they’re shy,” Cyd said. “When they come back, they’re totally different women. It’s amazing. They’re talkative, more confident, more independent. They’ve stood night watch. They’ve learned how to sail a boat. They know how to check an engine. And they’re all trading cell numbers so they can stay in touch.”

For most of the girls, it was their first time away from home as well as their first experience on a boat. Beyond learning nautical terms and the mechanics of sailing, there were STEM activities including hands-on lessons to better understand the lake and its ecosystems. The ship’s chef also offered the girls cooking lessons and taught them about healthy eating.

A highlight of the trip for many of the young women was exploring a deserted island only accessible by boat. The island excursion included climbing the steep stairs of a lighthouse for a view Yamilet Albarran called “amazing.”

While the girls enjoyed busy days aboard the tall ship, it was the tranquility of the nights that many said they’ll remember most.

“I loved being on watch at nighttime because it was a new environment for me,” said Ava Voeun. “Seeing the lake pitch black with only the moon shining on you – it’s really pretty and calming,” she said.

For Yamilet, it’s the unforgettable sunsets that will stay with her.

“I never want to forget laughing with my friends and enjoying the sunset without a care in the world,” she said.

And it turns out “showering” in the lake was a thrill, too. “It was so cold – but so fun,” Emily said.

For 14-year-old Sky, the experience was both exhilarating and a confidence builder. “Coming on the boat, I was scared. Coming off the boat, I really liked it. Being away from my phone and away from everything was really refreshing. I had time to think a lot – and I’m really glad I came.” ✶

To learn more about Lead HER Ship and other programs of the Foundation, or to donate, please visit www.chicagoyachtclubfoundation.org

RICH WITZEL

J/70 European Championship - Second

DON WILSON

M32 World Championship - First

WILL HOLZ AND CHARLIE GALLAGHER

J/88 Charleston Race Week - First

JOHN LEAHEY, WILL HOLZ, MATT CLARK, DAN BURNS

J/88 North American Championship - First KENN AND LOREN WOLF

National Championship Navigational Rally - Third

PETER BARNARD

ILCA 6 Worlds - First, ILCA 6 Cressy Championship - First DON GLASELL

Lifetime Contributions to Sailing

HELLE GETZ

IGSS Freshwater award

ALICE MARTIN

Beneteau 36.7 North American Championship - Second

PETER BARNARD

ILCA 6 Worlds - First, ILCA 6 Cressy Championship - First

JIM MURRAY

Newport to Bermuda The St. David’s Lighthouse (pro-am) - First to Finish, First in Section, Third Overall Nassau Cup - First to Finish (Monohull), First in Section, First Overall

VICTOR CHIGAS

CY-SCENE

VERVE CUP

CY-SCENE

CHICAGO REGATTA

INTERCOMMITTEE CHALLENGE

FALL FROSTBITE