PERKS OF CLUB MEMBERSHIP

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.

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. 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! ✶