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Home , 2017 Sailing World Cup, Australia (yacht), Buddy Melges, Buzz (dinghy), Columbia (1871 yacht), Columbia (1958 yacht)

Chicago Club Calendar of Events

SMTWTFS SMTWTFS SMTWTFS 123 4 56 June 123 July 1 78910 11 12 13 4567 8910 23456 7 8

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

28 29 30 31 25 26 27 28 29 30 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 May 30 31 May June July 2 - New Member Orientation (M) 1 - WOW Chef Series (B) 1-2 CSF Cruise to Hammond, IN 3 - Ladies’ Fashion Show (M) 2 - Prime Rib Buffet (M) 3 - Monroe Station is Open 5 - Prime Rib Buffet (M) 2-3 In-Water Power & 4 - 4th of July (B) (M) Sail Technology Show (M) 6 - Match Race Clinic (B) 5 - Old Guard Race (B) 4 - Q With a View (M) 6 - Island Goat Dinner (B) 7-9 PF Cruise to Kenosha 7-11 Helly Hanson NOOD Regatta (M) 10 - WOW Come Sail Away (M) 7 - Prime Rib Buffet (M) 8-11 Neill Clinic (B) 12 - Taste of Belmont (B) 13 - Warning Gun Party (M) 9-11 Power Fleet Cruise to Michigan City 13 - Rickover Regatta (B) 14 - Mac Start 13 - Big Smoke I (M) Sailors’ Dock Party (M) 14 - Mother’s Day Brunch (M) 14 - WOW Wednesday Night Racing (B) 15 - Start of the 109th 17 - Music in the MAC (M) Race to 15 - School BBQ & Mackinac, presented by 18 - Authors Corner (M) Open House (B) Wintrust 18 - Perspectives Lunch (M) 16 - Tacos & Tequila (M) 16 - Grand Hotel Porch Party (Mac) 19 - Women’s 16 - CSF Friday Discussion 18 - Sailor’s Celebration (Mac) Clinic Regatta (B) 17 - CSF Sailing Saturdays (M) 21 - CSF Friday Discussions (M) 19 - Howl at the Full Moon (B) 18 - Father’s Day Brunch & 21 - WOW Happy Hour (M) 21 - Auto Show Brunch (M) BBQ Buffet (M) 22 - CSF - Sailing Saturdays (M) 23 - Match Racing Starts (B) 20- PF Special Needs Cruise (M) 27 - WOW Come Sail Away (M) 25 - WOW Come Sail Away (B) 20- WOW Happy Hour (M) 27 - Music in the Mac (M) 22 - WOW Come Sail Away (B) 26 - CSF Friday Discussions (M) 28 - Friday Summer Music Series (B) 26 - Friday Summer Music Series (B) 22 - Music in the Mac Bar (M) 23 - FAC Family Watersports Party (B) 27 - Sailing Saturday (M) 24- Associates Dock Party (M) 28 - Thunderhead Party (B) Correction: 25 - 71st Annual Fleet Review 29 - Flag Raising & In the list of Race to Mackinac CYC Member Memorial Day BBQ (M) 29 - WOW Come Sail Away (B) 1st Place Winners (page 24, Blinker, Fall 2016) the following was left off the list: 29 - Colors Ceremony (M) 29 - PF Sight Impaired Cruise for Youth TOA 30- June2-Junior Race Week Regatta(B) Bruce Danly & James Mitchell 30- Club Closed (M) Section 7 30- Friday Summer Music Series (B) Chicago-Mackinac Trophy Contents Spring 2017

2 - Calendar of Events 4 - 2017 Regatta Calendar 10 5 - From The Helm 7 - New Faces at Chicago Yacht Club 9 - New Members 10 - Chicago Yacht Club Honors Ceremony 12 - 35th ’s Cup in 14 - America’s Cup in Chicago 11 17 - Key West Race Week 19 - In-Water Tech Show, Power & Sail 20 - Orange Bowl Regatta 21 - Getting to Know Peter Holz 22 - Campaign for Tokyo 2020 24 - WOW! What’s the All About? 25 - Belmont Update 22 26 - What’s in a Name? The CYC Power Fleet 30 - 2017 Power Fleet Calendar 31 - Making Fitness a Priority 32 - Yacht Club Thespians at Belmont 33 - 2017 Cruising Sail Fleet Calendar 34 - The History of the CYC Library 35 - Sailing Miami 24 36 - Chicago Yacht Club Foundation News 38 - Chicago Boat Show 38 - New Player in the Chicago Sail Racing Scene 39 - CY-Scene 47 - 2017 CYC Race to Mackinac Schedule

On Our Cover: 44 Com modore Leif Sigmond’s , Norboy. Cover photo by Sara Proctor

˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org 3 2017 Regattas

APRIL 2017 April 22-23 Central Baker Qualifier April 29 & May 6 Match Race Clinics

MAY 2017 May 13 Rickover Regatta May 19-21 Women's Match Racing Clinic Regatta May 24-Sept 27 Belmont Skyline May 20-Sept 23 Racing Yacht Fleet Series

JUNE 2017 June 2-4 USMRC Grade 3 Qualifier June 7-11 Helly Hansen NOOD Regatta June 8 -11 Neill Clinic June 30- Jul 2 Junior Race Week

JULY 2017 July 14 & 15 109th CYC Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust AUGUST 2017 August 10-13 Verve Cup Offshore Regatta August 12 Verve Cup Distance Race August 18-20 Chicago GRAND SLAM August 24-27 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 High School Autumn Classic Regatta October 14 Intercommittee Challenge October 28-29 Autumn Invitational Grade 3 Match Race October 1-Nov. 12 Fall Frostbite Series NOVEMBER 2017 November 4-5 Great Lakes High School Championship

4 Blinker | Spring 2017 2017 CHICAGO YACHT CLUB LEADERSHIP From the Helm

Flag Officers 2017 Leif Sigmond, Commodore The phrase “Your Lake, Our Lou Sandoval, Vice Commodore Nick Berberian, Rear Commodore Passion, Your Community” takes Rick Lillie, Secretary on a different meaning for each Martin Sandoval, Treasurer member and family at Chicago Past Commodores Yacht Club. There’s something Greg Miarecki Gerald Bober here to appeal to every member whether it’s traditional on the Board of Directors Cyd Archer water activities or exploring new Sandy Curtiss interests including cooking, Ian Fisher Michael Frerker fashion or acting. This edition of Frederick Hagedorn the Blinker shares perspectives of Ted Jones Don Maxwell our members from their Edward McNulty experiences this season. Roger MacDougall Elizabeth Newman Kenneth Nordine I want to extend a warm welcome to the new members who have joined Sarah Renz Christopher Thomas the CYC family. We have many on the water and signature social events for Dr. Regan Thomas 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 2017 CHICAGO YACHT CLUB looking forward to making it the best yet. We were fortunate with a EXECUTIVE STAFF warmer than usual winter in Chicago and attendance at the Club reflected Gen eral Manager that. This winter, Chicago Yacht Club members were also active in Dwight Jenson, CCM participating in Race Committee and some were busy sailing around the Controller Kyle Babcock country and around the world. In this issue of the Blinker, you’ll find out Assistant Controller more about the upcoming America’s Cup World Series in Bermuda and Patrick Daly how Chicago Yacht Club’s On The Water Director, Jay Kehoe, is putting Executive Chef Larry Asher together an event that is not to be missed. Matt Knighton gives you an Sous Chef inside scoop into how SoftBank Team Japan is gearing up for the race and Silvestre Salgado gives details on why Chicago should pay attention. Food & Beverage Director Kristin Aleshire Catering & Events Director There’s much to recap as you will read ahead in our member’s stories Christina Barbaro about various Club events including the Race to Mackinac Awards Member Services Manager Banquet, CYC Honors Ceremony, Orange Bowl Regatta, Key West Race Melissa Harkenrider Week and the Miami. Find out about upcoming events Dining Services Manager Jason Hess from our popular Women’s Committee, CASRA, Cruising Sail Fleet and get Membership Marketing Director a sneak peek of the Power & Sail In-Water Tech Show. The power fleet also Emily Giaimo has a great article this issue on how they named their and the stories Communications Director Tracy Gladden behind them, which can’t be missed. Human Resources Director Daisy Aponte I want to thank my friends and fellow Flag Officers Lou Sandoval, Nick Belmont Chef/Manager Jill Dedinsky Berberian, Rick Lillie and Martin Sandoval, as well as our General On the Water Director Manager, Dwight Jenson. We have many exciting events planned in the Jay Kehoe coming months both on and off the water and it is an honor to serve as Sailing School Director your Commodore for the two years. Julia Melton Keelboat Director/ Belmont Dockmaster Chuck Nevel Regatta Manager Elizabeth Dust Dockmaster Colin Maloney LEIF SIGMOND, COMMODORE Employee of the Year [email protected] Danny Rosas

˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org 5 5HWLUH$V

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71st Annual Fleet Review Save the Date! 6XQGD\-XQHŇ0RQURH6WDWLRQ 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 [email protected]

6 Blinker | Spring 2017 Editorial Advisory Board Jane Vartan New Faces Managing Editor Tracy Gladden

Commodore Leif Sigmond ISAAC CLARK, HEAD COACH

Contributors As Head Coach of Chicago Yacht Club’s Junior Jeff Mills Sailing Program, Isaac manages and coaches most Jill Dedinsky Greg Miarecki junior sailing at Belmont Station. He coaches the Rick Lillie varsity high school teams during the fall and spring Philip May Kevin Toborek seasons and coaches the Club’s 420 race team over Bill Bloom the summer and winter seasons. Isaac was on the Leif Sigmond Laura Sigmond sailing team at William and Mary and graduated Peter Holz with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Geology with William Hannay a minor in Marine Science. Before coming to Alina K. Dix Tanya D. Whitehead Chicago Yacht Club, Isaac was the Sailing Program Matt Knighton Director at Christchurch School in Virginia. Jay Kehoe Julia Melton Dillon Paiva Philip May NICK CHADWICK, FLEET DIRECTOR Pat Marek Nancy Marek Rhonda Thomas Nick joined Chicago Yacht Club in the fall of 2016. Maggie Shea Libbi Dust 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 Photo/Image Contributions Tom Barnard industry running multiple international race Alexander Curtiss programs across all levels including Nations Cups, Charles Lamphere Eric Moore ISAF World Championships and Olympic Christina Barbaro Programs. Nick continues to assist in the Women's Emily Giaimo Matt Knighton/SoftBank Team Japan and Adaptive Sailing Willie McBride, US Sailing Team Jen Edney, US Sailing Team 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.

Publication information. Blinker (USPS 104- 020), issue number 407, is published triannually (Spring, Summer, Fall) by the TRACY GLADDEN, COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Chicago Yacht Club Communications Committee, 400 E. Monroe St., Chicago, IL 60603-6493. The subscription rate is $25 annually, available only to Club members. Tracy is Chicago Yacht Club’s new Copyrighted by The Chicago Yacht Club. Communications Director. She comes to the Club Periodicals postage paid at Chicago, IL and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: with more than 10 years of experience in public Send address changes to Blinker, Chicago Yacht Club, 400 E. Monroe St., Chicago, IL relations, marketing, communications and television 60603. broadcasting. Tracy is from Arlington Heights, Printer. Blinker is printed by Kjellberg Printing, Inc., 805 W. Dr., Wheaton, IL 60187. and received her Bachelor’s degree in Phone 630-653-2244. Publication policy. We publish articles about Broadcast Journalism from College club activities and members and their Chicago. Tracy spent the past six years working in participation in competitive and recreational sail and motor . Our purpose is to public relations in the private sector, for non-profits recognize those who contribute to the organization and operation of the club and its and for a government agency. Prior to her activities, and to promote member interest and participation in club functions as well as experience in public relations, Tracy spent five years civic and military affairs. Members are invited to contribute to the contents of the magazine. as a television news reporter. Her television career Postmaster: Address Change Service took her to many states including Alaska, Hawaii Requested, please send to Chicago Yacht Club, 400 E. Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603. and Texas.

˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org 7 Ahoy New Members

by JEFF MILLS

he New Members Committee was created to ensure smooth Tsailing 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 “ 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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8 Blinker | Spring 2017 Associate IN MEMORIAM: Membership Adam Daniels Title: Senior Manager Retail Operations New Members: Company: Walgreens

Regular Colleen King

Gordon Boulger James King Michele McVey Spouse: D. Timothy Raymond Burchett Boat: Old Glory, Boa, Gerthrude Cameron Cruising Sail Fleet, Margaret Carr Belmont Harbor Title: Title: Project Accountant Barbara Falconer Consultant/Engineer Company: Spouse: Lauri Spouse: Laura Company: The Walsh Group Richard Gaston Boat: Madison Design Partners Past Commodore, Title: Ray Green Scott Casler Director of Global Sales Joseph Rossi Jr. Company: Chris Ryba Boat: 4 Play, Thaddeus Hajduk Chica Unicom Americas Spouse: Joy Caravelle, Power Fleet Boat: Loon, Title: Owner Richard Kruke Pacific Seacraft, Company: Past Commodore Nicholas Manusos Cruising Sail Fleet, Grocery Guys, LLC Theodore Lake Jr. Belmont Harbor Title: Attorney Jacob Weglarz Spouse: Heidi Company: Kimberly Smallwood Boat: Silver , Segal McCambridge Spouse: Anthony Beneteau, Title: Cruising Sail Fleet, Oncology Burnham Harbor Conrad von Peterffy Nurse Practitioner VETERAN Title: Principal Spouse: Lauren Company: MILESTONES: Company: Boat: Inconseavable, Rush Medical Center Utility Product Solutions Cobalt, Regular to Veteran I Power Fleet, Robert Washlow Burnham Harbor Stan Day Title: VP Juniors Veteran I to II Business Development Nolan Levine Company: Mateo DiBlasi Dr. Michael Baxter International Spouse: Elizabeth Morgenstern Title: Owner Victoria Flatley Ruth Ann Moorman Company: Albert Rose Jr. Richard Mascia Schenker Storen AG Steven Hardee William Smith Spouse: Dana Spouse: Sofia Boat: Lines, MJM, Title: Taylor Hasson Veteran II to III Power Fleet, Managing Principal Hobie James DuSable Harbor Company: George Lombard Title: Founder, President HOK Inc Gillian Perrell Arthur Theriault Company: Dr. Joseph Caruso SRAM Corporation Christopher Sharpless, III Stephen Morris James Wagner

˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org 9 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.

• Ranked #1 in World Match race rankings • 1st three-peat (2014, 2015 & 2016) Left to Right- Evan Jahn, Todd Reynolds, Marcus Thyman, Taylor • 2nd World Match Canfield, Commodore Leif Sigmond, Lindy Thomas, Don Wilson, Race Tour Dick Sterns, Chuck Lamphere, Past Commodore Greg Miarecki. (season champ) • Named Skipper of CYC Lifetime One sailing team Achievement Award: DICK STEARNS • 1962 World Champion • 1963 Pan American Games-Gold Medal • 1964 Silver Medal • 7 Winner of Star North Americans

DON WILSON

• 1964 Olympic Silver medal - • 1st place Bermuda • 1972 Olympic Gold Medal - M-32 Series • 1978 Star World Champion • 1st Harbor Springs • 1979 Star World Champion M-32 Series • 12-time World Champion • 1st Verve Cup (5.5 meter, Star and Skeeter Ice Boat) M-32 Series • 3-time Yachtsman of the year • 1st Grade 3 CMRC (1961, 1972 and 1978) at CYC Match Race • 1987 Americas Cup • 1st NOOD T-10’s (Chicago Yacht Club) • Chairman ACWS • 1992 Americas Cup Winner Chicago

10 Blinker | Spring 2017 CYC Distinguished Farr 40 North American Service Award: Championship TOD REYNOLDS HELMUT & EVAN JAHN

• Event Director for Helmut Jahn & America’s Cup Evan Jahn were World Series honored for their Chicago victory aboard Flash • Chicago Event Gordon in the Farr 40 Director ACWS North American Fukuoka (Japan) Championship held in Chicago, IL.

LEIF SIGMOND & CYC Hall of Fame Induction MARCUS THYMIAN

LINDY THOMAS Commodore Leif Sigmond & Marcus The CYC Hall of Fame Award honors those Thymian battled individuals who have dedicated their lives to the the entire time, betterment of sail racing, are leaders and never leading until innovators in the sport, and deserve permanent the last race! recognition in Lake Michigan sailing history.

J-111 North American Championship:

Michael Mayer and Karl Brummel’s Kashmir won by 7 Left to Right, Past Commodore Greg Miarecki, Lindy Thomas & Gail points among a fleet Turluck, Secretary of the Lake Michigan Sail Racing Federation. of 15 at the 2016 Lindy Thomas has won trophies in most of the events in which he J/111 World has raced: 24 of 41 Chicago Race to Mackinac races, 7 of 18 Championship in Huron to Mackinac races and Tartan 10 Nationals in 1978. Newport, RI. Photo by Cate Brown 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 11 On the Water with Jay – 35th America’s Cup in Bermuda

by JAY KEHOE

want to thank the members of Chicago Yacht My day normally starts with a challenging IClub, because of all our hard work last June, I commute to the ACEA (America’s Cup Event have this dream position as On the Water Authority) Office on Front Street. Challenging Director for the 35th America’s Cup. It is really because I am on a , on the wrong (left!) side unbelievable what is happening here! of the narrow, crowded road. Other days I have to So, what am I doing? Right now, myself and be at Dockyard, the regatta base, so I have the about 100 other organizers are in the final commute of a lifetime, zipping in a RIB across the planning stages, putting together the 35th Great Sound at sunrise. From there, it’s meetings America’s Cup Challenger Series and Finals. It’s a with teams, staff, sponsors, volunteers, and other two month long regatta event that will be sailed in stakeholders all day until - a sunset drive home. Bermuda’s Great Sound, culminating in crowning Many of you remember how precisely the next winner of the America’s Cup. It’s a choreographed our fleet of stake and marshal herculean effort as fans from around the world boats was at the Chicago ACWS Event. come to see seven teams, from seven nations, Apparently, our ACWS event was the best of the vying to be the one that competes against Oracle entire series! Our precision is exactly what the USA to sail in the finals this June. To say I am ACEA wants at the America’s Cup Finals in overwhelmed daily by the detail is an Bermuda. I’ve developed it and now I’m finalizing understatement. I’m going to return to Chicago the plan for the AC regatta support boats. We are Yacht Club with many new skills and a keener eye nailing down the spectator boat locations and the for details! I’m learning that planning for Super Yacht (80’-300’) Program, a complicated everything makes life go smoother. We are aspect we did not have in Chicago. preparing for so many contingencies, to insure the I am generally on the water daily, scoping out event goes smoothly in the face of so many and finalizing the specific Super Yacht positions in variables. different race areas. We have to fit 30-50

12 Blinker | Spring 2017

 Superyachts in their own GPS-coordinated spot on  DEPENDABLE and the race box. This task is further complicated by KNOWLEDGEABLE depth restrictions in the Great Sound. agent seeks customers

This week the wind is blowing hard, over 20 looking for real PROTECTION and long knots, and the teams are headed out to test their small and heavy airfoils. When I watch the 50- term RELATIONSHIP. foot 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: ShaShawnwn O'NeillO'Neill CLU,CLU, AgentAgent LooLookk nnoo ffurther.urther. 4256 W IrvingIrving PParkark RoadRoad • Contacts with the management for premier Chicago,Chicago, IL 60641 HavingHaving oneone specialspecial personperson [email protected]@shawnoneill.com forfor youryour car,car, homehome andand lifelife regattas that want capable venues like ours BusBus:: 773-685-3600 insuranceinsurance letslets youyou getget downdown • Revised event planning process for planning toto businessbusiness withwith thethe restrest ofof regattas to up our game! youryour life.life. It’sIt’s whatwhat I do.do. GETGET TOTO A BETTERBETTER STATESTATATATE™. • Sponsor activation tips, critical evaluation of CCALLALL MMEE TTODAY.ODAYAY. 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 StateState FarmFarm MMutualutual AutomobileAutomobile IInsurancensurance CCompany,ompany, Dwight for granting my leave to be down here in SStatetate FFarmarm IIndemnityndemnity CCompany,ompany, SStatetate FFarmarm FFireire aandnd CCasualtyasualty CCompany,ompany, Bermuda! It is an amazing experience and I know it 1101201.11101201.1 SStatetate FFarmarm GGeneraleneral IInsurancensurance CCompany,ompany, BBloomington,loomington, IILL will benefit the Club for years to come.

˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org 13 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 Two weeks ago, Scott began including a new AJapan, all of us get an email from our number at the top of the e-mail: the number of Performance Director, Scott Babbage, with days until the start of the America’s Cup Qualifiers. the daily technical analysis from that day’s test Today that number read 81. session – numbers and plot graphs pulled from the With less than three months to go, I figured this hundreds of sensors onboard our America’s Cup to be the perfect time to paint a continuedpicture from on page the 16 Class race yacht, Hikari.

14 Blinker | Spring 2017

THE 35TH AMERICA’S CUP though that leads into the second point – despite continued from previous page the glassy water, the crowds didn’t seem to care. I can still remember motoring around in the “team perspective” of the America’s Cup legacy team chase boat with the AC45 in tow during the our city has created and for Chicagoans, what’s at postponement and hearing the cheers of the stake in Bermuda this June. thousands of Chicago boaters. The sailors were Already it seems the America’s Cup beside themselves grinning and laughing, boaters controversies and dramas have reached a fever were throwing parties, the crowd at Navy Pier was pitch. Why is Land Rover BAR slower than the cheering – we even had several beers chucked other teams and can they recover in time? Will onboard the yacht. Emirates Team ’s bicycle grinders Everyone was having a good time and in the prove to have an edge? Is foiling the future of the end, isn’t that what one wants in a sporting event? sport? Look at everything from NFL tailgating to However, one controversy has grabbed the NASCAR, fans want to have a reason to have fun. attention of fans more than the others: the Chicago’s boaters gave the event – for the first time unprecedented recent agreement by five of the – the reception it craved and the teams loved it. teams to lay down a framework for the next two The market can’t be overlooked as well. From a editions of the event. commercial side, many of the team’s felt that Opinions aside, this announcement – that the Chicago provided the biggest reach for their Cup cycle would maintain it’s current style of sponsors – particularly defenders Oracle format, general yacht design, the Louis USA. That bodes very well should the Vuitton America’s Cup World Series, and shrink successfully retain the Cup. the time between finals from three to two years – While Bermuda has proven to be an excellent puts Chicago in a prime position to become the venue to train sailors and test boats year-round, it new home of the America’s Cup. lacks the large commercial presence a city such as The success of last June’s Louis Vuitton Chicago can provide. This is key. Even for America’s Cup World Series Chicago can not be SoftBank Team Japan, Bermuda’s location has been understated. The sentiment that amongst all the a hurdle many times with Japanese journalists teams was that it was the undisputed favorite stop unable to take on the long journey to get there. of the nine-city world tour – including Bermuda. Chicago is a direct flight from Tokyo. In conversations with several skippers, sailors Lastly, Navy Pier presents a proven venue for from every team, as well as organizers and the Cup organizers. Anyone who has been to “The phrase that keeps being repeated goes something Viaduct” in Auckland, New Zealand understands like, “[deep breath] … wow, Chicago was a whole what a purpose-built facility for a large-scale different level.” sailing event should look like. Navy Pier proved to Breaking it down, there are four elements that be that venue and more last June. together have everyone in the Cup world still For the first time in this cycle, all of the event buzzing about the chance to sail in our city again: village was easy to navigate and contained – a fact the weather, the crowds, the market, and the venue. the teams raved about given most of the other The biggest question in organizer’s minds locales had split venues requiring shuttles and before the Chicago event was how consistent the water taxis. With proposed improvements to the weather would be to facilitate racing their new site in the works, the Pier takes a large question breed of foiling . That was quickly out of the equation for Chicago’s hosting proposal. silenced the Friday of the event when Lake All of the above create a scenario that should see Michigan delivered what was one of the best every Chicago boater tuning in to see how the 35th sailing days of the entire tour. America’s Cup unfolds this June. Keeping in mind Upper-wind limit foiling conditions on a sun- that Emirates Team New Zealand chose to not filled afternoon punctuated by two capsizes was participate in the framework agreement – their an incredible opening number that the Cup new boat design could yield big gains but also big organizers needed following two venues with no loses – should any of the other five team’s win wind. Chicago is in a great position to bring another Then the wind machine shut down and World Series event, and possibly the finals Saturday had no wind. Here was the key part themselves, back home.

16 Blinker | Spring 2017 Key West Race Week Celebrates 30th Anniversary by ALINA K. DIX

y the time mid-January rolls around in BChicago, we’re experiencing subzero, bone- chilling 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, 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 L to R: Alina Dix, Laura Sigmond and Libbi Dust at Key West continued on next page Race Week.

˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org 17 KEY WEST RACE WEEK continued from previous page previous year. Next up were practice races! Conditions were a bit choppy and , 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 30 seconds before the clock hits zero are tense! waves. Learning from the previous day, we fully Also, having a TP52 pointed directly at you doesn’t dressed before we left the dock. The wind and help! Clean start! Now for the J111s, clean start. waves did little to hinder the TP52s and the fleet Two more races to go. remained tightly packed up and down the course. Thursday (Day 4): Postponed. Time to go The J111s also triumphed in these conditions, but shopping. By lunchtime, the wind was scheduled tended to be more cautious at mark roundings. Two to fill in, but we all know how accurate weather races down., the week was off to a great start. forecasting is. However, we went out and by some Tuesday (Day 2): Conditions were a repeat of the wind filled in on time. Two races Monday. Two more races down. After Day two, the brought about more changes in finishing order and finishing orders were starting to show some a mutli-way tie for first place in the TP52 fleet. consistency. The heavier air and choppy Friday (Day 5): It’s Friday already? Where did proved to be beneficial for some, but not others. the week go? Light winds and calm seas, but we Wednesday (Day 3): Lots of changes and not just only needed one more race per fleet to complete in weather. The seas and wind calmed, which the series. Bang! Finishers are crossing the line and brought about huge changes in finishing order. I just like that, we’re done. Boats are packed up, was relocated to line-lighter on the pin boat. Three scores are tabulated and everyone gathers for one races per fleet and two fleets, that’s six starts to last party. It’s bittersweet at the end of a regatta as keep an eye on! Even with smaller fleets, those last we start looking forward to next year.

18 Blinker | Spring 2017 CYC Power & Sail

In-Water Tech Show by PAT AND NANCY MAREK

017 marks the 6th 2Annual Power & Sail In- Water 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 exhibits as well as a hands-on safe construction features available from various demonstration for the whole family. It was a perfect manufacturers of different styles of power and sail day with bright skies and warm weather. Special yachts in the Great Lakes market. Representatives thanks go to Wintrust and BMW as major sponsors from the participating dealers and manufacturers for their generous support. will be present to answer questions and discuss the This year’s event will be held on Friday, June features of the vessels that are open for touring 2nd from 2:00 to 9:00 pm and with new extended during all event hours. In addition, attendees will hours on Saturday, June 3rd from 10:00 am to 6:00 enjoy daily seminars on topics relevant to all pm. Over 13 dealers with 30 to 40 new yachts are boaters during the show along with exhibits in the participating along with various exhibitors and main dining room. seminars. Music will once again be provided by the All members of the Chicago Yacht Club, power Buffet cover band South of Disorder a show and sail, cruiser or racer, are invited and favorite. Chef Larry and the Club staff will serve a encouraged to attend this invitation-only event. delicious assortment of complimentary hors de’ The Club also invites all boat owners with a slip or oeuvres and drinks to all attendees. Visit the can in the Chicago harbors along with individuals Wintrust display and take a test drive in a new from its perspective member list. The dealers cull BMW while you’re there to check out their their databases of boat owners and prospects and offerings. What better way to spend a day or two at invite that group to attend. Each year this event has the Club! resulted in new members joining the Club as a Mark your calendars today! Talk to your family, result of an invitation from a dealer. friends, dock mates and anyone who you believe Last year’s event drew over 400 invitees who would be a good addition to the Club and get it on enjoyed touring 27 yachts from 10 dealers, free their calendars. It promises to be even bigger, better drinks and appetizers, live music, seminars and and more exciting than ever!

˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org 19 Orange Bowl Regatta by JULIA MELTON

hicago Yacht Club sailors raced to sunny CSouth 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 That alone would be enough to cause most sailors to compete against top sailors in the country and in be nervous while walking around the boat park the world. Chicago Yacht Club sailing coaches said among multiyear Orange Bowl veterans and past they saw a lot of improvement from the 34 sailors champions. This was Coach Paiva’s first time who participated. We would like to thank the working with this group of Laser sailors, but it left coach's phenomenal efforts in transporting our him wanting more. equipment and working with our sailors and thank “I really liked working with this group of kids. the parents for their support in this adventure. They all stayed positive the whole event and soaked The Laser course had four Chicago Yacht Club up all the coaching I could give them,” said Paiva. sailors coached by Assistant Coach at the US Naval The Chicago Yacht Club Laser team left the 2016 Academy, Dillon Paiva. For each of the sailors, this Orange Bowl Regatta with new tan lines, new was their first major event in the class. friends and a long list of lessons learned.

20 Blinker | Spring 2017 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 L to R: Peter Holz, Will Holz, Mikie Whitford 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 team. I grew up playing hockey very competitively, the water from a young age. and I tried to bring the edge, intensity and team mentality I learned playing hockey, to every race. Which do you prefer lake or ocean & why? There is nothing better than building a team and Growing up on Lake Michigan, I defiantly prefer thriving as a group. sailing on a lake. Lake sailing is much more unpredictable than ocean sailing, making every What advice do you have for young adults day a little different. starting to compete on a larger level? Get out and sail! It’s as simple as that. In order to Have you experienced the effects of pollution in start competing at higher levels, people need to get the water? on the water and sail in every regatta, practice and Unfortunately, I have and it is terrible. It is discipline. When I was younger, that’s what I tried surprising how often you see debris and garbage in to do, from dingy fleet racing to keelboat match the water at some of the most beautiful venues. The racing, I jumped on every opportunity to get on the good news is, the sailing community is much more water and sail. Chicago Yacht Club and the Chicago aware of pollution and has taken great steps to Match Race Center have great programs and combat it by making regattas more ecofriendly. regattas throughout the summer which provide a What are you goals in Match Racing this year? great platform to learn about match racing. In recent years, our team Windy City Racing has How does Chicago stand as a sailing city in climbed the international rankings to 21st in the comparison to the rest of the world? world and 2nd in the U.S. Our goal this year is Chicago is one of the best sailing cities in the world. pretty straight forward, we want to break in to the From a match racing perspective, Don Wilson and top 15 in the world and number 1 in the U.S. On the Chicago Match Race Center have made Chicago top of that, we had a tough finish in last year’s U.S. the go-to destination for match racing. The Chicago Match Racing Championships, and this year, our Match Race Center showed some of the world’s goal is to win USMRC and bring the trophy to best sailors that Chicago is one of the best natural Chicago Yacht Club. Our team is looking to build sailing venues in the world. Now that they are off the success of recent years and continue to grow teamed up, the sailing world can experience top as one of the top match racing teams in the U.S. level match racing, one of the most prestigious What inspires you most about racing? yacht clubs in the world, and one of the best racing Nothing inspires me more than winning with the venues all at once.

www.chicagoyachtclub.org 21 Roble/Shea Sailing USA Campaign for Tokyo 2020 “We both feel very proud to represent Chicago Yacht Club on the circuit and hopefully at the Olympics.” – Maggie Shea photos by JEN EDNEY AND WILLIE MCBRIDE, US SAILING TEAM

YC members Stephanie Roble and Maggie belt because I learned a lot from all my previous skippers, CShea have teamed up on the 49erFX, a high- but I’m so excited to finally be sailing this boat with performance double-handed skiff, in a Steph. We push each other to be better every day and we campaign for the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympic somehow manage to have fun doing it. I know we have Games. Steph and Maggie have been teammates for the skill set and work ethic to succeed, and now we just the past ten years primarily on the match racing need to put in the hours. We both feel very proud circuit, and they are now shifting gears to fleet to represent Chicago Yacht Club on the World Sailing racing for this new challenge. circuit and hopefully at the Olympics.” -Maggie Shea “I am incredibly excited about this campaign and Steph and Maggie began their skiff sailing career we’re going to do everything we can to put ourselves in at Chicago Yacht Club in 2005 when CYC lent the medal contention for the Games in 2020. Maggie is the team an old, beat-up . They used that boat to best teammate I could ask for, and we are ready to work train and compete in the Youth Championships in hard and put forth our best on this long journey!” - 2007, and totally fell in love with sailing fast. Stephanie Roble, 2014 US Sailing Rolex Yachtswoman of The first six months of their campaign will be a the Year sprint to log time in the boat in Miami and Long Beach. The next few years will be focused more on Since graduating from Old Dominion University the Sailing World Cup international circuit, but until in 2011, Steph has been sailing professionally in then, they’re trying to put as much time in the boat , Etchell’s, and J/70 classes. Maggie as possible. Their next regatta is Week in June, graduated from Connecticut College in 2011 and then the 49erFX European Championships in July; has been campaigning in the 49erFX for the past both events will be held in Kiel, . The team three years with various skippers. Last year, Maggie is currently targeting one hundred days on the crewed for Sally Barkow of Team Magenta on the water before the 49erFX World Championship in World Match Racing Tour. Together Steph and Porto, this August. Maggie have won the Women’s International Match Follow Steph and Maggie on Facebook Racing Series and multiple match racing national Roble/Shea Sailing USA. If you’d like to join the championships, and they plan to carry that team and make a tax-deductible donation to momentum onto the Olympic circuit. Roble/Shea Sailing, visit the ILYA’s Donation page: “I’m grateful that I have time in the 49erFX under my ilya.org/association/donations/payments.html.

22 Blinker | Spring 2017

WOW! What’s the Buzz All About? by LAURA SIGMOND

he Women on the Water (WOW) at Chicago TYacht 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. Women’s Committee L to R: Diana Sandoval, Nancy Berberian, Back by popular demand both the Winter and Laura Sigmond, Mary Ann Lillie, Sonia Sandoval, Summer Sailing Series continue to grow. The women (not pictured Dr. Chris Albanis, Lydia Lutzow). had a strong showing of 40 participants on opening night at Monroe Station with the kick off of the new Look for Ladies’ Happy Hours offered on both WOW season. The Winter WOW Series: The Water is Tuesdays and Fridays this year as well as our Calling is a series that meets approximately every signature events including the Harvest Wine Dinner, other week from February to May. The classes are Networking Club Crawl and Holiday Party. Not to taught by women for women and cover everything mention our Annual Chicago Yacht Club Women’s you need to know to get ready for the upcoming Committee Luncheon and Fashion Show on May season on the water. It is a very casual environment 3rd. This year’s theme is Be Bold! Be Beautiful! Be that enables women to attend when their schedule You! Celebrating You, the Women of CYC. We are allows whether it be for only one or several classes excited again to support the Chicago Yacht Club or the entire series. Women with a variety of Foundation. The day's events include boutique interests from all areas of the Club and who have shopping paired with a fashion show and luncheon. different experience levels in racing, power boating, Nancy Berberian has diligently persevered to bring cruising and Race Committee come together to learn us a superb variety of vendors from which we can and share their knowledge. Chef Larry’s delicious shop our hearts out! Plan to stay the day to enjoy dinners are the perfect finishing touch to these fun shopping and fashion for a great cause. evenings. The connection this atmosphere offers is New this year is the Chef Series which will WOW’s primary commitment to cultivate an highlight the exceptional culinary talents of Chicago attractive environment that engages women on a Yacht Club’s Chefs both at Monroe and Belmont consistent and frequent basis at Chicago Yacht Club. (April 30th, June 1st, November 2nd). There are few The Summer series, WOW Come Sail Away Series, more surprises we are still working to bring to you runs from May-September. During the warmer that you will not want to miss! Check out the WOW months at Belmont Station the women can apply calendar for dates and times. Whether you are a their practical knowledge sailing on the Sonars. long-time member or a new member and have not Thanks to Mary Ann Lillie, the series has expanded had the WOW experience we invite you to discover this year with additional dates to include for yourself what the buzz is all about! As a Wednesday Night Beer Can Racing at Belmont on testament to all the wonderful women of WOW, you select evenings. This is a great opportunity for know if you have attended our events that as women who sign up for the entire summer series. women of Chicago Yacht Club we pride ourselves Let’s not forget Match Racing and Ladies’ Skippers on the energy and camaraderie we bring to the Club. Race also slated again for this summer, details We look forward to seeing you often on and off the coming soon. water.

24 Blinker | Spring 2017 Belmont Update by CHEF JILL DEDINSKY

lmost five years ago, I made one of the Abiggest 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, , 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.

˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org 25 MARETIME What’s in a ROBERT KELMAN My wife's Name? The CYC nickname is Mare so MareTime Power Fleet seemed like a nice, nautical pun to adorn the transom of our newly purchased 42 salon express. Built in Maine, ED MCNULTY our new boat will spend this summer cruising us I spent a great deal of time in the southern to many of Lake Michigan's . Our prior boat hemisphere, particularly in where I was named Mare Soleil, but no one could observed the constellation, Southern Cross. When I pronounce it when we visited other harbors so returned to the United States I thought that it would even though it was a triple threat (wife's be a great name for my boat and ever since we have nickname, sea and sun and my favorite named every one of our boats, both sail and power, Chardonnay in 2002) we decided to avoid Southern Cross. We also are partial to boat names explanations to harbor masters when making slip that are not to cutesy. reservations – and have gone less clever.

RELENTLESS LAKEHOUSE SAM AND BESS EKSTEIN, HATTERAS 53 ED AND CARRIE FALKENHAYN As a It all started recovering with a Christmas racer, present trip to Relentless Miami in February defined the 2013. By approach I coincidence the used when Miami Boat Show racing, always was right across focused the street from our towards winning. I always said, “I'm not a hotel. It was the competitive guy, I just want to win”. Now with a first boat show power boat, we are Relentless in our quest to enjoy that we attended the water in comfort having fun! in many years and we were amazed! SOME DEVIL (SOME ANGEL) We already owned LARRY BASIL & CONNIE BROHMAN 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 In July of 2014, we purchased our 2004 Sea Ray attended the 31st boat show and it was there Carrie 600SS from a broker in Seabrook, Texas. The upper first found a boat that really got her interest. To structure and hardtop had to be removed so the make the competition equal between a house and a boat could be shipped overland via flatbed semi to boat, we spent the following weekend touring the Northpoint Marina in Winthrop Harbor IL. We lakes of southern Wisconsin for a future home. We had a devil of a time with the logistics of running a compared benefits of each and the boat won, hence the 65' long x 16' wide x 17' tall boat across 4 states, name Lakehouse. but somehow it all worked out. Once there, we re-

26 Blinker | Spring 2017 assembled it, and began a major re-fit of her soft LADY LIDDELL goods and electronics. LLOYD SERGENT As for the name, we christened her Some Angel The name (Some Angel) after one of Connie's favorite Dave comes from Matthews songs of the same name. The name has Buff’s maiden grown more and more spot on as we've gotten to name. Usually know the boat, as she's some angel on the water, a that is smooth-riding and well-balanced performer. And reserved for then she's some devil too - especially when we open bigger yachts her up to top speed - she surprises even us but I thought sometimes. it was appropriate for our first boat since Buff got me into the whole boating scene. COOKIE'S CUTTER COOKIE MERENS The boat name CAMP DAVID Cookie's Cutter, DAVID BARUCH was created by The name my husband. As of our boat is boats are referred Camp David. to as female, he My name is gave it my name! David and it’s To keep the name the only place nautical, he I’m allowed to added "cutter", be President. which is another name for a "freighter", i.e., coast guard cutter!

ZEN KAT ERIC KALNINS After RHONDA C purchasing RHONDA C. AND REGAN THOMAS our Sea Ray, we wanted to come up with a name that not only represented us, but also underscored the significance My dad, Dick Churchill, was Commodore of the of family. Our St. Joseph, Missouri Yacht Club that boated on the journey in the Missouri River. Every year from the time I was 5 he pursuit of the built a boat and named it after his little girl (me) - perfect name Rhonda C. The first Rhonda C was built in our started with a garage and trailered in January from Missouri to few cocktails and ended with the name Zen Kat. The the Florida Keys where it was first launched in the "Z" represents our oldest son Zachary, the "N" Atlantic Ocean. My parents later became excursion represents our middle guy Nicholas, and the "Kat" boat captains and operated our family run represents our youngest child, Katarina. By the way, Bridgeport Marina on Lake of the Ozarks. My dad please don't ask Melanie if the "E" represents Eric, died young in life and when Regan and I started because it doesn't. continued on next page

˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org 27 WHAT’S IN A NAME ARARAT continued from previous page NICK AND NANCY BERBERIAN We named our boat Ararat in boating we named our boats the Rhonda C in honor recognition of our of my father. This is a picture of me in the Keys Armenian when our first Rhonda C was launched. This is also a heritage. Mt. picture of Commodore Dick Churchill driving the Ararat pictured Rhonda C from its maiden launch in marathon in the here is a national Florida Keys. symbol of Armenia and the IN RECESS place where it is LISA GASTON believed that I am a Judge in Noah’s Ark the Circuit Court landed. of Cook County and when I am on the boat, court is in recess! MIRAGE CAPTAIN WALTER "SONNY" LISOWSKI DuSable Harbor, Slip, B- 19. Why did I INCONSEAVABLE name my boat, NICK AND LAUREN MANUSOS Mirage? Our boat Wanted a name name is Incon- that could fit seavable after on a License the movie Plate, with Princess Bride room to spare. And that’s the TRUTH. (with a different SON'S TOO VII spelling than CHUCK ANDERSON the actual I have been word). We chose it because our family loves the boating with movie Princess Bride. We all quote the movie. my family since I was 8 SOL E MAR II years old. My JOHN AND TAMMY WHELAN parent’s last Is a 2016, boat was a 36' 550 Prestige Chris Craft Flybridge. which they Our last boat sold in 1975. My father missed boating. In the early came with the eighties our family was looking to get into boating. name and we We were looking for a boat and my father would liked it so we consult and lent a helping hand when we bought kept it! We our 25' Sea Ray in 1985. used to think The understanding was that he and my mother it meant "sun could use the boat anytime during the week and and sea" in Italian, but upon further investigation they were always welcome on the weekends. found out it's actually Portuguese! It is the first new Hence the name Son's Too, meaning son's also. We boat we have purchased. We enjoyed the process of also have two sons Brian and Keith. They seem to bringing her "home" to Chicago from the port of believe it is all about them! The VII signifies that New Jersey where she arrived from . our Riviera is our seventh boat.

28 Blinker | Spring 2017 BRIGADOON traveling, fishing, or even competing. The water is BEENA AND MARTIN JOSEPH a great place for people to experience all sorts of Our boat is fun. Our logo at B & E Marine has been named after a “Experience Fun”. It is our hope that everyone has well-known a fun experience on the water. book and play, Brigadoon, DEALERSHIP about a Utopia DAVID KREMIN in Scotland, This is my "for me" new boat. Its old name is still and a favorite on it Dealership book of I purchased it Martin’s mother, Corrine. Our last three boats have from a been named Brigadoon. The current one a 50’ SeaRay. gentleman who owned EXPERIENCE some car ROD BENSZ dealerships To us, boating is all about the “Experience” and around this experience Mackinac is different for Island. It was a long car ride to get there but worth everyone. It it! I was a member years ago, and owned a 42 could be the carver for 15 years and I was docked at Belmont. I experience of sold it 6 years ago, and at the end of last summer family time, purchased a 55-foot Carver and rejoined the Club. gathering with It is great to be back into boating and the Club! So, friends, 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 For Sale owner owned a frozen chicken dinner processing “Dawn” 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

1980 42’ HATTERAS LCR MARK II TRAWLER Fidanza 10- 2000 MILE RANGE TWIN DD 4-53N ENGINES years-old and 8 KW GENERATOR. TWO HELMS 48 MILE my son RADAR, AUTO PILOT, BOW THRUSTER. Gianmarco Fidanza 13-years-old. They are ACCOMODATIONS FOR SIX. NICELY EQUIPT. experienced "lakers" having cruised as far as AIRCONDITIONING, NEW CARPET. Mackinac Island. The boat name is from my $ 95,000 passion for scuba diving - mostly in warmer Contact Fred Gorr: [email protected] climates like Fiji. Scuba Doo has been a fun boat OR Holland Yacht Sales: (616) 335-3144 name in the Chicago harbors for over 20 years.

˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org 29 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.

30 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 Wthinking 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, Kevin, Carrie, Morgan & Connor Teborek. and our flexibility we can dramatically improve our overall experiences on a boat. Try the sample With a fitness center on almost every block of the Bodyweight & Weighted city selling ‘fitness’, it’s hard to understand what Workout exercises and you should be doing. Honestly, most people in the see how they work for fitness industry don’t really know because they have you. They will shock your never defined it. The only fitness model that I know systems, force overload and demand greater that has defined it is CrossFit (research the 100 performance which, after Words of Fitness). Using this as a platform, let’s start practicing these and a defining “Sailing Fitness.” multitude of other combinations for a good WHAT DOES SAILING FITNESS MEAN? two to three weeks, Possessing the physical ability to maneuver directly improving your around your boat, work in the bilge, haul all sailing physical strength. Taking related equipment, and perform any activity related care of yourself should be your number one priority to sailing on any given day. Having the physical and this season. Not only mental ability sail (or race) your boat 100%, and at because it will help you the end of a long and windy day, having the energy, around your boat and/or and physical capability to do it again the next day. the racecourse, the overall health benefits gained from making Now that we have a definition, we can design a fitness a priority will allow you to continue enjoying the water for program around your specific needs. We need to be years to come. 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 Whatever route you go, make sure you focus on need to assess your overall physical condition and three main things while working out: Form, Technique, health. Once this is done, you can assign priorities and Range of Motion. If your coach or trainer doesn’t to work on and then both short and long term goals. mention these things and hold you accountable to the, Now we need to find a place to work on them. You it’s time to find someone else to work with. can tackle these goals at home; however, I find that surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals EFFECTIVE WORKOUTS with similar fitness goals makes all the difference. Here are some basic movements you can use to Personal training is a great option as you will create effective workouts. Do not try these without have a dedicated trainer working with you to help being properly trained first. you achieve your goals. However, this can be a bit pricey. Another great option is your local CrossFit Strength and Cardiovascular Training: Box. Scary, right? Not really. There is a reason there Squats, Burpees, Push Ups, Sit Ups are over 15,000 affiliates. This stuff works by creating Endurance Training: very effective and safe, hour-long workouts that are Indoor/outdoor , jump roping, and rowing different every day. They combine cardio, weightlifting Strength Development: and high intensity training in fun, group environment. Deadlifts, Shoulder Presses, Squats

˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org 31 Yachtsmen Depict the Gilligan’s Island Court Martial by WILLIAM HANNAY

his January, Belmont Station transformed its Tdining 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 time you venture out into Lake Michigan, Thurston Howell III, and Alice Martin as Mrs. remember Gilligan’s theme song: Lovey Howell, with staff member Christina Barbaro “The mate was a mighty sailin' man, as Mary Ann. The script was honed and the play The Skipper brave and sure. directed by Club member Bill Hannay, who also Five passengers set sail that day, directed last year’s Bounty Court Martials. The next For a three-hour tour, a three-hour tour.”

32 Blinker | Spring 2017 Cruising Sail Fleet 2017 Calendar Friday, May 19 CSF 3rd Friday Alan Haag Monroe TOPIC: Intro to doing the North Channel Tom Falck Dinner (ala carte - Main Dining Room) Saturday, May 20 CSF Sailing Saturday Tom & Mary Falck Monroe Monday, May 29 Memorial Day Friday-Saturday, June 2-3 Power and Sail in water tech boat show Monroe Friday-Saturday, June 9-11 Chicago NOOD Monroe/Belmont Friday, June 16 CSF 3rd Friday Tom Falck & John Zienda Monroe Topic: Crossing the Lake & Technology - AIS, and How to use the DSC function on your VHF Radio Dinner - Main Dining Room, ala carte Saturday, June 17 CSF Sailing Saturday Tom & Mary Falck Monroe Sunday, June 25 Fleet Review Feleet Review Committee - Saturday Evening - All Fleet Dock Party Review reception hosted by CYC Monroe - Sunday (6/25) - Fleet Review on your boat or join another CSF boat. Saturday-Sunday, July 1-2 CSF Cruise to Hammond Jackie Sloan Saturday - Cruise to Hammond Sunday - Cruise back to Chicago Friday, July 14, Cruising Div. Mac Race Start Mac Race Committee Saturday, July 15, Racing Div. July-August North Channel Flotilla/Meet-Up Alan Haag & Tom Falck 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, 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 Friday, July 21 CSF 3rd Friday Topic: Dinner - Main Dining Room, ala carte Saturday, July 22 CSF Sailing Saturday Friday-Sunday, August 4-6 CYC Club Annual Cruise to Racine CYC Board Racine Sat.-Sun., August 19-20 Air & Water Show Friday, August 25 CSF 3rd Friday Monroe Dinner - Main Dining Room, ala carte Saturday, August 26 CSF and Family Activity Committee Cruise to 31st Street Monroe/31st Street Monday, September 4 Labor Day Friday-Sunday, Sept 8-10 Cruise/Drive to New Buffalo Felicia & Lars Wilhelm, New Buffalo Marcia Moore Saturday, September 16 CSF Sailing Saturday/Ladies Skipper Regatta Monroe Friday, September 29 2017 Planning Session (6:30 pm) Monroe CSF Annual Meeting (7:00 pm) October 5-9 Annapolis Sail Boat Show Annapolis, MD Saturday, October 29 CSF End of Season Celebration/Awards Monroe Saturday, December 2 CSF Holiday Celebration Monroe Sunday, December 31 New Years Eve at the Club. Ring in the New Year with fellow CSF members! (CSF tables to be reserved) ˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org 33 History of the Chicago Yacht Club Library by TANYA D. WHITEHEAD, PHD, CYC LIBRARIAN

he Chicago Yacht Club library has a history Tas 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 Samuel M. Clark Charles E. Kremer, 1875 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 age- the 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. Our Library website landing page. 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 share your ideas for the library, the needs you may check out books on the honor system- be sure to have for any new library services that we may offer, sign out the book when you take it home so we and provide any tips you have about the location of know where it is. books that would be at home on the CYC library As your CYC Librarian, feel free to contact me to shelves.

34 Blinker | Spring Miami by ALINA K. DIX

or the past 28 years, Miami has served as Fthe 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 we had to get races in. Plus, it made for a great prevented such a practice. photo-op. Tuesday was the first day of racing and I was Saturday began with no wind; the on the course designated for 470 men and women postponement flag went up and we waited and and Finns. This was my first time setting watched as a pack of cigarette boats went trapezoid courses but as the week went on, the hurdling through the racing area on a Poker trapezoid course became less and less daunting. Run. Good thing we had to postpone because 470 men and women fleets got sailing without too that’s the last thing you want driving through a many kinks or changes. When the Finns came out racecourse. Eventually the breeze filled in in the afternoon, the wind had died down a bit, enough that we could get some sailing in and but they still got two races in. complete the series. Wednesday brought about similar conditions to Sunday was Medal Race Day. The top 10 in the previous day, but with wind coming in from a each fleet competed for the top three spots. To be different direction. The fleets rotated and the fair, this was a horrible day for sailing. While Finns sailed in the morning and 470 fleets in the there was wind, it was cold and raining. Wet afternoon. Two more races for each fleet and we sails are not fast sails. Also no one really enjoys came in to a painting worthy sunset. sailing in the cold, even if it is “Florida cold”. Thursday and Friday brought about similar The courses that held medal races the day before shifty conditions. On both days, we ran racing had lucked out even if they didn’t have a lot of rather late, with the sun almost fully set as the last wind. The week concluded as it began with a boat crossed the finish line. Not the best plan, but ceremony on the lawn of Coral Reef Yacht Club.

˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org 35 Chicago Yacht Club Foundation Change of Watch by PHILIP MAY

erald F. Bober, GPast 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, Sarah Alger, Victor Chigas, Past Commodore and current President Jerry Bober. took over as President of 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: “I was there at the beginning (1991). We meant • Programs involving Chicagoland youth well, but lacked focus and a defined mission. Gibby • Chicago Park District Foundation’s delivered both, adding the structure and discipline Endeavor Activity we needed to take this perfect platform for • Chicago Maritime Police encouraging love for our lake in our youth and • US Coast Guard Foundation 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.” The Foundation was founded in created in 1991 to these venues are scholarships, access to sailing bring awareness and appreciation of the nautical arts competitions, restoration projects or any other and traditions to the Chicagoland community, and to financial support, the CYC Foundation is dedicated broaden the horizons for our youth and physically to memorializing the rich history of Lake Michigan disabled through nautical training and boating and developing maritime traditions. The CYC activities. The Foundation supports venues that Foundation is a 501(c)3 corporation, to which 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.

36 Blinker | Spring 2017 ecology, commerce, and recreation of Lake Michigan and the Great Lakes. The Foundation is working with teachers to encourage 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 Past Commodore Walter G. Vartan by the Chicago Yacht Club. The generous contributions of Chicago Yacht Club members to the CYC Foundation has allowed Foundation activities support a variety of grants, the Foundation to achieve its superb record of scholarships, and educational activities–maritime achievement in community service in concert with themed activities for youth, including programs to the Chicago Yacht Club. The Chicago Yacht Club teach elementary and secondary school students Foundation shall strive to continue its array of good basic to competitive sailing, water safety, and works in our community. For more information visit leadership skills, as they learn about the history, chicagoyachtclub.org.

˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org 37 Not Strictly Sail A New Player in But Many New the Chicago Sail Acquaintances Racing Scene by RICK LILLIE and by GREG MIARECKI, PAST COMMODORE EMILY GIAIMO, MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

his year, there is a new player on the Chicago Tsail 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 he Chicago Boat, RV and Strictly Sail Show representatives of Chicago’s Tmay sound like a strange combination but it various one-design fleets, still attracts those seeking sailing and boating created the first Chicago racer survey in more than as we offer it on Lake Michigan. For many, it’s a 15 years, hosted the first town hall meeting for way to casually talk to Chicago Yacht Club Chicago racing sailors in decades, published a 2017 members and staff and to learn more about the schedule of events, and began discussions with Club’s educational opportunities for adults and potential sponsors. kids and get the details on membership incentives. CASRA has many good things planned for 2017, This January, the CYC Membership Committee including a Junior Race Week scheduled for late June, improved scheduling of already-existing and Club staff manned the booth for five days with events, the development of a new website, making a 22-person team. We had the most attractive booth race entry easier and more intuitive, a new series of which was built to resemble a teak and holly boat casual races designed for new racers and those who deck with a dramatic rotating overhead sign are looking to compete without some of the situated adjacent to the larger . Armed intensity associated with some of our premier with well-focused information about our club, we events, simpler race documents, new distance spoke with nearly 250 attendees and collected races, and an increased focus on charity sailing contact information from more than 100 people, up events. We are also looking to involve power boats 25% from last year. Questions from booth visitors in CASRA programming, and have plans in the covered a wide array of topics including the sailing works for some power boat focused events. school, paddle boards, regattas and membership. Rear Commodore Berberian and I serve as the Our fleet and the robust Women On The Club’s representatives to CASRA. I am pleased to Water program were the most popular subjects. report that the level of dialogue and cooperation Thanks to our members and staff for spending between our clubs has been outstanding, and we look time at the boat show, we have already welcomed forward to a great 2017 season - working together many new Chicago Yacht Club members. with our friends around Chicago’s lakefront.

38 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 ST. PATRICKS DAY MARDI GRAS

DANCING WITH THE STARS ˙www.chicagoyachtclub.org 47