Spring 2024
Hello LBYC Members, I trust you share my excitement for warmer days to come. This summer we will all enjoy access to South Beach as NSWRD (North Shore Water Reclamation District) pauses construction from Memorial Day to Labor Day. We are optimistic that construction of the new boathouse will commence this fall. I'm reminded that the founding members of the Lake Bluff Yacht Club probably had a season or two without a boathouse, and we share your excitement of moving into our new 'home' when it's complete.
Membership Renewal Here! A link to renew via the "cheddar-up" system is attached to renew your membership for the coming year. (We are emailing this to all club members - including spouse/partners - so please communicate within your household on who gets to do the renewal!) Annual Membership fee of $200 reflects a slight increase to offset the Village license agreement fee. Dues are due 5/10/24. Access renewal here:
I encourage you to get the most out of your membership by attending parties, getting to know other members by volunteering, learn & have fun at the free & nominally priced seminars & events offered throughout the year. If you are a proficient sailor, take advantage of our club sunfish (available on weekends when LBYC beach crew are present). Membership is a great way to meet other lovers of the Lake and watersports. If you have not participated in events in years past, THIS is the year!
New Boathouse update: With construction at the beach being paused from Memorial Day to Labor Day, we are optimistic that construction of the new boathouse will commence this fall.
Boat Storage: Due to the construction schedule, we will not be able to offer boat storage for members this summer. The fleet of club-owned sunfish will be available for members to use on weekends when beach crew are present. The boats will also be used by the Lake Bluff Park District for their youth sailing program. Current slot holders (those who paid to renew their slot in 2023 are current slot holders), will not be charged slot fees for 2024. The wait list for slots is currently closed until we have final details on the number of slots in the new boathouse.
Sunday Sunfish Racing: Weekly Sunday afternoon sunfish racing returns to Lake Bluff Beach! A full racing schedule will follow. Club sunfish will be available for Sunday racing. Email Doug Warren, Fleet Captain, dbwbwarren@aol.com if you are interested or have questions. Racers bringing their own sunfish will receive instructions & guidelines regarding trailer logistics & parking on race days.
Social: Donna Palizza, Social Chair, is excited to bring us 'back to the beach' for the June Beach Party and Lobster Boil. She is looking for a co-chair to partner with her on the Lobster Boil. The Lobster Boil is a well-oiled machine that works best with 2 co-chairs. Please contact Donna donnapalizza@gmail.com
Mark your calendars!
Spring Cocktail Party May 11th
Beach Party June 15th
Brunch on the Bluff July 7th
Lobster Boil Aug 24th
End of Year Party / Annual Meeting Nov 9th
And add these dates too:
· "Get Your Feet Wet": Introduction to Sailboat Racing - Thur, May 2nd You'll stay dry in this classroom style workshop led by Rich Chapman designed to get you ready for the racecourse! We encourage anyone curious about racing to join us. Post-workshop refreshments to follow! We are also planning 'practice' races this summer as a next step after this session. Email Rich at sail59541@gmail.com if you are interested or have questions.
· Keelboat Cruises - John Palizza is generously offering time on his 28 ft keelboat for those interested in learning how to sail on a 'big' boat! Over the course of five sessions, participants will be introduced to the basics of sailing a keelboat and will have the opportunity to learn by participating in all of the roles required to sail a larger sailboat. More details to follow.
I'm grateful to work alongside a terrific board of volunteers, who are working hard to get us all back on the beach. We look forward to seeing you soon! Please let us know if you have any questions.
Gretchen Seymour, Commodore