AEL Catering

Ever wonder who is behind those really good food days, like last season's Oktoberfest party, at Chicago Sailing? Chef Andrew Lawrence and his wonderful staff are the creative geniuses!

Just check out some of the food from Oktoberfest.


And look at all the people enjoying it!

There is even a guy from Germany in that picture. He couldn't believe he found food that good in Belmont Harbor.



Check out AEL Catering's sample menus online and get contact information by clicking here.


Chef Andrew Lawrence with Heather at Oktoberfest

Office Tour

I've been quiet for a few weeks, partially because it's a slow time at Chicago Sailing. Donny and Kyle are working on the boats. Alan and I are working on brochures, the website and improving our services for all of our members.

One of our recent additions is a video camera. Our web designer is working on building in video for our site, here's my first try at giving you an inside peek of our operations! (You may have to visit our actual blog to watch the video)



What do you want to learn more about?

Holiday Gift Guide

We know that as the holiday season approaches, everyone struggles with finding the right present! Here is our run-down of the top gear for sailors. We've chosen these items to help maximize your sailing time and comfort while out enjoying the adventure.

1. Foul Weather Gear
If this season's weather continues into next season, we're in for a rainy 2010. Foul Weather Gear allows your sailor to take advantage of those peaceful days out on the water when everyone else is scared away by a little rain. It's especially helpful for taking advantage of the start of the season, when the Lake Michigan water is quite cool. You'll stay warm and dry inside your Foul Weather Gear!

2. Fleece
Jackets, pullovers, pants, and beyond - fleece is a sailor's friend! When you combine it with Foul Weather Gear, you'll stay toasty while you extend your adventure in comfort. Just like with skiing, keeping your core nice and warm is the key to thoroughly enjoying your day.

3. Sailing Gloves
Some of our sailors swear by their sailing gloves, others not so much. For the sailing enthusiast, who isn't out on the water every day, gloves aid you in managing lines and pulling them taught. When you aren't out building up callouses through everyday sailing, gloves are the way to go!

4. Boat Shoes
Specialized shoes exist for every sport we can think of. That's true in sailing as well. Boat shoes feature flexible, gripping soles that are non-marking. Designed to wick away moisture, they also keep your feet drier than regular shoes.

5. Stocking Stuffers
There are many small things that every sailor should have - good lip balm, croakies for your sunglasses, a visor or hat, waterproof sunblock, dry bags etc. Why not put together a sailing themed stocking?

All of these items can be purchased in Chicago at West Marine's 627 W North Ave location. Great sources exist online as well. Sail Magazine has an online guide to help you locate the best source.

What else should be on our list?

Houseboat Fall Delivery

Last week we capped the season with our fall trip down the Chicago River. For those aboard the "Squid," it was a bittersweet voyage.

It was a delightful way to spend an afternoon with friends with a view of one of the most beautiful skylines in the world. Visually stunning, I am genuinely awe-struck each and every time I catch a glimpse of Chicago from the water. And to think, every summer millions of people miss out on this experience.

For everyone this marked the end of the 2009 season, the bittersweet aspect of our voyage. After a surprising season, with variable weather and changes a-foot at Chicago Sailing, it was a chance to look ahead towards next season.

Office Staff member Mike Burlando was along with his camera. These are some of his photos.

Season Close

And so it goes. Another sailing season has passed us by.

The harbor is quieting down now, with more and more boats heading to their winter homes. Chicago Sailing still has a few J/22's in the water. You can still take advantage of them, provided you make a reservation in advance and the weather holds.

In the shop, Donny and Kyle have already started getting the boats ready for next year. There is much to do to prepare for the 2010 Season.

Heather is still at the harbor in the house boat. It's gotten a bit cool there and our space heater goes all the time.

The house boat is scheduled to go up the river soon, taking advantage of one of the remaining good weather days. Then we'll really shut down for the season and start working towards 2010!

Winding down

We have gotten a few calls recently inquiring about boat rentals this month. The short answer is yes, we are still open!

To elaborate: Our boats will start departing Dock B next week. Two of the Hunters are going up to Racine, where Bumblebee already is. The T-10 will also be leaving shortly. At some point during the week of the 19th, our remaining Hunters and the J/30 will travel to their winter home at Great Lakes Naval Base.

Our J/22's and J/24's are waiting until the end of October. Chicago Sailing is in the midst of a very big step forward - that we look forward to announcing shortly. On October 31st, if you are downtown along the river, you might get to spot the houseboat make her way to Canal Street Marina.

To take any of our boats out for one last sail this season, just call the office! We are operating with a small staff, but can accommodate most requests with advanced notice.

As always safety is our top priority. Make sure to wear proper clothing when sailing this month. It is significantly colder on the water and rain gear is highly recommended.

Our four-legged companions even practice water safety on the houseboat.


Thank you to everyone who joined us last Sunday for Oktoberfest! The food was delicious and the weather divine.



See you soon!

Oktoberfest!

All season long we have worked with our preferred caterer, AEL Catering to execute flawless corporate events.

This season saw numerous team building events, including two 65 person team building events that utilized every J/22 and J/24 in our fleet! Aboard Bumblebee, AEL Catering provided the food for many a cruise along Chicago's lake front. Chicago Sailing took care of three of the five senses for our guests with the sight of Lake Michigan and Chicago's skyline, the sound of a sail catching the wind and the feel of a rope or tiller in their hands. AEL Catering supplied the remainder with the smell and taste of exquisite food. In our minds - the perfect pairing for a day on the water.

As we near the end of Chicago's second summer, it is time to celebrate a season spent on the water enjoying the adventure! Coincidentally it is also Oktoberfest. So we put our thinking caps on and decided it was time to start a new tradition!

Sunday, October 4th join the staff of Chicago Sailing and AEL Catering as we celebrate the 2009 Season and hopefully store up enough memories of a sailing season to hold us through the gray Chicago winter. Rent a boat, go Club Sailing or just stop by in your best German-garb*!



*German-garb is encouraged, but not required. We just want to see you on B-Dock.