Inspired by past celebrations plus a couple of cool Summer Sailstice T-Shirts he’s purchased over the years, David Stjern is organizing his own solstice gala with the Island Bay Yacht Club on Lake Springfield in Illinois.
Creatively dubbed the Prairie Sailstice, the June 20th event will include sailboat racing that evening, rides for prospective sailors and yummy refreshments at the yacht club’s Lakeside Pavilion. Sailors are encouraged to arrive that afternoon and early evening and sail around in honor of the Solstice, as well.
Stjern asks interested sailors without boats — beginner or otherwise — to contact him at jybe-ho@sbcglobal.net and he’ll match sailors up with a skipper to get them out on the water.
After the evening of water-based fun, all sailors, sailing supporters and people who’ve ever seen a sail on a distant horizon are invited to a party at the pavilion. Food and soda (BYOB) will be provided beginning at 6 p.m. Stjern is encouraging local boy scouts to participate with their Catalina’s and get Sea Scouts to join in the fun.
So far, event sponsors include the yacht club and the Lake Springfield Cabin Fleet. Others are encouraged to participate.
