Margaret Wappler

This is not Hawaii, California or any other state blessed by an ocean, but that didn't deter the Chicago Parasailing Company from setting up shop at 63rd Street Beach.

In theory, it's not a bad idea. We've got Lake Michigan, the occasional perfect summer day and a population thirsting for something to do during summer besides coalesce in their own sweat. Parasailing, for all you Midwesterners who plead ignorance, is riding behind a boat in a parachute, sailing high above the waters, ideally catching great city views and an all-too-rare natural high. So what's the catch? The weather has to be just right, and I mean perfect. My first two appointments were cancelled because of rain. The first time, I had driven all the way down there before the sky started to sputter drizzle, that was just enough. Third time I think: I'm in. The weather? One of those amazing days; blue sky, puffy cotton clouds, a breeze that makes you sigh with bliss. But the breeze that feels good on land threatens on water. The young guys that take me out on the boat informs that it is too choppy. "See?" Our captain Kevin says, as our boat bounces off of one turbulent wave after another, "This isn't good." They tell me I'll get tossed around like a rag doll if I go up. We settle instead for a rollicking boat ride, but I can't help but feel defeated once again. For the zillionth time in my life, I'll say it again: Chicago's weather sucks. ()

(2000-08-17)

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