> Hi, I am building a Guillemot here in Dublin, Ireland and whilst I can get
> timber easily (even Westeren Red Cedar !!) other items are difficult to
> come by.

> I will be visiting my daughter in Chicago (actually North Western
> University) later this year, so I thought.....

> Does anybody know of a store there which sells a good range of kayaking
> equipment... foam, sprayskirts etc. or should I just mail-order and have
> the stuff sent to my daughters address so I can pick it up ??

> Thanks in advance for any help/suggestions.

Other local sporting goods stores which carry small quantities of various kayak and canoe materials are: R.E.I. (short for Recreational Equipment Inc.), Erehwon Mountain Supply, Eastern Mountain Supply, and Galyan's. These stores have several locations in the Chicago area. Your daughter should be able to find them in the telephone directory or on the internet.

Mail order might be the best bet, if you know exactly what your requirements are. You can pay by credit card and be billed in Irish currency (Punts?) at a fair exchange rate, you'll save on having to pay for foreign shipping, and I'm sure your daughter will love having unexpected packages show up on her doorstep. (Just like Xmas)

A shame you won't be in Chicago next week. We dye the Chicago River a bright green for a length of a mile or so on St. Patrick's day. It is a pretty sight for several hours.

Hope this helps.

Paul G. Jacobson