Chain of Lakes Breeze July 2021

INSIDE

Relax on the water Things to do Boat with friends

JULY 2021 • VOL. 8 NO. 2

Breeze Chain O’ Lakes

Page 2

CHAIN O’ LAKES BREEZE

JULY 2021

MARINE TRADING POST BUYING, SELLING & SERVICING BOATS AND MARINE EQUIPMENT

CLASSIFIEDS Boats

1989 COBALT 21 FT. BR Bimini-Hrs., 617. 2002 Shorelander. $6,500 262-245-0383 1997 LARSON SEI 206 BR Volvo Penta 5.7 GS SX, Bimini top, Shore Land’r Trailer. Very clean, 1 owner. $4,000. 414-841-8872.

INFLATABLE CLARK FORK 8 FOOT FISHING BOAT. $300 262723-6269 WANTED TO BUY PONTOON BOAT 20 feet or smaller. 262-2450383

WE BUY - BOATS/RV/PONTOONS/ SLED/ATV’s & MOTORCYCLES! “Cash Paid” Now! AMERICAN MARINE & MOTORSPORTS SUPERCENTER, SHAWANO 866955-2628 WWW.AMERICANMARINA.COM (WCAN)

LAKES AREA CLASSIFIEDS BOATS FOR SALE

Fishing Boats

Ski Boats/Fishing Boats

14 foot aluminum fishing boat, trolling motor, oars, battery. $395.

1980’s Runabout bow Rider, 100 hp (262) 742-3665.

Johnson, trailer $95 (262) 949-6997 1985 Mastercraft Prostar 190, trailer, Lift and Lift Parts garaged, $2350 best. Text please Jet ski lift, Needs some repair $25.00.

(630) 886-6667 1990 Mastercraft Prostar 190, low (262) 949-6997 hours, excellent ski boat, trailer, lift Jet ski trailer, Needs work. $50.00. kept $5250 best (262) 949-6997 (262) 949-6997 1995 Mastercraft Sammy Duvall series, Corvette engine, flat wakes Shore station lift parts, cheap. great slalom boat $11,500 best. (262) Lauderdale Lakes. (262) 742-3665 742-3665 1998 Supra Legacy, Super low hours, Ski Equipment clean, kept in heated garage, bow rider, great family boat. $7950 best.

Ski trainer, easy to get up on, builds (262) 949-6997 2000 Supra Legacy, very clean, confidence. $75. Text (262) 949-6997 garage/lift kept, bow rider, 275 hours, Slalom ski, Connelly, great shape, $9750 best. (630) 886-6667 $95.00. (630) 886-6667

398671

SERVICES OFFERED and Indooroor O u t d ge Stora es Packagble Availa

Boat and Trailers

Professional Ground-up Restoration Services

• Indoor Storage-Summer and Winter • Outdoor Storage-Summer and Winter • Shrink Wrap • Sales • Repairs • In/Out Valet Services • Pickup/Delivery Services Antique Auto • Antique Boat Restoration • Indoor Storage-Summer and Winter • Gel-Coat/Fiberglass Work • Restoration • Custom Woodwork (Transom bars) • Cleaning and Detailing • Cleaning and Detailing • Consignment • Bottom Wash • Consignment • Upholstery • Upholstery • Covers Copyright © 2003-2015. All rights reserved.

375340

GET ON BOARD JULY 2021

CHAIN O’ LAKES BREEZE

Page 3

4 ways to restore wellness and relax on a boat this summer Looking for ways to recharge and escape stress this summer? Get away from it all and “Get On Board” for a relaxing summer on the water. With most Americans (78%) citing COVID-19 as a significant source of stress in their lives according to a recent Harris poll, millions of people are seeking solace outdoors.

One of the best ways to restore your mental health is to spend time with family and friends on the water.

Boating and fishing have become ideal options to enjoy the outdoors and recreate responsibly. Studies show being on the water promotes wellness by improving emotional health, relaxation and creativity. Boating triggers a restful state of mind and provides an opportunity to get outside of daily routines, allowing our brains to reset.

“People from all walks of life are recognizing that boating and fishing not only offer restorative health and wellness benefits but being on a boat is a ‘vacation on demand’ that you can enjoy close to home,” said Ellen Bradley, Discover Boating Senior Vice President.

“Boating uniquely provides the freedom to explore and escape the stress on land, while allowing you to relax and connect with loved ones in a way that can only be experienced on the water.”

Getting started in boating and fishing is more accessible than you think. In fact, more than 100 million Americans go boating each year, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association. Whether you already own a boat, you’re just getting started or simply want to test out the boating lifestyle, Discover Boating offers easy ways to get on the water and experience the restorative power of boating and fishing.

Find your dream boat

Chart your own course to boat ownership by visiting DiscoverBoating. com, where you’ll find a boat finder and loan calculator tool to help determine your budget and identify the different types of boats that fit your lifestyle and interests.

Join a boat club

Find a boat club near you to access a variety of boats. You’ll pay a monthly fee and be able to book your time on the water online. Most boat clubs take care of docking, cleaning, maintenance and boat training courses.

Rent or share a boat

Rental options are available on most waterways and provide hourly, daily or weekly access to a variety of boat types. from top: There’s nothing like a lazy day out on the water to cool off and relax during the dog days of summer.; Boating is a family friendly activity, enjoyed by kids of all ages and their grown-ups.

STOCK PHOTOS The Breeze

on the cover: After a full day on the water, this pontoon makes its way home on the Chain O’Lakes while enjoying a beautiful sunset.

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ The Breeze

Another rental option is peer-to-peer boat rentals that connect you with the boat owner, gather outing details and then hit the water. Most arrangements for boat sharing are made on an app or via computer, minimizing personal contact and eliminating the need to enter an office.

Go fish

There are thousands of bodies of water where you can cast a line. Find Places to Fish and Boat near you, courtesy of

TakeMeFishing.org, a dedicated fishing resource where you can also purchase your fishing license on the site, check out howto guides and more.

Visit DiscoverBoating.com for resources, tips and how-to’s for getting on the water, boat shopping, safety and more. Planning to “Get On Board” this summer? Use the social media hashtag #TheWaterIsOpen to share your boating and fishing moments.

“People from all walks of life are

recognizing that boating and fishing not only offer restorative health and wellness benefits but being on a boat is a ‘vacation on demand’ that you can enjoy close to home,” Discover Boating Senior Vice President Ellen Bradley said. “Boating uniquely provides the freedom to explore and escape the stress on land, while allowing you to relax and connect with loved ones in a way that can only be experienced on the water.”

(BPT)

Page 4

CHAIN O’ LAKES BREEZE

JULY 2021

Must-have gear for your outdoor trips and adventures If you’re like many Americans, your family has spent the past year discovering – or rediscovering – the joys of vacationing in the great outdoors.

Nearly half of all campers either started camping for the first time in 2020 or restarted after having not camped in recent years, according to KOA’s North American Camping Report. Plus, a recent GoRVing. com study conducted by Ipsos reveals RV ownership is at a record high, with 11.2 million American households owning an RV in 2021, up 62% over a 20-year period.

Whether you’re a seasoned RV enthusiast or a first-time camper, being prepared to hit the road is essential. In time for the warmer months ahead, here are some tips to tackle all your excursions into the great outdoors with confidence.

2 OFF

$

Any Sandwich Purchase Of $10 Or More with this coupon (Not including party packs)

FRATELLOS • Volo • 815-344-2692

One coupon per order. Not valid with other offers. Exp.12/31/21

Drinkable water

2 OFF

$

For obvious reasons, ensuring you have a surplus of drinkable water for the duration of your trip needs to be a top priority. As you plan, take a cue from experts in preparedness, the U.S. Armed Forces, and put Scepter Military Water Cans on your “must-have” list of gear.

Standard issue to the U.S. and Canadian Armed Forces, these easy-to-carry, virtually indestructible containers are up to the task of camping trips, sports expeditions, boating and more. They’re

Any Sandwich Purchase Of $10 Or More with this coupon (Not including party packs)

FRATELLOS • Volo • 815-344-2692

One coupon per order. Not valid with other offers. Exp. 12/31/21

also BPA-free to keep chemicals, odors and tastes out of your water, as well as corrosion- and fungus-resistant, so your drinking water is clean and safe.

A quick-pour option makes it possible to empty up to 5 gallons of water in under seven seconds through the 4-inch wide cap opening. Or, you can set up the container for practical personal use at your campsite conveniently, thanks to an optional dispenser spout for when you need to fill cups or bottles.

Hassle-free refuels

Making the best use of your supplies and avoiding waste is key to successful adventures, especially when you’re far from creature comforts. However, fuel containers can be heavy and often bulky to use, increasing the likelihood of spills.

Having a comfortable and convenient way of refueling sporting equipment, recreation vehicles and other gear can make your travel prep and on-the-go fill-ups clean, fast and hassle-free.

Check out durable, easy-to-manage fuel storage options, like those from Scepter SmartControl. The line-up is available in 1-, 2- and 5-gallon sizes for gasoline, diesel and kerosene, and come in different shapes and with different handle options to fit the application, for controllable flow and no-mess usage.

(STATEPOINT)

Serving Lake County For Over 51 Years “Your Complete Service Company”

H O T D O G S

View our entire Party Solutions Menu Online

Since 1970

395603

Diagnostic Fee

at: FRATELLOSHOTDOGS.COM

20 OFF

$

Italian Beef, Burgers, Salads Serving Chocolate & Vanilla Soft Serve Ice Cream

Dine In - Drive Thru Rt. 12 & Rt. 120 Lakemoor • Volo Village

(1st time customers) Limited time offer. Not valid with any other offer.

Must mention coupon at time of appointment.

During regular business hours only.

Limit one coupon per system.

200 OFF

$

ANY NEW HEATING & A/C SYSTEM Limited time offer. Not valid with any other offer.

Must mention coupon at time of appointment.

During regular business hours only.

Limit one coupon per system.

Laundry Room Package NORMALLY $199

Includes cleaning and sanitizing of washing maching, inspection and maintenance of mechanical and electrical of washer and dryer and cleaning out the dryer vent.

815-344-2692

Kitchen Maintenance Package

We Accept Phone Orders OPEN 7 DAYS

Mon.-Sat. Open 10:30am • Sun. Open 11:00am

• Heating • Air Conditioning • Appliance Repair • Attic Insulation • Water Purification

(847) 215-9880

395601

www.commandservice.com

NORMALLY $199

Includes cleaning the refrigerator coils, checkup and santitation of dishwasher, inspection and cleaning of garbage disposal.

149

SPECIAL IS $

EACH

JULY 2021

CHAIN O’ LAKES BREEZE

Page 5

Summertime on the Water

Activities abound on the Chain O’Lakes

By Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

For the past several years, the opening of the Chain O’Lakes waterway to boat traffic each spring has been a challenge for the Fox Waterway Agency.

The agency oversees the 15 lakes and channels that make up the Chain, which attracts more than 22,000 boats each year, more than any other inland water area in the United States, works to keep the Chain free of debris and to protect the surrounding shores.

For these years, through 2020, the opening of the waters of the Chain to boat travel each spring was restricted because of the high-water levels from excessive rainfall in the area in the early spring.

“Mitigating flooding was the new norm,” Fox Waterway Agency Executive Director Joe Keller said. “Some of the areas had no-wake zones to prevent flooding of the shore areas. Not popular with boaters who were looking to get back to waterskiing, tubing, and just enjoying rides down the Chain and experiencing the power of their boats.”

This year, however, was different. With a drier spring, the waterways did not reach the depth that it had in previous years and opened to boat traffic earlier than the past few years. It could not have occurred at a better time.

As residents were recovering from the enhanced isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, many were waiting to have their boats in the water and their families and friends aboard, ready to enjoy time out of doors and on the water.

Once piers were reinstalled and boats delivered out of winter storage drydock, the lakes began to look as if summer had arrived. Soon the boats could be seen cruising up and down the lakes, especially on weekends.

Spending summertime out on the lake • CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

from top: Wave runners offer a thrill as they speed along the water on the Chain O’Lakes. Watching out for the larger boats is important when riding a personal water craft; A family heads out on the water powered only by how hard and fast they can pedal; This father and his son pull up to the dock in their bright yellow boat. While Dad holds on to the pier, the son brings up the docking rope to secure the boat to the pier.

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ The Breeze

Page 6

CHAIN O’ LAKES BREEZE

ACTIVITIES

JULY 2021

• CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

enjoying a variety of watercraft is one of the ways for families to enjoy outdoor activities and to learn a variety of new skills. From young children to adults there are many boating activities that can be enjoyed without worry of injury, as long as safety precautions are followed.

Having U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets available for everyone on the boat is necessary for safety of all When children are on board, they should wear them at all times and be sure they are properly fitted for their size. Remember having the jackets on board does not save lives unless they are worn. The U.S. Coast Guard does not recommend taking any toddler on board who weighs less than 18 pounds. Even the smallest of the approved life jackets would be too large for any child weighing less than 18 pounds.

Boating options

Pontoon boats are among the most popular and versatile boats seen on the lakes. Originally thought of as the old folk’s boat, today’s pontoons are more versatile than the early models. They are equipped with more powerful engines that make them a favorite for a variety of on the water activities.

Gather on the pontoon, bring along your family, friends and your refreshments and settle back to enjoy a leisurely trip down the chain, enjoying the beauty of the lakes.

Be sure to bring drinking water to keep everyone hydrated and sunscreen for all aboard to prevent burning in the hot sun.

Dehydration is one of the dangers that boaters need to be mindful of.

A trip down the Chain O’Lakes is a good way to become acquainted with the unique features of each individual lake.

The variety of wildlife especially birds which change with the season is a learning opportunity as adults and children become more familiar with the wildlife in the air, on the water and along the shore. Note the different birds as they migrate through the area.

Pontoons with high-powered engines are surprisingly well suited for waterskiing and tubing, activities that will be enjoyed by all members of the family. While the traditional speed boats can also be seen flying through the water, with water skiers behind them, the pontoons are an easier way for families to all participate whether water skiing or tubing off the back of the boat.

Sailboats are one of the most beautiful sights gliding across the water with their large sails billowing in the breeze. Families have been enjoying sailing on the Chain since the late 1800s, when Chicagoans escaping the dirty air of the city began to build summer homes here. These families who made their way out to the areas of open lands and clean air were able to teach their children much about nature and enjoying outdoor activities.

Sailing families taught their children to learn to sail by taking them along, making sailing a family affair. Sailing requires no purchase of fuel to run the boat but rather just a gently breeze and the ability to manipulate the sails to turn that breeze into energy and propel the boat along the waters. Even the speed is manipulated by how the sails are manipulated.

Sailing classes are available for those wanting a more formal training in sailing, whether adults or children. Contact the local sailing clubs for more information on learning to sail.

Give a Howl 4 Treating Pets Like Royalty Since 1988

GYPSY GLEN K9 KASTLE PET RESORT

• Dog Boarding • Animal Acupressure Need a Bath?

• Natural Products Please be our guests! • Dog Day Care • Swim Club We are Open to the public!

Strang Funeral Home of

Antioch

Serving the area since 1912

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ The Breeze

Fishing the Chain

Fishing has been enjoyed perhaps since the beginning of time when man fished for food and for sport. The thrill of catching a fish, from a child’s first little sunfish to the more active sport fishing on the oceans where fisherman land fish weighing hundreds of pounds is enjoyed by all fishermen.

Fishing for sport and returning the fish unharmed back into the water is a good lesson for children and good for the environment.

If you are interested in fishing on the chain, consider a trip to Grass Lake. Grass Lake, one of the lakes of the Chain, was very popular lake to visit in the 1920s.

Not for fishing but for the beauty of the lotus flowers that grew there. Visitors were carried down the Fox River into the Chain to ride through the lotus blossoms that covered the surface of the lake. Over the years the lotus flowers died off, although some have reappeared.

Grass Lake is one of, if not the shallowest of lakes on the Chain. Boats need to stick to the center to avoid running aground. This is great for the anglers looking to fish this lake. With boats sticking to the center of the water, the entire shoreline remains open for those wishing to fish.

“Grass Lake has a large variety of fish from catfish and carp, to muskie, both large and small mouth bass, and even blue gill and walleye,” said one local fisherman.

Fishing is a sport that teaches patience and perseverance waiting for the fish to nibble. A change from many activities of today and something for children and adults to appreciate.

Get out the paddles 378225

815.385.8585 • McHenry • gypsyglenk9kastle.com

Fishing is a favorite activity on the Chain, whether in a boat or along the shore.

Not everyone needs to be on a large boat to enjoy the fun and beauty of the water.

Small craft such as kayaks, capable of holding one or two people, are a fun and inexpensive way to enjoy time on the water.

Kayaks are light weight and can be easily transported in one’s automobile to the stream, creek, or lake where one plans to enter the water. They are inexpensive.

Learning to maneuver in the water using a paddle to steer and project the kayak forward is something most people pick up easily. Kayaking is a fun way for a group of friends to explore together while still maintaining social distancing. It is an enjoyable outside activity for youngsters, teenagers and adults.

The last few years paddle boarding has become very popular in the Midwest. For years, paddle boarding was an activity popular ocean-side, but now we see paddleboards on the lakes with a special emphasis on stand-up paddle boarding also known as SUP. Learning to ride a paddleboard in the standup position is a bit more difficult than learning to manage a kayak, although most instructors and participants of the sport claim it is easy to learn. In spite of this, outdoor sports lovers have embraced the paddle board as a great workout, especially strengthening the core muscles.

While we are enjoying this beautiful summer weather, take some time to enjoy the outdoors and if possible, make time for outdoor summer fun on the water. If you do not own a boat, or have a good friend who owns one and invites you aboard, there are marinas along the Chain, which offer boats from pontoons to kayak for rent or sail.

At the end of a day boating on the Chain, pull your boat up to the dock at one of the restaurants along the Chain and enjoy eating out doors on the deck while watching the sun slowly set.

Or if you prefer, order a to go meal and enjoy the same beautiful view from your boat while enjoying dinner on board.

SALEM AUTO SERVICE

Licensed in Wisconsin & Illinois

Dave Moore, Dan Dugenske, Directors

Tim, Danny & Josh

1055 S. Main Street - Antioch, IL 847-395-4000 or 800-622-4441

(262) 843-3636 8515 Antioch Road (Hwy. 83) , Salem, WI

www.strangfh.com

378224

Since 1951

372912

JULY 2021

CHAIN O’ LAKES BREEZE

Page 7

Boating with friends: Ways to be a good boat guest Imagine this: Your work week is winding down, and your best buddies just called to invite you out on their boat for the weekend.

Hooray! You respond with an enthusiastic ‘Yes!’ and tell the rest of your family the good news.

If you haven’t spend much time on a boat, there’s a few things (and some basic boating etiquette) you’ll want to know before stepping onboard. Set yourself up for a successful trip and be a good boat guest with these simple, best practices.

Here are some tips for new boaters: Know thy neighbor’s boat Whether you’re a boating newbie or an old salt, ask your friends ahead of time about their specific boat. Is it a sailboat or a powerboat? Is it a bowrider, a cabin cruiser, a wake boat, a pontoon boat, or something else?

Knowing before you step onboard lets you look it up and learn about it. This makes a huge difference in your onboard comfort— and your host’s. Additionally, you’ll come armed with questions to ask about why they chose it and what they like about it. It might help you if you’re boat shopping, too.

Wear the right shoes – or no shoes at all Before you excitedly climb aboard in search for the best seat in the bow or next to the cooler, always – always – ask the boat owner if they’d like you to take off your shoes before boarding.

And, if they do allow you to wear shoes onboard, you’ll want wear the right shoes.

Boat shoes are more than just a fashion statement. Specifically, they have non-slip and non-marking soles. The last thing you, or your friends, need is to lose your footing on a slick deck or leave nearly indelible blemishes on their boat.

Dress for the elements Did you know that when you’re out on

the water, it can feel cooler than it is when you’re on land? Add in the wind in your hair if you’re on a powerboat, and things can be downright chilly if you’re not dressed right.

Take along extra towels, blankets, long sleeves, and/or other good layering options – for additional tips, be sure to read “Staying Warm on a Boat: The Do’s and Don’ts” at www.discoverboating.com.

Plan in advance if you’re prone to seasickness (or think you might be) Seasickness can affect even the most seasoned boater, so don’t be embarrassed if you start feeling unwell. Tell your friends.

They might have some anti-sickness medication or wristbands handy.

It often helps to take deep, measured breaths and keep your eyes on the horizon, too. Seasickness can lead to feeling disoriented, so best to try to stem it off if you

can.

Don’t be afraid to lend a hand A good boat guest volunteers to help with onboard tasks. If you know your way around boats, maybe you can ready the fenders, or hop off on the dock to tie up.

Curious about how the boat handles? Ask if you can take a turn at the wheel (read our step-by-step guide to driving a boat for some helpful tips).

Stock up on snacks and sunscreen Just as you might bring dessert or another dish to a friend’s home for dinner, do the same for the boat. Just make sure the food won’t melt in the sun or stain the onboard cushions.

Toss a bottle of sunscreen into your bag, too, in case anyone forgot; the water reflects the sun’s rays pretty strongly.

Be friendly and enjoy yourself, you’re boating!

A good boat guest also waves to the other boaters passing by. Boaters are friendly by nature, and everyone is out on the water to have a good time, after all. Regardless of who initiatives the wave, it’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

Source: www.discoverboating.com.

from top: Being a good guest when boating isn’t hard, it just takes some preparation and a healthy dose of courtesy. Being a good host involves the same principles; If you wear shoes on a boat, make sure you have the owners permission and have the proper footwear. Boat shoes are more than just a fashion statement, they have non-slip and non-marking soles.

STOCK PHOTOS The Breeze

Page 8

CHAIN O’ LAKES BREEZE

JULY 2021

• Wood • Aluminum • Polyvinyl • Cedar • Chainlink • Custom CONTACT US AND REQUEST

A FREE ESTIMATE

(847) 526-9300 FINANCING AVAILABLE Check Out Our Website Gallery at aronsonfence.com info@aronsonfence.net

ARONSON FENCE TEAM

Residential

372915

Commercial

Shingle Roofs

Metal Roofing

Flat Roofs

Gutters

Siding

Repairs Building Relationships One Roof At A Time

FREE ESTIMATES (815) 385-2621

We Recycle Roofing Material & You Save

Visit us at www.ambroofing.com 378326