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day's work of anchoring buoys for Whether one is speeciiiy cutting gj through choppy waters or leisurely - gliding along a glassy waterway, there is « nothing quite like boating. 5 However, in order to fully enjoy this in- a vigorating activity and become a respon- < sible navigator, it is a good idea to | become informed about the regulations 3 and safety tips for boating in this state. _ "I think a lot of people go out to buy a J boat and the salesman says, 'If you can < drive a car, you can drive a boat,"' said Frank Novack, McHenry Locks Super­ visor. "That's probably true mechanical­ ly. But you don't know the rules of boating just because you know highway laws." The number of people who die or are in­ jured every year in boating accidents is quite high. The latest statistics show that approximately 1,200 people across the country were killed last year in boating mishaps. The most common causes of accidents are: (1) the engine is too big or too heavy; (2) overloading; (3) riding on decks or gunwales; (4) damage from wakes; (5) operating in a reckless man­ ner; (6) operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol; (7) explosion and fire during fueling and (8) gasoline leaks or spills. Small, open boats are involved in more fatal accidents than any other type of watercraft. Some mistakes small boat owners make are: taking the boat into waters which are too rough; overloading the boat with passengers or equipment and standing up and falling overboard. Before casting off, a boater should make preparations for the trip. Make sure that the following is confirmed before leaving the dock: < l) safety equip­ ment including anchor, line and distress flag are aboard and accessable; (2) there is a U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device (PFD) for each person on board, plus some throwable devices on vessels 16 feet or longer; (3) the lines are coiled and out of the way; (4) there is am­ ple fuel in tanks; (5) paddles and oars are on board; (6) lights and whistle are in working order; (7) weather report is safe for boating; (8) propeller is clear of weeds and rocks; (9) the motor safety chain is attached to the boat and (10) the skipper is alert and sober, aware of regulations. Another reason accidents can occur is because some boaters may not follow the "rules of the road." Sailboats and rowboats generally have the right of way. Motorboats should steer clear of them since their wake can create a hazard. If a boat is approaching the driver's right or starboard side from dead ahead to approximately 112 degrees toward his stern, it has the right of way. It is the driver's responsibility to avoid a colli­ sion. If the driver is backing up, the stern becomes a bow, and the same rule for right of way applies from his stem. Boaters should head into waves or a wake at about a 45 degree angle so that their watercraft climbs and rolls over the bumpy water. They should not run parallel to waves or back into them. Boaters should be careful to watch out for submerged rocks, logs and other underwater hazards. TTiey should keep a sharp eye out for ripples and choppy areas, as these often indicate the A , * Rules of the waves for safe, fun Ming McHenry Lock Supervisor and some helpers finished a the summer boating of 1985.1 Novack teaches a boat safety course in his spare time. SEPTEMBER'S DINING an intimate, elegant restau- September's... Crystal Lake's Touch of Elegance 815-459-2660 6305 Northwest Hwy., Crystal Lake, IL SEPTEMBER'S BANQUETS September's presents tour ot the most elegant function rooms with over 5.000 sq. feet of flexible space. Up to 350 people can be accom­ modated for the most prestigious gatherings and corporate meetings. From the comfortably appointed banquet foyer, three large brass doors i n v i t e g u e s t s t o t h e i r s p e c i a l gathering The Hawthorn Room Complete with private bar, can ac­ commodate up to 200 people. Brass accents with elegantly set tables give forth a shimmering, rich atmosphere. The Oak Room Especially designed for meetings & business luncheon/dinners, provides comfortable seating for 15-50 people. The Walnut Can accommodate up to 150 people. Chocolate brown carpeting with re- flexing light from the center brass fix ture presents a warmth throughout. For the largest of gatherings, The Walnut Room opens to join The Haw thorn Room. September's is an intimate, elegant restau­ rant complimented by its banquet facilities and nightclub. Established in a well known location for fine cuisine and entertainment. . A mood of elegance and intimate dining em­ erges from the greenery kingdom. Private booths, etched glass and romantically adorned tables combined with a service oriented staff provides the perfect dining experience. September's menus feature continental cui­ sine accompanied by an exciting wine list. A complete range of elegant dishes to suit every palate is available, all at affordable prices. Ex­ quisite Chateaubriand, Fresh Seafood or Prime Steaks may be preceeded by a tempting appe •izer. September's specials delight the gourmet diner nightly.Flaming desserts prepared table- side complete the finest dining experience. Sun­ days feature a Buffet Brunch. SEPTEMBER'S NIGHTCLUB The interior features chrome and mirrored walls. The large island bar combined with elevated table seating insures a good view of the live entertainment featured 6 nights per week. A stainless steel dance floor adds the special personality to September's Nightclub. Every Tuesday and Thursday is Ladies Night featuring 2 drink coupons and $1.00 drinks (beer, wine & well) for the ladies. Septemb­ er's has satellite T.V. for sporting events and Happy Hour, Monday thru Friday, 4 to 7 pm with hors d'oeuvres and half-priced drinks. Nightclub: Sun.-Thurs.; 11am to lam Fri.&Sat.: 11am to 2am Located off September's main lobby, the Nightclub Offers relaxation in a well known location.