Take the Lake Back from Americade.

The annual Americade event in Lake George Village is out of control. What started as a gathering of like-minded and responsible touring bikers has devolved into an unrelenting assault on the senses and environment, with local residents, visitors and many businesses having to contend with countless dangerous behaviors.

Originally a festival to celebrate the freedom of the road and the natural beauty that riders seek out and appreciate, the event -- willingly or not -- is now attracting an ever-growing cohort of undesirable individuals who contribute only noise and lawlessness. These offenders lack any appreciation for the priceless gem that is Lake George.

The event needs to revert to its prior purpose and form: 1. Eliminate the Block Party that is a magnet for menacing outsiders. 2. Place limits on attendees and area access 3. Significantly increase police checks on exhaust noise, speeds, and DUI.

There are many examples in the world today of the dire consequences of unchecked deterioration of quality of life. We cannot trade the long-term health of our magnificent lake for short-term profits for a few.