Question #3:  We have a question.  One of our neighbors bought a pair of Personal Watercraft (Jet Skis for those of you wishing to maintain a high level of etiquette).  I know they have the right to use the lake just like we do, but can't they be more considerate of their neighbors who don't like the sound of these "water saws"?  One of their kids, I think he's about six years old, got on one last summer and circled and looped and looped and circled around in one place, right in front of our cabin for about five hours without stopping.  Later, I also saw other kids in this group chasing wildlife and driving through the bullrush weeds near the shore.  They like to have daily "peel-out" races where the two of them park idle at their dock and then, at a signal, they floor the throttle and head for the other side of the lake.  They sound like monster mosquitoes with attitudes!  I've just about reached the end of my rope, but I don't want to offend these people.  Should I talk to them about this activity?
 
Answer:  This is a difficult situation.  You may definitely need a longer rope!  Since many PWC operators are sensible, considerate types, you might just want to stand on your beach area with your hands on your hips and sneer at them for a while.  They'll get the message after a time, and with no hard feelings that often occur between lake residents with conflicting opinions on PWC use.  Another suggestion would be to invite the adult family members over for a drink while their kids are out buzzing around and tearing up the lake.  When they arrive, lower you voice to a breathy whisper so that they can hardly hear you speak over the noise of the jet skis.  When they have to ask you to repeat everything twice, you can gradually raise your voice to a loud scream to overcome the sound of the PWC's and they may eventually get the message.  If not, sell and move to Florida.
 

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