Although controversial, this commentary is not intended to deny anyone’s pleasures. Rather, it is to educate and create a community dialogue.

On Sunday, Sept. 8, I headed into town to pick up supplies. As I  drove, I was surprised by large numbers of motorcycles roaring down Wax Orchard. Horses, as startled as I, ran from the loud noise, and I wondered what was going on.

Approaching town, I saw that the numbers of motorcycles  increased dramatically. In Vashon center, I was overcome by wall-to-wall motorcycles, loud revving motors and no place to park close to my destination.

I had never witnessed this event during my brief time on the island and had no idea the Vintage Motorcycle Enthusiasts (VME) had chosen that Sunday as touring day. I was  shocked there had been no publicized announcement. From various sources, I learned 1,000 to 2,000 motorcycles toured our island that day.

I was in need of food and had to walk through groups of roaring engines lining my path. I had to scream to be heard over the noise.  Along my walk I saw churches in service and wondered how they could pray with the noise outside.

I called 911 to report excessive noise and learned we had no police presence in town. Further on, I came upon the motorcycle command center with maps of courses for the bikers to run around the island.

Suddenly, I developed symptoms of an impending anxiety attack due to the noise. I went to The Hardware Store Restaurant for food and to escape the cacophony. But the noise was still intense, so I left the restaurant without getting served. Increasingly anxious, I walked to my car, without needed supplies from True Value. I passed the Presbyterian church and collapsed into its hallway, needing peace. I was greeted by the pastor and another gentleman who listened to me vent, enabling me to find the strength to drive home and pull myself  together. For their loving support and attention, I am grateful.

The following day, disturbed by what I endured and could have avoided given adequate public notification, I started looking for answers. I learned the decibel level possibly exceeded acceptable levels already established in King County. Ordinance No. 14114 Section 10 B, defines public disturbance noise as “the creation of  frequent, repetitive sounds in connection with the starting, operation, repair, rebuilding or testing of any motor vehicle, motorcycle, off-highway vehicle or internal combustion engine so as to unreasonably disturb or interfere with the peace, comfort and repose of property owners or possessors of real property.” This ordinance covers rural areas in addition to more populated areas of King County.

From my perspective as a registered nurse of 29 years and a highly sensitive person, Vashon has a public health issue. Approximately, 10 to 20 percent of the general population is highly sensitive to stimuli. Excessive noise can be devastating to those who are sensitive. It can also activate PTSD, affect people on the autism spectrum scale and the mentally ill, leading to extreme volatility, depression, anxiety and other effects. It can terrify young children and traumatize animals, whose hearing is especially acute. For some, these negative effects can persist long after the noxious stimulus is removed. It can cause intense suffering.

I canvassed the Vashon population one afternoon after the event with a petition addressing the negative impact of the motorcycle day. Of the 50 interviewed, I received 25 signatures. The most eager to sign was a Special Forces veteran. I will never forget his passion. He told me the problem was very real and I was on the right path.

I hope the Vashon-Maury Island Community Council will discuss these issues with VME and the  community. I do not expect this tradition to be eliminated. I realize large numbers also support it, but I would ask for understanding for those who appreciate Vashon for its tranquility. Along with the vulnerable, I want to enable tourists with planned vacations to enjoy the peace this island brings to them. It was still summer with good weather, and many ferry waits that weekend were up to an hour. Did they all come for the motorcycle day? Or were many caught off guard as I was? Why is there no notice on this island? That is the mystery of motorcycle day.

To sign the petition I created, visit www.marycares.net.

— Mary Morse, a registered nurse and artist, lives on Vashon.