In front of the media which was very attentive when Shepard Park Beach was closed July 4, 2009, because of the sewer spill, Mayor Blais reopened the beach iin a ceremony which included comments from the LGA, Fund for Lake George, and the Orkin, a parade of four antique wooden boats, the LGA Floating Classroom, live entertainment, and hot dogs and drinks for all.
As part of the opening ceremony, Mayor Blais made a toast to the Park using water taken from the Lake by lifeguards, then he, the Village Trustees, and the Public Works Director, Dave Harrington, drank the water. He commented on the improvements to the sewer line, the pumping station, and implements to keep ducks and birds away from the beach.
