It's a major problem --- for some unknown reason people are choosing to walk in the streets, often right in the middle of the road, even when sidewalks are readily available. It's a real hazard for drivers, and for the pedestrians out on the roads, well for them it's a big accident just waiting to happen.

When a sidewalk is not available, of course pedestrians must walk in the road, but we would hope that they would have the wherewithal to walk very close to the curb, carefully watching for traffic. And if you know you are about to walk on streets without sidewalks, maybe you should consider bright clothing and/or reflective vests, for your own safety ... and maybe even carry a flashlight.

For those who choose the street over a sidewalk, we just don't know why you would wish to put yourself, your family and your friends in jeopardy. It just doesn't make sense at all. It really doesn't.

All of us in Great Neck are most fortunate to be part of such a beautiful, thriving, caring and safe community. Why take the biggest risk of all, your life?

Please, if you are out strolling our beautiful streets, take care and "take the sidewalk" whenever you can.

Each of us makes a difference and each of us is important. Do be careful!

- Wendy Karpel Kreitzman