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Letters to the EditorsWalking downtown is an exercise in danger© St. Petersburg Times published March 6, 2002 Having been a "foot commuter" from home to work in St. Petersburg for more than a year, I have observed that current traffic regulations are not adequate to ensure the safety of those attempting to walk downtown. Mostly because of poor driving habits and total defiance of traffic laws, you take your life in your own hands trying to cross any street. Some of the worst places involve Interstates 175 and 375. Fifth Avenue S between Fourth and Second streets is an especially dangerous area for "foot commuters." First, those who are speeding as they leave I-175 have little opportunity to slow to the limit of 35 mph for Fifth Avenue S. As a consequence, many drivers pass through the "stop" lights at both Fourth and Third streets, irrespective of the light's color or "obstacles" in the crosswalks. The danger increases when a driver turns right on Fourth Street or turn left at Third Street. The six second walk signal at these four-lane streets is a challenge for even the fittest person, as attempts are made to dash across the crosswalk before being a target for an impatient driver (who, with turned head, is looking at oncoming traffic in hopes of completing the turn without performing a complete stop). We need additional signs at many of our intersections to remind drivers that the pedestrian has the right of way. (And if a pedestrian is already in the crosswalk, don't hit him!) Twice in six months, I've had to demonstrate my best stunt person "rolling off the hood of a car" maneuver as the motorists were distracted by oncoming traffic, cell phones, etc.
Wallet returned at Dali MuseumAfter a recent busy day as a tourist visiting interesting places, I ended up at the Salvador Dali Museum and spending a little money in the souvenir shop, where I lost or forgot my wallet. The next day when I was ready to go out, I was frantic, looking everywhere for that wallet, which contained three credit cards and $65, but no address or photo ID. Finally, in despair, I called the Dali Museum, and yes, someone had brought it to the admission area. Nothing was missing. If that someone is reading this, I want to say an enormous "thank you." It was a great gesture.
When car stalled, two men helped My friend and I would like to thank two caring and wonderful men who stopped and helped us when our car stalled on Fifth Avenue and 16th Street in St. Petersburg on Feb. 28. They were truly our guardian angels. Again, thanks a lot to Chris and Doug. We will always remember you.
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