Right on Red

Making a right turn on a red light is standard driving practice in just about every city in the United States except New York and perhaps two other places. From the motorist’s standpoint, it makes sense. It saves time and improves traffic and perhaps fuel efficiency. For pedestrians, it would be fine too, if more drivers came to a complete stop and yielded to people on foot before turning. Too often though, motorists are preoccupied yielding to oncoming traffic, making cell phone calls and eating breakfast to notice anyone on foot. Even pushing my large stroller and grocery bags with my 16 year-old dog in tow, motorists have failed to notice me at intersections. When cars do stop completely before turning, they take up most of the crosswalk. The brief time allotted to pedestrians to cross an intersection with signals often means crossing between cars, walking into traffic, or in my case waiting for the light to change and trying again when it seems safe. Pedestrians have to be patient, because too frequently, motorists are in a hurry.

Fall Foliage in Full Bloom

October is a great time to take in some local color. Just last week, we were relishing the warm and vibrant array of reds, rusts, and yellows outside our windows. This week, we are rediscovering our great view of the local Papa John’s. The and heavy rains have washed away most of the leaves and even the soft carpet of foliage lining the streets. The strong winds and irksome leafblowers took care of the rest.