To the Editor:

This is a challenge to everyone who does business with Stewart’s in Altamont.

After a long wait in the doctor’s office for a check-up after a hip replacement, I was famished and sent my husband into Stewart’s on our way home to get a sandwich. It was well past lunchtime, but we couldn’t find a place to park.

Did you ever notice how dangerous it is to approach Stewart’s, try to get in or out of Stewart’s, or find a spot to park or get gas? I sure did when stuck in the car waiting for that sandwich! We finally found a small space to wedge our car into next to the picnic table in the back. Now here is everyone’s challenge.

Park your car if you can within sight of Stewart’s for 15 minutes. Then share with readers what you saw. Let me be the first to report in.

The place was a zoo of people going in every direction. It’s just an accident waiting to happen on so many fronts. Folks zoom in and out, trying to find a spot for their cars. Grandchildren run earnestly in and out for that beloved ice cream.

Everyone is in a hurry. Workman are trying to grab a quick bite, while on the phone with clients, making their way in and out. There isn’t another place in Altamont so in demand.

How can we all, in good conscience, not approve changes that will help the folks in town?

It is truly for the betterment of all to allow Stewart’s the opportunity to bring us a place to go for much-needed things in a safe environment. Quite frankly, as it is now, it is not safe.

Yes, it will be hard on those who live near the improved Stewart’s but what is the better good for the greater number of folks? How do we keep our children and grandchildren safe while simply trying to get an ice cream?

The staff deserves the Medal of Honor for what they accomplish to keep us all happy. This is about more than my sandwich — obviously sitting there observing, I learned a lot. It’s about the greater good, in terms of safety and need, for the residents of Altamont. 

Sharon Dunham

Altamont