I am a proud citizen of Corvallis and have been all of my 40 years. I have seen many changes, most of which have greatly improved our beautiful town. One of these additions has been the implementing of bicycle lanes for those who choose to use alternative transportation. I remember when these weren't around and can honestly say they are an added plus to Corvallis.

Now because we have such a user-friendly town, especially around our campus, I wonder why many feel it is their right to travel on bike down sidewalks when perfectly ready and usable lanes, specifically designed and set aside for bikes that are less than a few feet from the sidewalks, are not used? I ask this for a reason.

On Tuesday, Nov. 4, I was exiting my place of employment, Dar's Barber Shop, when such a bicyclist ran me down, entangling me within her bike and giving me the attitude that SHE, not I, had the right of way on what is designed for pedestrians.

We have many older clients who come into our shop as well as many students from Oregon State University. Although this is the first that anyone has been hit in front of this business, there have been too many close calls to count.

My 16-year-old son pointed out one thing about some drivers in this town, and yes I have seen this; many inconsiderate drivers have crowded bicyclists on many streets throughout town. This is a campus where most people are either on foot or a bike, so why would there be any reason for perfectly good lanes to go to waste and travel down a lane of traffic NOT designated for bicycles?

So PLEASE: When traveling down 15th Street or any other road in town, drivers, give bicyclists three feet. Bicyclists, use the bike lanes. And everyone, remember: There is a vast mix of people using the sidewalks. I hope that I am (and will remain) the only person who will ever be injured by a bicyclist, and that courtesy will become the norm, NOT the exception.

Robin Moore is a barber in Corvallis.