By Bob Harris
Yes, I am pleased that the recently released statistics show that crime had dropped in the 107th Precinct for 1999. I do, however, seem to notice a concurrent increase in quality of life problems. Some of these could even be classified as crimes.
As I walk along the gutters of Fresh Meadows and other areas of Queens, I find it preferable to the sidewalks, which should be safer. In addition to cement slabs raised due to tree root expansion, I often see beer bottles, beer cans and liquor bottles on the ground. The bottles, some of which are broken, are often wrapped in paper bags, concealing them. I hate to think of people riding around our streets in their cars while drinking. I do pick the bottles up and then cash them in. I wonder if profiting on an illegal activity is in itself a dubious activity.
Another pet peeve of mine is people illegally backing in and out of streets, which can lead to accidents because it is unexpected.
I often yell at these people, some of whom don
