It is easy to give the impression when writing for this column that one is a dedicated curmudgeon, complaining about the traffic, the litter explosion, the rudeness of some folks and on and on. So it seems only fair to balance the carping with some compliments because there are many things of beauty and value right here in Great Neck.

Recently, we attended the last concert of the Great Neck Arts Center's Salon series for this season. Featuring ''The Spirits,'' a brass, reed, percussion and string jazz combo from Columbia Teachers College who indeed played spirited and innovative arrangements of classical music and jazz, "strange bedfellows," the afternoon was a thing of beauty. It was enhanced by the setting, the lovely and gracious home of Laura and Scott Danoff and by seeing friends and neighbors tap their feet to the complex rhythms. The intimate backdrop for first-rate music so close to home is an unbeatable combination. Give a second thought to the Salon Series when it is offered again.

If you have not visited the Rose Garden that is nestled between Great Neck House and the Beach Road Park District Administration Office, put this paper down and trot right over. As we go to press, the bushes are lavish with roses and the scent is haunting. The majestic bearded irises are spent now, but the peonies are laden down with blooms. Commissioner Ruth Tamarin led the way in re-energizing the garden with the invaluable help of the Great Neck Garden Club members. Strolling through the restored garden is a boon to any wearied spirit.

If you prefer a brisk walk to a gentle amble, run right over to Kings Point Park, another gem that is sometimes taken for granted. While the 110-acre park has playing fields in constant use now and many popular picnic areas, if you would like some solitude, there are winding trails through the woods along side a meandering stream and sunny knolls strewn with wildflowers. It is a bird watchers haven, especially this time of year as the last wave of spring migrating birds fly by.

The public school concerts are other nuggets of gold that should be mined. How many school districts sponsor full-fledged operas, music staff recitals or original compositions and arrangements in concert? If you are missing out on these excellent performances, you should treat yourself. The community is welcome at the many musical and theater events that showcase our homegrown talents.

Or sit on a bench, thoughtfully provided by the Great Neck Library, at the edge of Udall's Cove at sunrise and watch the muted colors become triumphant as graceful egrets and herons wing over to begin their fishing duties for the day. When the library opens, step inside and lose yourself in the beauty of the written word or watch a mother read a story to a little one who is enraptured.

There are things of beauty all around us. Cherish them.

-Carol Frank