With a sagging economy and astronomical gas prices causing everyone to think twice (or three times) about long distance car trips or air travel, this year many people are choosing to vacation close to home. For those of us who are fortunate to live in Great Neck, we can actually vacation right at home. The Great Neck peninsula offers a wealth of summertime outdoor activities for young and old alike.

Start with the Great Neck Park District. If you are lucky enough to live within the park district boundaries, your summer options are virtually unlimited. There's Parkwood's brand new pool facilities, wading pools, more tennis courts than we can count, park after park (often with scheduled activities), and the magic of Steppingstone with its park facilities, marina, and fabulous weekend shows. There are sports leagues and movies and daily children's activities. The park district keeps the fun going all summer long, with outdoor activities as well as indoor activities at Parkwood and at Great Neck House.

Many of the Great Neck villages and associations have their own parks, pools, tennis courts, summer programs, performances and concerts too. And Lake Success has its own golf course, as does the Town of North Hempstead. North Hempstead also boasts a private town beach, Bar Beach, where you can sun and swim. The public schools and nursery schools offer summer camp programs, and the arts center and the library also offer some special summer fun.

And, as ever, our school district, library and the Great Neck Arts Center all offer myriad opportunities for enjoyable enriching classes. The Arts Center, of course, always provides a fascinating wealth of exhibits and performances for all to enjoy.

So check the pages of the Great Neck Record, or simply call the park district, villages, school district, or any of the others we have mentioned, and get ready for a fun-filled summer. Remember, if this year's vacation is a no-travel vacation, you can find plenty to do right at home. We promise, you won't be bored!

- Wendy Karpel Kreitzman