I recently went for a Sunday stroll in our lovely downtown/waterfront area. I had planned for myself and my companion to enjoy a nice walk and a good conversation. DIDNT HAPPEN. I understand panhandling is a way of life for some people and I gladly help you out when I can but FUCK when you step in front of me, yell at me or jingle your damn greasy tims cup in my face it pisses me off. We were interrupted more than a dozen times in our 2 hour walk/talk by someone wanting change. GET THE POINT.. If i had change and wanted to give it to you I would. Otherwise fuck off would ya and let me have a peaceful walk.. Where did all of these panhandlers come from anyway? Every city block is graced with one…
This article appears in Jul 24-30, 2008.
There are a ton more of them only because they’re not allowed to “work” for their money like they used to. There was a time in our city when they could offer to wash your car windows, and write you a poem or what not, but then we complained about that.. so it got taken away. Now the only thing they can do is ask for your money anyway, but they can’t even try to earn it unless they have a busking license.
Hear Hear Kate!!!But what’s a busking license and how do I get one? I’ve heard people say you need one but I can’t download an application nor see anything listed in the bylaws… confused.
I say rename N.S. licence plates: Nova Scotia, Canada’s Ocean Bum Walk.
how about the bum outside of a coffee joint on barrington street, with a sign says we’re hiring, and the bum has a sign spare change for beer and mary jane. i laughed my ass off at that one.
I know this is an old idea, but I’d still like to see the various governments sponsor work programs for panhandlers. There will always be those who can’t work (or won’t work, but I have no sympathy for them); those that are able and willing could be given the opportunity to make a living, and do some good for the community, maybe helping to clean public areas or giving directions to tourists from official government “help desks” set up around the city.
“The gay bar is that way… got a quarter?”