I saw this guy in standing by the Amway Arena before the Rush concert on Tuesday evening. I couldn't help it, I had to snap a photo with my iPhone. I told the guy I'd give him a couple of bucks for the photo. He smiled and approved, but told me I'd have to come closer because he wasn't allowed to leave his area.
You see those little blue marks on the ground to his right? That's the designated panhandling area allowed in the City of Orlando. As long as he stays in that box, he can hold his sign and collect whatever money comes his way.
Generally, I don't want to be bothered with people begging for money. If his sign had said anything else, I probably would've ignored him. However, I admired his honesty and humor. The guy was genuinely nice and articulate, too. We talked briefly about Rush. He remembered seeing them for the first time in 1974 for $4.50. I paid $109.50 for my ticket that night. Times change.
Recently in Helping out Category
Orlando Style Magazine is holding it's annual Face of Orlando model competition. One of my friends, Allegra, is in the competition. She's working hard to get word out for votes, so I thought I'd help by posting the link here.
Allegra is model #3, the lovely redhead on the top right corner. As I write this, she's in second place. I'm hoping we can push her over the top.
It's up to you if you choose to vote. I don't have any idea who the other ladies are, but Allegra is one of the nicest people you could ever wish to meet.
Apparently, this contest had its rules developed in Chicago. You can vote as many times as you like.
The Orlando Sentinel Crime Blog has information for those who wish to donate money or blood to help Deputy Callin and to replenish blood bank supplies.
