Unsolicited Advice: Quit Fishing!

We hate when people beg with nets at busy intersections. In so many ways.

Let’s say it’s for a good cause. And the uniformly dressed adults are all very careful and safety-minded to approach only drivers who are stopped and look interested in their cause. Let’s say they don’t step between moving cars. They don’t shake the nets in front of windshields. Our contention is even this creates a huge distraction. And that’s when the donation collectors exemplify the best possible behavior.

But so often we see the worst behavior: pushy, rude people trying to guilt us into giving them cash. Who thinks panhandling is socially acceptable? And don’t even get us started about the inherent danger in allowing children to hold nets and beg for money. And then there are the zealous charity groups who can’t even bother to wear team clothing or come up with decent signs. Seriously, a neat sign can be created on nearly any computer attached to a printer. So, what’s with those hand-lettered signs that make even the worthiest cause look sketchy? It’s only a matter of time before some enterprising thief sees those roadside cash collectors for what they are: opportunities. We don’t even need to pass a new law. Let’s vote against public begging by keeping our windows rolled up.