Cathy :)

11/1/2002 3:20:35 PM

I find them to be agressive and dangerous panhandlers myself...

DPG

Thanks very much, Cathy. The goings-on and characters on the Venice Beach boardwalk are quite interesting, to say the least. A feast for the eyes.

And, yes Damian, I agree. They also don't like their pictures taken. Well, I take that back. They'll let you take pictures of them or their wares, but only if you pay them first!

That's why I took a picture of a sign and a bird -- they don't charge! LOL!

I agree and it's sad... I grew up in Venice and took my wife there for a visit and there were some beautiful sand sculptures.... When I took a picture, the guy almost jumped me for money and I barely avoided getting in a fight... Then there was the mobile police station and the gang bangers... Needless to say, we got out of there before it got dark!

Damian, don't know how long ago you were there on your visit, but during my visit a few months ago, there were indeed sand sculptures. But there was a sign saying you'd have to pay if you wanted to take pictures of them. I just find it hard to comprehend that anybody can charge you to take a picture of something that they have placed out in the open public!

Good to hear they've put up signs. If I go back, I'll be able to get some pix with my zoom!