Bypass beggars

Begging has become a prolific and lucrative avocation in Miami. I overheard one beggar at Publix say that she makes a whole lot more money begging than she did flipping burgers.

I head to work at Ives Dairy Road and southbound I-95. A fat, shorts-wearing man waves, walking between the cars with his Styrofoam cup. I guess this is his job.

There is a man at the exit ramp of Ives Dairy Road. His sign says, “I won’t lie. I want the money for beer.” At least he is honest.

I also drive past the disabled man at Northwest Seventh Avenue and 119th Street, the Gratigny Expressway. The man ambles through traffic on his walker, begging. Sometimes he is accompanied by a similarly disabled woman.

This is disgraceful and downright dangerous. Miami drivers should not slow for anyone. The beggars put drivers in jeopardy. Isn’t there anything that can be done? With tourist season in full swing, let’s make a more positive impression.

This story was originally published December 7, 2016 at 6:07 PM with the headline "Bypass beggars."