I wonder how this applies to the bell ringers for the Salvation Army.

I was verbally harassed by a bell ringer when I walked past him from the parking lot into Krysiak's restaurant.

I know they get paid for their time of collecting money, but their presence does not obligate me to make a donation to them. And, in fact, I made a donation to SA directly by mail that year. But, I tell you, that guy had an attitude about me not donating. And, the bell ringers in general try to crack my eardrums with that bell ringing.

When Euclid was all torn up this summer and there were construction vehicles and blockades and the traffic was down to one lane there were still panhandlers--and I include the "official" ones such as Muscular Dystrophy and the Lions--out in force. I complained to the Bangor clerk and she said they had had other calls and complaints and were looking into an ordinance. The problem seems to be that the "official" charities seem to feel it's their right to run into the street and accost you while you're legally stopped at a light. I don't give to ANYONE who comes into the street seeking money. Someone is going to be hurt or even killed while they stand in the street seeking money for their charity. I read the comment by Mr. Finn that said "we don't want those people greeting visitors"--hmmm. I say ban all solicitation in the streets and control the panhandling outside stores by requiring permits.