A reader writes:

Encountered him on NE Sandy Blvd. @ about 47th Street, probably about 1.5 - 2.5 weeks ago. It was definitely a weekend day, just can't remember now which one. I didn't know about him until I noticed the sidebar on your blog just now. I didn't give him any money, mainly because I didn't have any to give. I wouldn't have given him $20, but I might've given him a little bit of money if I'd been able. He certainly seems sincere, even if it gets harder and harder to imagine someone in the predicament he describes in this age of instant communications.

I guess the reason I'd have considered giving him a little cash despite my doubts is that, every once in a blue moon, it is worth a few bucks to believe that it is that easy to help someone out of a jam, and no great loss if he's not really in the jam he describes.

Anyway, thanks for the sidebar ... now I know it would've been money wasted on a guy who doesn't have the integrity to make a legit plea for help.