Nine times out of ten I recognize them and won't give them anything. You see the same people on a daily basis and if they weren't making decent amounts of money they wouldn't be in the same spot for years. I also "stereotype", for lack of a better word. They claim to be homeless yet are wearing fresh clothes and are smoking a cigarette. For the ones who are truly homeless, they blow their money on tobacco and alcohol. I've had friends say, it's their choice to do as they want with the money, but I won't be a party to that. If I feel they truly need help I'll stop and get them a bite to eat but I typically don't give money; I have, but I typically don't.
The following is a response to what I thought you were initially asking, which is "What is there to do in the Panhandle?" I'm a guilty skim reader...
You know, I realize "the grass is always greener", but I've never understood why people love living here so much; or why tourists come here for that matter (Pensacola). Sure, the beaches are beyond beautiful compared to other parts of the country, but that's it. I've recently purchased a recreational kayak to take in the surf/river so hopefully that will keep me occupied this summer. Other than creating your own fun there just isn't much to do. Our mall is nothing special. There are no theme parks anywhere close (especially since Six Flags NOLA was destroyed by Katrina). There are no big retail outlets. Nothing. I've always said Pensacola is made up of either old historic parts, and ghetto parts. There truly aren't any new prospering areas. Maybe I'm just spoiled. I've always lived in nicer areas and landed a scholarship here when I graduated high school in 2008 so I won't be moving until I'm done.
