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@Stealth83 : I have no issue with sports. I think all kids need to be part of a team. it's the unlikely chances of becoming pro that these kids and adults chase after that blows my mind. There are other opportunities and options for a career out there other than the NFL, NBA or rapper. The only issue is those other alternatives actually take getting an education as somewhat important.

@MalluGuy , @Inb0913 , @lyn0811 , @Stealth83 , @squidgirl : For what it's worth, when the activities include children, an example is being set. If we want to break the cycle of dishonesty and begging, then parents must teach honesty and responsibility. When children aren't involved, but you see a person walking up and down a feeder road, in the heat, for hours, you know they're able bodied enough to work. Mental capability and ability to cope with pressures of working for another person are hidden, but I suspect many on the corners choose to be there because it pays well.

@Stealth83 : Quality football equipment is very expensive. If I recall, a good helmet runs $300. These kids are in families that don't have that kind of money.
However, there are much better ways to raise money that don't include putting kids on a dangerous street corner- get sponsorships from local businesses, car wash, etc.... Just look at the Dawson discount cards- local businesses agree to give a discount. The cards sell for $20. The team generates the cards themselves so production costs are minimal and almost 100% goes to the team.
Sports are very important for kids not just to keep them physically active, but for the other lifeskills they get from it. I have no problem helping these families get the money they need, just do it in a responsible manner.

@DrewLundgren : For example there is a lady at the corner of telephone/35 and beltway 8 every morning that I see dancing for change. It's her job and she is there every morning. I just don't know how long her shift is.

@squidgirl : Worlds finest chocolates!!! $2 a piece and if you come to my house or office I promise to buy $10 worth.
worldsfinestchocolat e.com/

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@MalluGuy : My son played on a soccer team with Ed Opler's (the owner of World's Finest Chocolate) son. They are a good company. I love the chocolate bars.

They do this is the Galleria area as well. The police ran them off. I was over there shopping and saw them.. They go all over to get money.. its very sad.. Children services should be called to have the kids put in foster care and take them over from those horrible people.

Pitiful. Will pass this on. Saw folks one time at the Walmart on 35 and they got into a Mercedes.....

@MalluGuy : thank you for letting us know

@MalluGuy : Street entertainment is legal, while begging is not, so if she is providing entertainment that is legal. Street performers can make good money, but it is not easy. They can't sell merchandise without a license, but they can perform and get tips. The city of Houston does ban street performers except in the theater district. Not sure if Pearland bans busking or not.

I would just ignore them!

@MalluGuy : How do you know they are gypsies?

@Lyn0811 : I had a very young man come up to me inside the Krogers East side , and ask for money. I do not donate to these on the street have read too many stories. Nor do I donate to them in the grocery store.