I do a double take and re-read his sign.
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At first I did what I am sure he expects most people to do. I read,
Help fight homophobia. 
"I love your sign," I tell him, and he uncovers his face for a better picture.
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He has friendly
trickster eyes, and his smile is engaging.
"Did you know that there is a $55 fine for panhandling?" He asks.
No, I didn't.
"Yup, there is. But, the cops were nice to me one night. They told me to go across the River to panhandle - they don't fine you there."
He pauses and then he laughs, "Ya, but they forgot to mention that they put you in jail."