Random Observation in PS

Well, then, the guy might just be mentally unstable. Maybe he deserves a little compassion.

He looks like a young Rudy Giuliani.

I believe a relative of this gentleman posted a message threatening legal action against those who would disparage him. Be careful! 8-[

He was peeling locksmith signs of the gate where i work on Smith St. the other day and I asked him if was the same guy who does it in Park Slope, he completely ignored me, I think he is just an ass-hole.

Could be a meds issue (sometimes he seems more "there" than other times), but I still don't think he'd get violent against anything but inanimate objects. The woman who talks to herself and once assaulted a baby with her cigarette is back, I think she's a lot more concerning.

I still wouldn't mind if the guy took down billboards (nor would I mind some more 90 degree days!).

If he's going after signs with a knife and is pulling garbage out of bins, he's unlikely to be left alone for long. If he then becomes harmful towards others, I suspect 911 will be the result.

Well, I don't know Potter. I have it on good authority that the weekend is not an acceptable time to defend people from anonymous character attacks. But I'm no longer anonymous, so with snark now turned off let me say:

Anyone who remembers the "bad old days" (and make no mistake, we're heading that way again) should have developed the skill to asses potential threats, and gauge who represents a serious threat and who does not.

Working in the streets, and being someone who does remember New York in the 80's, I've seen some troubling signs lately. There've been a lot more thugs in every neighborhood, including the Slope. Twice last week I saw large groups of erratic teenagers going up and down Fifth Avenue, both times when I've worked into the early evening. The shelter systems have less funding and more demand. Other social support structures are experiencing similar stresses. In general, I think we're going to see a lot more "crimes of opportunity" (i.e. muggings, shoplifting, burglaries, etc).

So, since this thread was meant to be a public service announcement, I thought I would add my two cents in that vein. Be safe on the street: if someone (even the flyer-removing guy I think is harmless) makes you uncomfortable, keep your distance (but don't act nervous). If possible, stay off the streets late at night; if not possible try to travel in groups and in well lit, well populated areas as much as possible. Don't use cell phones in public unless you have to. Don't use headphones in public. Don't take the subway late at night, again if possible. Be aware of your surroundings at all times. And so on.

And Li'l ole Me? I'm glad we can disagree on some things and still maintain a good relationship. I didn't know who you are until you mentioned Stanley. I don't mind at all that you gave my name on the internet (and as far as I'm aware I'm the only Park Slope dogwalker with my very common first name). But I think it would have been courteous for you to ask me first if that was all right. For those that don't know me in three dimensions: I'm a lot more likely to post on here when I disagree than when I agree, and when I feel that I have something to add to a discussion which hasn't already been represented.

And yes, I know I'm very serious, probably to a fault.

hunter.gatherer, i think you should reread this thread. i didn't use your name, i don't know who you are. i'm not sure why you're directing your longer posting toward me because i was here defending the man who pulls down the flyers.

Ow man, why you got to be all snarky! Sheesh, I've lost all faith in the internets...

Oh Lord, when will the semioclasty end?