I wanted to acknowledge Robert Smith who was selling Real Change outside of Elliott Bay Books last Thursday. When I went into the store with my 3-year-old grandson, Mr. Smith gave us a very friendly hello and offered to help me up the stairs with the carriage. I thought, “When I get some change from my purchase, I will buy a paper.” As I was paying for my purchase, the grandson escaped from my husband and ran out the door right toward the street. I didn’t see this. Just saw him rush back in. I realized that didn’t happen by accident, and I was right. Mr. Smith remembered him and knew this was wrong and sent him back inside. Needless to say, I am incredibly grateful for Mr. Smith’s vigilance and caring. He didn’t frighten the child but he quickly and wisely solved the situation, saving the child from serious potential harm. Thank you, Mr. Smith. You are my Real Change vendor from now to eternity.
— Christina Cahall