re: Experience with "Street Folk"

the worst thing to do is even give them a chance to start a conversation. I was walking on Poydras too that night on the way to dinner and some guy began to approach us for money. I told him no before he could get two words out.

Your story seems to be anomaly though. Usually most of "them" are polite and go their own way after being rejected. I wouldnt worry too much.