Audio By Carbonatix
The sun, the rain, the exhaust fumes from two-stroke diesel engine-powered scooters — those who sell flowers and distribute flyers on the street experience all of that and more. But this absolute ground-level capitalism has its allure too, from freedom from corporate overlords to a chance at eternal salvation. New Times spoke with some intrepid entrepreneurs in and around Miami.
Intersection of SW Eighth Street and 107th Avenue (Near FIU)
What’s your name?
Joe.
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Do you work with these other guys? [Four other people are selling candy at the intersection.]
Yes. We’re the ministry; we’re working for Jesus. We’re out here trying to help others who are dying on drugs and alcohol. We minister to people and tell them about Jesus.
So you use this money as sort of a donation?
Yes, it’s a donation that goes to support our ministry. This is how we support ourselves. We’re not government funded — yet.
How much do you make on a usual day?
Um …
An estimate.
What would you make on a good day?
What about together, as a group?
In a day?
Has anything bad ever happened to you while you were working?
Has anyone ever given you a large bill and told you to keep it?
Wow, that’s not bad for one day’s work.
Really? Like people in limousines?
What is your church called?
(Part Two: Later That Day)
Can you tell us your name?
How long have you been passing out flyers at this intersection?
Oh, okay, so you probably know Joe.
He sells M&M’s right over there.
Anyway, he said he can make $150 to $160 in one day. Does that seem reasonable to you?
Do you think Joe gave me a high estimate?
Do you think Jesus helps Joe sell more M&M’s?
Do a lot of people who work around here have egos? Is it a competition to see who can make the most money?
Do you think Joe has an ego maybe?
Do you think he really works for Jesus?
That’s true. Thanks for the interview, George. I really appreciate it.
Exotic flower market on U.S. 1 at Brickell Avenue
What’s your name?
How long have you guys been doing this?
Why did you guys start this?
Do you have a deal with the city or something?
How much is the license?
So you just give them a little of what you make?
What’s the most money you guys have made in a day?
What kind of money do you usually make in a day?
It’s about people who sell things outside, like small businesses. Are all of you guys from Nicaragua? Why did you guys decide to come here?
Did you experience any of this communist activity?
Did you have to go?
Has anything really crazy ever happened here while you were working?
Kendall Drive and 127th Avenue
What’s your name?
How long have you been selling flowers?
Two days? How do you like it?
How much did you make your first day?
What advice would you give to someone who wants to do what you do?
Have any girls tried to talk to you while you’re working?
Bird Road and Galloway Road
Okay, first, what’s your name? You don’t have to give me your real name if you don’t want to.
Okay, Lazaro. Is that your real name?
So what do you do?
What are they for?
How much do you get paid doing this?
How long is your average workday?
How many flyers do you usually pass out?
How many girls would you say have given you their number?
Do people compete with you to try to take over the spot?
Do they try to intimidate you?
Like snatch them out of your hands and run away? Are you saving your money to start your own business or something like that? What kind of business are you going to start?
What’s it going to be called?
That’s a good name.
