Date: Sat, 21 Jan 2017 12:48:52 -0500
From: JOHN C <jfamcam@gmail.com>
Subject: Pops & Josh Installment X

This story contains sexually explicit scenes of a boy discovering his
Sexuality with an adult male. If this sort of things offends you, you are
under 18, or is illegal in your location, leave now.

Be advised that this is a work of pure fiction. Any resemblance to persons
living or dead is coincidental. Also all locations mentions herein are
fictional.

I love to hear from readers. Comments or criticisms may be sent to
Jamcam@Gmail.com

Please donate to Nifty.org at http://donate.nifty.org/donate.html. Your
donation will allow stories such as this to be published.

***************************  Installment X ******************************

Pops, Josh, Jennie, Billy and Becky were all loaded up in the van for the
homes for the homeless meeting. Jesse, Val and his dad followed in Jack
Harvey's car.  The meeting went very well. Father Rick, Luke, Mr. Tully
(the city councilman) and Mrs. Banks from homeless social services and all
the tradesmen really liked Jesse's idea for the stepped trailer 2 bedroom
apartments with solar energy. When they heard the expected cost they were
astonished; it was so low. Jack Harvey said the biggest single expense
would be the demolition of the existing building. Finding land fill sites
that would accept demolition refuse was not easy and those that existed
charged a small fortune. Derrick asked if that could be lessened if a lot
of the demolition like gypsum wall material was done by workers. Jack said
actually there could be a big saving if workers pulled the copper & steel
piping as there was a big salvage market for that material. Luke thought
homeless folks could help out with that work as well as finish work
(painting, molding, stuff like that.) Jesse, Josh, and Derrick all the
young people said that the kind of work they could do with the homeless
people. The council man was concerned by the type of person who would get
the housing. Josh and Luke spoke up.. that most of the homeless were not
drug addicts or criminals but people who got a hard break in life. Josh
said of course there should be rules for the house, like no drugs and being
in a work training program of some type. Billy chipped in that the work
training program was what got him and his mom out of the shelter with the
help of Jack Harvey and Pops. Jack said Annie was an extremely valued
worker in his company and it was one of the best decisions he had ever made
and he was going to call Luke when another vacancy opened up.  Mrs. Banks
raised the question, everyone was concerned with, of financing.  Jack
Harvey said he could come up with a detailed estimate but expected the
project to be under a million dollars, more like $750,000.00. Luke said the
cost to city for a single person in the shelter system was about $35,000.00
a year. Mrs. Banks agree with that cost.  So at maximum capacity of 20
people the saving of $700,000.00 for the shelter system would just about
pay for itself in the first year certainly it would be paid off in the
second year. The solar electricity should be enough to keep the building
off the grid and supply heat, hot water and air conditioning by using air
pumps. The cost to run the building would be practically nothing. Everyone
was real enthused especially Mr. Tully and Mrs. Banks. They said they would
need a firm estimate of the cost and then take it to the city
council. Mr. Tully felt strongly that that he could get the city to finance
the project and if successful a whole bunch more going forward. Luke joked
" I got 2 kids to feed -- Do you think I should be looking for a new line
of work." Mrs. Banks said not to worry he would always have a job with
her. So homes for the homeless was officially launched.

The next week or so was filled with work on the project. Jesse, Val and his
dad developed cost analysis, Josh, Billy, Jeanie and Becky were working on
a criteria and questionnaire for selecting the homeless participants. Drug
tests were a big part of the screening process as well as being in a work
training class so they could support themselves once in the new apartment.
Father Rick, Derrick and the youth group were working on fund raising
ideas. Luke, Mr. Tully and Mrs. Banks were working on getting the city's
approval to use the building site and secure funding for the project. The
goal was to at some point to return the building to a revenue (real estate
taxes) producing property.  The bureaucracy and accounting was never
ending. One greedy official wanted to know who was going to pay the back
taxes due on the building.  It was decided that the property could be
foreclosed on by the tax department. They then would sell it to the
homeless agency. The homeless agency would use a bond initiative to secure
financing for the building. The city council and the mayor had to sign off
on the bond initiative. The building department had to review the plans to
make sure the building would meet code. To put up the building required a
variance to the zoning laws which meant that the neighborhood would be
canvassed to approve the project. For sure Luke, Mr. Tully and Mrs. Banks
had their hands full.

The next meeting had Jesse and Jack Harvey deliver their detailed cost
estimate of $743,562.00. Mr. Tully said that was a reasonable number.  Jack
said the real cost saving was in building the units off site in a
controlled environment as well as the inexpensive shell of the old
trailers. Mr. Tully was sure he could get the council to approve .

Mr. Tully, Mrs. Banks and Luke went before the council. Hard questions were
asked and answered. What assurances could the agency give that the property
would be revenue producing going forward. Luke took that one. "Members of
the council we really don't know the future. I mean if any one of us could
predict the future I expect we would run out to the race track and earn our
living there. However this I can say. We have had very good results on our
work training programs. Feedback indicates that close to 90% of those who
complete the courses get jobs and become productive members of
society. These people do not want charity. They want to work and pay their
fair share.  The agency will provide free rent until the client is working;
once that happens rent will be expected and paid at 30% of their
income. Clients will be screened to insure drugs are not an issue and
draining resources from the clien; that should be going back to the
agency. Single people on disability will live 4 to a unit and 30 % of their
disability will go for rent. I expect the property to be able to pay
property taxes and be making mortgage payments after the first 2 years of
operation. The benefits are huge; the city gets 20 people out of the
shelters saving $700,000.00 a year and gets a taxable producing property
that pays off the mortgage to build the property plus get the public
relations benefit and you go to sleep knowing you have helped 20 people
restore their lives." With that Luke sat down. Mr. Tully congratulated Luke
with a "WELL SAID". Then the council voted. The approval to proceed with
the project was unanimously approved.

Luke had Josh help with the screening process. Sweat equity was expected
and given as the clients with the help of the youth group as well as Josh,
Billy, Jesse, Jennie, Becky, Val and Ty all worked to clean out the
building salvaging copper pipe and wire. Cake sales and dinner fund raisers
were held so lunches and refreshments could be had by the workers. Josh got
coach Mathews to agree to a charity game against Derrick and his team.

Tickets were $5.00 a piece and they drew a crowd of over 500. The small
St. Francis Gym was packed to the rafters. It seemed all rooting for their
CYO champs. The small contingent of Hopewell team family & friends were
easily drowned out by the enthusiastic St. Francis supporters. The stands
exploded when St Francis scored and a few weak cheers were heard went
Hopewell scored.  Derrick, Paul and all the St. Francis player were a tough
scrappy team. Derrick matched up well against Jesse in the low post and
Paul knew what to expect from Josh. The Hopewell high team, although state
champs, were in a tough fight. Time and again Josh went to feed Jesse in
the post only to have a quicker Derrick front Jesse and steal the ball for
a fast break. Down 8 points at the beginning of the 3rd quarter coach
Mathews decided to bench Josh for Bobby Edwards and go to the trap
defense. It worked well and Bobby was able to get Hopewell back in the game
and up by 2 points by the end of the quarter. The St. Francis coach saw
what was happening and made adjustments to pass over the trapping
press. Half way through the 4th quarter, again St Francis was up by 5
points. Coach Mathews called time and substituted Josh for Bobby. "Jesse on
offense you are going to set screens for Josh out at the 3 point line and
Josh you are going to get free and hit your shots. That kid Paul, might be
a friend but not now; not in this game. If Derrick switches to you, Josh
then look to Jesse rolling to the basket. Jesse you gotta hit your shots
over Paul."  Coach Mathews' strategy worked well and Hopewell had closed to
1 point at the 1 minute mark. Josh had hit 2 - 3 pointers and passed to
Jesse for 2 lay in's over Paul. At the 40 second mark Derrick missed a jump
shot but was fouled by Jesse.  Derrick made 1 of the 2 free throws.
Hopewell was now down 2. On the rebound Josh and Jesse both raced up the
court beating Derrick and Jesse got Hopewell even at the 20 second
mark. Paul in bounded to Derrick who was trapped in the corner by Mutt and
Josh. Derrick passed to Paul who took a long 2 point jumper. He scored, the
stands went crazy there was 8 seconds left. Coach Mathews called his last
time out. Hopewell now down 2.  Just like the game against Madville coach
asked who wants the last shot. They all looked to Josh.

"What do you think Josh" coach asked.

"I don't know coach." Josh replied

"How about the old triple screen, we haven't run that yet."

"It'll be close coach not much time"

"Well Josh you are just going to have to run faster"

"Want me to run for ya " Bobby Edwards asked

"Ok , these guys aren't gonna mug be. I'll be fast as lighting"

They all laughed knowing Josh was a great player but lost every race in
practice.

Bobby in bounded the ball at half court to Josh then ran to set the 3rd
screen. Josh raced past passed Jesse and Paul bounced off Jesse like a
rubber ball. But Derrick switched to cover Josh everyone knew Josh was
going to take the last shot. Josh ran Derrick into unmoveable Mutt and Josh
was free behind Bobby. The shot went up the horn sounded the end of the
game. For the second it took for the ball to get to the basket the gym was
eerily silent. Josh ran up the court. He never stood and watched. The ball
hit the back rim then the front rim and then fell though. A ghostly sigh
went out from the St. Francis fans. The 30 or so Hopewell rooters let out
as big a cheer as they could. Josh was mobbed by his team mates. Derrick,
Paul and the rest of the St. Francis team came over to Josh.  Derrick said
"Dang you're good"

Typically Josh said, "Wow you and your whole team played great. What a game
!!"

Congratulations and hand shakes and hugs were given all around. Father Rick
came to center court and thanked all the players for a very thrilling and
exciting game.

He said " All you that came to the game I want to thank you as well and you
sure did get your money's worth. It was a game that neither team deserved
to lose.  You know when I was a kid growing up in Brooklyn I rooted for a
baseball team, the Brooklyn Dodgers who seemed to lose to the Yankees every
year in the World Series. We had a saying at the end of each season. It was
" Wait till next year."  Well, Hopewell you played a great game but
... wait till next year Hopewell ."

After the game the youth group and their parents had arranged a little
barbeque with burgers and hot dogs; chips and salad. Girl friends dished
out food to boyfriends. Talk center around the game and the home for the
homeless project. Girlfriends found boyfriends after the clean up. Ty and
Billy held hands in public for the first time. The big stereo was brought
out for music. The late spring evening was mild even hot in the city. Some
boys took off their shirts after getting sweaty from dancing. Billy and Ty
slow danced together. Annie found out that her son was gay. The words of
Pops came back to her."If he is gay make sure you love and accept him all
the more. There are those who'll be mean to him. Don't you be one."  She
turned to Nathan Stewart "My son has a boyfriend."

Nat said "It is what it is. I think my boy might be gay too. It makes me
want to love and accept him all the more. Being gay shouldn't make a life
any harder but with a lot of people it is an issue. But it's not an issue
to me."

Annie turned and kissed Nat and said, "I love you." It was the first time
she said it. It felt good.

Nat kissed her back and said, "I love you too. This is such a great
night. I feel like one of those teenagers over there. Dance with me." So
they joined Ty and Billy; Josh and Jennie, Jesse and Val, Jack and Karen
Harvey. Becky grabbed Pops exclaiming "gosh girl I haven't done this is 30
years."

 Bobby Edwards asked to cut in. An out of breath Pops thanked him
immensely. Becky was dancing with one of the stars of the basketball team
Bobby thought he was dancing with the prettiest girl there.  Bobby heard
about what Josh said to Jennie. While they were dancing he half whispered
"Not now dummy; calm down" Becky asked what he was saying.

So cool Bobby asked "did I say something "

"Sounded like not now dummy calm down"

"Oh jeeze, I did say it out loud. I'm sorry Becky. I'm so embarrassed."

"What are you babbling about Bobby"

"Ok I'll come clean. Stupid as I am I sometimes talk to my boy parts"

Becky eyes lite up with the biggest smile on her face, "You mean you were
talking to umm your umm "

"Well he is like at attention and it's not time to do anything like baby
making. It's kind of embarrassing and uncomfortable "

Becky laughed and then hugged Bobby big time and kissed his cheek.

"Awhh he is never gonna calm down now"

While continuing to slow dance with Bobby, Becky wrapped her hands around
his neck and kissed him again this time on the mouth. Her tongue penetrated
and probed his mouth then she sucked Bobby's tongue out of his mouth into
hers. She let her hand slide down between them and felt his crotch. There
was a hard, hard piece of wood there. Bobby was passing out from lack of
air. His boner was ready to explode. Becky rubbed it once, twice and a
third time. Bobby let loose. Becky held him tight with two hands around his
chest. Her perky young breasts almost penetrating him.  Bobby was weak
first from the kiss and then from his organism. She held him up and
whispered in his ear. "I like boy parts especially when they are excited."
Bobby kissed her cheek, nibbled on her ear and neck. Put his head next to
her head and whispered. "Will you be my girlfriend." Becky kissed him again
and said" yes". The song was over. Bobby asked "Will you walk in front of
me while I go to the boys room. I mean you kind of got stupid down there to
make a mess."

"Why Bobby what are you saying"

"Come on Becky, please"

"Ok but don't say I made him make a mess. Can't you control him."

"I'm trying but I guess I need more practice. Will you help me sometime?"

"Yes Bobby I'll help you, now you follow close. You should wear darker
color pants then the dampness won't show as much"

"Thanks, I'll go shopping tomorrow"

Bobby made to the boys room without incident. Josh was there taking a
leak." Hey bud you really got into it with Becky."

"Yeah , she is one hot girl; jeeze she made me cum in my pants."

"Really." Josh said laughing.

"Come on Josh this is serious. How am I gonna clean up Josh."

"Go in the crapper and take your pants and underwear off. You're going to
have to go commando the rest of the night. Take some toilet paper and clean
up the cum as best as you can. I'll give your undies to Pops. He'll wash
them for you and you can pick them up tomorrow. Make sure none gets on your
pants."

"Thanks Josh, hey don't tell anyone about this."

"Nah, who would believe that one of Becky's kisses could make the great
Bobby Edwards cum in his pants."

"Josh !! "

"Just teasing buddy; I had to get one tease in before I put it out of my
mind." Josh took Bobby's cum stained under ware and put them in his
backpack. Inspected his friend and said "You're all good no stains down
there. Now control yourself, don't recharge. Just hold hands or something."
Leaving the boys room Becky was waiting outside. Josh smiled and said "Hi
Becky, be a good friend and no more kissing Bobby tonight. You have some
kind of spell over him."

Becky smiled and said "Why Josh what do you mean"

"Just be his friend, Becky "

"I understand Josh. I won't get him all excited again and have him be
embarrassed."

The game and the dance and the barbeque was a great success. All the kids
wanted to do it again. Father Rick said he would think about it, knowing
his St. Francis team would like another crack at the Hopewell team. But
short of breaking Josh's legs he couldn't see anyway for them to come out
on top. He had watched Josh as a grammar schooler and now as a high
schooler. He searched his memory to find one game Josh had lost. The kid
never lost. He said to himself I guess I am blessed to have seen him play.

In a matter of 2 weeks the building was gutted with all the help from the
clients and the teenagers; then another week for the
demolition. Construction for the core tower was started. 3 months latter,
the first trailer home was placed on it's pad followed quickly by the other
4 spiraling up and around the tower. Summer followed spring, the high
schoolers devoted their summer vacation to the homes for the homeless
project.  The clients and the teenagers did the painting and helped with
the electric and plumbing under the watchful eyes of the St. Francis
tradesmen. Ikea brought a trailer load of furniture as well as cabinets,
counters and vanities. Ikea asked if they could film the delivery for
public relations benefits. Being as they provided everything at cost it
seemed the least the agency could do. There was a ton of assembly, all grew
weary. Along the way Father Rick kept watch over his young volunteers and
just like Sunday was declared a day of rest Father Rick declared one day a
week as a fun day. He took his hard workers to the beach and amusement
parks, to the hated Yankee ballgames. The kids liked it best when they
could just relax with each other and do barbeque and volleyball and
softball games followed by a dance in the St. Francis parking lot. By
keeping up the morale of his volunteers the work stayed on schedule.  The
Grand Opening of the first "home for the homeless" was scheduled for the
second Saturday of September. That way the teenagers who had worked so hard
and now back in school could be present.

In the planning for the Opening the mayor thought it would be nice if one
of the teenagers that put in so hard work said something. Farther Rick
called Josh, Jesse and Derrick together.

 Jesse said "Josh gives great speeches, Father. You should have heard him
at our championship basketball rally "

 Derrick said "yeah it was him and the coat drive that started all this. He
should do it."

"Well Josh, I guess you are elected." Father Rick exclaimed.

"If I'm gonna do this; I want you guys to help me prepare the speech. I'll
give it and Father there might be some people that don't like what I say."

"How's that Josh"

"I'll tell the truth about how the banks steal people's houses and stuff
like that."

"HMM I see well as long as you are factual and truthful I say go get them,
son."

"Will do Father, hopefully we can wake some folks up about what causes
homelessness. Jesse, Derrick will you guys help."

"Yup we're all in and I bet we can get the girls and Billy to help to."
Jesse said.

Derrick said "It will be hard for me to get to Jersey but I'll do whatever
you want from here and the kids in the youth group will help too."

"Alright the first thing we have to do is come up with a list of
topics. Then we'll share the research on them and maybe get some of the
homeless folk to share some of their experiences ."

Derrick said, "Me and some of the youth group can go over to the shelter
and get stories from the folks there. Do you think we should record them?"

"Great idea Derrick. If they don't mind being recorded I say do it." Josh
said.

"Sounds like you guys are off to a good start so I'll tell the mayor you'll
do a little speech."

"Sure Father just don't tell about what I'm going to say. Really you don't
know because I don't even know. Derrick you can send your stuff by email;
you use MS word don't you."

"I do. So we're set here. I get on the topics latter today."

Pops took Josh and Jesse back to Jersey. "So what are you guys gonna do the
speech on."

Josh replied "I think the banks, disability, jobs and the army."

"I think you are leaving out, one very important topic."

"What's that", Jesse asked.

"Healthcare boys, healthcare, in this country, we are a healthcare for
profit system. So if someone gets seriously sick they often go bankrupt
trying to pay off the doctors and hospitable. It is the biggest cause of
bankruptcy by far. "

"Really, I didn't know that, Pops." Josh said.

"Look it up, son."

"Jesse said "I want to research that one. Can I get Val to help?"

"Sure, go for it, Jess"

Pops asked, "do you think you guys should come up with some kind of a
name."

"Yeah Pops, I think so." Jesse said.

"How about "Crusaders Against Homelessness ?" Josh's genius brain replied.

"You nailed it again, Josh. What do you think Pops."

"Real good, so Crusaders you'll be."

The teens only had a week to do the speech and all the research. They all
put it as a priority even ahead of home work.. Now that school started;
teachers asked why they didn't have their assignment done. The teens were
hesitant to explain and were getting detention. Finally, Josh went to
Mrs. Martin to explain. He told all about the homes for the homeless
building that they helped to put up and the mayor of New York City was
going to be there and he wanted the speech to make people aware of all the
good people that were forced to be homeless.  We kind of call ourselves
Crusaders against Homelessness.

Mrs. Martin was flabbergasted to be sure. She was also very, very proud
that students from her school had undertaken and completed such an immense
project. She asked Josh who was involved.

"Well Billy and Jennie and Jesse and Val and Becky here and Derrick and the
whole youth group at St. Francis." Josh explained.

Mrs. Martin wrote a note to each of their teachers saying home work
assignments for the group could be handed in up to 2 weeks late due to
their involvement in an important civic project. "Do you think you'll be
able to catch up in the two weeks after your speech."

"I think so; but if anyone has a problem can they came and see you,
Mrs. Martin? "



"Of course, Josh they can come to see me at anytime and I just want to say
how very proud I am of you and all the kids that helped on your," Homes for
the Homeless " project."

"Oh it wasn't my project, Mrs. Martin there were so many people that
helped. Jesse and his mom and dad were great, Luke the shelter director
with Mr. Tully and Mrs. Banks and of course Father Rick and the St Francis
youth group, all the tradesmen that helped so much. Hey the management of
the IKEA store. It was quite a project and all the homeless folks who put
in their sweat equity. So many people just came together to make it
happen. I guess if there was a leader pulling it all together it was Father
Rick. I was so happy to be a part of it. I used to lay awake at night
dreaming of doing something like this and having a place for me and my
grandma."

  Mrs. Martin was always impressed by Josh. His forthright easy manner, his
down to earth humility; when she spoke with Josh there was never anything
hidden like so many of the kids; he said it out there just like it
was. "Well Josh, I am going to be there to hear your speech and I'm going
to put a notice up about it in the teachers longue and the student bulletin
board. And I'm going to break a teacher school rule, come here young man."
Her arms were stretched out and as he approached she gave him the biggest
hug and kiss on his forehead. " Josh wondered if this was how it felt to
have his mom hug him. Mrs. Martin said "Now that was from your Mom and
Grandma they just whispered in my ear for me to do it."

"Thanks Mrs. Martin, you're the greatest. I think I felt my mom hugging me
through you."

"Get on with you now.. get back to class and make sure those assignments
are in on time."

"Yes mam" Josh said with a big smile.

Saturday dawned as a beautiful Indian summer day, bight and sun shinning,
leaves just beginning to turn. The contingent from Hopewell High was such
that Mrs. Martin decided to rent a luxury bus.  Jack Harvey did the same
thing out at PHS. It was a big day for his company as well. It was their
design and engineering that brought all the pieces together for the first
"Homes for the Homeless" building. They didn't make any money on it but
they created a ton of good will. Good will that was paying off in other
municipal projects though out the northeast. Annie and Billy along with Nat
Stewart and Jeff Stewart were on this bus. Annie and Nat sat together of
course so Billy and Jeff had to buddie up.

As the bus got going Jeff asked Billy "I heard you're out, you know the gay
thing"

"Well I guess I am, I'm not hiding it but I didn't make an announcement to
the whole school or have a big discussion with my mom. It's just kind of
happened and I'm glad it did. Why do you ask?"

"Ahh just curious I guess."

"Well, I know if you are curious there must be a reason. You can be honest
with me Jeff. I don't go to your school and even if I did I'd never say
something that might hurt or embarrass you."



"Gee I guess there is no hiding stuff from you."

"It's up to you buddy; you don't have to say it. I know it's a hard thing
to say."

Jeff look directly at Billy there were tears in his eyes but all that
looked back were eyes of compassion and caring.

Billy went on, "You know one of my best friends told me you have to love
and accept who you are. No matter what. You know there are benefits to
being gay. A real big one is not worrying about getting a girl pregnant if
you have sex. When you are boy on boy no babies come out."

Jeff smiled at that. "I want to tell my dad but I'm afraid."

"Of what ?? Your dad is a great guy. He was with my mom when she and I had
a little talk. It was an easy talk. She said she saw me dancing with
another boy and she's kind of know for some time. She said it was ok. I am
what God made me and she said I was special to her just the way I was and
that she loved me maybe a little more because of me being gay because there
were some out there that could be mean about it. That was the whole
deal. Your dad shook my hand and gave me a hug too. My guess is that he
already knows but doesn't want to say anything to upset you. He'll be there
for you Jeff I know it."

Jeff smiled again and a sigh of like the biggest relief came out of
him. "You really think so."

"Yeah, if you want some help coming out without a big production; we can
say we're going out on a date with each other."

"You'd do that"

"Hell yeah you are hot dude."

Jeff blushed like crazy, his face was red as a beat.

"I'm sorry I didn't mean to embarrass you. I just meant that your are very
good looking and very cute. I would love to go out with you. We could tell
our parents that we have a date together or I could tell them I was meeting
you for a date with your dad there. Whatever way you want.  No big
discussion but it tells them you like a gay boy. And usually boys who date
gay boys are gay."

"You make it sound so easy."

"It will be. Your dad will probably ask how your date went. It hope you
would say it was real nice. I really like Billy." Then you can say " But
can we save the G word for another time dad. I just want to be me without
any labels."

"Wow Billy you are great at explaining this. Thanks so much. Do you really
mean it; would you go out with me?"



"For the second time, Jeff I really mean I would love to get to know you
better. Do you want me to shout it out to the whole bus? Can I kiss you
now?"

Jeff started to turn red again. "Ok, Ok I think my dad has something planed
for tomorrow with your mom. Are you free?"

"Yeah I don't charge anything what do you think I am one of those rent
boys." Billy said laughing.

Jeff laughed too. "You know what I mean."

"No plans for me tomorrow, do I have date." Billy slipped his hand onto
Jeff's thigh.

"Yes you have a date." Jeff put his hand on top of Billy's. It felt so good
to do what his instincts told him to do. Both boys raised their eyes and
kind of pointed to their growing crotches. Then they smiled at each other
and stopped holding hands. The rest of the way Billy told about his friend
Josh and praised Jeff for standing up to his coach in the title game. That
took guts.

Whenever the Mayor went out there was always a bunch of TV people to follow
him and today was no exception.  The buses from Jersey arrived and the
Crusaders gathered. Pops, Jack Harvey and Mrs. Martin had pins made up with
a crusader emblem and the slogan Crusaders against Homelessness. Enough
were made up for the youth group too Jennie and the girls were fast to hand
them out and help the clumsy high school boys pin them on their shirts. It
was a fine group of about 40 teenagers that stood behind the podium as they
waited for the mayor. To start Father Rick blessed the building with holy
water everyone fell silent and bowed their heads. Then the mayor stepped to
the podium and praised Father Rick and the youth group aptly named
Crusaders against Homelessness.  He praised the homeless folks who put so
much sweat equity into their new home. Then he asked the crowd which was
about 400 and standing out in the street if they want to hear from one of
the crusaders. They all cheered the Hopewell folks yelled Josh, Josh, Josh.

"Mr. Mayor, Father Rick, we have a lot of people to thank today not the
least of which is Jack Harvey, his son Jesse and Jack's firm PHS who
designed, engineered and contracted for the construction. They did it for
ZERO profit so I think they deserve a big thank you. "Josh started clapping
and the whole assembly cheered widely lead by the crusaders.  " Of course
we have to thank the tradesmen from St. Francis Church who made sure the
crusader laborers like myself didn't electrocute themselves or take an
unscheduled bath doing the plumbing. The tradsmen got a round of applause
as well. Then there is Mr. Tully, Mrs. Banks and my good friend Luke
Calahan who did all the bureaucratic leg work to get the property. Josh
stopped his speech and again applause rang out.  People from Hopewell New
Jersey and all across your city, Mr. Mayor came together to fight against
homelessness. As of today there will be 20 less people in the shelters, it
is a start but it is a drop in the bucket and it is a band aid on the
symptom and not attacking the many causes and devastation of homelessness.

I'd like to say something about what I think are the real causes of
homelessness. Not the stereotyped stuff that you hear on the TV. Homeless
folks are not all drug addicts or drunks. I'm not an addict or a drunk and
I was homeless neither is my friend Billy he was homeless both of us just
got out of the shelter this year. Billy waved from behind the podium. Most
homeless folks are honest good people, who got a bad break in life.

My grandma was sold a bad mortgage on her house with a balloon payment 3
years latter. The bankster evicted her and me 3 years after she took out
the mortgage. They said it was all legal and proper. It may have been legal
but it sure wasn't proper and the laws that made it legal need to be
changed. They stole her house. My grandma died in the shelter.

Billy's dad was a marine. He got called overseas. His leave got cut short
before he could marry Annie, Billy's mom. He sent money back for Annie and
his son every pay day. Until one day when an IDE went off killing him. The
marines said there was no documentation that Billy was his son and Annie
got nothing but memories of a good man taken from her and a boy that she
didn't know how to support.  She tried but got only low paying jobs. She
turned to selling drugs and then over time tried using them. Yes, she was
an addict. But today she works at PHS and has an apartment in Hopewell
because she struggled through the drugs and completed a computer training
course. Why couldn't a DNA test have been done for Billy and Annie?

My friend Jesse Gordon, wave Jesse, (Josh paused) walked just about 10
miles in freezing snow to my Grandma's funeral. He was in the service got
wounded and can't work. He has a disability pension but it is so small he
can't get a place to rent. Now he is going to share an apartment with 4
other fellows like himself in our new building. But why couldn't the
government give him a pension that would have allowed him to live with some
dignity? He served his country got wounded and returns home to become
homeless.

There are a lot of stories just like these of my friends but there are more
terrible abuses in our system. Why is there a credit check on a person
seeking a new job? Hey if they were working they would have good credit but
if a person is out of work how does he get money to pay his bills. Won't
food and shelter come first?  Followed all too swiftly by homelessness and
no chance for a decent well paying job.

What about healthcare. How many people go bankrupt because of serious
illness or injury? Well I'll tell you more people become bankrupt because
of healthcare than any other reason combined. Why in the United States of
America is our system a healthcare for profit system when in every other
developed country healthcare is considered a right and is basically
free. In all of Europe it's free; in England it's free, in Canada it's
free, in Japan it's free, in Australia it's free. Hey even in Cuba with a
supposed tyrannical dictator it's Free"

"Mr. Mayor, you are a politician, can you use your office to promote
defenses against the real causes of homelessness?"  Josh turned to look at
the mayor. The assembly looked at the Mayor as well. He wasn't a bad man
but he was entrenched in party politics and corporate donations. He fumbled
a bit. He was being put on the spot by a 14 year old in front of the TV
cameras and a good sized assembly.

"You've fielded some very, very complex questions my young friend. I am
running late for my next appointment but my secretary will invite you to my
office to discuss these issues. "

As the Mayor was walking to his car; Josh pressed the issue. "The question
to you Mr. Mayor is pretty simple; Yes or No can you use your office to
promote defenses against the root causes for homelessness. If you are
committed to ending homelessness and not just put band aids on the issue
you should stand up for universal healthcare, jobs for folks without credit
checks, DNA testing for undocumented children of service men and jailing
Wall St. Banksters; can you name me one bankster who has been jailed for
making fraudulent loans."

The mayor got in his limousine without answering and drove away. He
couldn't offend the Wall St. Bankers or the Health Insurance industry. The
assembly jeered at him and cheered Josh.

Father Rick got up and calmed the crowd. Josh had stirred up a hornets nest
just as he promised he would. "Josh I hope you tell us when your meeting
with the mayor is so we understand the very, very complex questions". The
crowd chuckled. " If it turns into a debate my money is on you."

"Thank you Father"

"Now let's cut this ribbon and get these people in their new homes."

Josh, Father Rick, Jack Harvey, Mr. Tully, Mrs. Banks and Luke all got a
hand on the big oversize scissor while newspaper pictures were taken.  The
homeless folks got moved into their new units. The TV reporters toured the
apartments. Interviews were asked of Father Rick, Mr. Harvey, Mr. Tully,
Mrs. Banks, Luke and Josh. While the interviews were going on the ladies
auxiliary of St. Francis with the help of the youth group pulled up the
barbeque pits and the big sterio and a block party was in full swing. The
teens and the adults were dancing in the street. Jack Harvey said he would
pay the bus drivers overtime and asked them to join in the
celebration. Which they gladly did. Mrs. Martin was observed dancing with
coach Mathews.

Billy caught up with Jeff and asked if he wanted to dance with him. Jeff's
hand shook a little but as soon as Billy had him he was fine. Billy
whispered, " it'll be easier this way. These are all good people no one
will bother or embarrass you." Billy lead Jeff into the street. Jeff's head
fell onto Billy's chest. Jeff glanced up. He said. "hold me Billy, I'm
scared." Billy cradled both hands around Jeff's head holding him tight to
his chest. "I gotcha buddy it's gonna be fine." Holding Jeff was different
than being with Ty. Ty had an air of indifference some times. Billy sensed
Jeff needed him and that was a special different kind of a feeling.

Annie saw her boy dancing with Jeff and quickly grabbed Nat hand. "Look",
she whispered. "Look at Billy and Jeff."

Nat saw his suspicions were confirmed and he was happy that Jeff was facing
who he was. "They are the sweetest couple out there don't you think Annie"

"Yes they are. Except for you and me lets go dance by them old man."

"Who you calling old? ...lady"

Nat and Annie danced real close to Billy and Jeff. Nat reached out and
ruffled Jeff's hair. Jeff looked up his dad smiled and mouthed the words "I
love you son". Annie whispered into Billy ear the same. " I love you
Billy."

Jeff was smiling ear to ear as was Billy. He hugged Billy really really
tight and said "thank you, thank you, thank you. You made today the best
day of my life and I couldn't have done it without you." Jeff Kissed Billy
of the cheek. Billy said "come here boy " and kissed Jeff full on the
mouth. His tongue probed Jeff's and they dueled until Billy sucked the air
out of Jeff and his tongue into his mouth. Jeff went weak in Billy's
arms. Jeff broke the kiss as he needed air. "Wow"

Nat said "Calm down now boys. Remember this is a church affair." Billy and
Jeff headed Nat's words. Annie was impressed by the way Nat handled the
situation and looked on him with loving eyes.

Come 7:00 o'clock the bus drivers told Jack they had to get back to their
families. Jack under stood and gathered the Hopewell folks for the return
trip. The block party was a huge success and the St. Francis folks stayed
on with the now ex homeless folks.

Monday in school Billy caught up with Becky. "Hey how ya doin?"

"Good what's up Billy"

"Well I kinda wanted to ask you a question about Ty."

"I think you would be better off talking to him"

"I will but I need to know what you think"

"I heard you were making out with some new kid at the Grand Opening of the
homeless building."

"If you want to call dancing and 1 kiss making out; I'm guilty."

"Well you are honest I'll say that Billy. What do you want to know about
TY?"

"Do you know if he is seeing other guys?"

"I'm not sure maybe but you better ask him"

"Do you think he thinks of us as a couple, like going steady or as friend
with benefits kind of thing. We never said anything about being steady."

"I guess more friends with benefits kind of thing. Where is this going?"

"Well don't talk to him until I do. Ty has always been kind of distant,
maybe a little indifferent. I mean I think he likes being my friend but not
as a real steady or committed thing. I feel completely different about the
guy I was dancing with. So I wanted to try to be sure about Ty. I still
want to be his friend but I think I want to save the benefits. If I thought
Ty was really serious about me, but had a hard time showing it. I'd try
dealing with it some other way so I didn't hurt him."

"I should have known better thinking you would want to be hurting my
brother."

"Oh no not at all; he's really a swell guy and a good friend but just not
well ...right for me. I don't know how to explain it better Becky. If he
had your heart in his body I'd want to marry him in an instant."

"Really"

"Without a doubt; you are the sweetest person I know. I knew I could talk
to you about this and you would be honest. You know Ty better how do you
think I should handle telling him about Jeff."

"Just be yourself Billy. Be your sweet, honest self like you always
are. Tell him about Jeff and the different feeling you have for him. He'll
get the message real fast. I don't think he'll be upset because he would
have told you if he wanted a steady thing."

"Thanks Becky, I owe ya one."

"No you owe me two. Someday I'll need your help and I know you'll be
there."

"How's it going with Bobby."

"Ohh the world doesn't know it yet but I'm gonna marry him."

"Really, I'm glad for you. That's the way I feel about Jeff. Then I
remember how young we are but the dream is there."

"Yeah, I dream about Bobby all the time. Hey I'm late for class."

"Sorry go on. I'm gonna find TY."

Billy did find Ty after school. He pulled him aside. "I don't know how to
tell you this but I met another guy. He is super nice and I don't know,
umhh, I feel so much different when I'm with him."

"Really, wow that is news and here I was scared of telling you I meet
someone too. We never talked about a steady thing so I thought I could go
out with him. Billy you are a great friend, a better one I'll never find
and we've had some great sex . But Ryan, I think I love him."

"Good for you. I'm so happy for you and you are right we never had a steady
thing. " Billy leaned in and hugged TY and Ty hugged back. Just then tall
dark haired kid approached Ty.

"Ryan this is my good friend Billy. He was just telling me about his new
boyfriend and I was telling him about you. We went out a couple of times,
we will always be friends but we want to keep other stuff where it
belongs."

Ryan gave Billy a big smile and said "Hi, glad to meet you any friend of
Ty' is a friend of mine."

"Same here Ryan. Say I gotta go ...I got work to do for Mister Jenkins.
Nice meeting ya."



Josh was all over the news. The mayor was steaming but what could he
do. Josh made the homeless into regular people who were abused by powers
bigger than them. Josh's whole speech was on U Tube and Facebook; all over
the social media. The media was saying those kids converted a dilapidated
useless building into homes for 20 people.  The mayor was pictured as
running away. How could he go on the attack against a 14 year old boy who
was called a Crusader against Homelessness.  It was a time to hunker down
lick his wounds and move on.

Homes for the homeless became a topic all over the city. Josh and Jesse
were in demand to speak in front of all sorts of groups, sure the Catholic
Churches picked up on what Father Rick had done but also Protestant groups,
Jewish temples, Hindu and Muslim temples as well. Derrick was shocked when
he was asked to help out with the talks. His mom told him if he helped out
she would make him chicken al la king for life. Derrick had already said
yes but he sure did like his mom's chicken al la king. The speaking demand
was putting a large dent in Pops' transportation budget so it was decided
they had to ask for transportation money. Once explained everyone provided
money for transportation. Some of the more well to do protestant groups
sent a limo for them. Jennie and Val always accompanied them on their trips
and helped out setting up posters they made showing the progress of the
building and the completed apartments.  At each meeting they gave out the
Crusaders against Homelessness buttons. The demand spread out of the city,
throughout the major cities of New Jersey down to Philadelphia and up to
Boston and many stops in between. Every Friday and Saturday night they had
to be someplace. They even some times squeezed in meeting on Sunday
afternoon.  The schedule was demanding but they kept at it. They believed
they were Crusaders. Finally, just before basketball season Jack Harvey and
Pops said they had to make a decision either basketball or the crusaders
but not both. Jack said he could tell groups they were booked out till
spring. Pops agreed. So they played basketball. But the groups the
Crusaders started had established 100 building. 2000 people were out of the
shelters and in their own homes. Josh and Jesse were to be nominated for
men of the year by Time magazine but Josh demanded and got the entire
original Crusader group pictured on the cover as organization of the
year. After basketball the boys with the girls were back at it doing work
for the crusaders. The entire town of Hopewell was behind the
Crusaders. The sleepy little town in New Jersey even put up a sign "Home of
the Crusaders against Homelessness."  Josh, Jesse and all of the Crusaders
had become the face of the fight against homelessness. Come the spring the
demand for them to speak was there all the more. It was decided 2 weekends
a month would be allocated to the Crusaders and the other 2 for the kids to
be kids.

Billy and Jeff had gotten there own notoriety. A picture was snapped of
their dance and kiss at the grand opening. It became the poster for a love
is love campaign sponsored by a gay organization to stomp out bigotry and
discrimination of gay teens. They were asked to speak at gay groups.

Billy's talk went like this: "I didn't tell my mom I was gay I just showed
her. Really she already knew. It was the same with Jeff and his dad. But it
was easier that way to come out.  A good friend told me don't put labels on
yourself but be yourself. Be what your instincts tell you . Be who you are
then love and accept that person. My instincts told me to dance with Jeff
that day; they told me to kiss him that day. Not because of a label but
because he is cute and handsome and kind and courageous and most of all I
love kissing him. It excites me." The last part always grew smiles and
light laughter.  It was simple straight from the heart advise. It helped a
lot of teens and gave them courage to go on in the face of discrimination..

Also in the spring Annie and Nat had decided to get married. The only
stumbing block was where to live. Nat had a nice house in Madville. Annie
had just the 2 bedroom apartment. One boy or the other would have to switch
schools. The discussion went back and forth, Nat when he proposed just
assumed they would live in his house. He didn't count on Billy's loyalty to
the friends he had in Hopewell.

"I don't want to leave Mr. and Mrs. Jenkins, or Mr. & Mrs. Ackers, or my
school, or Josh, oh my God I can't leave Josh or Pops, no not Pops. I
can't. I won't. I'll ask Pops to take me in mom, I love you I want you to
be happy I'll visit you as often as I can but I can't leave these
people. The Jenkins need me and so does Mr. Acker and Mr. Martin and
Mrs. O'Mara and Josh is my brother and Pops is my Grandpa. For me, Hopewell
is the best place in the world to live I'm so sorry mom I can't leave."
During his outburst Billy couldn't hold back the tears so he just let them
fall. Jeff went over and hugged Billy. Billy had always been so strong for
him. He helped when he needed it the most. Billy whispered through the
tears "I'm sorry, I love you but I love these people and this place
too. I'm sorry."

Jeff said "I can switch schools Dad. Billy will be there to help me and
he'll be my brother too after your married.  Hey you can rent out our house
and save a lot of money on rent. Come on dad this is so important to
Billy. To me where you are is home. He's been homeless and for the first
time in his life he has this apartment and good friends here. It'll be
swell. It's smaller than our house and maybe we'll bump into each other but
I like bumping onto you, guys. "

Nat looked at Annie. Annie smiled and nodded.  "Ok but I call first debs on
the bathroom in the morning."

The boys got up and ran to hug Nat and Annie. Billy kept saying "Thank you,
Thank you , Thank you" and kissed Nat and Jeff and Annie. Latter that night
as Nat and Annie were in bed. Annie was wrapped around Nat strong arm with
her head on his chest. "You know I think we are really going to be a family
here."

"I do too. I love you and our sons."

Jeff and Billy were in Billy's double bed. They were cuddled
together. Billy said "Thanks again for today. I just can't leave. Thank you
so much."

Jeff -- "I know. I understand completely. Hey we are going to be real step
brothers."

"Say can step brothers get married."

"Billy are you proposing."

"Oh we are way to young for stuff like that but I have dreams about you and
me and a family. They are more like happy wet dreams for sure not bad
dreams."

"You have those dreams too, so do I. Wow, Billy maybe we are meant to be
together. How do you think we would have kids."

"Well there are surrogate mothers who could carry the baby for us and we
use our own baby makers."

"That is the best way. I always thought 2 kids. You could father one and me
the other. We would have to have a good lawyer to make sure the surrogate
mom's don't renege. If we are real lucky maybe we could have the same
surrogate mom."

"That would be so kool."

Billy kissed Jeff and Jeff kissed him back. Billy took Jeff's hand and put
it on his hard cock. Jeff took Billy's hand and put it on his hard
cock. They kissed again, they made love thinking about always being
together and having a family. It would be so kool and it was.

The 4 years of high school flew by for Pops; everything was kind of in slow
motion for Josh. He and Pops were a great team. Josh never forgot about
Pops taking him in. He loved it when all of Pops family got together at
Christmas, birthdays and holidays. They were great people and always seem
to have fun together. He loved them dearly. Looking back he had no idea
what would have happened to him if he had been transferred to a group
home. He always did what Pops had a hard time doing at his age, the snow,
leaves in the fall, grass cutting in the spring and summer and of course
the weekly house cleaning. Pops never had to ask him to help he always
jumped right in. Whenever he saw Pops doing something strenuous he always
said let me give a hand Pops. For Pops part he was always there for
Josh. Whatever he needed he always seemed to have the answer. There was no
one better if Josh needed advice

He was concerned for Pops when he went away to college. He talked to Bobby
Edwards about the situation. Bobby's youngest brother, Justin was going to
be a freshman in high school as Bobby and Josh were in college. Josh laid
out his plan he would set Justin up to do Mrs. O'Mara, Mr. Martin and the
Ackers and maybe even over at Billy's apartment if he promised to always
take care of Pops first. The others would pay him and pay him well but
don't take any money from Pops. If you feel you need money for something,
I'll get it for you. He told Justin, "I owe that man my life, Justin if it
wasn't for him I don't know what would have happened to me. Please, Please
treat him right." Justin saw tears in the eyes of one of his heros as he
spoke about Pops.

"I understand I'll treat him just like if he was my grandfather. I know
what he's meant to you. Don't worry Josh, I'll watch out for him."

  In his senior year Josh was elected president as well as captain of the
basketball team. Graduation rolled around and he was Valedictorian.  After
all Josh had become a celebrity; star player of the basketball team that
never lost; the unofficial leader of the "Crusaders against Homelessness';
one of the smartest if not the smartest kid in the whole school.

The auditorium was packed of course for the graduation ceremonies. Josh had
4 tickets for graduation. Pops, Luke, Mrs. Martin and Doc Brown filled the
seats.  They were all special people to him. Mrs. Martin had watched over
him ever since that first day when she heard his story. For the last 4
years whenever he felt the needed help with anything. She had become the
mother he had missed for so long. Doc Brown had become a dear friend one
who always supported him; who patched him up and helped him to play through
pain. Doc was a great player himself and taught Josh some great moves. Doc
was always on the bench as team trainer for all the games. Luke was family,
always giving of himself at the shelter; always there when you needed
him. Pops, of course Pops his grandfather, there were no words for Pops. If
every 14 year old could have a Pops in his life what a wonderful world it
would be.

Josh's speech.

Wow!! 4 years ago I was a shelter kid from Queens crowding in the Manhattan
homeless shelter. My Grandma died in that shelter just about 4 years
ago. Yet here I am making the Valedictorian speech at Hopewell High
School. What a name for a town, Hopewell, I never really thought about it
much. I mean who thinks about a towns name. But I have to say Hopewell gave
me hope and a lot of it.

 I was a scrawny 13 year old kid then, trying to feed my grandma soup; then
one day holding her hand, she passed. I was all alone, no family just few
shelter friends. Luke the shelter director, his job was to send me to a
group home. I will be eternally grateful to him because for some reason he
didn't do it. He should have but he didn't. Instead he called his own
father to keep the scrawny kid at least over Christmas. So my Pops came and
took me home to Hopewell. That was the most special Christmas of my life. I
got more gifts than ever before in my life and food my gosh his family must
have been cooking for a week before. But the most special thing was the
love of that group. Everyone accepted me and loved me just for being
there. Their hugs and kisses made me forget the loss of my grandma and my
parents. On the way home from that Christmas diner I said a prayer and
asked him if he could keep me permanent like. He said he was 73 years old
what if something happened to him and he was incapacitated or worse
died. He didn't want that memory for me. But I was sure I wanted him to
keep me so I begged and begged. Finally he said I'll think about it. Well
during the week everytime he said I'll think about what I wanted
happened. What I found out recently he had called Luke and asked his help
to adopt me and made Luke promse if anything happened to him that the
family would take care of me. That I would not go into the system. During
the fall of that year I stood before a guy in a big black robe and he said
my name was now Josh Fitzgerald Calahan. After that whenever he got a
little upset with me he would call me by my whole name, Josh Fitzgerald
Calahan. Sometimes, I did stuff to upset him just to hear him call me, Josh
Fitzgerald Calahan. I loved the fact that I was his. That he was my grandpa
and I was part of his family. He feed the scrawny kid until he was strong;
he held me when I had bad dreams about my parents death, he nursed me when
I cracked my ribs and every other time I was hurt or sick. He always gave
the best advice and gave me back my confidence that the shelter had robbed
from me. In short I wouldn't have been able to do any of the things we have
accomplished, like the basketball winning streak, the Crusaders against
Homelessness, the coat drive for the homeless if it wasn't for Pops.

Traditionally this speech is about saying thank you to all the teachers and
parents who helped get us to this turning point in our lives. So to all you
parents that have loved and supported us graduates. Without you we would be
nothing. And a special thank you for my school mom, Mrs. Martin and Coach
Mathews and all the teachers who helped us though all the subjects. But for
me the biggest turning point in my life was when Pops took me home to
Hopewell. So Thank you Pops, thank you all.

  The assembly stood and clapped and clapped and clapped. Luke helped Pops
up. There were many with tears in their eyes not the least were Pops &
Luke.