Is it just me or has Broadway become even more of a haven for the homeless of Seattle lately?  

— There is a guy who appears to be living in front of Broadway QFC now, and when not there he is sleeping on the grass on the south side of All Pilgrims on Broadway and Republican.  He has quite a large pile of belongings he takes with him, and he is usually surrounded with garbage, as well (there are trash cans very nearby him that he could use).  I am not impressed that he says ‘Yeah, I need the money to get high.’ — honest, to be sure, but not what I would support with my money.  Also, he’s kind of squeezed out the always-friendly-and-polite seller of Real Change who is usually right outside of QFC.

— I am asked for money a minimum of 6 times each way when walking from my home at the north end of Broadway down to the post office.  When I am alone the ‘askers’ are a little more agressive than when I am walking with my husband.  

— I have been a little afraid a few times in the evening walking down near Seattle Central and in the area near Dick’s.  One time a guy followed my husband and I for a couple of blocks late in the evening asking for our phone or the time (we think so he could snatch either or both).  We are pretty sure he intended to assault and/or rob us and would have if not for another pedestrian (male, large) happening by when he did.

I feel for the homeless and understand that ‘by the grace of God’, I am not homeless.  I give money and food to shelters, as well, so please don’t paint me as harsh, uncaring bigot, or just un-PC.  I just think we need to clean things up a bit. 

I am going to call the police and ask them to start enforcing the loitering plan they, defense attorneys and business owners agreed to that went into effect January 1, 2011.  I encourage you to do the same.

I am also going to call QFC management and ask that you do so, too.  If they know it is bothering their patrons, perhaps they will also make moves to clean up the area.  

The homeless are welcome on Capitol Hill, most definitely.  But it just as incumbent upon them as it is upon us, the more fortunate non-homeless, to be respectful of persons, property and environment.

Have a good day.