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Allan Classen's avatar

Thank you for your coverage and for ensuring your readers receive factual information about Blanchet House's forthcoming women's program, Bethanie’s Room. We want to offer a few clarifications to correct some inaccuracies that may mislead the public:

1. The quote, “This is a 75-bed women’s shelter that I think the mayor and city have been planning for a while,” attributed to Ken Thrasher, is incorrect. Bethanie’s Room is not a city-planned shelter but instead a privately operated and fully donor-funded initiative led by Blanchet House.

2. Regarding the quote from Todd Zarnitz, “It’s interesting that they have had zero conversations with the neighborhood about this location,” we’d like to clarify that our first neighborhood meeting, by invitation, is scheduled for May 31 at The Triple Lindy. This will be our first gathering with close neighbors, and we’re genuinely looking forward to meeting them. Members of our team have spent the past week walking the neighborhood to introduce ourselves personally to residents, business owners, and property managers.

3. The statement, “Neighbors are invited to a presentation on the proposal Saturday, May 31, 10 a.m.-noon, at The Triple Lindy, 1000 NW 17th Ave,” may give the impression of a public presentation. In reality, this is an initial meet-and-greet small gathering with residents and businesses close to the future site of Bethanie’s Room. Ryan, the owner of The Triple Lindy, kindly offered his space after we introduced ourselves and shared our vision. Once the property sale closes, we look forward to hosting a larger, open-house-style event where more community members can learn about our plans and get involved.

Thank you again for your attention to our coming program and your commitment to accurate reporting in our NW neighborhood. If you have any questions, please email me at jshowers@blanchethouse.org or our director, Scott Kerman, at skerman@blanchethouse.org.

Thank you for your time, and I hope you have a wonderful weekend.

Julie Showers (she/her)

Content, Communications & PR Director

Blanchet House

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mechanic's avatar

I only learned about the community presentation today, May 30th - 1 day in advance. I am unable because of previous plans. Is this the BEST the city can do to organize a community engaged process / meeting?

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