I learned tonight of the passing of my childhood hero, JP Patches. If you didn’t grow up in the greater Seattle area in the late 70’s, you my not have had the privilege of knowing how wonderful JP Patches is. Some of my earliest childhood memories are of starting our morning off in our Renton home first (having to) watch Zoom until JP Patches came on. I was so excited just to hear the theme song start of the early morning coo-coo clock sounds. JP Patches made my day. I loved his funny skits and that he was always kind and seemed to know what was going on. He provided normalcy while my parents were going through a divorce and trying to work things out with their relationship. He played my favorite cartoons and I would wait on the edge of my seat with ever other kid within KIRO’s viewing area, hoping he would mention my name when he peered at us through the ICU2TV. I remember being absolutely honored in kindergarten when the photographer for our class photo called me Getrude because of my dress that my Mom made me. (I love that dress, by the way). [Read more…]
Thank You, JP
My first painting: JP Patches
My new hobby that I’ve recently picked back up is painting. With my son off to college, in the evenings and weekends, I’m really enjoying picking up the paint brush.
Here’s my first finished project: JP Patches on black velvet.
The West Seattle Grand Parade
I must confess, I love parades. And for me, the West Seattle Grand Parade is at the top of my list. Not only is it in my hometown, it features JP Patches, Seafair Pirates, marching bands, drill teams and Miss West Seattle HiYu with her court.
West Seattle Hi-Yu Parade…featuring JP Patches!
I love a parade…especially if it’s in my home-town AND it features my favorite Seattle clown, JP Patches.
JP and Gertrude’s Big Day
Today in Fremont amongst hundreds and hundreds of Patches Pals and politicians…JP and Gertrude’s statue was unveiled to the delight of many. Pat Cashman did a great job as the narrator for this event.
The statue has already raised $78,000 for Childrens Hospital and will continue to do so when Pals make donations into the ICU2TV portion of the statue.
There were so many fans there (most with red noses) that I was not able to get a great shot of the new statue…I plan on visiting again soon.
You can check out more photos from today by clicking here. (Also included in this photo set are photos taken from when the original statue design was unveiled).
