County Council honors “Mayor of the City Dump”

J.P. Patches recognized for “fifty years of smiles”

If the names “Tykie Turkey,” “Ggoorrsstt the Friendly Frpl” and “Grandpa Tick Tock” bring a smile to your face, and you can remember that “Boris S. Wort” is the “Second Meanest Man in the World,” then you’re a “Patches Pal.” Members of the Metropolitan King County Council showed today that they are forever “Patches Pals” by presenting a special recognition to Chris Wedes, better known as local TV legend J.P. Patches, for the wholesome, family-oriented entertainment that he has consistently provided for 50 years.

“J.P. Patches has been making the children and adults of this region smile for fifty years,” said Councilmember Larry Phillips. “In so many ways, he has used his popularity to better our community, like cheering up sick kids and promoting causes like the environment. Those of us who grew up in the Northwest will forever treasure J.P. Patches and the joy and inspiration he has provided to so many people.”

“All Seattle kids between the ages of 30 to 60 owe a bit of their personality and sense of humor to J.P. Patches,” said Councilmember Dow Constantine. “Chris Wedes, sidekick Bob Newman, and director Joe Towey created a remarkable world of improvised comedy that enthralled children and, with an occasional wink or double-entendre, let parents in on the backstage hilarity. We are forever in debt to The Clown.”

“The J.P. Patches Show” aired on KIRO-TV Channel 7 for 23 years, beginning in 1958, and was the longest-running, locally-produced children’s program in the United States. Presiding as “Mayor of the City Dump,” the colorfully dressed host combined joyful, good-natured antics with valuable life lessons. At the peak of its run, the Emmy award-winning program had a viewership of over 100,000 throughout King County and surrounding communities. Generations of viewers grew up as “Patches Pals,” remembering to follow the “Patches Pals” Code:

• Mind Mom and Dad,
• Drink your milk,
• Clean your plate,
• Wash your face and hands,
• Share your toys
• Hang up all your clothes.

As J.P. Patches, Chris Wedes continues to entertain and serve the community. He is a common sight at Children’s Hospital and other area hospitals, visiting sick children and promoting the hospitals’ work, and making fundraising appearances for a variety of charities. Wedes said the recognition is a reflection of the thousands of people who are still proud to be pals of Julius Pierpont Patches. “We are honored that King County is recognizing Patches Pals,” said Wedes on behalf of himself and his alter ego.