COMMUNITY: 32nd SW neighbors stay strong with signs, art, smiles

(WSB photo above; other photos are courtesy neighbor Sara)

On 32nd SW between The Triangle and Luna Park, that is literally a sign of the times. A nearby resident emailed us after spotting those signs in multiple windows while he was out for a walk. We drove over for a look and happened into Sara and neighbors in the midst of what they called a “6-foot happy hour”:

They explained that the “OK” signs were a neighbor’s idea, inspired by disaster-preparedness advice to carry them – they say “HELP” on the other side – and last night they were distributed. Sara tells us about 100 were given out and 33 are already up in windows. Not just for emergency use, she explains: “From benign needs like an elderly neighbor that needs an outside lightbulb changed but can’t climb a ladder, to the needs we can’t yet anticipate such as ill neighbors needing medication or groceries.” But that’s not all yoo’ll see in the windows on 32nd:

They’re displaying window art, so other neighbors can enjoy it. Sara says, “Not sure where this came from but jumped on the bandwagon and are making people’s daily walks more colorful!” There’s even a schedule for a weekly “window art walk”:

What’s YOUR neighborhood doing? Let us know – and send photos if you can (we have to keep our distance too) – westseattleblog@gmail.com

P.S. Here’s a printable OK/HELP sign(updated) courtesy of Sergio, who says that’s the one they used. (another update) Jesse sent this West Seattle-customized one you can try, too.

P.P.S. ICYMI on Monday, here’s the guide to safely checking in on, and/or helping, neighbors.

7 Replies to "COMMUNITY: 32nd SW neighbors stay strong with signs, art, smiles"

  • DD March 17, 2020 (8:53 pm)

    Love the idea of window art and also using signs to let your neighbors know if you are OK or need help. Positive moves!!

  • Jethro Marx March 17, 2020 (9:15 pm)

    I thought about making a sign for my front door that said “DEAD INSIDE” as an ode to The Walking Dead, but then I thought maybe it was too edgy. #modernart?

  • BlockCaptain March 17, 2020 (9:56 pm)

    The city provided those signs as part of the packet for the entire street when we signed up for the SNAP emergency preparedness information for our block. They are nice card stock versions, easy to keep in your go-to file with important data in the event of a disaster. This has some of the info that may get that sign as well:http://www.seattle.gov/Documents/Departments/Emergency/Preparedness/SNAP/GettingOrganized/SNAP%20Booklet%20Final%20for%20Print(0).pdf

  • Mike March 18, 2020 (7:08 am)

    I walked thru this neighborhood yesterday and noted the signs and art.  Very nice!  Very neighborly!

  • anonyme March 18, 2020 (7:10 am)

    These are all great ideas.  Especially love the 6-foot happy hour and window art for all the walkers.

  • Trileigh March 18, 2020 (11:56 am)

    Love this! It does my heart good to see sweet stories like this in the middle of all the bad news. Thanks!

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