A long-reviled fence between the Washington State History Museum and Union Station has finally come down.

It's not every day that we receive a special request to break some good news via "where are we" post (check out our Facebook and Twitter pages for more in the "where are we" series), nor is it every day that we're inspired to answer an email tip with "!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Yes, it's true: the fence is down, leaving easy access from Pacific Avenue to the pedestrian bridge, the Museum of Glass and Dock Street, thanks in large part to Tacoma City Councilman David Boe. Fellow councilman Marty Campbell also worked on the project.

So what are you waiting for, Tacoma? Go on down and take a stroll.

A juvenile elephant seal was spotted on Owen Beach in Point Defiance Park yesterday.

"This morning a molting elephant seal was spotted on Owen Beach. As they molt, seals may beach for as long as 2-4 weeks; it is completely natural for this species to remain on land for extended periods of time throughout the process," Metro Parks representatives wrote Thursday. "Metro Parks and the Department of Wildlife are monitoring this activity for the seal’s and public’s safety."

It is usual for elephant seals to use Washington beachs during the molting process, and they are especially vulnerable during this time. 

Metro Parks reminds park-goers not to make contact with any wildlife, and to make sure that dogs are leashed for the safety of both the seal and the dogs while using Owen Beach.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has more information about the seals here.

This really shouldn't have to be said again. Right?

But then again, if everyone in town was so kind as to actually clean up after their pets, I wouldn't have just had the less than enjoyable experience of having the sidewalk physically blocked by a neighbor until I furnished proof that I was carrying plastic bags to clean up after my dog.

Really.

Poor Grandma Moses and I were simply out minding our own business Monday evening, when an across-the-street neighbor spotted us coming, hopped down out of his car and hustled over to block our way on the sidewalk.

Neighbor: Do you have plastic bags?

Me: Sorry? Sure, did you need one?

Neighbor: No, I need to see proof that you have plastic bags and are planning to clean up after your dog.

Me: Are you joking?

Neighbor: No. I'm tired of dogs defecating in my yard.

Me: Well mine never has, and I really don't appreciate you assuming that I don't clean up after my dog.

Neighbor: Well then you need to talk to your other neighbors who don't, and tell them not to bring their dogs to my yard.

Sorry pal.