Teddy bears pop up in windows

By Adelle Ellis, Times Reporter

Teddy bears and other stuffed animals are showing up in the front windows of Strathmore businesses and residences as people join in on a global project.
The activity is based from a popular children’s book, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen. Local realtor Debbie Mitzner hopes to bring the widespread activity closer to home after hearing about other communities doing similar “bear hunts”.
Mitzner, who hosts the Teddy Bear Picnic at Kinsmen Park each September, thought the teddy bear hunt would be the perfect fit to bring to Strathmore.
“(People are) decorating their front windows with teddy bears, stuffed animals, hearts and window paint,” said Mitzner. “I feel this goes well with our annual Teddy Bear Picnic, which we hope we will be able to have in September, COVID-19 permitting.”
Anyone can join in on the fun by placing teddy bears and other stuffed animals in their front windows for children and those young-at-heart to search for. People are also encouraged to go on their own “bear hunt” to find teddy bears left in windows by others.
Once a teddy bear is found, people are urged to take photos and post them to social media using the hashtag #strathmorebearhunt for others to see and enjoy.
Mitzner said this community friendly event is a good way for families to spend time together and to make plenty of good memories during this crisis, to stay active and involved in the community.
“(We hope for) lots of fun, quality family time, waves and smiles, posting and sharing photos and positive comments,” said Mitzner, who added the bear hunt will continue as long as current stay-at-home measures are in place.