It's Bears Time.

Well, if you're one of the few who haven't yet heard of the Bear Fest summerlong art display that kicks off tomorrow (Sat., June 13th) yet, here's one last reminder for the big event. I just got back from a secret tour of the 35 completed bears, who are all tucked away safely in an undisclosed location, and all I can say is, wow. Briana Taylor, Easthampton City Arts coordinator and chief spokesperson for Bear Fest took time from all her media appearances and last minute wrapping up of details to sneak me and my trusty Pentax in...


I took a whole bunch of shots, but rather than show you what the amazing bears all look like before the big unveiling tomorrow, I'll just show you one. I don't mind showing this one because it was already 'unveiled' on the cover of the Springfield Republican this morning. It's Clementine the Circus Bear, painted by Amy Johnquest, the banner queen, and local legend in the art world.

They're all this good.

And when you stroll into town tomorrow (Saturday) morning, all those empty logs you see today will be have bears perched on them.

But wait, there's more. You'll also find 30 'tabletop bears' in many of local businesses. Here's the one right here in Mt. Tom's... Jelly Bean Bear... Each of those bears was completed by local school children. I've seen most of these bears too, and they are equally as impressive. Each tabletop bear has a 'silent auction card' next to it. Bidding for those starts at 50 bucks. The big bears, as I've mentioned, will be auctioned at a big gala at the Log Cabin in October.

The fun starts at 2pm on Saturday at the public parking lot next to Whisker's. Here's the schedule of events.

We'll have plenty of maps and other Bear Fest paraphernalia here at Mt. Tom's. The maps are free. Here's what else we've got...

And last but definitely not least, this month's Mt. Tom's ArtWalk show is up, and it too is very cool.

In keeping with the Bear Fest theme, Don, along with Dr. Linda Henderson, will be presenting a show of their favorite images of bears - actual bears from the Mt. Tom Reservation and other local spots. While you're sampling the new Bear Fest ice cream flavor, have a look at some great images of the 'real thing'.

Hope to see you this weekend.