Media Release
For Immediate Release: January 19, 2010
CENTRE FOR CONSERVATION PRESENTS “LEGENDARY BEARS”

Forget about hibernating this winter! Come join us for the ‘Legendary Bears’ exhibit at the Centre for Conservation at Ball’s Falls from January 23 to April 12, 2010. This exhibit, made possible through the generous donation of 150 Teddy Bears from the personal collection and estate of accomplished bear artist Margaret Walpole, tracks some of our most well-known, and a few unusual, legendary bears as they transformed from the real wilderness to become Teddy Bears.
Bears have long been an iconic symbol in our culture. They are physically powerful but also shy and will mostly avoid humans unless they seek food. Teddy Bears are a symbol of protection and caring for ourselves and our environment. Our fascination with these remarkable creatures has lead us to transform them in art, media, literature, film and music into an image of a friendly, helpful, cuddly creature that captures our heart and soothes our tears.
Find out how the Teddy Bear got its name, the importance of this namesake and the Canadian nature writers who were part of many of the Teddy Bear stories in the early 20th century. There will be a “Cub House” arts and crafts activity area as well as a special place to sit and read our collection of bear books. This exhibit includes rhyming, seek and find games and passport stamping, representing the bears from around the world. In addition to the many bears from renowned teddy bear manufacturers such as Steiff, Merrythought and Hermann, a few special local legendary bears will be joining the exhibit.
Morning show hosts Lori Love, Jack Peets and Michelle Cruise from St. Catharines radio station 105.7 EZ Rock have ‘adopted’ three bears and transformed each into reflections of themselves. These one-of-a-kind bears will be auctioned off by the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation at a fundraising Elimination Draw & Auction event taking place on Saturday, March 27th in Welland.
So, “bear” the cold and visit the Centre for Conservation to discover some unique bear facts. Special activities will be included on Family Day (Feb. 15), March Break (March13-21), and Easter (April 2-5).
Legendary Bears will run from January 23 to April 12, 2010. Ball’s Falls Centre for Conservation is open daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Admission is $5.50 for adults; seniors and children - $4.00. For information, group reservations and education programs call 905-562-5235.
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Click here to download event poster.
Contact:
Andrea Wilson, Program Assistant
Ball’s Falls Centre for Conservation
905-562-5235 Ext. 23
Mrs. Terry McDougall, Executive Director
Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation
905-788-3135 Ext. 230
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