My highlight of the day was seeing Ted. He heard me at his fence door and looked up as I stepped in to take a picture on this windy, chilly day.
Ted in straw He didn’t seem to recognize me and tucked his head back under when it appeared I wasn’t there for any exciting purpose. I said, “It’s me bear.” He looked up again, this time making his friendly grunts as his eyes showed sleepy love. I snapped a couple pictures. I had to make contact. He raised his head, sniffed my hand, and licked it. Made my day.
Deer nibbling on grassI had actually come to town to talk about a Legacy Wall and how to recognize people who contribute to a Legacy Fund for education. We are hoping people will remember the Bear Center in their wills and planned giving. We want to build a fund that will remain intact as we live off the interest at maybe 5% per year. The object is to improve our education outreach and, if necessary, subsidize the costs of young people learning about bears. What kind of Legacy Wall, placed prominently in the Bear Center would people want to be part of? We welcome all thoughts. Send them to 
Pine siskin puffed upwant to find ways to recognize donors, people who put us in their wills, and the founding members in a permanent way that shows our true gratitude. We saw the creativity in your merchandise ideas. We’re looking for more of that as we strive for sustainability in educating about bears.
Pine siskinMeanwhile, you continue to send us good ideas for new merchandise. Thank you! We wouldn’t have thought of many of the ideas. We’re hoping for more of that kind of thinking for the Legacy Wall and other donor recognitions.
Out the window, it was above zero, but the wind made it feel colder. Pine siskins that are sleek and streamlined when they fly fluffed their feathers for extra insulation when they perched. The wind blew the new snow off part of the yard, allowing deer to nibble the grass.
Thank you for all you do.
Lynn Rogers, Biologist, Wildlife Research Institute and North American Bear Center