The restored 1926 cement casting of the Bear River High School bear mascot was unveiled Saturday, drawing approximately 150 community members to celebrate the icon. The ceremony marked the completion of a restoration project intended to preserve the school's history and traditions.
The project was spearheaded by the Bring Back the Bear committee, including members Marianne Marney Valenta, Robert Merrill, Bryon Ward, Bob Napoli, and Don Allen. The initiative began after Valenta, a member of the class of 1964, discovered the statue in the back of the school building. She noted that the bear appeared to be covered in too many layers of black paint and looked out of place in its previous location.
Project manager Ronald Zollinger stated that over 100 people provided financial donations to support the restoration and relocation. Current Bear River High School Principal David Lee authorized the project, noting that the bear represents the history and what it means to be Bear River. The bear has been relocated to a permanent spot inside the main entrance near the administrative offices.
The restoration and relocation involved several community contributors. Val Lewis completed the majority of the bear's restoration work. Bott and Sons Monument in Brigham City performed four trips to transport the bear during the process. Other contributors included Henry Thompson, who provided an electric jackhammer, and David Misrasi, who provided a backhoe and hydraulic jack. Steel Coated Epoxy Floors from Cache Valley completed the finishing work on the cement at the bear's new home.
The bear was originally commissioned by the Bear River High School class of 1926. While the class of 1964 helped preserve the statue by ensuring it was not forgotten after it was moved inside, the recent restoration ensures the sculpture remains a symbol for future generations of students.
