Mast General Store continues to support the work of ABR

On Saturday March 28, 2009 we set up a table in the lobby of Mast General Store in Asheville.   We showcased ABR through an informational display featuring photos and text as well as handouts that we offered to customers who stopped by the table.  We also had a display of bear items, such as scat samples, a skull, track casts, a claw, and a (stuffed toy) “newborn bear cub.”  We used a new display, modeled after an exhibit created by volunteer Joey Holt, which showed three-dimensional representations of good and bad food for bears.  We also displayed our activity book, Bear Factivities  for children.

We represented ABR from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and during that time we spoke to many shoppers, answering questions about bears and about ABR and its mission.  There was a great amount of interest, especially since bears are frequently seen in residential areas of Asheville.  One woman was particularly concerned about a mother bear and yearling cubs that are being seen in one neighborhood.  She stated that these bears are thin and appear to be hungry, and she is fearful for their safety.  We suggested that she get in touch with the local wildlife officers and ask for their help. 

The store manager was enthusiastic about our presence, stating that he had customers who had requested that we return.  He said that he would contact us about a future visit, perhaps in July.

 We felt that the day was a success, in spite of the low number of customers due to the rainy weather.