After a two-year break due to COVID-19 restrictions, the chapter held our Sixth Teddy Bear Hunt. Chapter Youth Program Coordinator Ken Dugan coordinated the event with the help of his wife Joyce and over 20 other chapter volunteers. Thirty-eight (38) children accompanied by their parents and guardians participated in the April 23rd event. Many of the participants were from local communities but there were some from as far away as Richmond and Point Harbor, North Carolina.
The day began with the sounds of laughter and excitement as the hunters and family members boarded hayrides that transported them from the parking lot into our park. After registering and obtaining their “hunting licenses”, a safety briefing was held before everyone set out in search of the elusive Teddy Bears. When the hunters returned from the hunt, with their “bagged” Teddy Bears in hand, lunch was served at the gazebo next to the pond. After finishing the hot dogs, chips, cookies and drinks, many of the children tried their luck fishing in the pond while others just wandered around the park enjoying a beautiful day in the outdoors. The fish seemed to be cooperating so most of the children managed to catch a fish. For most of the children catching a fish was a first-time experience.
The Teddy Bears were supplied by the Parsons company. They have donated the bears for all of our Teddy Bear hunts to date. The red wrigglers used for fishing bait were donated by Perry Minnow Farm. Suffolk Fire and Rescue Department personnel were on site with a rescue vehicle to ensure a safe and fun time was had by all. We greatly appreciate those who support this event as well as the chapter volunteers who give their time and energy to make this event a success.
This event connects children with nature and allows families the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors together. If the smiles on the children’s faces are any indication, the event was a big success. Several parents said that the event was not only great fun for the children but the whole family really enjoyed the experience. Several parents said they were looking forward to coming again next year. One seven-year-old, overhearing the conversation, asked if we could do it again next week!
