6-29-2025 4:49am

Fun Bear-themed Activities for Children Continue Celebration of Bear Fever's 20th Anniversary

Lesley Misko Editor

"Red Ball," Encaustic by Kristen Woodward

by Jane Stahl

In a continued celebration of the 20th anniversary of Bear Fever, Boyertown’s popular community art project, Studio B, 39 E. Philadelphia Ave. in Boyertown, PA, hosted several bear-themed activities on Saturday, June 28, 2025.

A Bear-y Fun StoryTime on Colebrookdale Railroad's Diplomat car treated 25 children along with parents, grandparents and friends to bear-themed stories read by Creative Minds Montessori School’s directors Mandy Hunter Lobaugh and Judy Hunter.

The children were captivated by Mandy's spirited reading as she encouraged them to participate in going on a bear hunt.

Parents expressed surprise at their children's attentiveness during the readings.

Boyertown’s lovable mascot Bearianne and several train personnel welcomed the children.

Following StoryTime, children enjoyed a free single dip of ice cream from Colebrookdale Creamery and some playtime in the rail yard.

Walking through several of the train cars showcased the railroad's mission and dedication to preserving and providing an historic authentic aesthetic.

In the afternoon, Destiny Bigler, art instructor with the Boyertown School District, and Studio B Art Gallery's instructor offering private lessons, led several children in a "build a bear" project.

Creative Minds: Mandy Hunter Lobaugh took a leap of faith 16 years ago and opened Creative Minds, a school modeled on Maria Montessori's method of learning where children are encouraged to learn in their own way, in their own time. Assisted by BFF (and her devoted mom) Judy Hunter, Mandy has created a supportive "family" among staff and students where learning comes naturally. Each child is unique and treated with great respect. Teachers are Montessori trained and experienced with the developmental stage with which they work, continually observing the children to best meet the needs of different learning styles. Classrooms embrace diversity, inspire compassion, and celebrate the potential of every child. Curriculum meets the needs of the whole child: socially, intellectually, emotionally, and physically. Each classroom is designed to promote independent and creative thinkers.

Colebrookdale Railroad: A ride on the Colebrookdale Railroad is an enchanting experience that transports passengers to a bygone era and one becomes captivated by the luxury and elegance. As you board the train, you are awe-induced by the meticulously restored passenger cars. Everything provides a sense of nostalgia and refinement and replicates the “golden age” of railroading. Whether enjoying a meal in our dining cars on select excursions, sipping a complimentary beverage in our first-class cars, or enjoying a snack off our A La Carte menu in our coach-class cars, it is not a journey to forget. The rhythm of the rails provides a tranquil experience while looking at the beautiful countryside. Riding on the Colebrookdale is a peaceful journey that will leave a lasting impression.

Studio B Art Gallery’s “The Three Bears” project includes efforts to engage community members in the theme-of-the-year. The project, funded by a grant from the Berks County Community Foundation, includes a variety of activities, organized by businesses, other non-profits, and individuals in the community in collaboration with Studio B.

This year’s theme—“The Three Bears”—celebrates the 20th anniversary of Bear Fever, Boyertown’s popular community art project. Twenty years ago, Bear Fever debuted over 30 bear sculptures at Boyertown High School’s annual Arts Expo. During the summer of 2005, those 30+ bear sculptures appeared throughout the community.

Today, the original sculptures are joined by dozens more—over 90 at last count—and more are “in the works.” Apparently, this community is still not even looking for a cure for Bear Fever.