Several year ago,  I lived in Springdale, Utah, a small town that borders Zion National Park, where I was part of our family buisness (motel and restaurant).  My sister, who lived in Hurricane at the time, asked me to help her with her duties as Parade Chairperson for the Washington County Fair. Since there isn’t much to do in Springdale except take care of over one million tourists a year, hike, and breathe in fresh air, I told her that I would help.

We needed something special for the parade. I had an idea, but it was one that we thought was too far out to happen.  I contacted the Utah Jazz and asked if Bear would be willing to come to Southern Utah to be the culminating feature of our local parade.  I received the unexpected but much welcomed answer in the affirmative.  As news spread of the Bear’s appearance, so did anticipation of the parade.

Bear arrived at our motel in his van. His generousity and courtesy was immediately evident.  He thanked us for our invitation, the accommodation and the opportunity to represent the Utah Jazz organization.  He is a modest, caring, loving individual who was more than willing to give something special to our community.  His apprearance in the parade was truely a highlight. People cheered him throughout the parade’s length. He even kept his patience when, at the end, his van was practically mobbed by adoring fans.

 I moved back to the Salt Lake Valley two years ago.  We attend several Jazz games a year.  I have to admit that I look forward to seeing the Bear as much as the Jazz players.  I know firsthand, what a generous, kind, loving and compassionate individual he is. I know it from a perspective that few people see.  I admire and respect him for his committment to the Jazz organization and his professionalism.  But most of all, I admire his respect for individuals in his unique and loving way.

I hope that he will continue to entertain and delilght all of us for many years to come.  If I could, I would give him a big, Bear-hug in thanks for what he brings to our community, and to the many individuals whose lives he has also touched.