Smokey Bear Turns 65

Smokey Bear will be honoured today in International Falls.

The city is celebrating the 65th birthday of the most recognizable symbol of conservation and protection of America's Forests.

President of the International Falls Chamber of Commerce Betsy Jenson says its was a local campaign that brought Smokey to the community.

"They had buttons that said 'I'm giving towards Smokey Bear statue coming here'," says Jenson, "and I think the statue originally cost about $3,600 to put it up."

The statue is located at the city's park, named in honour of Smokey Bear and stands 26 feet tall, making it the tallest such monument in the United States.

Jenson says both the monument and the park, itself 55 years old, have become important landmarks to the city.

"It is certainly pretty much the heart of our city. Many of the fun activities done in International Falls are centred out of Smokey Bear Park from our Independence Day Celebrations right down to family reunions."

Festivities to celebrate his birthday begin at about 5 this afternoon at Smokey Bear Park with free dogs and seedlings given to the first 1,000 people who arrive.

There are also games for the kids and an opportunity to have your picture taken with Smokey Bear.

A concert in the bandshell at 7 p.m. will conclude the birthday party.