We Need a Fiberglass Bear!?

I opened up my school email and was greeted by this email:
As we all know New Bern is launching a wonderful celebration for the 300th anniversary of the community. One of the coolest things being done is the opportunity for various businesses and organizations to display a New Bern Bear. You have seen them around town I'm sure. Next time you drive by the hospital, or down McCarthy Blvd, or in front of Ward and Smith, just to name a few places- you'll see their bears. We would love to have a CCC bear as part of this celebration. We would purchase the bear from the 300th Committee and it would be decorated to our specifications. (Layne suggested a bear dressed in Craven cap and gown with diploma- which was great suggestion) What I'm asking for are your suggestions on raising the $2800 necessary to buy the bear.

I am not opposed to community support or to necessary renovations, but I am stunned that the college would consider such an expenditure at this time. The State (Governor Bev Perdue) has requested that funds be returned from our budget resulting in canceled classes, less support staff, and a hiring freeze for the most part. I cannot in all good conscience support a purchase which is completely frivolous at this time. Do we need a Swiss Bear? I'd rather have some new computers, adjunct faculty and a larger variety of classes for the students! I support the artists and the idea behind trying to build community; however, asking faculty how to raise funds in order to adopt a fiberglass bear seems outside the scope of sensibility.

Above you will find one of the bears already "adopted." This bear is 'Money Bear,' adopted by East Carolina Bank - Artist, Glenna Davis. Click here to read more.