“Skipper” is the New Name of the Floating Hospital for Children’s Three-Ton Bronze Bear Mascot
Boston, Mass. – The former FAO Schwarz bronze teddy bear that now “lives” in front of Floating Hospital for Children received a new name today to accompany its status as mascot of the Floating Hospital. Henceforth, the bear will be known as “Skipper.”
Michael Harlow, age “nine and three quarters,” of Newton submitted the winning name suggestion. His entry was selected from among hundreds of school children’s submissions to a special “Name That Bear!” web site. Harlow will receive a family day at Canobie Lake Park in addition to the distinction of having named the bear.
“I liked the name ‘Skipper’ because the Floating Hospital used to be a boat,” said Harlow, who was unable to attend the naming celebration due to end-of-school conflicts. “I thought ‘Skipper’ was the right name for the bear.”
Skipper was introduced to the public at a naming celebration at the bear’s current home in front of the Floating Hospital entrance, 755 Washington Street. The three-ton, 12-foot-tall bear was awarded to the Floating Hospital following a citywide contest more than a year ago.
“Children helped bring the bear to its new home here at the Floating Hospital, so it’s appropriate that the children help us name him,” said Ellen Zane Tufts Medical Center President and Chief Executive Officer, who announced both the winner and the bear’s new name.
“ ‘Skipper’ reflects the Floating Hospital’s beginnings as a hospital ship that sailed Boston Harbor, and it also captures our three-ton bronze friend’s steadfast nature, and friendly outlook.”
WBZ-1030 News Radio personality Carl Stevens was also on hand at the naming celebration. The station is partnering with the Floating Hospital for Children and Tufts Medical Center on the event.
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