UPDATE: Smokey Bear celebrates his 80th birthday on Friday.
The popular fictional bear first appeared on a forest fire prevention poster in August 1944 and quickly became an American symbol for forest fire prevention.
His original message was: “By being cautious, nine out of ten forest fires can be prevented.”
Today we all know that “only you can prevent forest fires.”
The year-long celebration of Smokey’s 80th birthday began Friday with an awards ceremony honoring wildlife conservation heroes.
Two additional events will be held in the Cherokee National Forest, featuring activities, birthday cake, and an appearance by the birthday child himself.
PREVIOUS STORY: “Only you can prevent forest fires” and celebrate Smokey Bear’s Birthdayat the same time.
The Cherokee National Forest To mark Smokey Bear’s 80th birthday, three events are planned for children in the region.
Upcoming Bear Birthday Parties:
The Ocoee and Tellico events will feature games and activities for children, including a cake cutting ceremony, distribution of free birthday buttons and an appearance by the Birthday Bear.
At the Chattanooga Lookouts game, the first 750 children will be given Smokey Bear balls and he will throw out the first pitch.
