Community invited to name newly beloved bear statue in Merced County

MERCED, Calif. (KFSN) -- A newly carved bear statue at Merced County Courthouse Park is already drawing visitors from across the Valley and now the public is being asked to help give it a name.

The statue, described as a beautiful, carved community treasure, is only a couple of weeks old and was created from a 100-year-old, deteriorating redwood tree.

The tree has been preserved as public art through the work of local carver Tommy McCarthy Jr.

The bear has quickly become an attraction at the park, prompting organizers to invite community members to help name it.

Suggestions can be submitted here.

Name submissions will be accepted through May 31st, giving residents a chance to leave their mark on the newest addition to the Merced County Courthouse Park.