Moosefest Celebrates Funky Friday & School Moose

The first Funky Friday of the year got off to a grand start with the introduction of the school moose on Friday the thirteenth of May. Seventeen school moose were on display at Stark Hose Gallery on Pleasant Street in Bennington. It was obvious to all who visited the gallery, that the school children have done exemplary work on their moose art. There were many adults and children in attendance for the kickoff of the Silent Auction Bidding for the school moose, and bids were already placed on nearly all of the moose sculptures.

On the following Friday, as classes of children were brought by their teachers to the gallery, children excitedly pointed out "their" creation, and exclaimed over others. Ms. Judy Mook informed us that "the kids have been looking forward seeing these moose, and it looks like it's a big hit".

Indeed it was a bit hit. While we were there, visitors from Michigan came by and told us how much they were enjoying their visit to Bennington, and after viewing the school moose, decided their next stop would be to try the deli next door for lunch. They planned to go see the "big moose" after that. They left us, map in hand.

Ms. Rita Cook of Bennington was thrilled and fascinated with the children's efforts, and wondered if the children would ever know how much everyone appreciated their work. We hope people will mention their appreciation to all the children.

Another way to let the school children know what a great act they have accomplished is to bid on the moose. The school moose are currently around town in various store fronts and from now until October 28th. Silent bidding is available to anyone who wants to bid, and will end at twelve noon on October 28th.

In honor of the opening event for the school moose and to celebrate all of Moosefest, business owners have arranged special events and showings of their creativity. One case in point is The Village Chocolate Shoppe on Main Street. They have created a seventy-five pound real chocolate sculpture of a handsome bull moose, currently on display in the store. This gigantic confection is guaranteed to make you smile, and make you ravenous all at the same time.

We Are Proud of Bennington's Kids!