By Bonnie Adams, Managing Editor
Northborough – There were a lot of bears seen in the neighborhoods of Northborough on March 27. And for the youngsters in the town, who were actively searching for them, it was exciting, fun and a much needed break from the confines of staying home due to the coronanvirus pandemic.
Families were encouraged to place their favorite stuffed teddy bears in a visible spot in their homes or yards. Residents rose to the challenge, creating charming displays, many with positive messages of love and hope.
The initiative was inspired by a Northborough mother of three, Nikol Maher, who is a former speech and language pathologist for the Northborough Public Schools, after she saw the event in another town.
On social media, residents expressed their joy at the event.
“This was so cute! Andy and I saw the waving bear and the school bus stopping to deliver lunches with a gloved volunteer walking to a house. It brought tears to my eyes,” Janet Robbins said. “The town and schools are doing an outstanding job in staying connected.”
“Who knew there would be a benefit to the hoarding of all our children’s teddy bears? It was so wonderful to see and talk with parents and children as they added our bears to their tally sheets.”
Even relatives from out of state shared that they enjoyed looking at the photos.
“Thanks for sharing it has brightened my day in Pennsylvania as well,” said Vicki Gaska of Irwin, Penn.
Susan Sartori of Northborough summed up the feeling that everyone felt at the end of fun afternoon.
“A big thank you to the mom that organized this day. It brightened the spirits of the young and old alike!” she said. 
