Bear’s Den Grand Opening Friday
Contact: Joe Carr at (207) 581-3571
ORONO — A grand opening for the remodeled Bear’s Den in the University of Maine’s Memorial Union will bring into focus the pub-style facility’s important role in UMaine’s culture, past and present.
The grand opening is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 24 at 4 p.m. The space that formerly held the Bear’s Den, a traditional gathering place in Memorial Union, was modified for different purposes when the Union was renovated from 2000-2003. Members of UMaine’s Class of 1944 spearheaded the drive, and raised the funds, to remodel another facility in the Union late last year, turning it into a modern-day Bear’s Den. Representatives of the Class of 1944 are expected to be attendance at Friday’s event.
The Class of 1944, for its 60th reunion, donated $160,000 for the project.
“The return of the Bear’s Den has meant a great deal to our community during the past several months,” says Robert Dana, UMaine’s Dean of Students. “Not only is it a first-class dining facility, it provides an important link to the university’s traditions. For our students, employees and visitors, the Bear’s Den is a place to gather and to enjoy together one of the places that makes UMaine special.”
The Friday grand opening will feature a broadcast by student radio station WMEB. The new Bear’s Den will feature table service, with Starbucks coffee drinks, Bahama Blast granita drinks, appetizers, entrees, desserts, daily specials and interactive entertainment. Special planned events include a Halloween party, a holiday sing-along and celebrations for Mardi Gras and St. Patrick’s Day.
Beer and wine will be available to patrons who are 21 years of age or older.
“It is an honor for us to have the opportunity to create a vibrant tribute to the legacy of the Class of 1944,” says Dawn Aubrey, associate director for Dining Services, Marketplace and Retail Operations. “We embrace the exciting opportunity to create an atmosphere that will enhance the facility as a can’t-miss gathering place for UMaine’s students and other community members”
The Bear’s Den will be open each week from 4 p.m.-12 midnight Tuesday through Thursday, and from 4 p.m.-1 a.m. Friday and Saturday.