January 18, 2005 > CLARIFICATION

In our issue dated January 4, 2005 an article titled "Bear Country, Fundraising to SAVE Lives," endeavored to promote two local groups SAVE (Shelter Against Violent Environments) and The One Bear Project. WE WISH TO MAKE CLEAR THAT THESE ARE TWO SEPARATE ORGANIZATIONS AND DO NOT HAVE ANY AFFILIATION WITH EACH OTHER. A suggestion in the article of purchasing a bear from SAVE and donating it to The One Bear Project was not endorsed by either agency, rather a practical TCV idea to contribute to both organizations simultaneously. The One Bear Project has decided not to accept these donations. However, SAVE bear purchases by individuals who would like to donate them have been accepted by SAVE.

Karen Kadaja, Founder of The One Bear Project states: "The One Bear Project steadfastly remains independent of alliances, partnerships and endorsements to the exclusion of our only goal of soliciting community donations ONLY of teddy bears and other stuffed animals for children-in-need." Ms. Kadaja added, "The One Bear Project has not been and will not be an agent of any kind to any organization, effort, etc. where solicitation of money will be involved, we only seek teddy bears and friends."

TCV apologizes for any misunderstandings arising from the article.