The two bronze statues of a cat and a bear have been a fixture at Gaithersburg’s Rio Lakefront for years, but did you know that they have a name and a story behind them? The whimsical sculptures of Fridolin, the bronze bear, and Kimo, a human size bronze cat, encourages a “hunt for missing objects.”
The bronze animals hold open books that tell a story about their character and that describe six lost items — a pocket watch, hat, suitcase, beehive, Dutch shoes and a bag of popcorn with a bird eating from the bag. See if you can find them all! Read their stories below:
Fridolin’s Story: “Hello! My name is Fridolin and I have been sitting on this bench for a long, long time. I am retired now, but for the last 30 years I have worked at the “Sweet As You” Honey Plant here in Gaithersburg. I did my job well and never calling in sick. I have been most happy here and love listening to the people I meet. I am so proud that I live here. I noticed there is a new fellow, Kimo, who sits on his bench across from me and is new to the Mall. Did you notice him too? I would certainly like to welcome him with a taste of some of my famous “Rocky Chocolaty Broccoli Honey”, but oh, dear! I can’t seem to find my Honey! Can you please help me so I may introduce myself and welcome Kimo?
-I am missing a large beehive. I’m sure all the bees buzzing around and on it will give you a clue as to where it is!
-I can’t walk over to my new friend until I find my shoes! They are so special in design and given to me by my Dutch Uncle.
-My outfit is not complete without my hat! It is a most elegant little cap that fits perfect on my head!
Thank you for your assistance. Please join me in going over and conveying greetings “to Mr. Kimo!”
Sincerely,
Fridolin”
Kimo’s Story: “Oh, my! Thank you for coming by to visit me. I have been traveling for most of my life, looking for a home. I have been to the far corners of the world, but nothing compares to my new home here on the Washingtonian Mall! I love this mall, and will take such good care of it. I will always be here waiting for you to come and visit because I care about what you have to say. I will greet the visitors, and keep the mall clean. Talk about keeping the mall clean; when I arrived here, I was so exited I dropped some of my things and can’t see to find them! Can you please help me? I’ll tell you what I am missing.
-My favorite food is popcorn, and I’m missing a freshly popped bag! Can you find my popcorn?
-I have checked and checked, and have lost my pocket watch! I don’t want to be late greeting visitors; it is most important that I find it!
-Last but not least, I am missing my suitcase. I have to look my best when I’m visiting with you, and my comb is inside. Thank you, thank you for your help! Please come back and visit with me anytime!”
Sincerely,
Kimo”