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DEAN SENSUI / DSENSUI@STAR-BULLETIN.COM
Gabby Badua, a teddy bear consultant at Hanai-a-Bear, filled a bear with stuffing.



Look to Ala Moana store
to adopt a bear


By Nancy Arcayna
narcayna@starbulletin.com

If you're looking to adopt a new cuddly creature into your home, head on over to Hanai A Bear in Ala Moana Center. Adoptive parents get to choose from a selection of 16 different bears. Some are smooth, some are furry, they have different faces, and there are a variety of sizes to choose from, ranging from 12 to 19 inches. Prices range from $11 to $25.

Don't be shocked by the sight of flat bears. They're just awaiting stuffing at the fluff machine for plushness that's customized. Press the machine's pedal to determine how much stuffing you want inserted into the bear.

art
DEAN SENSUI / DSENSUI@STAR-BULLETIN.COM
Gabby Badua dressed it in one of the many outfits available.



"You have to decide whether you want a squishy or firm bear. Even small kids can step on the pedal, and we just tell them when to stop," said Hanai A Bear co-owner Cathy Lee.

"Before the bears are closed, a heart is inserted," she said. Everyone purchasing a bear needs to recite a promise that they will provide the bear with lots of hugs and fun. "No one is exempt from reciting this promise. We had big, old guys coming in during Valentine's, and they had to say the promise. We have teddy bear lovers of all ages," said Lee.

Once the bear is stuffed and closed up, clothing and accessories can be added. These range from a $5 T-shirt to a $19 aviator outfit. "We even feature some tank tops with high school and UH logos," said Lee.

Before leaving the store, a name is chosen for the bear. "Using a computer, the name is printed on a certificate of adoption," said Lee. Finally, the newly created furry friend is put into a backpack bag to be transported to a new home.

"It's a process everyone enjoys. It's not like going to a toy store and buying a stuffed animal," Lee said. "It's really personal."


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