California Welcome Center- San Bernardino Selects Voice for Animatronics Bear

A ten-year old performing arts girl from Crestline, Calif., was selected to be the official voice of Berdoo Bear, an animatronics bear designed for the California Welcome Center in San Bernardino. Katriona Kennedy, age ten, was selected from 16 Inland Empire youth, ages 7-10 years old. The San Bernardino Convention & Visitors Bureau (SBCVB), on behalf of the California Welcome Center in San Bernardino, held auditions for the Voice of Berdoo Bear.

Berdoo Bear is a three-foot tall animatronics bear designed by Garner Holt Productions Inc. that will move and speak at the California Welcome Center in San Bernardino starting in May 2007. Garner Holt Productions, Inc., is one of the world’s fastest growing leaders and the largest manufacturer of animatronics and robotic figures. Garner Holt’s work is displayed in theme parks, museums, casinos, retail, restaurants and exhibits throughout the world.

The California Welcome Center (CWC) in San Bernardino, the regional representative for tourism in the Inland Empire, is scheduled to open during May 2007 at 1955 Hunts Lane, adjacent to the I-10 Freeway and Hospitality Lane. Visit www.cwcinlandempire.com. The California Travel and Tourism Commission awarded the SBCVB the 13th official CWC designation. According to statewide surveys, provided by Certified Folder Display Service, Inc., a welcome center near a major California highway has potential to attract 100,000 domestic and international visitors annually.

Studies also indicate that 66 percent of travelers visit a welcome center after identifying the state’s traveling bear logo on Interstate signage.

The Welcome Center in San Bernardino is uniquely designed with a Route 66 theme with a gallery-like atmosphere, back lit displays, Internet kiosk and an authentic jukebox. The center’s concierge-style service will assist tourists, business travelers and regional residents with their vacation and relocation planning needs.