Humans,
A handful of my bear friends have been in your news lately, not least of which is “Cocaine Bear,” ie Pablo Eskobear (or simply “Eddie,” as I knew him). Eddie is the subject of an upcoming film based on the true story of a 1980s drug operation gone south and massive amounts of cocaine falling into the wrong… er, paws. Unfortunately, the incident didn't end well for Eddie who was, admittedly, troubled but truly amazing in many ways. I just hope the filmmakers get the story right.
Those who know me know I love to reminisce. Thinking of Eddie sent me down a rabbit hole looking back at other bear friends from my past. Of course there's Wojtek, the bear cub who joined the Polish army during WWII. The "Happy Warrior” was known for marching on his hind legs, invading picnic baskets and drinking the occasional coffee. And then there's my friend, Clarence, an Australian Drop Bear who absolutely, positively does exist. And I'll never forget my beloved Cinnamon Bear. But when I think back on all my bear friends, there's one bruin that looms larger than the rest: Smokey.
I first met Smokey in the summer of '52. He invited me out to Yosemite over a long weekend to take part in a fire prevention initiative he was starting. We spent the days teaching campers how to properly extinguish their campfires and evenings sharing a bottle of tequila. That's where I first concocted One for Smokey, a favorite from my little cocktail book Booze by Bear.
It's been ages since I've seen that old ranger bear, but we're looking forward to a much overdue reunion this spring. He and his family are coming to San Diego for a private 14-person Cow by Bear dinner party experience experiment. That's right, we're bringing it back. Only a limited number of private dinners to start with as we ease back into it. Reach out at info@cowbybear.com to inquire. Private parties of 14 only at one of our new, secret locations. We look forward to spending an evening with you!
ONE FOR SMOKEY
for honey syrup
1 c honey
1 c water
Combine the honey and water in a small saucepan. Stir over low heat until combined and a liquid.