Smokey Bear turns 65
Andrew Garza, 16, a high school senior from Santa Ana, wipes his brow after a session dressed as Smokey Bear at the Discovery Science Center in Santa Ana. Helping Garza pack up the bulky suit is Juan Plascencia, who guides him in crowds because of the costume’s limited visibility. (Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times)
An unidentified youngster gives Smokey Bear a high-five during her visit to the Discovery Science Center in Santa Ana. This summer marks the 65th anniversary of the Smokey Bear fire-prevention campaign. (Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times)
This summer marks the 65th anniversary of the Smokey Bear fire-prevention campaign. Smokey is part of a summer-long exhibit at the Discovery Science Center in Santa Ana, where he engages with children. (Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times)
Andrew Garza, 16, a high school senior, puts a Smokey Bear costume back in its crate after a shift of greeting children at the Discovery Science Center in Santa Ana. (Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times)
A Smokey Bear sign off San Gabriel Canyon Road near Azusa. (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)
