Baloo celebrated his 4th birthday with cupcakes and Saints on November 13!
Baloo, Siena's Director of Happiness, is always eager to celebrate Siena's special moments. On his 4th birthday, the College threw a special surprise in celebration of him. The College's live mascot has become the drooling face of Siena spirit, and his owner/handler, Charles Anthony Rice (below), has become just as recognizable on campus.
"This journey has gone far beyond my expectations. We didn't start this with the hope of becoming 'famous' but rather simply making a positive impact on the community. It has been a wild ride and every year it's gotten bigger and bigger. There is never a dull moment when you're the owner/handler of Baloo. Even without his event uniform or his personalized basketball jersey or his Siena leash and collar or his newly added barrel (which was gifted by a Siena family this year), he is recognized all over the Capital Region.
As for me, there are times when you feel like you're just the guy holding the leash, but I've quickly learned that is not the case. The love I've been shown as the owner/handler as been tremendous. From people simply asking my name and checking to see how I'm doing, to being recognized as Baloo's owner when I'm out in the community. There's nothing funnier than hearing, "Hey, you're the guy with the dog!" while at a conference for work.
I'm learning that there are no days off with this role, but it's one that I gladly accept and will continue to do if it means putting smiles on people's faces and bringing communities and people from all different backgrounds together!"
Charles Anthony Rice, Baloo's owner/handler