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Someone went to the trouble to free a wooden panda carving from its bolts outside a St. Anthony grade school and make off with the friendly mascot, authorities said.

The black-and-white character was stolen about two weeks ago from Wilshire Park Elementary School at 3600 Highcrest Rd., police said.

The mascot stands about 5 feet tall and weighs roughly 100 pounds. It has greeted students for many years with its big smile and a wave of its left paw.

Anyone with information about the statue is urged to call police at 612-782-3350.

Paul Walsh • 612-673-4482