-=APRIL 26, 2003=-
MAY releases in magazine 
8894036 (Apr 25, 2003, 03:39 PM) 
Message Id: 396484 
8894036 writes: 
May Releases 
Dusty - Cub game exclusive 
Sunray - Manta Ray 
Tubbo - hippo 
Bloom - bear with flowers 
Red White Blue - bear 
Bo - dog 
Red - pot belly bear 
June Birthday - bear 
Dad-e 2003 

Buddies 
Liberty - red white and blue heads 
Herder 
Poseidon 

Punkies 
Treetop - giraffe 
Kitty - lion 
Snort - pig 
Slim - hippo 

they all look good The magazine is great too nice story of the NY toy. Get the magazine before its gone. http://www.ty.com/tytalk_Message_Display/1,3041,1_19-396484-0-1,00.html

CRACKER OF A DRAW
Sue writes: "Hello, I am pleased to be able to tell you the date, time and location of the 'Cracker of a Draw'. It would be wonderful if some of you were able to come along and join in the fun!

Thanks to the support of the management of Bourne End Garden Centre in Buckinghamshire the event will take place there next Saturday 3rd May from 11 am-1 pm.

After the Draw has taken place Darren will be happy to sign a Chubbley for each attendee who sponsors me for the Race for Life. I am taking part in this 5 km event on 9th July at Reading.

Further details of the draw and how to find the Garden Centre are on my website. Click here to go straight to that page.

The Draw has collected £638 which is a wonderful total for Cancer Research UK. You can still enter until 30th April.

For those of you too far away to attend the draw there will be photographs and the draw reults posted on www.boglin.net later that day.

Many thanks to all of you who have participated in this event. The total raised through the current 'George' campaign, of which this is a part, is going to be very impressive! This week's celebrity-signed George auctions are creeping up steadily with some more wonderful listings to follow next week and the week after that.

Best wishes, Sue Owen"

'Courage' In Iraq
From: Beanieholics
Beanie Mom posts pictures from Major Jim Barker, currently serving with the Army in Iraq. His sister sent him a Courage Beanie while he was getting ready to leave Kuwait. He has since given that Beanie to a young Iraqi girl living in Baghdad. Click Here For Link To Beanie Mom

Mariana's spirit lives on in joyous pieces of art
WAYNESBORO - Mariana Krawczak saw beauty all around her.

Now the local community has the opportunity to see her spirit in the drawings the young girl left behind.

Mariana, daughter of Gale and Carmen Krawczak of Waynesboro, died two years ago at age 9. She had been confined to a wheelchair her entire life, suffering from congenital myopathy, a form of muscular dystrophy.

"To many, Mariana's life was much too brief, yet Mariana will always live in their hearts - and her pictures will last forever," Carmen wrote in a book, "Mariana: An Artist's Story," she is hoping to publish.

The book also includes stories by Mariana, who was writing a book of her own portraying herself as a 12-year-old in seventh grade.

"She wrote a chapter the night before she died," her mother said.

Mariana's pictures were filled with bright colors, and her art work featured animals of all kinds.

"She loved them, especially her dog Simba." Mariana carried a stuffed animal with her at all times and owned hundreds of Beanie Babies. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

50% OFF ALL TY EASTER
Kid's Collection Toys is offering 50% off all Ty Easter products on our website at KidsCollectionToys.com!  But hurry... this offer won't last long!!

-=APRIL 25, 2003=-
ASK TY
Q: Do you plan on selling Peace Symbol or the new HERO bears in the Ty Store? (submitted by dietpop)
A: I see the Peace Symbol Bear only available at Ty retailers. What's my plan for HERO ? Let's keep that a surprise !

UPDATE ON YESTERDAY'S DOUBLE BONUS QUESTION: THE QUESTION WAS: This is a YES or NO question. Would you have any interest in a "Breast Cancer Awareness" bracelet? I plan to create this type of bracelet with white cats eye beads, pink Swarovski Pearls, sterling silver beads, sterling silver lobster claw clasp, and accented with a sterling silver awareness ribbon hanging from the bracelet. Please just state YES or NO in the subject line. :o)

The response was YES (35) NO (22). A number of you specified the reason for your NO answers.. mainly that you don't wear bracelets. I have ordered the items needed to make these bracelets** and have one person that has pre-ordered hers. If you are interested in pre-ordering also please let me know. These will go fast.

This bracelet will be made with white cats eye beads, Swarovski pink pearls, sterling silver beads, sterling silver lobster claw clasp, and finished off with a sterling silver awareness ribbon attached to the bracelet. It will be beautiful and if you know someone that has suffered from this dreaded disease and has won this battle.. this would make a fabulous gift. Each bracelet will cost $25 + shipping. As soon as my supplies come in I will make a bracelet and take a picture to put on the bracelets page. **A portion of the monies made from the sale of this bracelet will be donated to cancer research.

Businesses using eBay to unload inventory
A $280,000 Lamborghini for sale on eBay sounds like another Internet prank, as likely to be legitimate as were prior online auctions for used dentures and somebody's soul.

But it's no joke to Fox Valley Motorcars in West Chicago, which in the past few months has used eBay to sell Ferraris, Porsches and a 1967 Corvette Stingray convertible.

"I get a real good feeling of what's going on in the county by having my inventory on eBay," said Mike Jernigan, Fox Valley's sales manager.

Originally a haven for collectors of Beanie Babies, Pez dispensers and antiques, eBay has increasingly become a trading post where businesses -- particularly small businesses -- list their wares and seek bargains on everything from computers to welding equipment. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

Lobbying for hobbies
Whoever thinks getting older is boring can think again! I have met many interesting and exciting seniors in Harvey County who spend their time in many fascinating ways. I interviewed three senior women and found all three have very unique hobbies.

Another very interesting senior is Sylvia Schmidt. She has a "bear" collection. If you are thinking I am referring to teddy bears or some other faddish type of bear, such as Beanie Babies, you are mistaken. In fact, let me tell you a little story about her bears. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

One thing he asks is that participants and spectators bring a small stuffed animal as a donation. The perfect sized ones are the popular beanie babies because they don't take up too much storage space. The EMTs keep the stuffed "friends" in the ambulance for times when a small child has to be transported or a parent has been hurt, said Ricci. "It just gives them the comfort they might need." VIEW FULL STORY HERE

-=APRIL 24, 2003=-
SHOCK & AWE BEARS
Charlene shares pictures of her new arrivals. VIEW FRONT - VIEW BACK. For more information about these bears VIEW HERE

CONNIE'S HERO & PEACE SYMBOL BEARS
Connie shares two pictures of her new bears. FIRST PICTURE - SECOND PICTURE

Washington Elementary accepts literacy grant from Wal-Mart
Washington Elementary School recently received a $500 literacy grant from Winslow Wal-Mart’s Store Manager Sarah Patton and Community Coordinator Dar Black. Principal Sarah Smithson and Library Technician Lisa MacLean accepted the grant check in the school’s library.

Ms. Smithson was delighted in accepting the literacy check on behalf of her school. She said, “Reading is very fundamental for a child. If a child doesn’t know how to read, he or she will not do well in school or enjoy being in school.”

She also said all of the credit should be given to Mrs. MacLean, who applied for the literacy grant.

Ms. Smithson said she and the school could not have improved the library on their own especially with the state’s deficiencies in the education budget. She said they have received donations from the Winslow’s Womens Club, Wal-Mart and by an anonymous donator who donates three times a year and gives the children a free book for them to keep. Ms. Smithson said she really appreciates all of the donations made to her school.

The school also does their own donating of books that can no longer be used. The school donates the books to the Northern Arizona Academy for their educational uses.

Ms. Smithson said she, along with Mrs. MacLean, have worked really hard in making their schools library kid friendly and very enjoyable for the students. Some of the improvements in the library have been a reading pit where students can go and sit inside to read or be read too, low book cases so the children can see and have access to any book of their choice, a full set of new Encyclopedia Britannica, and two computer work stations where the kids can enjoy some fun time.

The library also has many animal friends a child might choose to read with. These animal friends are large stuffed animals, and all of them have names, including Camille the monkey, Lizzie the alligator, Lilly the elephant and Booklet the inchworm.

The library also has an accelerated reading store where prizes like small balls, school supplies, beanie babies and lunch with a student’s favorite teacher can be bought with points from books read by the students. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

HERO OBSERVATIONS
Marc writes: "I was able to purchase HERO (the US one) on Tues. & I discovered the following.

There was no individual alphanumeric serial # inside the tush tag.

The copyright date on the tush tag reads 2003. Is this the first 2003 Beanie to have this?

Usually the style # can be determined by looking at the UPC (bar code) on the hang tags (last 4 numbers directly under the bars, I think). HERO's last five digits read 40012. I'm not sure what the style # (if any?) is on this one. Style # 0012 is Princess Beanie Kid. Is this a "new" way of numbering them? Any store owners that ordered/received HERO have an item number for it?" Marc

ST. GEORGE'S DAY CHARITY AUCTIONS
Sue writes: "The CHERISH auctions have just opened for the first 9 signed George Chubbley Bears in aid of Cancer Research UK. They are 7 day auctions and each starts at just £10 with all proceeds going to Cancer Research UK.

The celebrities who have signed the special limited edition ear tags are pictured on www.boglin.net home page with a clickable link to a short biography about each person. These people have each made a wonderful contribution to England in some special way I am so grateful that they have taken the time to sign tags as well as support their own charitable causes.

Each bear has a celebrity signed ear tag which has been laminated as well as a 'CHERISH collect for life 2003' neck tag and is beautifully displayed in a case to protect its tags. George Chubbley bear was only available for sale in UK in the latter part of 2001 and retired at the end of that year.

There are some news updates about other current events on my home page as well. The response to the Prize Quiz has been good and I hope that the participants have enjoyed taking part. The eventual winner will NOT be disappointed with their prize! There will be another Prize Quiz soon - this time about the celebrities who have so kindly signed the special tags on George for this fundraising event. Both events are open to members of my mailing list 'CHERISH Community' (details of how to join are on the web site).

Attached are two photographs which may interest you - one is of George and the other shows a typical tag - this particular one has been signed by Earl Spencer, brother of the late Princess Diana.

Do please pass the word on to anyone who might be interested. This is a rare chance to add such a special bear to a collection...or indeed a wonderful way to start one! Best wishes, Sue Owen"

-=APRIL 23, 2003=-
Marketer seeks hottest product
Do you have a toy invention, one that might be the next must-have item like the Cabbage Patch Kid, Beanie Babies and Tickle Me Elmo were?

Creative Group Marketing of Stamford, Conn., is launching Toy Search America 2003 — a nationwide search for the hottest new toy or product invention.

If chosen, the innovative products would be introduced at Toy Fair in New York City in October. Creative Group Marketing will accept submissions of ideas for new toys, games, or baby/children's products.

Additionally, as part of Toy Search America 2003, the company is waiving the normal submission fees toy agents typically charge to review a new product concept.

Inventors interested in taking part in Toy Search America 2003 can call toll free to (800) 678-8972 for more information. VIEW HERE

KUP'S COLUMN
MICHELLE BAKER, the wife of Cubs manager Dusty Baker, along with son Darren and niece Lindsay, were given a personal tour of the Ty Corp.'s Beanie Baby headquarters in Oak Brook last week and got a chance to preview the new Dusty the Bear Beanie Baby, which will be given to the first 10,000 kids attending the Cubs vs. Rockies game May 4. VIEW COLUMN HERE

COUNTIN' SHEEP
From: La Rue
Kansas Brass & Pewter will become a Flockist for "Countin' Sheep" in the very near future. An Introductory Offer on a limited supply can be seen here: http://www.angelfire.com/ks2/kansaspewter/cs.html

Countin' Sheep is an exciting new line I and hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

<my comments: These are really adorable. If you've not see one in person yet you should purchase one with this special offer. You will be pleased with your purchase and pleased with your dealings with La Rue over at Kansas Brass & Pewter. She's a wonderful lady and I highly recommend you pay her a visit.>

Shakespeare
From: Bean eWonderland
Rumour has it that this beanie is still sitting in the UK warehouse waiting for a decision on whether it should be released as Shakespeare or if a change of name will be required. If it is a change of name then watch out for the next UK exclusive to have altered or changed tags. I was hoping that Ty would go ahead and release this one before we closed the news page so that I could have one final "I told you so :o)".

HERO ARRIVES
Hi Lisa!!! I received a "surprise" call from my local store owner Tues. afternoon to let me know he received white Decade (FINALLY!!!) & HERO. Didn't expect a mid-month order as he's already got lots of shelf-sitters, but looks like he ordered more Pappa & Smartest in anticipation of June events. ;)  Think he got 24 HERO bears, which were almost sold out before I left. Someone bought 6 or 8 and the other "regulars" were there or on their way (LOL). I'm happy just to get my one of each I want. ;) No UK HERO or Peace II yet. Probably a few weeks or so. ;)

UGH, just had to share.  Can't call my other store in the mall because they won't hold anything even though they also see me fairly often (it's a tossup who gets their beanies first, this shop or this Hallmark) and don't really feel like going to the other side of Raleigh if the other Hallmark got the bear, even though they should hold one if I had time to get there!" Your friend in Raleigh, NC... Diana

UPDATE FROM DIANA: Well!  Here's the GREAT news!  I just went to lunch with my friend who works within downtown (I work on the outskirts) and she told me I should check the itty bitty Hallmark shop (that I TOTALLY forget is there because this area is so rundown) to see if they had the Peace bear... So I called and the very nice saleslady said, "NOPE! But we do have this new soldier bear!" Hip Hip Hooray for Hero!  My non-beanie-collector friend and I BOTH agree he is absolutely ADORABLE!!!!!!!!!!!!! Diana

HAPPY ST. GEORGE'S DAY TO MY ENGLISH FRIENDS! :oD

-=APRIL 22, 2003=-
RAFFLE WINNER COMMENTS
Jane writes: "Hi Lisa I was surprized to see that I had won two prizes in Jodis contest and since I was not feeling that good I did not log on until this afternoon. I would like to take the time to Thank Jodi for the contest and for You running it on your website. I do not have the special olympic beanie nor buddy and I can not wait to get them either. Congrats to the other winners. Jodi I will always be there for you when ever you need a friend. Jane"

LAST DAY: FREE SHIPPING!
This is the final day for you to take advantage of Kid's Collection Toys FREE SHIPPING offer at www.KidsCollectionToys.com!  Be sure to stop by and check out all of the NEW April releases at everyday retail prices! www.kidscollectiontoys.com

Hero Officially Becomes Available for Sale
From: Bean Watcher
Based on a USO press release (click here), Hero the bear will officially be available for sale today, April 22, 2003, in special retail shops throughout the U.S.  To find the nearest shop available to you, click here.  Keep in mind that Hero will not be sold by the USO or through Ty Store.  If you can't locate Hero locally, you can purchase some through secondary market sales sites such as MetaExchange (click here) and eBay.

Beanie History:  All Good Things Must Come to an End 
From: Bean Watcher
There is currently an eBay auction posted by the seller, jennybeanie, featuring a memento from the past...  an authenticated The End bear given to Ty representatives at their 1999 National Sales Meeting.  This special bear, which comes with a card that says, "All Good Things Must Come to an End," was given out after Ty announced his plans to retire his Beanie Babies line.  The card and bear were left on the hotel beds of each Ty Representative's hotel room.  After the sales meeting, Ty decided to conduct his worldwide poll and let the people decide on the future fate of Beanie Babies.  The rest is now history...!  To view the auction, click here.

-=APRIL 21, 2003=-
NEWS FROM BEV
Bev writes: "Hi Lisa, Happy and Blessed Easter to you.  I just e-mailed Jodi.  I won the pink-nosed Smitten.  Although we all wanted the Thank You Bear (LOL), I despaired of owning this Smitten.  I did get one, but I sent it to a friend in the UK who wanted it. Also, I have put one of my friends in touch with KidsCollectionToys.  She travels a lot and usually gets her beanies on ebay.  I told her that Kody has better prices.  Thanks for publishing his site. Finally,  Hats Off and a Big THANK YOU to Jodi for her wonderful raffle.  She is working for a great cause, and I wish her continued success.  Thank you, too, for publicizing her raffle. Thank you, Bev"

COMMENTS FROM JULIA
"Lisa, I'm with Marc, shame on Ty for not mentioning you, you have just as great a site as the others, maybe someone should tell TY about your site so maybe next time you will get some praise. Thanks for such a great news letter Lisa, and all you do to keep us informed. Julia"

YOUR ORDER COULD BE FREE!
Kid's Collection is refunding the 10th customer's order TODAY ONLY at www.KidsCollectionToys.com!  And as if that isn't enough - for two day's only (4/21-4/22) ALL ORDERS will receive free shipping... so be sure to stop by to see if there is anything you just can't live without! www.kidscollectiontoys.com

CHUBBLEY SPECIAL
Gayle is having a "Grand Opening Sale" of her regular sized Chubbley Bears that are currently in-stock. These bears will be $5.75 each now through Mother's Day! She has the in-stock quantities listed here: http://www.grandmasbears.net/Latest_News.html Gayle is updating her news page as items are being sold so you will know what's available.

POMPEY WINNER
Tina writes: "Yeah! I just checked Jodi's Raffle page, and I won Pompey! Yeah! A bear I don't have yet!!! How exciting! Mahalo Jodi and mahalo Lisa for posting this wonderful raffle! And I'm so glad Jodi's raffle was a huge success! The vet's office should be very proud to have you helping their office out! Thanks again! Tina, Hawaii"

PEACE 2 HELP...
Have you found this bear and do you by chance have an extra? I've not been able to find one myself and I had hoped to find one for the contest so I'd not have to ask for a donation. I'm running a contest next month that I need one of these new Peace bears for. If you donate your name will be listed on the contest page as a thank you for the month for May in which the contest will run. If you donate the bear you can still participate in the contest. You'll love this one.. you'll see. ;o) Please contact me if you have one that you can send to me to use in the contest next month. Also.. is there another Beanie Baby that has the same color blue as the new Peace Bear? Lisa@planetbeans.com

Outpouring of emotion
Modesto house's yard overwhelmed by mournful visitors, shining candles and personal mementos
By Kristin Bender, STAFF WRITER
MODESTO -- There were so many cards and letters and burning prayer candles on Scott and Laci Peterson's front lawn by midmorning Saturday, that a friend bundled them up for fear a fire would start.

With tears in her eyes, friend Terri Western gathered the notes, children's artwork and sympathy cards and said she would take them to Laci Peterson's grieving family, which is in seclusion and does not plan to issue a public statement until Monday.

Best friends Jessica Vantyuinen, 10, and Brittney Hunt, 11, both of Modesto, roller skated to the Peterson home with about seven hand-picked stuff animals from Jessica's bedroom. They brought Beanie Babies, a favorite pink tie-dyed teddy bear and a small Winnie the Pooh bear.

"I think I just wanted to show respect," said Jessica. "I don't know if it's nice or anything, but I truly do believe Scott was involved in it. I don't know if that's nice to say but I truly believe he did it." VIEW FULL STORY HERE

Military 'hamsters' show their might
Gemmy Industries' quick thinking, followed by success in Iraq, lands a golden egg for the toymaker.

NEW YORK (CNN/Money) - The U.S. military may not blush at the compliment, but kids and adults are already big fans of toymaker Gemmy Industries' latest addition to its hamster family: the dancing military hamsters.

They come as a set of four -- representing the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines -- and are dressed in the appropriate garb of their unit. In true military spirit, each "dancing" hamster also sings the song specific to its branch of the armed forces.

"There's a debate going on about whether the hamsters are the next Beanie Baby craze," said Jason McCann, vice president of marketing for privately-held Irving, Texas-based Gemmy.

Ty Inc., the firm behind Beanie Babies, launched the plush toys in 1993 and ignited something of a cult following worldwide, turning both kids and adults into collectors. The company has produced more than 365 different Beanie Babies since then. Some of the retired Beanie Babies can fetch over $1,000 on eBay. VIEW STORY & VIEW PIC HERE

Bean eWonderland News Page Closing
I deliberated long and hard how to best inform all the news page readers of the following, but no matter how I wrote it the words did not seem to look right. Bean eWonderland is closing down the news page. The current owners have decided it is now time for Bean eWonderland to concentrate all its efforts into supplying high quality low priced beanie products. The official close of the news page is April 30th so until then I shall continue updating the news in the usual manner. << << While controversial at times... Richard has always had my support. Good luck to you Richard.. you will be missed! >>

-=APRIL 20, 2003=-
HAPPY EASTER!
I hope everyone has a beautiful day with family and friends. :o)

ST. GEORGE'S DAY QUIZ IS POSTED
Sue writes: "Happy Easter! The NEW St George's Day Quiz has now been posted on www.boglin.net - all of the answers can be found by reading the information on the website. As a member of the Cherish Community you are eligible to enter ONCE by emailing your answers to me at this address by 25th April.

All correct entrants will be entered into a lucky draw. There is a surprise prize package for the winner. 

The FUN St George's day Quiz is still up on the website (the answers to that are not all on the site!) and answers to that will be posted on St George's Day. Please don't email me your answers! It is just for your fun and education. Have fun! Sue Owen

THANK YOU BEAR + RAFFLE WINNERS POSTED
If you participated in the "Thank You Bear + Raffle" check your raffle ticket numbers: http://www.planetbeans.com/ThankYouBearRaffle.htm

QUESTION ABOUT HERO
Faith writes: "Wanted to ask if the flag on hero is a patch or sewn onto the fabric.  It was hard to tell from Marilyn's photo.  Thanks Marilyn.  I can't see how she gets all the new ones so early.  Appreciate her sharing, however.  In So. California I have not seen either bear yet. Faith"

NEWS FROM BEV
Bev writes: "Hi Lisa, Happy and Blessed Easter to you.  I just e-mailed Jodi.  I won the pink-nosed Smitten.  Although we all wanted the Thank You Bear (LOL), I despaired of owning this Smitten.  I did get one, but I sent it to a friend in the UK who wanted it. Also, I have put one of my friends in touch with KidsCollectionToys.  She travels a lot and usually gets her beanies on ebay.  I told her that Kody has better prices.  Thanks for publishing his site. Finally,  Hats Off and a Big THANK YOU to Jodi for her wonderful raffle.  She is working for a great cause, and I wish her continued success.  Thank you, too, for publicizing her raffle. Thank you, Bev"

-=APRIL 19, 2003=-
COMMENTS ON NEWS
Marc writes: Hi Lisa!!! Just stopped in to read your news page and had a few items to comment on from Friday's news. Regarding the "bundling" by Ty Inc. that seems to be going on, I'm disappointed also. Initially, blue Decade seemed to be a "rare" version that might only have been available to the stores that attended the Toy Fair or placed the $500 (?) order to get it. Not thinking I'd be able to get it from my local store (where the "regulars" get a call when the new ones arrive), I (and I think the rest of the "regular" customers) purchased it elsewhere. Then it was sent to most/all stores later as just part of the regular orders. When I mentioned to my local store owner about the white one that was released, he didn't want to order more Decade, in case he was sent blue again (as you never know what Ty might send) and be "stuck" with more of them. So, I'm still looking for white Decade. Who knows what next month's color will be? Still white? A new one? Or some of each may ship? AFTER the April releases were sent/arrived at the store, THEN the store got the info. to order Peace. Again, there was a minimum order. Too late to add to April orders. I think my store ordered on Monday & the shipment arrived Thurs. or Fri. I haven't seen Peace yet either. Haven't checked in a while, but NO area store got white Decade at that time (and I was calling every few days) let alone Peace. Now it looks like the new Hero CHARITY Beanies will also be "bundled" and the same thing is going to happen. Many stores don't want/can't afford the shelf-sitters, especially the "mom-and-pop" stores and already have too many products left over, let alone buying more of the same. Hopefully, all of these will be on the order forms for first of the month ordering, so everyone (stores & customers) can have the chance to get these bears for their collections.

Shame on Ty for neglecting to mention Planet Beans as an excellent source of information & checklists!!!!!!! Someone's not doing his research very well!!! LOL!!! ;)      

On another note, I don't know if any of your readers watch America's Most Talented Kid (NBC-Fri. at 8:00 P.M. Eastern), but there was a VERY fast shot of the audience on the 4/18 show & someone looked like they were holding a Buddy. Couldn't see which one, but it was a bear & the hang tag was visible. Yet another TV appearance for a Ty product!!! ;)

Enjoy your weekend!!!!!! Marc

WHERE'S THE BLUE PEACE SYMBOL BEAR?
Bev writes: "Hi Lisa, Blue Peace hasn't arrived here either, but Hero is coming soon.  I have found all the other new ones, and Wish is adorable.  I just want to wish everyone good luck in Jodi's contest. Bev"

Becky writes: "Peace 2 has not made it here yet Lisa ! I'd help you if I could though . Becky BTW I agree with Julia :-) I appreciate the fact you answer emails . United We Stand ....Divided We Fall"

CHUBBLEY SPECIAL
Gayle is having a "Grand Opening Sale" of her regular sized Chubbley Bears that are currently in-stock. These bears will be $5.75 each now through Mother's Day! She has the in-stock quantities listed here: http://www.grandmasbears.net/Latest_News.html 

LAST CHANCE FOR THE RAFFLE
Jodi's "Thank You Bear + Raffle" is sending at midnight CST tonight. If you are interested in making a purchase of raffle tickets you must do so by midnight CST. The winners will be in a random draw on Easter Sunday. You can also meet Jodi's newest baby. ;o) We've reached the $800 mark. WTG to everyone. This is amazing! http://www.planetbeans.com/ThankYouBearRaffle.htm

-=APRIL 18, 2003=-
COMMENTS ABOUT HERO
Julia writes: "Hi Lisa, Here is a thought, and maybe if you put it in your news letter Ty would maybe see it. I think that the hero and other special beanie's that all profits that are going to be donated should be sold at the Ty store only. This bull about making the retailer buy $200.00 in old beanies in nonsense. My retailer told me today that she wasn't going to order it unless her customers agreed to buy an older beanie that Ty was making her buy. She said if her customers didn't agree to that then she wasn't ordering it, just to have the older one shelf sit. I know there are others in my situation can't afford to buy an older one just to be allowed to buy hero. Thanks Lisa for your news letter, Your the only one that I know of that answers e-mail and will post your question in your news letter, unlike others that go ignored. Thanks for all you do to get the news out. Julia"

PEACE 2 HELP...
Have you found this bear and do you by chance have an extra? I've not been able to find one myself and I had hoped to find one for the contest so I'd not have to ask for a donation. I'm running a contest next month that I need one of these new Peace bears for. If you donate your name will be listed on the contest page as a thank you for the month fo May in which the contest will run. If you donate the bear you can still participate in the contest. You'll love this one.. you'll see. ;o) Please contact me if you have one that you can send to me to use in the contest next month. Also.. is there another Beanie Baby that has the same color blue as the new Peace Bear? Lisa@planetbeans.com

COMMENTS ABOUT ASK TY
Robin writes: "When I got back on webtv and saw the new Ask Ty answer I thought of you immediately and want to tell you that you are the FIRST website I go to for up to date info on beanie information.  Nothing wrong with the other sites, so no ill will, just want you to know that you have the latest, most up to date info and should have been the NUMBER ONE listing Ty mentioned - oh well - HIS loss and our GIFT!"

Tears, smiles recall Kyle
WEST CHESTER TWP. - Kyle Raulin packed a long lifetime of joy into his short 20 years.

He was known to literally skip across High Street in Columbus, where he was a sophomore at Ohio State University.

He once responded to "save" a girlfriend at 3 a.m. from a spider on her ceiling - and later gave her a "Beanie Baby" spider to commemorate the incident. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

-=APRIL 17, 2003=-
Watched at work
Time: Employers, looking for a solid return on their payrolls, are increasingly relying on software that tracks their workers' online travels.
When you're at work and take 10 minutes to post an item for sale on eBay, view the latest scores on ESPN or see how your stocks are faring, you probably don't think anything of it.

Perhaps you should.

Increasingly across the country, employers have been monitoring what their employees are doing with technology while they're on the clock -- everything from what keystrokes they make to Web sites they surf to where they drive company-owned vehicles. And while workers nationwide aren't losing their jobs en masse because of "playing" when they should be working, it does happen.

"One of our customers said he didn't want workers going to porn [sites] ever, but if you're going to work from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and they want to check their stocks or check their home e-mails or sell Beanie Babies on eBay, basically he would allow them to do that during their lunch hour," Estivo said. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

ASK TY
Q: Is there a book or checklist of Beanie Babies from day one to present day beanie babies? And if so, how can I order one or get my hands on one? (submitted by mikes4x4s)
A: There are several different places to go for this information. Our website has a listing of all the Beanie Babies past and present. There
are also a few good checklists available on the Internet. Check out Ms. Janie http://www.msjanie.com/beanie_dates.html and Beanieholics
http://www.randyandtheresa.com/checklist.html. Of all the sources available, I like the Beanie Babies Buyer Guide found in Beanies and
More magazine. Watch for the May / June issue at a Ty Retailer near you soon !

MOM-e RETIRES
http://www.tytrade.com/TyStore

-=APRIL 16, 2003=-
BEVERLY HILLS TEDDY BEAR COMPANY (BHTBC) INTRODUCES THE EASTER LINE FOR 2003
Santa Clarita, CA - The Beverly Hills Bunny Company, oops!, The Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Company introduces its new line of Easter items for 2003. 

Mini Bunnies are 4 classic bunnies sporting t-shirts with phrases (generic Happy Easter or faith based Christ Has Risen). 

The Spring Squeezer assortment includes a blue bunny, a pink lamb and a yellow ducky.  The squeezers say three phrases; Happy Easter, I Love Easter, and Im a Funny Bunny. 

Big Bunny is a brown bunny and he is a really big 34-inches.  His ears are big and floppy and just wait until you see his huge feet! 

The new animatronic plush pieces for the Easter collection include Hip Hop Rabbit in his top hat and cane.  He raps to Hippity Hoppity. 

And finally there is Nibbles.  The sweet, baby bunny in soft plush, wiggles his ears and his nose as he plays the famous Easter melody Easter Bonnet. 

I love doing Easter product because it symbolizes Spring and new beginnings, says Karen Bonde, VP of Product Development.

The BHTBC Easter line is available in specialty and gift stores nationwide.  Suggested retail prices range from $3.99 to $24.99. 

For more information about the

Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Company,

please visit www.bhteddybear.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 
The "Original" God Bless America Bear®  

Houston, TX--April 2003 One of the most inspiring symbols of faith and patriotism are combined in The God Bless America Bear® by HolyBears, Inc.  

This 9-inch teddy bear is naturally red, white, and blue and has the American flag embroidered inside the outline of the United States on its chest.  The hangtag contains the Bible verse from Psalms 33:12 - Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the nation he chose for his inheritance.  

The God Bless America Bear® stands for allegiance to God and to our great country, two principles that we are proud to combine into this bear, said President and Founder of HolyBears, Inc. Rob LeClair.

The God Bless America Bear® has a suggested retail price of $8.50 and can be purchased at gift shops and through fundraisers with participating schools, churches, and other groups in all 50 states and throughout Canada.

HolyBears® Gifts With Meaning honor religious themes, sacraments, life-cycle occasions and family values, and are perfect for all occasions.  

To view the complete line of HolyBears visit www.holybears.com. To learn more about HolyBears, Inc., or start a fundraising event for your organization e-mail info@holybears.com.

REMINDER
The "Thank You Bear Raffle" has been a HUGE success. If you'd like to join in on the fun while supporting a very worthy cause visit: http://www.planetbeans.com/ThankYouBearRaffle.htm  You need to see the most adorable picture on the raffle page of Jodi's new baby. :o) So far.. $760 has been raised. You have until MIDNIGHT CENTRAL time on Saturday, April 19th to get your raffle tickets.

Camouflage Beanie Baby bear --- do it for the troops! 
(UPI) -- Ty, the company that makes Beanie Babies, says it will support America¹s men and women in uniform by donating 100 percent of the profits from the sales of its new HERO Beanie Baby to the United Service Organizations.

HERO, available nationwide beginning the week of April 21st, is a brown Beanie Baby bear, with a camouflage body and an American flag embroidered on one arm.

Ty has created numerous Beanie Babies to raise funds for causes including: "America" the bear, to benefit the American Red Cross in response to the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001; "Princess" the bear, for Diana, Princess of Wales Foundation; and "Ariel" the bear, for the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation.

Ty recently released, Peace, a powder blue bear, which features a red, white and blue peace symbol on its chest. VIEW HERE

CHERISH eBAY AUCTIONS
Auction reminder ~ CHARITY Ty Beanie Baby Bear DECADE + SWEATER is up to £41.03 with 10 bids to date. You have just over 3 days left to get in on this great auction.  http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=1624&item=3127093644 

REMINDER ~ CHARITY PROJECT CONTINUES
This 'Cracker of a Draw' offers you the chance to win a unique and highly collectible Chubbley prize from a list of five. VISIT HERE and make sure to click on CURRENT PROJECTS to learn more. You won't want to miss it!! ;o)

MOM-e 2003 IS SHIPPING (boy is that fast!!)
Sandy writes: "Lisa, I wanted to share that my Mom-e 2003 has been shiped.. I got this form TY this morning!!!"

Thank you for your order from the Ty Store.

This is to confirm shipment of the following order:

Order - XXXXXXXXXXXX
Ship date - 4/15/2003

Item Detail:
Qty Description
4 MOM-e

Ship To Address:
xxxxxx, SANDY
xxxxxxxx

xxxxxxxxxPA xxxxxx
US

Item(s) cost - $20.00
Shipping &Handling - $4.50
Sales Tax - $0.00
Duty - $0.00
Grand Total - $24.50

Please note, all prices are quoted in US dollars. Your order is being shipped through the Postal Service.

Thank you for ordering from the Ty Store.


Regards,

Ty Store

Ty and the USO make the Today Show 
From: Ms. Janie
Edward Powell President and CEO of the USO was on the Today Show showcasing Ty’s new Hero Beanie Baby. He said the Beanie and what it represented were important to the organization. To learn more about the USO please visit the following link www.uso.org

UPDATE: Sue shares photos she captured from the Today Show with Ms. Janie: " Hi Janie I just caught the Today Show and was able to photograph the segment featuring the USO and none other than Hero Beanie Baby. Looks like TY is adding those to gift bags being sent to our troops. Sue Queenie Beanie http://www.msjanie.com/2002_photos/Sue_USO_HERO.html "

-=APRIL 15, 2003=-
Children hippity-hop down the Easter trail
Fifteen thousand eggs dotted the field at Cooper Park Saturday morning. The hunt was over just 15 minutes later as hundreds of candy-craving children rushed to fill their Easter baskets.

WHAT ABOUT DUCK-e?
Robin writes: "Also, Ty is up to his crappy antics AGAIN!!! I thought since I would order a Mom-e bear from the Ty store I might as well go ahead and order the cute Duck-e. I really don't have the money for this but guess Ty will be saving me money as when I put in an order for 1 Mom-e and 1 Duck-e, the Duck-e order will NOT show up on the order form. So of course he must have removed Duck-e and has him retired BECAUSE he is NOT about to allow us to save on shipping by ordering more than one type of Ty beanie at the same time!! He is infuriating the way he does business and it so ticks me off from buying most of his products anymore."

Becky writes: Hi Lisa ...... I ordered Mom-e and Duck-e last night (4/14). Duck-e was right there to order .....and my order confirmation came quickly . Becky

-=APRIL 14, 2003=-
Easter egg hunt in Hyde Park attracts 1,000
HYDE PARK -- A crowd of 1,000 or more gathered at Hackett Hill Park Sunday for an Easter egg hunt to beat all Hyde Park Easter egg hunts.

''The whole world came out to Hyde Park,'' Supervisor Pompey Delafield said. ''I haven't seen this big a crowd here, I don't think ever.''

Eggs filled with prizes

Plastic eggs were filled with candy, chocolate, small change or prize coupons for small toys and stuffed animals. Beanie Babies donated by Forever Christmas went to those who found gold-colored eggs. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

Of Human Interest: News-lite
CAMOUFLAGE BEANIE BABY BEAR
Ty, the company that makes Beanie Babies, says it will support America¹s men and women in uniform by donating 100 percent of the profits from the sales of its new HERO Beanie Baby to the United Service Organizations.

HERO, available nationwide beginning the week of April 21st, is a brown Beanie Baby bear, with a camouflage body and an American flag embroidered on one arm.

Ty has created numerous Beanie Babies to raise funds for causes including: "America" the bear, to benefit the American Red Cross in response to the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001; "Princess" the bear, for Diana, Princess of Wales Foundation; and "Ariel" the bear, for the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation.

Ty recently released, Peace, a powder blue bear, which features a red, white and blue peace symbol on its chest. VIEW FULL COLUMN HERE

MOM-e 2003 INTRODUCTION ~ http://www.ty.com/Mom-e_2003

-=APRIL 13, 2003=-
EXPENSIVE TROTTER BUDDY!
Margie shares: "Hello I got a real chuckle out this hope someone's account didn't get charged this amt lol  Margie
Feel free to browse...

Today's Top 5 Traded Items are ...
Rank - Pit Name - Last Sale Price - Quantity - Wanted - Sell Now For - Quantity - For Sale -  Buy Now For 
1 Trotter Buddy $30039.00 14 $8.50 3 $9.75  
2 Yours Truly- Gold Crown Hallmark Beanie $7.45 269 $7.85 357 $7.25  
3 Peace Symbol Bear $11.85 186 $10.10 10 $12.00  
4 Decade (white) $3.45 133 $3.10 1189 $3.45  
45 Wattlie (Australia Excl) $10.00 42 $9.50 62 $10.00  

THANKS FROM SUE OWEN & AUCTION INFO
Hi, Thanks to everyone for the support in publicising the charity auction for Yours Truly with sweater - it just closed at £51. That is so fantastic!

Also in aid of Cancer Research UK is an auction just started for a Blue Decade Beanie plus sweater. This beanie has been donated by the well-known Ty cyberboard poster 'Lena At Lake!

-=APRIL 12, 2003=-
No mere mega mall for Meg@eBay
The millionth item sold on eBay is on display behind a glass cabinet in the lobby of the company's headquarters, like a precious objet d'art. Inside is a slightly forlorn looking yellow plastic music box topped with Big Bird from Sesame Street. But it meant enough to someone.

Since then the billionth item has been sold on eBay, the online flea market that allows users to bid for anything from baseball cards to snow globes, Star Wars toys to Ford Escorts or, proving the users are not all geeks, Prada shoes to Jill Sander jackets. The traffic on the website is so heavy that no one has any idea what the billionth item was.

EBay has 62m registered users and the website has developed in ways that the founder, who now divides his time between Paris and Las Vegas, could hardly have imagined. When the company floated, it was largely a business selling "collectibles" - Beanie Babies accounted for about 10% of revenues. Today, collectibles are rivalled by computers, electronic goods, books and CDs, and one of the fastest growing sectors is used cars - eBay estimates that about 1% of all used car sales in the US are via the website. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

DID YOU NOTICE?
Marc shares: "Did you notice that when you clicked on the Hero newsflash at Ty.com that you can locate Ty retailers in your area (in the USA)? I tried it & found a few I didn't know of before and also noticed that not all of the info. there is accurate. There are other places in my area that aren't listed that are closer than the "5 closest" they mentioned. Some of the phone numbers have incorrect area codes (I'm in PA and one had a NY area code and the other is TX I think!!! LOL!!!) and I even found one with a missing digit!!! If you're not familiar with the area in which you're looking for a store, I suggest checking the phone book first just to be sure they're where Ty.com says they are. If any of you have a "favorite" store that you shop at often, you may want to let them know if they're listed on Ty.com. Especially the "mom & pop" stores who may be struggling to stay in business, as they might appreciate any advertising they can get. Marc"

CHERISH eBAY AUCTIONS
Sue writes: "Hi! Just a reminder that the eBay auction for the Yours Truly Ty Beanie with sweater will close this evening at 20.00 British Summer Time. http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=1624&item=3125855689

As it closes another will open for a Blue Decade Ty Beanie, also with sweater. Pictures of both bears can be seen on my website at this link: http://www.boglin.net/cherish_a_hallmark_bear.htm 

I will post through the url to the new auction later today. Both auctions can be accessed by going to my eBay page at the link below: http://members.ebay.co.uk/aboutme/sue_owen/ "

A wonderful problem to have
HAMPTON -- The outpouring of generosity that overwhelmed the American Red Cross also has sent the USO of Hampton Roads searching for storage space and pushed businesses here and nationwide to find creative ways of supporting the troops.

Working with the American Red Cross, Harris Teeter began selling $1 and $20 American flags just over two weeks ago. The program has already raised more than $125,000 toward purchasing the cards.

"They benefit both families and soldiers," said Harris Teeter spokeswoman Tara Stewart "and when you see POWs and people like Jessica Lynch, you know how important it is just to hear someone's voice."

Another phone-card campaign started this week at more than 700 check cashing stores nationwide. Check into Cash Inc., which has about 25 locations in Hampton Roads, is offering to match each 60-minute card that is donated, up to 25,000 cards.

Instead of fighting against the mail traffic, Rebuilding Together, a non-profit organization that restores low-income homes and communities, is trying to help the soldiers' families. Launched this week, Project Homefront will help the families of deployed troops repair and maintain their homes, thanks to $1 million and 1 million volunteer hours donated by Home Depot.

Ty Inc. is also supporting the troops in an unusual way by marketing the "Hero" Beanie Baby, a brown bear wearing camouflage and an American flag armband. All profits from regional sales will go to the USO of Hampton Roads. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

-=APRIL 11, 2003=-
TY REPLIES TO SUE OWEN
I'm deeply touched by this. I am a UK military wife and this is just wonderful!
~boglin~   (Apr 10, 2003, 12:34 PM)
Message Id: 379328
~boglin~ writes: I just saw the link on another site - but only of the US Hero and thought was was great! I wasn't too surprised that UK wasn't included (with Ty Inc being based in USA) - then when I came to the Ty homepage I was blown away to see the UK Hero!

My husband has always been my hero but he would never think that he is. Thousands like him just get on with their job day after day and don't think anything of it. It is so touching to see that such a great tribute has been made to these quiet heroes.

THANK YOU TY!!!
:O)
Sue(UK)

TY REPLIES WITH:
I couldn't have said it better myself.
Ty Warner   (Apr 10, 2003, 02:20 PM)
Message Id: 379416
Ty Warner writes: I salute all the men and women who are now, have in the past or will in the future devote their lives to the pursuit of freedom.

COMMENTS ABOUT PEACE & HERO
Barbara writes: "Hi Lisa, Does this mean that we will only be able to get the Hero Bear with the US Flag on it here in this country and that the English flag will only be available in England?  I sure hope not I think they are adorable and would love sets to give to my friends who have sons serving over there as well as for my own collection.

I can't tell you the almost anger I am feeling about not being able to get Peace II at this point.  When I ask in the stores they either don't know about the bear or say that there was stipulations of ordering extra TY product lines that they just couldn't meet.  hence I have not found Peace I guess you could say in my heart or in my collection. Barbara "

Thanks to Kevin for sharing the following:
Are the Hero's exclusive to that country
8654271   (Apr 10, 2003, 04:11 PM)
Message Id: 379711
8654271 writes: Are the USA and UK Hero's ONLY going to be available in their country?

TY REPLIES WITH:
Re:Are the Hero's exclusive to that country
Ty Warner   (Apr 10, 2003, 05:04 PM)
Message Id: 379768
Ty Warner writes: Everyone needs a HERO . . . and I plan to make both versions available in the U.S.

PEACE 2 -- Only 20 stores nationwide got it...
noitcua   (Apr 10, 2003, 03:27 PM)
Message Id: 379622
noitcua writes: Ty Rep told retailer early this week that only 20 stores had gotten PEACE 2. Why did Ty post on website that it would be in the stores last weekend? Anyone else hear this?

TY REPLIES WITH:
Thousands were shipped
Ty Warner   (Apr 10, 2003, 05:13 PM)
Message Id: 379780
Ty Warner writes: I shipped Peace to thousands of stores across the country. The second wave has yet to hit the retailers. Please be patient and know I'm doing everything I can to bring Peace to you !

UPDATE ON RAFFLE PAGE
Jodi shares another picture of her new baby BOY kitten. VERY cute! http://www.planetbeans.com/ThankYouBearRaffle.htm

Ty and FTD in partnership
From: Ms. Janie
FTD IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE A NEW ALLIANCE
WITH THE #1 NAME IN PLUSH

Our new partnership will help increase your sales by offering customers the chance to enhance and complement their floral order with the world famous Beanie Babies®!

Ty® offers heart-warming, attractive products for all occasions, including every holiday or 'just because'. With its remarkably affordable prices, instant brand recognition and reputation for quality, it is a perfect complement to the FTD brand and logo. The Ty Brand offers an incredible value to your consumer and increased revenue for you.

Beanie Babies and other Ty Plush lines are consistently recognized for their chart topping performance, including #1 rankings for retailers in:

Seasonal Sales
Highest Markup
Highest Turns
Highest Reorders
Most Profitable Line
Register Area Sales
Increase your sales today!

Call 1-800-876-8000 to talk to your Ty Representative.

Available only in the United States.

MORE TRAGEDY!
Charlene writes: "Hey Lisa, I don't know if you have seen this yet, but the family whom lost their home and the lady lost her entire beanie collection from a house fire, has had more tragedy. The lady, Pat was killed in a two-car automobile accident; here's the news article link. This is so horrible. There's a saying, "God will never give you more than you can handle", hmmmmmmm, I'd have a problem with this kind of 'more than you can handle.'" 

"When the Jeffries’ home burned, Becknell was on vacation, but said he meant to give Pat a hug later. Through twists in the schedule, Becknell said he never got to give her that hug.
    He recalled her love of Beanie Babies, as well as the reaction of others to replace her collection after the fire, as well as Bill’s fishing gear." VIEW STORY HERE

Home sweet cubicle
Personal items bring calm to stressed workers
Have you got cuddly Beanie Babies? Bright orange Garfields? Nifty college pennants? A tangle of plants? Plastic wind-up toys from fast-food kids meals?

Come on, show us your cubicle!

Jackie Jansen did just that. She has personalized her cubicle at Melbourne City Hall with dozens of patches from municipalities all over the country, and even from Europe. She has stuffed animals, photographs, toys and more to help her through her day as receptionist and switchboard operator.

Ask Ty
Q: Ty, is the Peace Bear for the Armed Forces or are you going to do something different for them? (submitted by joeswife)
A: I created PEACE with eveyone in mind. HERO was created to help us all show our support for the men and women of the Armed Forces. http://www.tytrade.com/askty_home 

-=APRIL 10, 2003=-
GREAT PICTURE OF BUTTERCREAM
Char shares a picture of her BOTM Buttercream Beanie. Very nice and closeup picture. The fabric looks soooo soft. VIEW PIC

JODI'S THANK YOU BEAR + RAFFLE  UPDATE!!
Pictures of two more items have been added. A new prize has been added, an oddity Hat Trick Hunter. Also.. a new picture of Jodi's newest baby has been posted. VISIT HERE.

Catching the volunteering bug
The average age of the membership in local civic organizations grows older every year.

However, one local group leader is doing her best to make sure the younger generation steps up to take its place in the community.

Like other youth groups in the area, Lisa Kaufman's Roosevelt Y Teen Leaders (Y Leadership Club), a collection of 35 seventh- and eighth-graders at the middle school, are getting their feet wet in the volunteering field.

"I think it's more important now than ever that we teach kids to get involved," said Kaufman. "We aren't always out working on a project. We do recreational activities, go to movies and do other things as a group. You have to do that to keep them interested."

The group meets after school once a week, developing leadership skills, and brainstorming about community projects.

Some of the group's upcoming activities include helping seniors plant flowers at Cedar Hill and Adams Lane nursing homes, and organizing an Easter egg hunt at the Muskingum Family Y, which sponsors the group.

Kaufman also said students helped assemble comfort kits for the Red Cross, which are given out to victims of fires, and collected 230 Beanie Babies to send overseas as comfort to those having surgery. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

CHANGE IN TY MASTERCARD INTEREST RATE
John shares with Ms. Janie: "Hi Janie, Just thought I'd pass this along for you to share because I know there are active-duty military people who read your newsletter. I have the Ty MBNA credit card and noticed on my last statement that the interest rate shot up to 17.99 percent. This kind of took me by surprise, so I called their customer service and asked them about it since I was receiving the lower rate of 10.99 percent that they offer to active-duty military folks. They said they sent out a notice in January about the rate increase. I personally don't remember getting one. Anyway, he said they did an across-the-board rate increase on everyone's account. They didn't check anyone's account to see if they might be getting a different rate for some reason. So to all the active-duty military folks out there, all they have to do is call the customer service number on back of the card, speak with someone in the accounts section, and their rate will be adjusted back down to 10.99 percent. Have a great day! John"

NEW TRIBUTE BEAR ~ HERO TO SUPPORT THE USO
There are two versions pictured on the main page of Ty.com. Lighter camouflage with a UK flag and the darker green camouflage with a U.S. flag. http://www.ty.com/hero_main

Ty Press Release 
From: Ms. Janie
Ty to Support America's Men and Women in Uniform by Donating 100% of Profits From the Sales of its New HERO(TM) The Beanie Baby(R) to the USO Ty announced today that it will support America's men and women in uniform by donating 100% of the profits from the sales of its new HERO Beanie Baby to the USO (United Service Organizations). HERO, which will be available at authorized Ty retailers nationwide beginning the week of April 21st, is a brown Beanie Baby bear, with a camouflage body and an American flag embroidered on one arm. The poem written on its tag reads: We all pray When day is done That freedom comes To everyone ! More information at the following link http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/04-10-2003/0001923999&EDATE=

-=APRIL 9, 2003=-
YOURS TRULY RETIRES ~ http://www.ty.com/YoursrulyRet

Shakespeare Update 
From: Bean eWonderland
This just in from our local Ty store and direct from the rep... Shakespeare is reality but Ty Inc. are angry with the pre-sellers so they canned it. It will still appear at some point but possibly with a different name. they are currently sitting in the UK warehouse...

-=APRIL 8, 2003=-
NEW PEACE BEAR
Ty.com lists this bear now and on the main page states "IN STORES NOW!". Have you found this bear? I asked the owner of 3 Hallmark stores locally and he knew NOTHING about it. He is usually somewhat in the know about things like this. His Ty Rep was in last week and she didn't mention anything about this new bear or anything else new coming in. The owner will contact his Ty Rep this week and inquire. I am hoping to find a couple of those Beanies. I have a very special contest coming up in May and will need one of these special bears to go along with a lovely prize that's being offered. If you are lucky enough to locate an extra and would like to donate it to the next contest, please contact me at Lisa@planetbeans.com.

JODI'S THANK YOU BEAR + RAFFLE  UPDATE!!
So far $740 has been raised to help the animals. Another item that Jodi has purchased with the funds has been pictured. Jodi has another new baby to take care of. You can view this new little on the raffle page. If you haven't viewed the information for this raffle or if you haven't viewed the HUGE prize list for those joining in: VISIT HERE.

PICTURES OF BUTTERCREAM
Marilyn shares pictures of Buttercream with the Bean Watcher. VIEW HERE

High Court Rejects Beanie Babies Trademark Dilution Claim
Monday April 7, 4:03 pm ET
Ty Inc., the maker of Beanie Babies, on Monday lost a bid to the U.S. Supreme Court to block a reseller from using the Web site www.bargainbeanies.com.

In rejecting the case without comment, the high court refused a chance to further define the power of the Federal Trademark Dilution Act, a 1995 law aimed at protecting famous trademarks, or to wade into trademark laws in cyberspace.

Ty Inc. took aim at Ruth Perryman, who sells used Beanie Babies through her Web site under the business name "Bargain Beanies." Ty has a registered trademark on "Beanie Babies" and a common law trademark on "Beanies."

Ty's lawsuit against Perryman, of Vallejo, Calif., sought to block her from using the term "Beanies" as part of her business or Internet domain address.

"Virtually every owner of a famous mark constantly faces the prospect that third-party resellers of its goods will appropriate the mark," attorneys for Ty said in the Supreme Court petition. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

Days Of Coral Casino May Be Numbered
From: Beanieholics
An embittered standoff is occurring between members who would like to see Coral Casino owner Ty Warner complete his ambitious new plan for the club, and a group of recalcitrants, one of whom is quoted as having said she would "watch the (Coral Casino) sink into the ocean rather than see Ty Warner get his way." Click Here For Story

-=APRIL 7, 2003=-
WENT LOOKING FOR NEWS...
I didn't find anything of interest so I'll post some reminders below. ;o)

**Did you find the NEW Peace Bear this weekend? I asked the owner of 3 Hallmark stores locally and he knew NOTHING about it. He is usually somewhat in the know about things like this. His Ty Rep was in last week and she didn't mention anything about this new bear or anything else new coming in. The owner will contact his Ty Rep this week and inquire. I am hoping to find a couple of those Beanies. I have a very special contest coming up in May and will need one of these special bears to go along with a lovely prize that's being offered. If you are lucky enough to locate an extra and would like to donate it to the next contest, please contact me at Lisa@planetbeans.com. 

APRIL CHUBBLEY WALLPAPER
Jen has created the April Chubbley wallpaper: http://www.chubbleycorners.com/WP.htm

REMINDER ~ SUE'S CHARITY NEWS!!
This 'Cracker of a Draw' offers you the chance to win a unique and highly collectible Chubbley prize from a list of five. VISIT HERE and make sure to click on CURRENT PROJECTS to learn more. You won't want to miss it!! ;o)

Sue has knitted a beautiful sweater to go with "Yours Truly" for this auction. There are just over 5 days remaining and there have been 10 bids with a high bid of £35.55. VIEW AUCTION HERE

Another draw has begun, thanks to the creativity and generosity of Stef Hanson of Windy Ridge Bears Stef has designed and made a beautiful one-off edition hand-dyed mohair bear to be raffled in aid of Cancer Research UK. Details can be found HERE  

BRACELETS BY LISA "SPECIAL" UPDATE
The new bracelet will cost just $15 plus postage. I never charge a handling fee! You pay for YOUR choice of shipping via the USPS. Delivery Confirmation is a must to U.S. destinations. As with any bracelet I make, I will be most happy to take a picture of the final product for your approval before shipping to you. Shipping could cost as little as $1.30 in a padded envelope with 1st class shipping including $.55 for Delivery Confirmation. If it cost a little more to ship this method I would pay the difference. http://www.planetbeans.com/BraceletsByLisa.htm 

ALSO: Charlene shares her comments from receiving the bracelet I created for her. :o)

JODI'S THANK YOU BEAR + RAFFLE UPDATE!!
So far $700 has been raised to help the animals. If you haven't viewed the information for this raffle or if you haven't viewed the HUGE prize list for those joining in: VISIT HERE. 

NEW CHUBBLEY BEARS ARRIVE
The January and February Chubbley releases have arrived at Kansas Brass & Pewter. They are lovely! Stop by and order these today. I expect them to fly off out of the store since many have been waiting patiently for their U.S. arrival. :o) La Rue has MANY Chubbley Bears in stock so if you are looking for an older bear.. check this page to see if they are in stock. The NEW Chubbleys that she's just received include: Lily Chubbley, Bjorn Chubbley, Blush Chubbley, St. Clements Chubbleys (Lemon & Orange), Toots Chubbley (Plum), Petal Cub, Snowdrop Cub, Creamy Cub, Mission Chunky.  http://www.angelfire.com/ks2/kansaspewter/cb.html 

-=APRIL 6, 2003=-
WEBSITE IS WORKING AGAIN...
I was able to finally find out the problem with PlanetBeans.com. The company that hosts the domain name didn't notify me that my domain had expired as of the end of March. I found out from my host company that the website needed to be renewed before it would be accessible the same way as it always is with planetbeans.com.

WIN THE CHUBBLEY JACKS AT COLLECTIBLEZSPOT
CollectiblezSpot.net has just started a new contest to win the Jack of Hearts, Jack of Spades, Jack of Diamonds and Jack of Clubs RETIRED Chubbley Bears! The contest runs until the 16^th and full details can be found HERE

-=APRIL 5, 2003=-
NEW TY PRODUCTS HAVE ARRIVED!
Kid's Collection Toys now has all of the new Ty releases for April IN STOCK on their website at www.KidsCollectionToys.com at their everyday retail prices!

NEW! Ty Beanies - Pappa, Smartest, Filly, Sport, May
NEW! Ty Pluffies - Dangles, Tubby, and Corkscrew

CHERISH APRIL EVENTS
Note from Sue Owen:
Good morning from sunny UK!

April brings two noteworthy events to mind for CHERISH - on the 23rd April England celebrates the day of its Patron Saint, St George. Although in England this day has for some time not been given the high profile that St Patrick's Day has in Ireland, many people feel that the event is long overdue for some fitting celebration. CHERISH seeks to address that!

This month is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month for Cancer Research UK and the 10th year since the Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research UK was founded in memory of the man who led the England football team to victory in the 1966 World Cup. The aims of the fund are to raise money for vital research into the prevention, screening and treatment of bowel cancer.

CHERISH is paying tribute to some of the English people still living who have made a special contribution to their country. St George's Day will see the start of a series of eBay auctions of special edition George Chubbley Bears with extra ear tags which have each been signed by one of two dozen famous people, such as Margaret Thatcher, Earl Spencer, Sir Bobby Charlton, Nigel Mansell and Dame Judi Dench.

The 'Cracker of a Draw' continues through April (with almost £500 raised so far), to be drawn at the end of the month. Some special George Chubbley Bears are part of the wonderful prize line-up.

Another draw has begun, thanks to the creativity and generosity of Stef Hanson of Windy Ridge Bears Stef has designed and made a beautiful one-off edition hand-dyed mohair bear to be raffled in aid of Cancer Research UK. Details are on her website  at www.windyridgebears.co.uk and mine at www.boglin.net.

Finally, an auction starts this evening on eBay for a special Hallmark exclusive 'Yours Truly' Beanie Baby for which I have made a one-off sweater with the Gold Crown on the front and 'Yours Truly' on the back (see picture) This bear has been donated by Melva Evans whose daughter has recently undergone successful surgery, thanks to the early detection of a bowel tumour.

Please visit my website at www.boglin.net for more details. Proceeds from all events go, as always, to Cancer Research UK.

Best wishes and thanks for any publicity that you can give these events to raise as much as we can for charity!

Sue Owen

NOTICE FROM JODI: THANK YOU BEAR RAFFLE
http://65.127.176.30/ThankYouBearRaffle.htm

LOTS OF CHUBBLEYS ON AUCTION
Danita asked that I share her auctions with you. She's selling lots of Chubbleys to help fund her move: http://members.ebay.com/aboutme/stardust_1027/

A New Beanie Baby to Honor the Heros... 
From: Bean Watcher
Ty has recently been posting comments on the Ty Talk Cyberboard on a more frequent basis.  His latest post, in the Bright Ideas section, is in response to a collector's recommendation to honor the soldiers in war (click here).  Ty responded by saying I'm always here and agree with honoring our soldiers . . . Stay tuned for our tribute to the Hero's  (click here).  Based on scattered reports, the tribute appears to be in the form of a new Beanie Baby.  Joan from California writes, my beanie store here in town told me the rep had just called, was not able to order the Peace Bear 2 also in a few days would be able to order a beanie for the Armed Forces.  In addition, a Ty Cyberboard post states, I heard that 'very soon' there may be a new bear. I don't know his/her name, or what he/she will look like.. But I heard there will be bear to honor our troops (click here). All roads seem to point to a new style being introduced in the near future.  When will the bear become available?  No one knows for sure, but certainly, Tyme will tell!  

MORE ON AUTHENTICATED BEANIE BABIES
From: Bean Watcher
Brent from California warns collectors to be careful when buying authenticated beanies.  He has found that the lids on "sonically sealed" cases can be removed.  Brent's email is worth sharing:  I received another authenticated Beanie today, and this time it was even easier for me to open the sonically sealed container. The lid wasn't attached at all. The only thing holding it on were the two "void if removed" stickers, and I was able to peel one away from the container, thus completely freeing the lid....  I don't know if the problem is with the materials/equipment ... or if improper procedures are being used when sealing the cases....  A dishonest Beanie dealer could very easily send a bunch of genuine Beanies... and once they are sent back, open the containers, replace the genuine Beanies with counterfeits, close the containers back up, and sell them to unsuspecting collectors.... . With regards, Brent 

4 NEW TY TRADEMARKS
Sly shares with Ms. Janie
Good Morning Ms. Janie! I stumbled upon 4 New Ty Trademarks this morning!-LOL On March 21,2003 Ty applied to register Trademarks on the following 4 words or phrases 

Gipper 
Ronnie 
Beanie Wishes 
Beanie Blessings 

All 4 of these new Trademarks had "Plush toys" listed as their good and services. Looks like we should expect some more new Ty Products soon! As Always tho! Tyme will tell!! Speaking of Tyme! Don’t forget to spring ahead!-LOL Your Buddy, Sly The Beanie Guy

-=APRIL 4, 2003=-
Marvin's Window: Taking a look at the nation's wealthiest
I looked out my window at reality while taking a break. I had been at work at my computer looking at Bill Gates Windows operating system and wondering what it would be like to lose billions of dollars in one year.

Bill Gates shed $11 billion last year in the market downturn. He limps along on the $43 billion remaining while still sitting atop the latest Forbes 400 list.

It may surprise you to know that 131 of the 400 richest in the country dropped out of college. That included Warner and his Beanie Babies and several in the high-tech areas. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

PEACE ANNOUNCEMENT
On the main page of Ty.com there is an announcement saying "IN STORES THIS WEEKEND!" 

Out To Pasture
From: Beanieholics
Hmmm…maybe that should be 'out to graze'? Either way Countin' Sheep has announced their first retirements. Leaving the flock are Baa-bee, Doodle and Ozzy. But don't despair, there's news of a 'Spring Lambing' and twelve new arrivals. For more info use the link below and then click on 'news'. Click Here For Countin' Sheep

"YOURS TRULY" COMMENTS
Fonda writes: "HI everyone, I was in my favorite Hallmark April 2, Just checking for any Ty animal I might have missed.  I couldn't help notice they, the cashier was pushing the Yours truly beanies at everyone.  Are All Hallmarks having trouble getting rid of them?  I ask the cashier and she said they have a store room full of them.  Is Just in Missouri or country wide ? Fonda"

PICS OF THE NEW PEACE 2
Bean Watcher has pictures to share. VIEW HERE

-=APRIL 3, 2003=-
JODI'S THANK YOU BEAR + RAFFLE  .... ANOTHER UPDATE!!
Stop by the raffle page and meet the SMALLEST member of Jodi's family. This member is so small that it's less than half the size of a Beanie Baby. Picture comparison is posted along side two Beanie Babies. Jodi has shared more pictures of items she's purchased with your donations along with how much each item costs. VISIT HERE. 

'Adam's Animals' help make a difference
Adam Hurst had aspirations of becoming an actor on Broadway. However, all that changed when the then-19-year-old was diagnosed with leukemia during the summer of 1999. He succumbed to the disease in August of that year.

Though Hurst lived in Plano, Texas, he had local ties. His mother was raised in Fayette County, and his grandparents, Doris and Lyle Kidd, still reside in Everton, as does an uncle, Brian Humphrey. This close-knit family refuseS to let Adam's passing diminish the smiles he brought to so many people during his life.

"Adam's Animals," a non-profit organization, was founded and is responsible for bringing smiles to many children's faces by distributing stuffed animals to youngsters in the hospital.

"Adam just loved to make people smile, he was such a good person," Doris Kidd said as she opened a bag of new stuffed animals at the local hospital.

Though Adam is gone, his desire to bring a smile to young patients lives on, with the help of family and friends. On Monday, his uncle Brian Humphrey and his grandparents, the Kidds, stopped by Rush Memorial Hospital and dropped off bags full of stuffed animals, teddy bears, and Beanie Babies. These will be distributed to all young patients at the local hospital throughout the year. READ FULL STORY HERE

Beanies & More magazine wants you!
The following thread is on the Ty Cyber Board... "We've enjoyed reading your thoughts, ideas and Beanie hunting stories for a long time -- now we want *all* the readers to get to know you! Beanies & More would like to do a story featuring several frequent Cyberboard posters -- talking about the friends they've made online, their collections and more.

To nominate a fellow poster to be profiled in the story, simply send a brief e-mail to beaniesandmore@imaginepub.com telling us the person's username and reason why you feel they should be included in the article (anything applies, from being a longtime Cyberboard poster to a plush poet to having a deep love for Ty Beanie bears) no later than Monday, April 7. View Thread

ASK TY
Q: How soon is very soon? When will we see Peace II? (submitted by beanie teach) 
A: The search begins this weekend. I hope everyone finds Peace soon. http://www.ty.com/askty_home

-=APRIL 2, 2003=-
QUICK MENTION (tickets are now 4/$1.00!!)
Desi is having another raffle. This time you have a chance at winning "Yours Truly", Decade, and Duck-e. Tickets are 4/$1.00. Details can be found HERE

CHAR'S DUCK-e BEANIES
These little guys are too cute!! VIEW HERE

A WARNING ABOUT PAYPAL
Bonnie writes: "Lisa, For several years, Pay-Pal has been a great friend of mine. However, it terrifies me now to think that what happened to me can happen to anyone. I went to the bank to cash a check on my personal account. I was told that my check was no good. That, in fact, I owed the bank over $900. I panicked. I knew I had over $900 in my account and the check I was cashing was only for $120. With a search, my bank discovered that there was an authorized use of my Pay-Pal account with a purchase of $1,896.00.  Let me clarify that my Pay-Pal account had zero monies. I didn't owe anyone and Pay-Pal was not carrying a balance for me. Pay-Pay went right for my checking account for these funds. I IMMEDIATELY went home and filed a complaint with Pay-Pal filling out their "Unauthorized Use Of Account" form and notifying them of the situation.

Fortuantely for me, I discovered the fraud before the transfer was fully transacted and my bank was able to retrieve the funds from the Pay-Pal Bank. Had I discovered this a day later, I would have been in debt by over $900.00.

I asked my bank why they approved such an enormous overdraft and they said they did it as a courtesy to me because I was such a good patron and that I had never overdrafted before. To add insult to injury, the bank added a $35 overdraft charge to my now "minus $900+" checking account. Naturally, when this fraud was discovered, they reimbursed me for the overdraft charge. I immediately closed out this account and had to reopen a new one. This incurred another loss for me because I had just purchased all new checks for the account involved. My funds were restored to my new account within a few days.

A week later, I received notification from my Credit Card Company that Pay-Pal had moved on and tried to charge the $1,896.00 against my credit card after the bank transaction failed. I was livid. Here, Pay-Pal, knowing this was fraud still went ahead and tried to get the money from me. Fortunately, the charge card company denied payment saying it was out of the ordinary for me to charge such a large amount. Shortly thereafter, when all of their attempts to get the money from me failed, I received a letter from Pay-Pal saying they were going to turn me over to a collection agency.

After finding an actual telephone number for Pay-Pal, I contacted them direct. Speaking to a "live" person, I was emailed a form that I had to have signed and notorized and sent certified mail back to them. I have not heard from Pay-Pal since. They are no longer trying to obtain the money from me.

However, my account with Pay-Pal is locked. Monies can come through, but I cannot withdraw anything. I wanted to close it out and be done with them, but they will not allow me to do so until I send them my new checking account number and my new credit card number. My account has to be reactived in order to close it out. Fat chance I'll ever do that!!!!!!!

Just be warned. There are a lot of folks out there who trust Pay-Pal and believe it's a secure way to transfer funds. I'm proof that you are NOT SECURE!!!!! If it happened to me, it can happen to anyone.

Best regards, Bonnie P."

NEW CHUBBLEY BEARS ARRIVE
The January and February Chubbley releases have arrived at Kansas Brass & Pewter. They are lovely! Stop by and order these today. I expect them to fly off out of the store since many have been waiting patiently for their U.S. arrival. :o) La Rue has MANY Chubbley Bears in stock so if you are looking for an older bear.. check this page to see if they are in stock. The NEW Chubbleys that she's just received include: Lily Chubbley, Bjorn Chubbley, Blush Chubbley, St. Clements Chubbleys (Lemon & Orange), Toots Chubbley (Plum), Petal Cub, Snowdrop Cub, Creamy Cub, Mission Chunky.  http://www.angelfire.com/ks2/kansaspewter/cb.html 

-=APRIL 1, 2003=-
Welcome to April!! 
I hope this month brings about many smiles for all of you. Let's hope this month brings an end to the war and brings about peace throughout the world. :o)

"YOURS TRULY" COMMENTS
A Semi Bad "Yours Truly" Experience...
Wendy writes: "I wanted to share my story with you and your readers as well... I first went to my closest, local Gold Crown store (there are 2 in this town) on Wednesday, since I had seen in your newsletter that others were able to get the "Yours Truly" beanie a bit earlier. The 2 women on the night shift told me that YES, I could have one. I unfortunately did not have the money on me then, so I told her no. She then replied- "Well, come back on Thursday and you can have it." I went back on Thursday...and spoke with the day shift. Both were insistant that I could absolutely NOT have the beanie until Friday and that they already knew the situation, and that they were willing to hold the beanie for me until Friday but there was nothing else I COULD do or that they WOULD do. I went back Friday- the owners were there. They both said (Husband-Wife ownership) they knew who I was, and that they were sorry but there was miscommunication on their part...and that I should of never been told that I could have my "Yours Truly" on Wednesday or Thursday. I still got my beanie, so all is well. I also went to the Gold Crown store in the mall- different owners- and was told that they were not getting the bear until Friday morning...it had not been delivered yet. I find that one hard to believe...but then again, they never really have the newest beanies there. Just thought I'd share. Wendy"

Sue writes: "I feel bad for Glenda I have a hallmark store that has done the same thing to people fortunately there are several stores in this area  but no one should be treated that way be it beanie babies or any other product  Sue in Fla."

CHUBBLEYS ARRIVE
Gayle of Grandma's Bears has received her NEW Chubbley Bears. Visit her new site at http://www.grandmasbears.net/ to order: CHUNKY: Mission - CHUBBLEYS: Toots (plum), St. Clements (orange and lemon), Bjorn, Lily, Blush - CUBS: Creamy, Snowdrop, Petal. The website may still read pre-sell but the above Chubbleys are IN-STOCK and ready to ship. Gayle says the new Chubbley Bears are very pretty. She also said, "St Clements is prettier than I thought they would be.. pale yellow and pale orange. Nice pastel colors."

JODI'S THANK YOU BEAR + RAFFLE  .... ANOTHER UPDATE!!
WOW!! This raffle has really taken off. What a great cause to be helping out and when you help out and as if that wasn't enough... you have a chance to win some pretty wonderful prizes. Have you looked at the prize list lately? There have been a number of donations from readers and Jodi really appreciates them. Jodi is trying to raise money for a VERY special and worthy cause.  Almost $600 has been raised so far. Thanks to everyone that is helping Jodi out. :o) VISIT HERE. Judy G has donated 10 more Beanies for the raffle. Pictures are posted of the actual Beanies that have been updated.

"PRAYING FOR PEACE" CONTEST STARTS
Details can be found HERE: http://www.planetbeans.com/PeaceContest.htm 

NEW ADVERTISER ~ BUY TY ITEMS AT RETAIL
I'd like to welcome Kody of Kid's Collection Toys back as an advertiser.
Kid's Collection Toys (www.KidsCollectionToys.com) is your source for all of your Ty products at everyday retail prices!  They have a complete selection of Beanie Babies, Beanie Buddies, Ty Classics, Pluffies and Punkies.  Be sure to check out their website frequently as they are always receiving the hottest in Ty products! [Beanie Babies - $5.99]      [Beanie Buddies - $9.99]      [Ty Classics - $9.99]      [Pluffies and Punkies - $4.99] www.kidscollectiontoys.com

REMINDER ~ SUE'S CHARITY NEWS!!
This 'Cracker of a Draw' offers you the chance to win a unique and highly collectible Chubbley prize from a list of five. VISIT HERE and make sure to click on CURRENT PROJECTS to learn more. You won't want to miss it!! ;o)

QUICK MENTION
Desi is having another raffle. This time you have a chance at winning "Yours Truly", Decade, and Duck-e. Tickets are 2/$1.00. Details can be found HERE

CHECKLISTS & INFO PAGES UPDATED
I've updated the Beanie Information pages, Beanie Calendar, and checklists.
http://www.planetbeans.com/beanie_info.htm

BEANIE BABY OF THE MONTH ~ NO NEW MEMBERSHIPS 
Effective April 2, 2003 we will no longer accept new memberships for the Beanie Baby of the Month program. All orders placed prior to this date will be shipped on a monthly basis according to the terms of the program. To update your Beanie Baby of the Month membership information or to check the Beanie Baby of the Month terms and conditions, please use the links at the bottom of the TyStore home page. For order status information, use the "ORDER STATUS" button found at the top of the TyStore home page.

To join the Beanie Baby of the Month program CLICK HERE.

Thank you for your support !  http://www.tytrade.com/bom_notice