== August 31, 2001 ==
IMPORTANT NOTICE...
I will be out of town from 8/31 - 9/03. There will be no news updates until Tuesday, September 4th. Winners for the Celebrate Buddy Contest, Unity Beanie Baby Contest, and the Thank You Bear Raffle will be announced on Tuesday.

CHEERY RETIRES
http://www.ty.com/announcements/ret_0831_cheery.html

== August 30, 2001 ==
REAL OR FAKE RIGHTY?
I have received two separate sets of photos of FAKE Righty's. Please be careful when bidding on auctions as many of them are misleading and you could end up with counterfeits. If an auction is marked (Private) not always, but in most cases this is because they do not want anyone to have access to the e-mail address as not to tip them off to fakes. View the page at the following link - http://www.msjanie.com/fakes/righty.html

DIFFERENT VERSION OF KOOKY KANDY
TAKE TWO - Canada has their own version of Kooky Kandy - http://www.msjanie.com/typhotos/canada_bopper.html

Planet Beans Comments: Vicki brings to my attention that this different outfit is the "Party Tyme" Ty Gear. The retail store could have dressed Kooky Kandy in this outfit for display and ended up selling it. 

INFO BEANIE HINTS?
The Info. Beanie makes comments regarding a party and new wild animal friends. Is it possible that we are about to welcome some more Beanies? Or are we being toyed with again? A farewell summer party of retirements sounds great to me! LOL Ms. Janie 

Wednesday August 29, 2001 4:07 p.m. We identified all of the prints in the mud! There are prints from rabbits, squirrels, raccoons and chipmunks! I had no idea that there were so many wildlife visitors in our yard at night, it's like there is a whole other world going on after we go to sleep. Maybe we can have a party where we camp out and stay awake all night. Then we could meet all of our wildlife friends. That would be so awesome! I'm going to ask our friends at Ty if we can do that. Maybe that can be our farewell to summer party! I'm going to go and ask if we can do that right now. I'll talk to you later. Bye! 

Wednesday August 29, 2001 7:01 a.m. Good morning! The wild animals must have really loved all of the treats we left them because there was nothing left this morning except a lot of footprints! There were lots of bird prints and then also a lot of other footprints. We're not sure what kinds of animals the prints are from yet so we need to get our booklets out and try to match them up. I can't wait to see. I'm going to get my booklet right now! I'll talk to you later. Bye! http://www.ty.com/infobeanie/lastpage/

CLOSE-UP PICTURES OF PIERRE
Peacie has some great photos to share. http://www.peacie.com/1news.htm

Giganto Arrives
From: Beanieholics
Giganto, the last of the new August Beanie Babies to ship, is now arriving in retail stores. Marilyn shares photos of the first wooly mammoth release from Ty.
Click Here For Pictures

NEW CONTEST TO START FOR BRITANNIA BUDDY... coming VERY soon

TY HAS RETIRED JULY BEAR
http://www.ty.com/announcements/ret_0830_july.html

== August 29, 2001 ==
NEW ISSY TAGS
From: Ms. Janie
A special thanks to Sue Sue/QueenieBeanie For sharing her photos Here is a photo of Toronto Issy with the new tag. The bag was full of old ones with new tags. http://www.msjanie.com/typhotos/tronto_issy.html

ASK TY
From: Ms. Janie
The Ask Ty Section of the Ty website has been updated to include 5 new questions and Ty for the first time answered all five previously posted questions about the MC Card. One of the new questions asked is as follows: Do you often visit other beanie sites? Also do you appreciate the effort and time spent in doing them? (submitted by beaniebj2000) I would sure love the answer to this question! Ms. Janie http://www.ty.com/askty/askty.cfm

Autumn Fair Birmingham
From: Bean eWonderland
From the most respected major players in the industry to companies brand new to the market place, 2,500 exhibitors will deliver an unsurpassed line-up of the very latest in gifts, greetings and stationery. The show runs from 2nd to the 5th September, Ty Europe will be in hall 4 and have a large display area on stand C34/D35. For the complete exhibitor listing, floor plans and how to get there please Click Here:

Peace Head
From: Bean eWonderland
From the email: Not much going on in the beanie world so I thought you may like to use this picture. I have never seen a Peace bear with a white head before, he is so unusual. View Here: 

Ty MasterCard Scan
From: Beanieholics
Marilyn sends along a picture of her new Ty MasterCard. The numbers are covered for obvious reasons. (Marilyn received the Platinum Plus version of the card, no doubt due to all the Ty products she buys.) Click Here To View Card

UNITY BUDDY?
From: Ryebypost
We have heard from one of our sources that their may be a Unity Buddy released at the NEC show in Birmingham this weekend, this could be the only new beanie/buddy announced. We have also heard that Cheery is no longer in production so this could well mean it will retire soon.

== August 28, 2001 ==
SOFTBELLYS™ MONITOR CLEANERS
These things are great!! If you are sitting there now looking at your computer monitor to read this.. you can use one of these cute monitor cleaners. They make great gifts and there are currently 24 animals available. Planet Beans readers receive a discount if they mention Planet Beans when placing an order.

Caranois Limited
Softbellys™ Headquarters
Caranois has other gift items but our Softbellys™ have joined the rank of the FUN employed! Softbellys™ computer monitor cleaners are a smashing success. Softbellys have been our #1 seller for the past 2 years. If you love animals and plush you will definitely love our Softbellys™! Softbellys™ formally known as Screenie Beanies computer monitor cleaners are ADORABLE beanie type plush animals with an optical grade chamois belly which can be used to clean dust and dirt from your computer monitor and/or TV screens. Each Softbelly™ is designed to have function follow fun. They need no help from chemicals, sprays or soaps. When they get soiled we simply toss them in with the laundry and let them air dry. What fun they are to collect and oh so cute they are! Each one has its own personality. Our loveable Softbellys™ make perfect gifts for children or anyone with computers. At present we have 1st, 2nd and 3rd generations. 24 designer models to choose from with a hint of more to come. Pick up one or a few today. Makes a great gift for any time of year.

FULL COLOR PICTURES HERE: http://www.caranois.com/screeniebeaniesaa/sbnew2001/screeniebeanie6.html

Visit Caranois Limited at http://www.caranois.com/ and sign up for our HTML newsletter and maybe you will be the winner of your very own Softbelly.

BOPPERS AD ON NYC BUSES
From: Ms. Janie
Hi Ms Janie, I have not been able to confirm this yet and I was wondering if you or one of your readers might be able too? I had 2 Ty Retailers tell me today that while in New York City at the NY gift show they saw Ty Beanie Bopper advertisements on the New York City buses. You know how buses have those advertising panels on their side? Well I guess Ty took out ads for the Beanie Boppers and it said something like " Ty's New Beanie Boppers. Visit Ty.com to learn more" and it possibly had a picture of one of the Beanie Boppers too. I was surprised when these 2 Ty retailers told me this and that news hadn't hit the net and that no one has mentioned this yet? 

Again I have not been able verify this But I doubt these 2 competing Ty retailers from 2 different stores were in cahoots and made this up!-LOL I was hoping that through your newsletter and your readers that we can get this confirmed and possibly get someone in New York City to get a picture of one of these Beanie Bopper ads for your newsletter and for Ty collectors to see. 

I'm hoping I am right on this and someone in The Big Apple can verify and get a snapshot! I Got My Fingers crossed!-LOL Sly The Beanie Guy

Retailer Report
From: Bean eWonderland
Bill writes: Here it is, the end of the month and so far I have only been delivered the green dog and the the 3 birthday bears together with the other July beanies. I have also only received Mooch the monkey buddy but they sent the other older buddies that I had previously ordered. Of the 5 shops within 10 miles of me, only 1 has received more than the green dog.

Ty Credit Cards Arriving?
From: Beanieholics
A note posted on the Ty Talk Cyberboard says that the new Ty credit card is arriving. The poster said that they filled out the application on the first day the card was available. Click Here For Link To Ty Talk Cyberboard

== August 27, 2001 ==
Across the Border is pleasant trip for collectors, browsers
EUSTIS -- Marilyn Baumann likes to say there`s a little bit of everything at her shop.

Across the Border, a 950-square-foot store that opened here in May, offers everything from triple-scented candles, Dale Earnhardt memorabilia, porcelain dolls, wooden birdhouses and more.

...Collectible ceramic Abiding Bears selling for $10 to $20 perch on shelves along with discontinued Beanie Babies, wall decorations with a nautical theme, ceramic angels and animals and carved wooden animals. Read the article HERE

Cyber crimes 
From: Ms. Janie
Brenda Teos and her two sons, Chris and Shawn, of Licking County were ordered to pay $16,000 and fined $75,000 in a civil case. The trio had sold fake Beanie Babies to 45 people. In addition, a judge barred them from selling merchandise on the Internet. 

Shoppers' risk is low, but investigators face obstacles. Average complaint is for $776 When Julie Briner of Gardner, Kan., bought a computer in April, the first thing she did was click on eBay.com. She also joined a growing number of people who are victims of Internet fraud. A first-time cybershopper, she placed the high bid for an authentic Tommy Hilfiger T-shirt for her husband from a seller in Portage County's Brimfield Township. Briner even bought two more T-shirts in advance from the same person, for a total of $31.50. But when she received her shirt, she discovered it was not the real deal. She immediately e-mailed her seller to cancel her order for the other two T-shirts and requested a refund. But the seller said it was too late and refused to refund her money. Briner said she never received the two shirts and has tried to unsuccessfully to contact the seller, who will no longer return e-mail messages. Baffled by her experience, she filed a complaint with Ohio authorities. Briner said she doesnt care about the money she lost, but cares about the principle. View article HERE 

Donors to get toy `buddies' 
From: Ms. Janie
Red Cross will give out new themed beanie toys at blood drive tomorrow Jeane and Chuck Miller face a rare privilege at the American Legion Hall in Alliance tomorrow. The retired volunteers will be among the first to give out a new theme toy being distributed by the Northern District of the American Red Cross. Patriotic Buddies will go home with anyone who donates at this drive -- usually 75 to 90 people. ``People will be enthused, Jeane Miller predicted. ``They like to get something, and they figure it's something for free.'' Starting this week, Scrub Buddy and Patriotic Buddy will start to replace 3-year-old Buddy BloodDrop, a Beanie Baby-like toy developed by the Cleveland office and a handful of other Red Cross offices nationwide three years ago. View article HERE

Simon Worldwide Vows to Stay Open Despite McDonald's Scam 
From: Ms. Janie
Despite losing its biggest clients this week, Simon Worldwide Inc. said it will remain in operation as it conducts an internal investigation into an alleged $13 million scam against McDonald's Corp., according to a lawyer representing the company. Simon, which handles promotional games for other companies, lost its two largest clients this week after the federal government arrested a Simon employee for allegedly misappropriating winning tickets in two McDonald's games, "Monopoly" and "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire." "The company is going to evaluate its options as the facts develop and circumstances progress," said Ralph J. Shapira, a partner in the Los Angeles office of O'Melveny & Myers LLP, which Simon, Wakefield, Mass., hired to conduct its own review of the alleged scam. View article HERE 

== August 26, 2001 ==
CUTE BOPPER PICTURES
From: Ms. Janie
My daughter Alicia had fun posing Bronx Bomber along with his girlfriend Pretty Patti. I picked this cute guy up today because my son turned 13 on August 5th and we are all Yankee fans. Sue/QueenieBeanie These photos are adorable and a must view for all Bopper lovers - http://www.msjanie.com/typhotos/bronxbomber1.html

Special News from Sally Winey 
Sandwich Il. Sept 5-10 Sandwich Fair 
From: Ms. Janie
Sally has made 114 bears for this event she will be signing through out the Event. You can find more out about the fair and Limited edition by calling Our Cherished Boutique 815-786-7061 Sally Winey Will be signing books and bears September 22&23 in Greensboro North Carolina at the Greater Greensboro Doll and Bear show. For information contact DS Promotions 804-589-5400. I will be teaching a online Teddy Bear Class starting in October. To sign up and get your supplies in time look for the classes information in http://www.teddybearand friends.com or give me a call at 704-658-1175 Picture of bear can be see at this sight.

BEANKID UPDATES
After hours upon hours of research and work, BeanKid.net has come up with a complete comprehensive Beanie Buddies list with a picture, name, style number, release date, retirement date, and poem of each Buddy! This is a huge list and is sure to help you emmensely with your Buddy info needs! http://www.beankid.net/buddies/complete_index.htm

Bean eWonderlands comment - I have received a few emails regarding this subject and I have also spoken to Ms Janie regarding the issue.  The reasoning behind myself running an article was an email from a reader who asked several questions and myself receiving a fake one that was a donation for a competition (which I removed the tag from and gave it to my nephew). It is not possible to say how many authentic ones are in circulation, but as the article says on Ms Janie, it could be fewer than 500. 

It does not take a genius to work out that if a store or dealer has an abundance of these then questions should be asked and precautions taken. One retailer in the UK has also informed me that they are approached on a regular basis with sack loads of these fakes and that they cannot tell the difference (they kindly refuse them). As for the ability to authenticate a beanie from a picture, I have no idea, but if a retailer has difficulties detecting a fake close up then I doubt it.

Ask Ty
From: Bean eWonderland
The Ask Ty question is set to end shortly, the question "Why have a MasterCard Beanie Bear if Beanies are supposed to be for children" is way out in the lead at present. I would still like to see Ty answer all the 5 questions, as I said before, if I was to ask my bank 5 questions regarding a new credit card I would expect all 5 to be answered. View Here:

== August 25, 2001 ==
Just how RARE is the SEWN ON PATCH BRITANNIA? 
From: Ms. Janie
Over the years we have not been privy to much information on Sewn On Patch Britannia's. What information we did read was often times limited and therefore left room for speculation. I have recently encountered a situation that encouraged me to look further into this mysterious bear and learn as much as I could to help educate collectors and myself. Please visit HERE for photos and information on Sewn on Patch Britannia 

Toy drive for flood victims goes national 
From: Ms. Janie
U.S. Cellular employees nationwide and the Ronald McDonald House are trying to put a teddy bear in the arms of every child affected by the summer floods that devastated southern West Virginia. The phone company has more than 400 employees collecting new toys at its communication center in Knoxville, Tenn., and at a facility in Madison, Wis., said Gerry Wilson, U.S. Cellular director of sales and operations. " We' re going to go down there and put some smiles on these young people' s faces, " Wilson said. " That' s going to be the best part, " said a beaming Renee Hernandez-Jensen, the Morgantown woman who initiated the toy drive. " I can' t wait to do that. " I didn' t expect any of this, " she said Thursday. " I thought that a few local people would step up and help me out, but nothing like this." Stacie Klishis, volunteer coordinator at the Ronald McDonald House in Morgantown, said more than 300 bears have been collected there, including 60 from one person. " We also received three big boxes of Beanie Babies, " she said. Toys also can be dropped off at U.S. Cellular retail stores throughout West Virginia, Ohio and Maryland, or at any Ronald McDonald House in West Virginia. View article HERE 

Ty's Interest in Simon World Wide
From: Bean eWonderland
From the email - According to the Simon World Wide, Inc.'s,  Notice of the Annual Stockholders Meeting (May 22, 2001 at the Los Angeles Four Seasons Hotel) Ty owned 1,075,610 or 6.6.% of the total company's shares.  Follow the link for the entire story. Click Here:

Celebrate
From: Bean eWonderland
From the email: My name's Jeremy... I work at a Ty retail store in Ontario, Canada.  I thought you would like to know that we received 12 Celebrate Beanies, and 6 Buddies today.  The weird part is, we never even attended the show.  How weird is that?  It came as quite a surprise when I opened up the box, and there they were.  I thought they were supposed to be show exclusives.  There are quite a few retailer's in the area that DID attend the show and have STILL not received theirs. Bean eWonderlands comment - I am not surprised by this, I agree it is unfair to everyone who attended but we have all seen these false statements made in the past. Every year retailers are lead to believe attending the shows will bring some kind of reward and it never does.

Museum founder looks for the new in the old
From: Bean eWonderland
Every year, Jim Cook comes across more items to add to his Colorado State Fair museum that's open free to the public near the horse show arena. New items aren't easy to come by, Cook says. Over the decades, few Fairgoers held onto their State Fair commemorative pins and programs the way people today stockpile Beanie Babies or football cards. Full Story:

Denver Trade Show
From: Beanieholics
The Denver Trade Show begins today and runs through the 28th. Will we see new Beanies at this show? If Ty is going to introduce new items for September then they will do so between now and September 4th. (The 4th will be the first regular business day of the new month.) If there are newbies on the way, we'll see them at this show or on the Ty site before then.

== August 24, 2001 ==
Nipponia Alert! 
From: Ms. Janie
Peggy Gallagher has informed me of the following: "Nipponia with serial number 4RPAGDX3 is a counterfeit Ty Beanie Baby!" She did not give any other details other than to ask me to help warn collectors. I would suggest that you view your tush tags and if you have any questions please contact her at her website http://www.peggyg.com

A suggestion from Ms. Janie 
Before you ship your beanies back for a refund please consider doing the following: I would strongly advise you to photograph your Beanies that you suspect are fake. Save all e-mails and contact information from your seller . Send your Beanies back and request a signature to ensure delivery. Save the original packaging that your product was shipped in. Save all documentation of original method of payment. If your future purchases are bought off of an auction, consider printing the auction page information. Buyer beware! Ratings in most cases can be misleading, know your seller and be cautious!

Contest Time at Doodle's Page 
Doodle's Page will start their next contest TODAY!! You'll now have FIVE chances to win! In addition to Buckingham, Nipponia, and Britannia Beanies, we have also just received a Unity Beanie and Buckingham Buddy. So keep watching ... it's free, fun, and easy! (ALL prizes generously donated by RyeByPost.) 

== August 23, 2001 ==
BEANIE BOPPER MODEL?
Collectiblez reader, Joe Mulcahy from England, shares:
Just read the interesting Biography of TY Warner. I have attached 2 scans of a young lady called Morgan who could have modelled for the Beanie Bopper Doll. As you will see Morgan (a young American lady) is set for a huge future in dance. My finace made the outfit like the one Morgan wore for a competition. I just thought it would be nice to let TY Warner see what he has started. If you could pass it to his company or let me know how I can contact them, I would be grateful. The doll incedently has just been flown to Morgan's boyfriend, my fiances nephew, who is a multiple World Line Dance Champion and currently on a mini tour of the USA. Photos of Morgan & Morgan Look-a-like can be found HERE 

Ask Ty
From: Bean eWonderland
A new answer has been posted on the Ask Ty section. 
Q) What should BBOC members look forward to? Will there be any changes in the BBOC coming soon? 
A) Get ready for lots of exciting changes. There will be a brand new club kit, exciting new exclusive offers for club members and some neat surprises. October will be here real soon and I think you'll be in for a real treat! 

It is also interesting to note that all the five questions for the next vote are regarding the MC Beanie. In my opinion, Ty should answer ALL FIVE questions, I see this as only fair considering Ty wants you to sign up for a credit card. If you were to ask your bank or credit card company a set of questions and they told you they would only answer ONE question would you still be interested in applying or would you consider it POOR customer relations?

Beanies being flown in the skies over Saudi Arabia
From: Ms. Janie
A few days ago I shared a couple of photos from one of our service men named John. John has responded to a few notes I shared with him concerning collectors wanting to share Beanies with men over seas. 

The following is the beginning of John's note. 
Hi again Ms. Janie, After sending you a few pictures of Beanies being flown in the skies over Saudi Arabia, you let me know that many of your readers responded and wanted to send Beanies to the men and woman who are proudly serving in this area. Well, I contacted the American Red Cross here on the base to figure out a way we could do this. They would be more than happy to be the point of contact for people to donate some Beanies to in order to make them available to the people here. I just want your readers to understand that this is just for donating Beanies and not to have their personal Beanies flown on one of our planes and then returned to them. That would be a logistical nightmare from this end. The addresses below are strictly if someone would like to send a Beanie to any service member. All packages will arrive at the various Red Cross offices and will be distributed from there. To read his full note and view two additional photos of Spangle and the American flag being flown through Saudi Arabia please go HERE. 

Eight held in $13 million McDonald's games scam 
From: Ms. Janie
The FBI began looking for links among the people who had claimed McDonald's biggest prizes in the past few years, and the search eventually led to Jacobson in Georgia, the person in charge of security for Los Angeles-based Simon Marketing. McDonald's immediately fired Simon — which handled virtually all of the restaurant chain's promotions in recent years, from game giveaways to Happy Meals and the wildly popular Teenie Beanie Babies — from its promotional accounts, saying that the company did not have adequate management oversight. View the article HERE 

Contest Time is Almost Here!
The next contest at Doodle's Page will start Friday, August 24th. The prizes to be given away ... a Buckingham, Nipponia, and Britannia Beanie Baby. You'll have three chances to win! So keep watching ... it's free, fun, and easy! (All prizes generously donated by RyeByPost.)

== August 22, 2001 ==
SHAME ON CYRK/SIMOM WORLDWIDE - 
From: Ms. Janie
This represents news as it is unfolding! This is the same company that Ty USE to work with and distributed Clubby!! No wonder Ty let them go. Scroll down for all of the details. It truly is unbelievable! 

Cyrk Announces Corporate Name Change to Simon Worldwide, Inc. Shares To Trade Under New Ticker SWWI May 29, 2001--Cyrk, Inc. (Nasdaq: CYRK - news), a global leader in the promotion industry, today announced that at its annual meeting of shareholders held in Los Angeles, California on May 22, 2001, a corporate name change was approved. The new name of the company is Simon Worldwide, Inc. The company's trading symbol on the Nasdaq National Market has been changed to SWWI. About Simon Worldwide, Inc. Simon Worldwide is a diversified marketing and promotion agency with offices throughout North America, Europe and Asia. The company works with some of the largest and best-known brands in the world and has been involved with some of the most successful consumer promotional campaigns in history. Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Simon Marketing, Inc., the Company provides promotional agency services and integrated marketing solutions including loyalty marketing, strategic and calendar planning, game design and execution, premium development and production management. Simon is one of the world's largest creators, developers and procurers of promotional games and toys. The company was founded in 1976. Read the article HERE

NOW TAKE A PEEK AT THIS! 
From: Ms. Janie
8-21-2001 FBI Arrests Eight in McDonald's Game Fraud WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Eight people were arrested for allegedly defrauding fast-food giant McDonald's Corp.'s (NYSE:MCD - news) popular ``Monopoly'' and ``Who Wants to Be Millionaire'' promotions, the Federal Bureau of Investigation said on Tuesday. According to the FBI (news - web sites), the eight netted hundreds of thousands of dollars from their scheme. The agency said Jerome Jacobson, who worked for Simon Marketing Inc., a unit of Simon Worldwide Inc. (Nasdaq:SWWI - news), embezzled winning game pieces and gave them to friends and associates who recruited other participants to act as the winners, agreeing to share the prizes with the recruiters and in turn Jacobson. ``Those involved in this type of corruption will find out breaking the law is no game,'' Attorney General John Ashcroft (news - web sites) said in a statement. ``This fraud scheme denied McDonald's customers a fair and equal chance of winning.'' McDonald's said it will end its relationship with Simon Marketing and, to ensure integrity of future promotions, has formed an independent task force to review all procedures for future promotions. The company said it has fully cooperated with the federal investigation centered on suspected fraud surrounding the its well-known game promotions that offer prizes such as $1 million in cash, cars and electronics goods. The scheme began as early as 1995, according to Ashcroft. Those arrested earlier on Tuesday include Linda Baker, Noah Baker, John Davis, Andrew Glomb, Michael Hoover, Ronald Hughey, Jerome Jacobson and Brenda Phenis on felony charges of conspiracy to commit mail fraud. Read the article HERE 

MC MASTERCARD DISAPPOINTMENT
Faith writes:
"Hi Lisa,
I was very upset to see that you had to get a Ty credit card to obtain these
MC beanies.  Many people already have cards they use and this is a repetition
which I will not apply for.  There are too many people who want to know your
financial situation." Faith

Listing Numbers Cast Doubt on eBay
From: Bean eWonderland
Millions of people spend hours searching eBay for treasure. Some others are scrutinizing eBay itself -- and finding anything but treasure. Here's what eBay monitors have found out. Perhaps most important, new goods sold on eBay, particularly electronics products, are frequently more expensive than identical goods sold on retail sites, data from an ongoing study suggest. Meanwhile, collectibles -- the catchall term for anything from cute Beanie Babies to grim Nazi memorabilia -- are falling in price, according to two surveys. An analysis of eBay's main U.S. site shows that the growth rate of auction listings is a third of what it was at the beginning of the year. Full Story:

== August 21, 2001 ==
MORE ON MC MASTERCARD
From: Ms. Janie
Last Friday I shared a phone conversation I had with a rep. taking my application for the MC Bear. I was told that you were only required to spend $500.00 instead of 5,000.00 to receive additional Beanie Babies. I questioned the amount and was told that it was lowered as the rate changed. Today I received word from Ty that this is an error and that the correct amount is $5,000.00 I truly am sorry for the error but I only shared what was told to me by the rep. If you were told $500.00 as well I would appreciate you dropping me a line at ms.janie@home.com 

The terms on this offer have changed over the past few days. Originally the second paragraph read as follows: 

Every year after that, the first time you have accumulated $5,000.00 in net retail transactions, you'll receive another exclusive Ty Beanie Baby! 

NOW the second paragraph reads as follows: And that's not all! Every purchase you make using your Ty credit card will earn you points redeemable for Ty merchandise. 

Please refresh the page to view the latest offering. Thanks, Ms. Janie 

MC Description Keeps Changing 
ShirleyKat (03:26 pm. Aug 20, 2001 ) 
Message Id: 943873 ShirleyKat writes: 
Every time I go back and look at the information about the Ty Mastercard, it has changed. Now it doesn't say anything at all about getting a bear after spending $5000. I wish I had taken screen captures. I've offered to finance a computer for an organization that can't afford to buy it outright. So I thought I'd be well on my way to the $5000. Now it just says you get points and more details are in your welcome package. Is there something fishy about this? http://www.ty.com/cyberboard/news/msg943873.html 

You're right... 
*oops!* (04:03 pm. Aug 20, 2001 ) 
Message Id: 943910 *oops!* writes: 
I wonder if all the complaining changed TY's mind about the $5,000 and the beanies to come? Bummer. :0) n/t http://www.ty.com/cyberboard/news/msg943910.html 

PLEASE keep in mind that according to Ty the amount is $5,000.00. Until they post an announcement stating otherwise I would use this figure. Ms. Janie

IS INFO BEANIE LEAVING HINTS?
From: Ms. Janie
News has been so slow that I took a peek at what the Info. Beanie has been up too lately. Could he or she be leaving hints of Halloween releases or is this posting full of tricks and no treats? Monday August 20, 2001 9:14 p.m. We have so many tomatoes! After dinner we decided to check the garden and we could barely believe it! There were tons of tomatoes and about a million zucchinis! Well, maybe not that much but there was a lot! Our friends at Ty are going to take most of it to the shelter in the morning. It always makes me feel so good to share. The coolest thing was that we discovered some flowers on our pumpkin plants! That means that we'll have pumpkins for Halloween! It's seems so far off though but I'm sure it will be here soon. I'm going to start thinking about my costume now while I have a lot of time to decide. I'm going to suggest that to the other Beanies, too. I'll talk to you tomorrow. Good night! http://www.ty.com/infobeanie/lastpage/

SOMETHING TO SHARE
From: Ms. Janie
A special thanks to Megan for being so talented and sharing the following: Hi, Ms. Janie! Well, the beanies definitely had a more exciting summer than the four of us here in Atlanta. If you would like to see their adventures, I've made them a new page. ;o) http://people.atl.mediaone.net/scottmegan2/beanies-summer.html

STILL NEED CLASSY OR BEANIE BOPPERS?
Flowers by Lee has Classy available for $5.50. They also have ALL 6 Beanie Boppers FOR ONLY $8!! She may have the newest Beanies in stock now too. If you want to find out what they have.. call the toll-free phone number and leave a message if you get a recording. As an authorized Ty Retailer.. Flowers by Lee receives Ty products throughout the month. If you order.. tell them that Lisa from Planet Beans sent you. ;o)

***Please mail out your money orders or cashiers checks by Saturday the 25th to ensure they will arrive in time to give you the entries into the contest***
WANT TO WIN A 'THANK YOU BEAR'?! Now's your chance to win a HTF Thank You Bear for ONLY $5 while helping out a wonderful lady at the same time. If you have sent a money order.. check this page to see if it's been received. I will update this daily as Deb lets me know she's received them. THANK YOU BEAR RAFFLE?! You can pay with a cashiers check or money order. 

SAD NEWS FROM HEAVENLY BEARS
Please read ALL of the comments and story on the new page I've created. 
HEAVENLY BEARS

Just a quick note from Ms. Janie; Cindy from Heavenlybears called me this evening to inform me of this unfortunate situation. She has asked me to convey that this does not mean Heavenlybears is out of business. The Fruit Of The Spirit line has been discontinued and considered retired at this time. Heavenlybears does offer other designs other than the Fruit Of The Spirit Line and will continue to operate and manufacture more lines in the future. Ms. Janie

Ty Canada Displays Winners http://www.ty.com/announcements/canadiancontest.html

== August 20, 2001 ==
Gift Show
From: Bean eWonderland
There have been rumours circulating, stating that several new beanies and buddies were released at the New York Gift Show this past weekend. We can confirm that there were NO new releases on view or announced at the show. (thanks Bill).

Firm donates Beanie Babies 
From: Bean eWonderland
Gust Rosenfeld PLC, a full-service law firm with offices in Phoenix and Tucson, has collected 200 Beanie Babies to be donated to the Maricopa Medical Center's neonatal intensive care unit. As part of its 80th anniversary activities, the firm set a goal of collecting 80 Beanie Babies. They will be used as cushions for premature infants and will go home with the babies. Other 80th activities at the firm have included $80 donations to charities, 80th anniversary mugs for clients, $80 gift cards for employees and 80 years of Gust Rosenfeld history displayed at the "Architects of Justice" exhibit at the new Sandra Day O'Connor Federal Courthouse.  Source:

PENTICTON, CANADA SHOW NEWS! 
Adrienne shares the following:
Beanies 
Winston the black Cocker spaniel 
Buffy the tan cocker spaniel (like spunky but cuter) 
Squishy the squid 
Shelly the Tortoise 
Figi the white cat (with red eyes and its fur is a new one) 
Sparkles the bear (very sparkly) 
Holiday Teddy 2001 (White with snowflakes and holly all over) 
Snowman (very cute) 

Buddies
Sparkles Beanie buddy 
2001 Signature bear 
Holiday teddy 2000 
Pierre --------------------------> Will this be an exclusive too??? 

Boppers 
Christmas one with a scarf (boy) 
Canadian Lumber Man... lumber jack style ---------------> Canadian exclusive, maybe??? 

Beanie Kids 
Christmas girl 

Ty Gear 
Christmas Party

Planet Beans Comments: Of course as usual... treat this as a rumor until it's proven. Would be nice if it turns out to be true. Nice lineup. 

TY SIGNED ZODIAC RATE AUCTION
Dear Lisa,
www.beanseverywhere.com has reopened their site, and I have decided to take
them up on their great offer of FREE auction listings, by putting my
authenticated Ty signed Zodiac Rat up for auction on their site.
Here is the link for the auction:
http://www.beanseverywhere.com/auctions/auctions.cgi?category=d&item=999498241

Thanks,
Nicole Moran

== August 19, 2001 ==
Woman is charged with failing to meet Beanie Baby bids
From: Bean eWonderland
Winthrop Harbor police on Friday were still piecing together the history of an Internet operation run by a local woman who allegedly used it to collect $20,000 from auction service customers who bid on Beanie Babies they rarely received. Nancy McKenna, 45, was charged with 20 counts of theft early this week after a yearlong investigation led police to her home in the 900 block of South Park Avenue, where they seized 535 of the stuffed Beanie Baby toys, two computers and business records. Officials at eBay revoked McKenna's privileges last year after bidders complained, but she allegedly returned to the site by using a false identity. Full Story:

Couple donates birthday gifts
From: Bean eWonderland
In honor of their 80th birthdays, Vernon and Lorene Wright received Beanie Babies, Barbie dolls and motorized trucks this month. The gifts piled up to be more toys than Vernon or Lorene had ever seen as kids. Full Story:

Head Man
From: Bean eWonderland
Mark Grace hasn't even been a Diamondbacks player for a full season yet, but he will be recognized today when Arizona gives away Grace bobble-head dolls in a promotion at the park. It seems like only yesterday that the Cubs were using Grace in their promotions with such things as ''Gracie The Swan'' Beanie Babies. Full Story:

Family Shares Booty With Needy Kids
From: Beanieholics
On their dining room table, the Sullivans have a mountain of Beanie Babies, teddy bears, a rainbow of fuzzy dice, and a pink cow, won at various boardwalk games from their annual shore vacation. However, they will keep only a handful of the booty, and donate the rest to the Tomorrows Children's Fund based at Hackensack University Medical Center, where the gifts will be distributed to kids that need an emotional lift. Click Here For Story

ISSY CHECKLIST UPDATED
COMPLETE Issy Retail Checklist

DOES THIS FABRIC LOOK FAMILIAR?
DeAnna shares the following in the Planet Beans Yahoo! Club
"look what I bought at Wal-Mart last night for 2.97!!!"
http://www.geocities.com/deanna826/walmartbear.html 

New York Gift Show News 
From: Ms. Janie
I just received a call from a retailer attending the gift show in New York. Unfortunately Ty did NOT release any new product today. Will Ty hold to his motto of expect the unexpected and release product on their site or will this be a dry weekend with no new surprises? I'm getting sick of saying this; BUT only tyme will tell.

== August 18, 2001 ==
BJ of Planet-Ty shares the following:
"I've been busy ALL summer doing Beanie Articles, and have complete some, I just would like to share them with you..." 
Beanie Baby Counterfeits
Endangered Species
Issy bear checklist
MC Beanie
The Peoples Beanie
Pierre the Bear CDN Exclusive
The Bronx Bomber
The TY Ambassadors Jacket
Ty Biography
Zodiac Retail Cards

Ty Response
From: Bean eWonderland
Ty has responded to a question regarding the Ty MasterCard only being available to USA residents, his reply: Thank you for your post. As with any credit card program, there are different rules for different countries. We decided to launch the card in the United States - other countries will be included in the future. View Here: As a comment further down the thread also states, I seem to remember this being said about Tradee and Speckles !!

More MC Bear Information 
From: Ms. Janie
Ty has finally updated their site to include the new low rate offer of 1.7% for six months on transfer balances or cash advances. 

The APR (Annual percentage rate is 12.99% ) There is NO annual fee 

According to the phone rep I spoke with here are the details. For every 500 dollars spent you will receive a special Ty Plush product. This number has come down from the original 5,000 spent. She said there would be additional information in my welcome packet on points. 

I am not much of a credit card user but the 1.7% encouraged me to do some early Christmas shopping. I will transfer the balance, which allows me 6 months to make payments at a 1.7% rate. Can't beat that with a stick! LOL 

1.7% Introductory APR for Balance Transfers and Credit Card Cash Advance Checks through your first six statement closing dates, or earlier if your payment is late; after that, 12.99%. PLEASE read all details carefully! If you have any questions call the 800# they are VERY nice people to talk with. I had a ton of questions and they were able to answer every one of them. 

Ms. Janie

== August 17, 2001 ==
More Issy Bears
From: Bean eWonderland
From the email: Hi Richard, The news about the new cities is taking a little while to spread.... I was able to purchase these at the store that had all the new city names from yesterday. I also found a store that had just opened their bags of Issys and there wasn't an Issy that was new (nor Dublin, etc.)  I ran across, another store that had old names but then Puerto Rico & Beruit mixed in.... just like I found yesterday morning.  So perhaps there are 3 shipment versions coming out.  Hope to find the rest of the new ones and there better not be any more hotels planned as that's more than enough extra. Marilyn: Click Here to view Marilyns latest finds. More from yesterday located HERE

Another from the email: Hi, Richard!  Here are the Issy's that I found today, Beruit, Puerto Rico, Terre Blanche, Jackson Hole, Riyadh, Sao Paulo, Whistler, Doho, Exuma, Alexandria, Ammon, Sharm el Sheikh.  From my understanding there is also, Budapest and Miami which I have yet to purchase.  Have a great day!!! Esther

Fast-Food Toy Recalls Rising
From: Beanieholics
Nearly every fast-food restaurant offers giveaway toys, and they vary widely from Beanie Babies to Star Wars figures. As restaurants give away more toys, and as the toys have become more sophisticated, an increasing number of the free toys are being recalled. Click Here For More

== August 16, 2001 ==
MS. JANIE TELLS IT LIKE IT IS
From: Ms. Janie
Ms. Janie telling it like it is and setting the record straight- It's not all about Ty and what they do, it's about us the collectors! http://www.msjanie.com/articles/tell_it_like_it_is.html

NEW ISSY SCANS
From: Ms. Janie
Susan shares scans of different location Issy's now hitting the market. It is believed that these represent new Four Season Hotel locations in the future. http://www.msjanie.com/typhotos/sues_issylocations.html

TY STORE WORKING FOR WEBTV USERS
From: Ms. Janie
Hi Ms Janie! The Tystore ordering page is now working for webtv! Webtv users can now order Tradee or speckles. Just wanted to let you know so your readers who are webtv Users will know they are now able to order from Tystore. http://www.tytrade.com/TyStore

PEGGY GALLAGHER NEWS
From: Ms. Janie
Peggy Gallagher will be in Southern California September 8 and 9 to authenticate Beanie Babies! $12.00 per BB The 11th West Coast Collectors Convention Center Hollywood Park Casino and Convention Center Peggy Gallagher Enterprises, Inc, http://www.peggyg.com

How Many More Issys?
From: Beanieholics
So when we first heard about these new Issy Beanies showing up we were skeptical because none of the locations were listed on the Four Season Resort web site. Sue, one of our readers, found a story that outlined 19 new Four Season resorts that should be open by 2004. This article could give some insight into just how many more Issy Beanie Babies may be released. Once again Sue, thanks for sharing the link. Click Here For Article

OUR FAMILY VACATION
Several readers had asked me to share photos from our vacation. It took a while and it probably slow loading for some of you.. but here goes: Our Family Vacation

== August 15, 2001 ==
From email:
Hi. My name is Cheryl and I write the Beanie Junkie column on Beanyspot.com.
I am contacting you to let you know that I am having a contest until the end of the month that your website readers might be interested in. The prize is a set of the 4 ebeanies (Sunny, Periwinkle, Speckles and Tradee). All that needs to be done to enter is to send me a question for the Ask Ty feature of the Ty.com website. The best question will be forwarded to Ty and the winner will receive the ebeanies. So far the number of entries has been low so chances are good of submitting the winning entry.

Also just a little news tidbit one of the ladies that belongs to my online beanie club discovered quite a few new Issys today. She was only allowed to purchase one but she wrote down the names of all the others and they are all new releases. Here they are: Jackson Hole, Whistler, Riyadh, Doha, Exuma, Puerto Rico and Terre Blanche.
Beanie Wishes, Cheryl

Beanie Olympics?
From: Bean eWonderland
From the email: Hi Richard, I just had a thought and wanted to share.  The release of the MC beanie proves to me at least that Ty is moving in the direction of corporate sponsorships.  A couple days ago, you posted a rumor that Ty may be doing something with the Olympics based on his response to an Ask Ty question.  It is interesting to note that if Ty was willing to sponsor the Olympics in Utah next year, he would recieve permission to use the Olympic trademarks, most notably the rings.  In light of his willingness to form a partnership with MasterCard, something similar with Olympic Committee may not be far off...  I have close family ties to the training center here in Colorado and we will all be listening to talk of sponsors around the center in the following months.

Web TV
From: Bean eWonderland
From the email: "Is TY going to make an application for his new mastercard available for Web TV users? Is there any other ways to apply for his card besides online? Bean eWonderlands comment - This one is out of the hands of Ty, MBNA use their own server under the name 'Webapply.com' to process applications and this is where you are directed to once you have clicked 'Apply Here'. There is a 24 hour application phone number you can call listed on the page (1-800-932-2775) quote reference AERL.

2001 Signature Bear!
From: Doodle's Page
Norma once again has very kindly sent us a photo of her most recent find - '2001 Signature Bear', along with a picture of the hang tag. (Click on the image below to view.) (Thanks, Norma!!!)

NEW ADVERTISER
Visit Flowers By Lee for friendly and fast retail service here on the Internet. They are an Authorized Ty Retailer so you can easily order your Beanies and Buddies at Retail and quantities are not limited as they are at many retailers. Beanies are $5.50 and Buddies are $10.98. Flowers By Lee also carries Yankee Candles, Fenton Glass, Flowers (Silks, Fresh and Bloom Bouquets), Balloon Arrangements, and Gourmet Coffee. It's so easy to dial a toll-free phone number to order your favorite items instead of having to drive to your local retailer. Visit Flowers By Lee at http://www.flowersbylee.com and tell them you saw their ad at Planet Beans. Banner is located at the top of the main entry page.

Ty introduces Footie a UK exclusive Bopper (Thanks Janie!!) http://www.ty.com/announcements/footie.html

== August 14, 2001 ==
Ty Booklet
From: Bean eWonderland
Ty retailers are receiving a new summer Ty booklet together with accompanying letter in the post this week. To view the front cover and letter please Click Here: There are 13 pages to the book the beanies listed and having photos in it are July, August, September, Classy, Siam, Darling, Celebrate and Brigitte. The buddies listed and having photos are Sunny, Periwinkle, Celebrate, Mellow, Pugsly and Luke. The attics are the last 7 introduced, Majesty, Elizabeth, Caboose Mei Li, Eva,  Carmella and Carmichael. The classics are the last 13 introduced, 2 Auburns, Nuzzle, Junkins, Sniffy, Divine the 3 Li-Li 3 Shaggington and Peachy. All the 6 beanie boppers and Bride, Groom - in line skater - beach boy and beach girl TY GEAR. (Thanks Bill).

Family, friends remember boy 
From: Bean eWonderland
Most of Tony Haynes' things have been packed away: his Harry Potter books, his Legos and dozens of Beanie Babies. His bedroom has become a playroom for his younger brother and sister. It's been more than a month since Tony, 14, died at a "tough love" boot camp near Buckeye. His July 1 death has attracted national attention, calling tactics and oversight of such camps into question. "We had some awful good times with him," Riley said, looking through some of Tony's favorite Beanie Babies. "He loved the dragon, Scorch the Dragon, and this snake, oh, Hissy the Snake. It's hard. I've seen him play with them so many times." Full Story:

NEW ADVERTISER
Visit Flowers By Lee for friendly and fast retail service here on the Internet. They are an Authorized Ty Retailer so you can easily order your Beanies and Buddies at Retail and quantities are not limited as they are at many retailers. Beanies are $5.50 and Buddies are $10.98. Flowers By Lee also carries Yankee Candles, Fenton Glass, Flowers (Silks, Fresh and Bloom Bouquets), Balloon Arrangements, and Gourmet Coffee. It's so easy to dial a toll-free phone number to order your favorite items instead of having to drive to your local retailer. Visit Flowers By Lee at http://www.flowersbylee.com and tell them you saw their ad at Planet Beans. Banner is located at the top of the main entry page.

INTRODUCING 'MC BEANIE'
Apply for a TY MasterCard and receive a special edition Beanie. Details can be found HERE

**Happy Happy Birthday to my dear friend Janie Daniels.** If you'd like to send her birthday wishes or an ecard.. email her at ms.janie@home.com

== August 13, 2001 ==
Show report from Canada
From: Ms. Janie
Helen shares her experience at today's show in Canada. Thanks Helen! I went to the CGTA gift show in Toronto today with a friend who is a retailer. This may be old news to you by now, but just in case it's not, I thought you might want to know Pierre's poem (I really hope I remembered it correctly). Here goes: 

I am Pierre the Canadian bear 
My country's flag I proudly wear 
My hope for all, from sea to sea 
Is that Canadians live in harmony 

Classy was also available to be ordered, as well as 2001 Ty, Diddley, Giganto, Poopsie, Starlett and Celebrate Beanie & Buddy (12 Beanies and 6 Buddies ONLY of Celebrate, and that's it). All 12 Birthday Beanies were there, as well as the 6 Beanie Boppers. Didn't pay too much attention to the Classics because I try not to collect them, but Devine was D-e-v-i-n-e, and I just have to have her! All the reps were very pleasant and upbeat and didn't seem to mind if you touched the merchandise. There were so many showrooms and so much to see, that we didn't get to the Ty booth until an hour before the show closed for the day. Regards from Toronto Helen M.

Buyers sold on eBay 
From: Ms. Janie
EBay Inc. has always been a bit different. Its headquarters here, in a drab, 1970s-style suburban office park on the edge of the working-class community of Campbell, seems more befitting of an insurance firm than a trendy tech company. Inside, its executives on any given day are as likely to be meeting with a homemaker from Georgia who sells Beanie Babies as they are with venture capitalists or Web executives looking for partners. Chief executive Meg Whitman comes from the toy business, not the tech business. Her office is a cubicle -- just like every other office at eBay -- and is cluttered with a colorful collection of dolls and figurines and other trinkets -- just like every other office there. Read the article HERE

HEATHER IS GETTING MARRIED!! "Hi All! I just wanted to let all my fellow webmasters and friends know that after about 2-3 years David and myself are finally getting married!! You can view their history HERE Congrats to Heather & David!! May you live a lifetime of wonderful memories and many smiles. :o)

If you're a collector
From: Bean eWonderland
The thrill of discovery--sometimes even the memory of where we've made it--feeds our urge to collect things. Found objects such as seashells later remind us of a pleasant stroll on the each. Vintage objects inspire curiosity about their history. The desire to collect may take root early in our lives, starting with Beanie Babies or Legos, Barbies or baseball cards, mini-cars or stamps. As we grow up, the desire to acquire can evolve into a pricey hobby that involves serious forays into antiques shops, flea markets and cyberspace auction sites. Full Story:

LOOK-ALIKES
Heather shares the following:
Pierre looks just like the beanie "Razzle" from the "People's Beanie" voting! It just has a different ribbon... Not to mention that many people think that "Poopsie looks like "Baby" the bear... Click the link below to see the full size image of "Razzle" vs. Pierre & "Baby" vs. Poopsie... Also, don't forget about "Dreamer" & Hero...

Maybe the people will get their beanies after all....
Compare with images - http://www.heatherlea.com/images/08-01/compare.gif

== August 12, 2001 ==
Kooky Kandy makes her official debut! 
From: Ms. Janie
This chick has it going on! Check out the following link to learn all about this fashionable teen. http://www.msjanie.com/boppers/kooky_kandy.html

The Ask Ty Question that has been answered is as follows: 
From: Ms. Janie
Q. What can we look forward to from you in 2002? (submitted by ariel1)

A. You know for sure that you can always "expect the unexpected", I can't be specific because I want it to be a surprise, but here's a hint: Something worldwide and very special will start at the beginning of next year. 

PUT ON YOUR THINKING CAPS! http://www.ty.com/askty/askty.cfm

Bean Watcher
From: Bean eWonderland
On July 25, 2001, Ty announced that certain collectors could purchase Classy, the People's Choice Bear, through Ty Store.  Two weeks later, Ty announced that Classy would no longer be available for purchase.  How long did Ty say that Classy would be available in retail stores?  How did the secondary market react to the "sold out" announcement?  Where should you buy Classy now?  Read the Bean Watcher's article HERE

Ty introduces a NEW Canadian Exclusive Welcome Pierre 
(Thanks to Janie for the heads up) http://www.ty.com/announcements/pierre.html

== August 11, 2001 ==
A SPECIAL NOTICE FROM TOPICA - NEWSLETTERS WILL RESUME SOON
Over the next few weeks Topica will complete a number of system upgrades in order to ensure optimal service and accommodate our rapid growth. As we expand our infrastructure, though, our site and services must be unavailable during the following times:

August 10, 2001, beginning at 8:00 p.m. PST, for 24-27 hours
August 17, 2001, beginning at 8:00 p.m. PST, for 12-15 hours 
September 2, 2001, beginning at 12:00 p.m. PST, for 24-27 hours 
September 7, 2001, beginning at 6:00 p.m. PST, for 12-15 hours 

PLEASE check the NEWS page for updates and special instructions for the contests. As always.. the NEWS page is updated throughout the day EVERY day.

ITZMEAGAIN AUGUST MINI HUNT
The August Mini Hunt begins TODAY. There are some great prizes this month, check them out: http://www.itzmeagain.com/august_mini_hunt.htm

BEANIES USED TO HELP TELL QUADRUPLETS APART
From: Ms. Janie
Minnesota couple has quadruplets and use Beanies to help tell them apart. No one will be able to convince a Glyndon, Minn., couple that has experienced five miscarriages that quadruplets will be too much to handle. On Aug. 2, three days shy of her 34th birthday, Janet Marschke gave birth to four bouncing babies by Cesarean section at MeritCare Hospital in Fargo. After struggling to have a child, she and her husband, David, dove headlong into parenthood with three girls and boy -- Abbie, Katie, Sophie and Zackary. " We figured we didn' t know any differently, so we jumped right in, " Janet said Thursday. Doctors said that although the babies are 11 weeks premature, all are in good health and should be able to go home in late September or early October. " We are still elated that after one week they are doing so well, " said Dr. Indu Agarwal. " From the time mother came in everything went very smoothly." With Beanie Babies to tell them apart, the foursome will remain at MeritCare under the supervision of a team of doctors, nurses and respiratory therapists. http://www2.startribune.com/stOnLine/cgi-bin/article?thisStory=84702836

TEENIE BEANIES IN AUSTRALIA
Susan shares the following via email:
Hi! I've just heard from my friend in Australia, that McDonalds restaurants over there will be having a Ty Teenie Beanies set start on 17th August. The set contains a total of 10 TBB's, which are:
Flitter the butterfly, Bushy the lion, Slither the snake, Neon the sea horse,
Tusk the walrus, Springy the lavender bunny, Dotty the Dalmatian,
Schweatheart the orang-utan, Blizz the white tiger, and Goochy the jelly fish
Perhaps Ty is trying to conquer Australia now, or is he getting rid of excess stock from the USA set last year???
Cheers! Susan:o)
http://www.happybeanz.freeuk.com

Is your Ty Beanie Baby Counterfeit? 
From: Peacie.com
As collectors of Ty beanie babies, we all have our share of counterfeits. Some counterfeits are very easily to spot. How to check to see if your Beanie is counterfeit is by following the including steps. Inspect the Beanie's fabric. Is it to rough to touch? Is the Beanies fabric color too light or even to dark to seem real? These are some easy ways but other ones are to inspect the Beanie’s size and shape, does it appear too large for it’s size or maybe even to small? Are its legs or ears shaped strangely? Are the Beanie’s eyes placed to close together or too far apart? Always check your Beanie’s swing tag and tush tag before buying.

Here is a great Read~! Click the Sakura Banner, or click HERE~! to read the article in FULL! I loved it! 

A DEEPER LOOK AT NECTAR
http://www.beanyspot.com/adl/080801.php3

== August 10, 2001 ==
TY POSTS ON THE CYBERBOARD ABOUT CLASSY BEING SOLD OUT!!
No game this time! 
Ty Warner (11:20 am. Aug 09, 2001 ) 
Message Id: 934350 
Ty Warner writes: Classy is indeed sold out at the Ty Store. How long will he be available in retail stores? Only time will tell! http://www.ty.com/cyberboard/news/msg934350.html

ITZMEAGAIN AUGUST MINI HUNT
The August Mini Hunt begins Saturday 8/11. We have some great prizes this month, check them out: http://www.itzmeagain.com/august_mini_hunt.htm

Fake Sakura Update
From Bean eWonderland
From the email: It is important for your readers to know that Peggy Gallagher's information regarding codes found within the tush tags of Questionable Sakura beanies is incomplete. For example, Questionable Sakura has also been found with tush tag code 49Z8PAG9, among others.  Publishing a list such as this without clarifying the existence of other codes is a disservice to the beanie community in that it gives collectors a false sense of security. We strongly urge collectors to use every precaution when purchasing valuable beanies such as Sakura and Buckingham.  There are numerous codes found within the tush tags of the Questionable versions, making this an unreliable test of authenticity pbbags.com:

Planet Beans Comments: I feel I must comment about this. Peggy NEVER stated that the list of Sakura tag codes were the only ones out there. I find this to be a bit harsh and have the deepest respect for Peggy Gallagher.

Counterfeiters Playing Havoc with Attics
From Bean eWonderland
From the email: Finding near mint to mint first and second generation Attic Treasures is difficult for avid collectors as demand by far exceeds supply.  Counterfeiters are adding to the problem by purchasing these "Treasures" for nothing more than the hang tag it wears.  After alteration, the doctored hang tag can net hundreds and even thousands of dollars for the unscrupulous seller.  Consequently, the supply of near mint to mint Attics decreases, while the supply of counterfeit Beanie tags increases having negative ramifications on the entire Ty community.  Follow the link for the entire story Click Here: (Thanks Sal)

BLUE Celebrate Pictures
From Bean eWonderland
From the email: "I just wanted to let you know that I walked into my favorite store here in Manassas, VA and I found Celebrate the beanie baby.  It has a greate tye-dye effect and it has gold flecks on the fur. The pink Ribbon is cool with gold lining, although my scanned picture of his body doesn't do him justice, I did manage a clear scan of his chest emblem and ear tag. Signed SG." View Here:

Planet Beans Comments: Correct me if I'm wrong.. but doesn't this look like an ISSY with a Celebrate emblem?!

== August 9, 2001 ==
CELEBRATE BUDDY MISSING IT'S "1"
From: Ms. Janie
Yesterday I picked up a Celebrate Buddy at a Ty retailer and when I got home I noticed that the monogram had 5 instead of 15 years on the scroll. http://www.msjanie.com/typhotos/celebrate5.html

COUNTERFEIT INFO
From: Ms. Janie
Hello Everyone! 
Needed to share this info with you and your readers! 
Counterfeit Sakura Serial Numbers: 4B8G9DP8, 49F8GDZB, 49P8GDZE, 4FWEZTKT 

Also our authentication service has received many counterfeit old face colored Teddy! The authentic ty old face colored bears must have a center "V" seam on the back center of the bear's head! The counterfeit old face colored bears have a center "l" seam on the back center of the bear's head! The fabric color is also incorrect but these are two easy questions a buyer can ask the seller prior to purchasing an expensive and rare old face colored Ty Beanie Baby Bear 
Thank you Sincerely, Peggy Gallagher www.peggyg.com

CHARACTERIZATION AND BEANIES
Michael's Beantown has compiled an article called "Characterization and Beanies," discussing the characterization of Beanie Babies through pop culture. Read it for yourself! Characterization and Beanies - View HERE

== August 8, 2001 ==
Buick Open 
From Bean eWonderland
Two baskets of tiger Beanie Babies sit on the counter at the Warwick Hills Golf and Country Club Pro Shop. Half with traditional tiger stripes, half tie-dyed. Each $15. This week, that will be the only Tiger sighting at the 2001 Buick Open. Tiger Woods, who drew record crowds to the PGA Tour event a year ago, announced last week he would skip this tourney to polish his game for next week's PGA Championship. Full Story:

Beanie Baby Drive
From: Beanieholics
Kathy Crowder, a registered nurse in Children's Hospital Medical Center of Akron's Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, and her family are organizing their second Beanie Baby drive this year. They will be collecting Beanie Babies and toys for young patients at the hospital. ``Beanie Babies are comforting to the kids,'' Crowder said. The Crowders rounded up more than 1,000 Beanies last year. Click Here For More

Neon Buddy Arrives
From: Beanieholics
The Neon Beanie Buddy has begun to arrive at retail. Marilyn shares pictures of this new Buddy and it's hang tag. Click Here For Pictures

BRONX BOMBER AUCTIONS
From: Underground Bean
"""A concerned collector emailed us regarding a Gold Power Seller on eBay with an amazing number of Bronx Bomber auctions - I did some counting and see that this Power Seller has 47 that are currently up for bid (starting as low at $14.95 and as high as $99.95) and that there are another 66 that have already ended ... that is an amazing 113 of these little guys that the seller has.  I have contacted the seller about this but have not yet heard from her. Lets assume (because we have no reason to think that the seller wouldn't have them), that they are all legit auctions ... where in the world would 1 person get over 100 of these items??? Lets assume that she bought the tickets and gave them out with the stipulation that she get the bopper™, where would she have found 100 + kids???"""

Planet Beans Comments: I was wondering the same thing. It just blows my mind that some people manage to get oodles of these HTF items and in many cases turn around and sell them for prices that your average collector can't even afford. Now's a good time to have some extra money laying around. :o)

YOUR PRAYERS WORKED!!
MS. JANIE WRITES THE FOLLOWING:
"""Update on Jennifer: 

I got a call around 4:30 AM this morning telling me that Jennifer had broke her fever and was being released from the hospital. The doctor said that it may take her up to two weeks to regain her strength but other than that she was good as new! (Thank God) 

She has been given several prescriptions and has been ordered to rest. I had suggested that I have her ticket changed and for her to fly home earlier. The doctors still feel that she should not fly as of yet for fear of a relapse. She agreed and has opted to stay with her group as she says they are all taking good care of her. She also reminded me that they are 11 hours ahead of us and that before I knew it she would be leaving Korea on Sunday. 

Mike and I had discussed the possibility of him flying to Korea to be with Jennifer but then we quickly released that neither of us had a passport. 

I told her that MANY members of my newsletter had sent well wishes and I was sure that their thoughts and prayers are what made her recoup faster. She was embarrassed that I had shared her misfortune but was overwhelmed by the support the two of us were receiving. 

It felt so good to hear her voice and know that she was on the road to recovery. I can't wait to see her! I've already warned her that I may just sit and stair at her for a day or so until I get use to her being home again. She laughed and said the first time she would make me mad I would be shipping her back to Korea. I told her that would NEVER happen. Although the Korean people have been extremely nice and hospitably I will not be allowing my children out of the country for sometime! The experience is wonderful but the worry is enormous! 

I would like to thank the hundreds of collectors (Friends) who have written to show their support during this very difficult time. Although I can not possible answer all of your e-mails I can assure you that I have read each and every one of them! Your kind words, prayers and support have helped me tremendously.