August 2002 News Archives

RED, WHITE, & BLUE
Beanieholics receives the following from one of their readers:
"Hi Randy, I have a hot little tip for you. The new America Buddy will be released in Red, White and Blue. Also, the FrankenTeddy will supposedly come in seven different variations!"

CHUBBLEY BEARS
La Rue has redone her Chubbley Bears page and it looks wonderful. If you'd like to see what she's done or if you'd like to order some Chubbley Bears from an authorized US Chubbley Retailer, visit: http://www.angelfire.com/ks2/kansaspewter/cb.html

-=August 30, 2002=
COMMENTS ABOUT NEW ITEMS
Jacqueline writes: "Is Rusty a Panda, really TY? He looks more like a Racoon to me. Especially from Scotland anyway. Frankenbear is Uh! Well what does others think? Jacqueline and kids, Scotland"

Becky writes: "I'm glad to hear you are doing so well .....and also about your cats :-) Rusty looks like a Racoon to me LOL Definitely NOT a Panda . Have you heard a rumor that Ty is going to quit the Attic Treasure line ? I read that on another newsgroup , and just wondered if you had heard anything . Thanks for all your news Lisa . Have a safe Labor Day holiday . Becky"

Stephen writes: "Hello Lisa I was at my friends shop today when she got her fax from her ty rep about the new beanies.. in the fax about the new beanies it said frankenteddy beanie will be like sherbert and liberty it will be available with with 3 different coloured heads.. so that means more expense to get all the 3 different heads I wonder which head will be the rarest one if I find out I will let you know.."

Anna-Marie writes: "Dear Lisa, Good Morning to you!!! I hope you are recuperating nicely. I read your newsletter this morning and was distressed to see a comment from Becky, stating that Rusty could not be a panda at all. Well, being the intrepid person that I am, I went on the Internet and the following is a description of the red panda: The red panda is a smaller relative of the well-known giant panda. It is of the same order Carnivora as the giant panda. There has been an argument on whether the red panda belongs to the raccoon family or the bear family, but many experts think they belong to a family of their own. They have many names such as lesser panda, hun-ho, wah, and red cat bear. They live in the bamboo forests of the Himalayan Mountains. Their diet consists of mostly bamboo leaves, but they supplement their diet with berries, mushrooms, grasses, bark, insects, bird eggs, bird nestings, and occasionally a mouse or bamboo rat. (Information taken from Red Pandas: A Natural History by Dorcas MacClintock). I hope this information helps solve the mystery of Rusty. Take care and have a great holiday weekend!! Kind regards, Anna-Marie Philadelphia, PA"

Allison writes: I just wanted to tell you if you didn't know Rusty is a type of panda called a red panda. I found this page about them: http://w3.one.net/~shire/redpanda/

ASK TYQ: Are you ever going to make anymore Jumbo Size Buddies? Jumbo Peace was great! (Ty's answer from 8/22) - Good question . . . . let's have some fun ! You tell me which item you would like to see JUMBO-IZED. (submitted by Ty Warner)
A: Thanks for all your great suggestions, you really had the Bright Ideas board buzzing. I've got a pretty good idea of what to JUMBO . . . . just about everything !

-=August 29, 2002=
CONNECTION PROBLEMS
I've been having problems with my Internet connection these past three days. I have been unable to update the website, send out the newsletters, and access the Internet with any regularity and speed. I hope I can get in and get everything updated soon. :)

UPDATES: I'm recovering nicely from my surgery and I thank you for your well wishes and prayers through this time. I was 1 week post-op yesterday and have lost 11 pounds in that week. Pearl had another visit to the vet yesterday for her 2nd of 3 series of shots and she is already up to 3 pounds. July 31st, the day that we found her so badly hurt and on death's door, she weighed 1 pound. Then just a week later she weighed 1.6 pounds. Now just shy a month later has gained 2 pounds. She's quite the little piggy. My Mom calls our grown cats, Nala & Simba, beach balls. LOL They are BIG cats. Nala, the female, is about 21 pounds and she's round. Simba, the male, is about 20+ pounds and he's long and not as round.. he's just a bigger cat. Nala does resemble a beach ball. LMBO

INTRODUCTIONS
BEANIES: http://newsflash.ty.com/BB_spt01
RUSTY the Panda (doesn't look like a typical Panda)
FRANKENTEDDY the Bear
WOODY the Bear
COLOR ME BEANIE the Bear
OCTOBER the Bear

Dozens Donate To Family Of Victim
Mike Patel isremembered as a good neighbor at a fund-raiser.

WINTER HAVEN -- Dozens of Jan Phyl Village residents chowed down on hot dogs, pizza and brownies outside the store of slain convenience store owner Maheshkumar Patel on Saturday to raise money for the family of the well-liked man they knew as "Mike."

Dozens of customers and friends have dropped off flowers, posters, plants, candles and cards in front of the store.

MAKESHIFT MEMORIALS FOR MIRANDA & ASHLEY
Charlene shares the following:
People write messages on a makeshift memorial for teen-agers Miranda Gaddis and Ashley Pond on a fence surrounding the home of Ward Weaver, Sunday, Aug. 25, 2002, in Oregon City, Ore. FBI officials announced Sunday that remains found Saturday in a shed behind Weaver's home were those of Gaddis and that a second set of remains were found Sunday in a barrel beneath a cement slab Weaver had poured behind the home. (AP Photo/Andrea J. Wright)

Ty Trade Autographed Ariel Beanie Babies
On August 19 and 20, I mentioned that two Ty Trade Autographed Ariel Beanie Babies were being auctioned on eBay (view August 2002 archives). The Ty- and Lance Bass- autographed Ariel bear closed on August 21 with a high bid of $500 (US) (view here). The Ty- and Antonio Banderas- autographed Ariel bear closed with a high bid of $550 (view here). The latter bear clearly sold for a profit. The fact that the seller had it authenticated likely contributed to its higher resale value.

TEDDY BEAR EXPO
From: Ms. Janie
Tweed Roosevelt, great-grandson of President Teddy Roosevelt, takes part in Teddy Bear Expo, marking the 100th year of the Teddy Bear in Washington Friday, Aug. 23, 2002. Roosevelt holds an original bear made in 1904, right, and a reproduction of the first Teddy Bear, introduced in 1902, at left. The Teddy Bear, with its link to Theodore Roosevelt, is easily the most popular presidential memento ever produced http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/020824/168/23q9u.html

Speaking of Sly, he and Queenie Beanie (Sue) attended this event and shared a few photos. They called and told me all about the show and how much fun they had. I'm just not quite sure if Mr. Roosevelt was ready for the two of them! LOL This weekend was the 16th annual Toy fest held at Fisher Price Headquarters in East Aurora N.Y. Alicia and I arrived around 10am and toured the museum snapping pics along the way. We lined up for the signing hoping Sly would make it on time. 1:30 exactly here comes Sly. How did I know him? He was the only one in the room carrying a TY shopping bag! LOL! Anyway I got my Steiffs signed but no TY. Afterwards Sly and I left the museum and must have chatted for an hour. We had a great time and Alicia and I had fun meeting the elusive Sly The Beanie Guy. Sue/QB The following photos were shared by Sue - http://www.msjanie.com/temp/sue_sly_8_2002.html

SOMETHING NEW TO COME AT TY STORE
Charlene shares the following:
Check this out! I believe we are about to get something new at the Ty Store!He has an empty window and as of last night,this wasn't there.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO CHUBBLEY BEARS

Thanks to Darren and Charles for making these adorable Bears and congrats to them!! :o)

UNITY II MAKES THE NEWSPAPERS
From: Ms. Janie
As many of you are aware John from Germany started a traveling Unity project in my honor. The project got so large that he had to start a second bear traveling and named it Unity II....Unity II makes the newspapers. - Now how COOL is that?? - HERE

A Bare Market
From: Beanieholics
Internet auctions have taken their toll on the value of collectibles, antiques and the like, leaving many collectors with heaps of worthless merchandise. Click Here For Story

'Home Run Harry' Beanie Bopper
From: Doodle's Page
Richie (from the UK) has sent us photos of the Beanie Bopper 'Home Run Harry' that was given away at the Houston Astros game on August 10th. (Thanks for sharing, Richie!)
Click here to view photo and card

Update on the New York Yankees’ Game-Exclusive Beanie Bopper
From: Bean Watcher
According to Collecting Nation, Fastball Freddie is the name of the Beanie Bopper that will be given out at the New York Yankees game on September 7, 2002 to the first 18,000 fans who are age 14 years and under. This game-excusive style will be wearing the Yankees’ gray “road” uniform and come with a limited edition collector card. Click here to see the Yankees’ promotion schedule.

Future Events
From: Bean Watcher
The next two weeks should be full of good news for collectors. Here are some reasons why:

We should also hear more from the Beanie Babies Official Club. Collectors are already excited about news of the BBOC’s Color Me Beanie and its Exclusive Offers. Without a doubt, we can leave it up to Ty to keep up the excitement!

-=August 24, 2002=
SUCCESSFUL SURGERY
I'm happy to report I made it through surgery just fine on Wednesday. I returned home at about 10am yesterday and I've been up and walking a bit. I am looking forward to my new, healthier, skinnier life. Thank you again for all of your well wishes. I will keep you updated on my progress and from time to time may share before and after photos. :o)

Boston and Denver Gift Shows
From: Bean Watcher
The Boston and Denver Gift Shows open today. The Boston Gift Show and Denver Gift Show both run from August 24 – 27, 2002. Ty, Inc. is scheduled to be one of many exhibitors present. Considering that both shows are near the end of the month, Ty may introduce his September 2002 styles at one or both of these shows.

Availability of Beanie Babies Official Club Exclusive Offers
From: Bean Watcher
I received the email below from Darren, a collector in the UK, who asked the BBOC if they would ship (their exclusive offers) to collectors outside of the USA. Surprisingly, the BBOC provided a response:

Currently, the BBOC website and Exclusive Offers are available to billing and shipping addresses within the United States.

We anticipate that Canada, United Kingdom and Australia/New Zealand will be able to access the BBOC web site.

Of particular interest -- the BBOC does not say if those outside of the U.S. can purchase any Exclusive Offers. The BBOC’s response simply says that they “will be able to access the BBOC web site.” Hopefully the answer will be provided soon.

ASK TY
Q: Are you ever going to make anymore Jumbo Size Buddies? Jumbo Peace was great! (submitted by IamBeanieGirl)
A: Good question . . . . let's have some fun ! You tell me which item you would like to see JUMBO-IZED. Place your vote below.
http://www.tytrade.com/askty_home

YOUR CHOICES (suggestions from Ty Warner) ARE:
Toothy the Tyrannosaurus (3%)
Brigitte the Pink Poodle (3%)
Trotter the Horse (80%)
Sassy Star (not a buddy but . . . .why not) (3%)
Other (post your suggestions on the Cyberboard) (11%)

Planners Make Exception For Ty's Spa
From: Beanieholics
A proposed luxury spa at the Four Seasons Biltmore Resort will be handled under a conditional-use permit, following a decision Wednesday by the Santa Barbara County Planning Commission. Such a permit allows an owner to develop a property in a way not normally allowed. Ty Warner, whose Ty Inc. company manufactures Beanie Babies toys, bought the 236-room Biltmore for $150 million in cash in 2000. Click Here For Story

-=August 20, 2002=
REMINDER
I just wanted to remind you that I will not be able to update the website or send out newsletters for at least the next few days. I will get back to work after I feel up to it. I will be home from the hospital on Friday, barring any complications.

THANK YOU...
I wanted to sincerely, from the bottom of my heart, thank so many of you for sending in well wishes and for keeping me in your prayers during my surgery tomorrow. I received about 30 messages and I was touched by each one so THANK YOU!! :o)

PRE-OP TESTING PROBLEM
I went to my pre-op appointment yesterday at my surgeons office and the hospital. Everything went fine until I had my EKG done. The results of this test showed I had "abnormal T waves". I wasn't sure what this meant and neither did the nurse that was working with me. I called my dear friend Robin on the way home from the hospital and she told me it had something to do with the lack of oxygen going to my heart. I was quite worried when I was told that there was an abnormal reading because heart problems run in my family and that's the last thing I wanted to deal with at 36 years of age. Well the person that read the EKG briefly, wanted the nurse to call and get results of past EKGs so I gave her the names and numbers of prior doctors so she could check. The last time I had an EKG was in 1996 as part of a complete physical. It appears that the results of that EKG was also abnormal and I had 2 EKGs within 2 weeks (which I didn't remember). The nurse called me with this info about 5:30pm yesterday because she knew I was worried about the results. The last thing I want is to have heart problems and I surely don't want my surgery to be postponed until another date. My Mom is flying in tonight to be with me in the hospital and will be here for the following entire week also. I should know the results today and know if my surgery will have to be postponed. I'm not as alarmed as I was yesterday because I had the same kind of abnormal reading 6 years ago and the doctor I had at that time must not have thought it was anything to worry about because they didn't even tell me they were abnormal. :o)

From: Ms. Janie
So Sad…A soft Beanie toy bearing a message of condolence lies at the entrance to the site of the crime scene in Lakenheath August 19, 2002, where two bodies were found on Saturday. Magistrates extended the time police can hold a couple they arrested in connection with the murder of the two missing ten year-old girls, Jessica Chapman and Holly Wells. REUTERS/Kieran Doherty http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/020819/170/22e3l.html

Is eBay Charging You Extra Fees?
From: Bean Watcher
Do you sell your collectibles on eBay? Have you checked your statements recently? EBay is working to fix two problems that affect how much you pay to re-list items. One problem, which started about two weeks ago, prevented some sellers from automatically receiving credits when listing an item twice before it sells. The second glitch, which surfaced Friday, appeared to charge sellers a new five-cent (US) fee for each item re-listed (even though their accounts weren't being charged). To read the entire story, click here.

Ty- and Antonio Banderas- Autographed Ariel Beanie Baby
From: Bean Watcher
Another autographed Ty Trade Ariel Beanie Baby has appeared on eBay. On December 6, 2000, a Ty Trade bidder (cookly) won a Ty- and Antonio Banderas-autographed Ariel bear with a high bid of $420 (US). This charity bear, which has been authenticated by True Blue Beans, is currently available for purchase (view here). So, if you’re looking to add a Ty-autographed bear to your collection, here’s another chance to do so!

Ty- and Lance Bass- Autographed Ariel Beanie Baby
From: Bean Watcher
On November 10, 2000, a Ty Trade bidder (rover07) won a set of five Ariel-signed Beanie Babies for $2,550 (US). Each beanie was signed by Ty and a member of the boy band Nsync. One of these five charity bears, signed by Ty and Lance Bass, is currently being auctioned on eBay (view here). So if you want to add a Ty-autographed beanbag to your collection, here’s your chance to do so!

-=August 19, 2002=
UNABLE TO UPDATE
I just wanted to let you know that I will not be able to update any news until later today. I have my surgery pre-op from 8:30am until sometime in the afternoon. I will do my best to update later. Let's hope there is something to share. ;o)

MY SURGERY
My surgery (Gastric Bypass Surgery) is scheduled for 7:30am this Wednesday. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers. I will need all the support I can get. :o)

Comment About MC Beanie Gripe
SHeL shares his comments:
"This gripe is only 1/2 legitimate !!! Granted Ty SHOULD stand behind his statements. But if you compare values of USA exclusives and UK exclusives. The UK collectors have be far the greater advantage. Period ... end of report. SHeL in San Diego"

<<<<<MC Beanie Gripe (from yesterday)
From: Bean eWonderland
Several gripes today from fellow UK collectors, Ty announced last year that collectors from other Countries would be able to apply for the Beanie Credit Card. The first MC Beanie has now been retired and the second one released. Why does Ty make these statements if they cannot be followed through?>>>>>

-=August 18, 2002=
MC Beanie Gripe
From: Bean eWonderland
Several gripes today from fellow UK collectors, Ty announced last year that collectors from other Countries would be able to apply for the Beanie Credit Card. The first MC Beanie has now been retired and the second one released. Why does Ty make these statements if they cannot be followed through?

New Ty Platinum Plus Master Card
From: Bean Watcher
It appears that newly approved Ty Platinum Plus Master Card holders will receive a pre-printed credit card that displays a colorful assortment of Beanie Babies (view here). Unfortunately, only U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. or Puerto Rico can apply at this time and participate in the promotion. Thus, M.C. Beanie II, like his predecessor (M.C. Beanie), will be a U.S. exclusive.

Utterly charming
The bracelet business is booming as more people tell the stories of their lives through new and old symbols
Lafayette's Elizabeth Presutti cherishes the jingly, jangly charm bracelet that she wore 30 years ago. The little Scotty dog, clarinet, piano, house and artist's palette all speak fondly of her childhood in California.

Today, charm bracelets are back -- big time -- and Presutti is part of that trend.

Williams, who was sentenced Thursday to 50 years to life in prison, still can't explain why he killed two classmates and wounded 13 other people at Santana High School on March 5, 2001.

On the morning of the assault, Williams dressed for school and put his father's .22-caliber revolver in his backpack along with a beanie baby named "Spunkie," a gift from his brother that reminded him of happier times. http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/news/articles/0802/17/new11.asp

Christine Causey of Baton Rouge rejected Fox's $50 price for an old wooden rocking chair Friday morning at the World's Longest Yard Sale. Fox deployed his persuasive powers.

"That chair came over on the Mayflower with the pilgrims," Fox said as he puffed on the day's third cigar. "Fifty is the price."

Causey, who owns an antique shop, was unimpressed. "I'll come back here on Sunday and you'll be selling it to me for $10 if you're lucky," she retorted.

Some yard sale shoppers exulted at needle-in-a-haystack finds amid the torn jeans, decapitated Beanie Babies and used lip gloss containers. But the yard sale is no mere rustic tourism stunt. Observed closely, it is a cutthroat contest between seller and patron. View complete story HERE

Imaginary genius discovered in Exeter
A 7-year-old Exeter girl has reportedly shocked the scientific and academic communities this week by scoring an astonishing 342 on her IQ test.

Mary Little-Savant -- the daughter of local garbage man Bud Savant and his wife Agnes Little, a semiprofessional Beanie Baby collector -- was thought to be an ordinary second grader until earlier this week, when a baby sitter administered the Stanford-Binet intelligence test.
http://www.seacoastonline.com/news/8_16fake.htm

-=August 17, 2002=
ASK TY
Q: What Beanie do you feel most represents you? (submitted by whitetiger33)
A: I would say there are quite a few Beanies that I could compare myself with. Some days I'm like Squealer or Speedy or Pellet. Other days Strut, Fuzz or Beginning Bear come to mind. I probably have something in common with all my Beanies.

STAMP COLLECTORS/TEDDY BEAR LOVERS
From: UGB
For those of you that are stamp collectors and/or teddy bear lovers - The US Postal Service released yesterday a set of 4 Teddy Bear stamps to commemorate the 100 years of the Teddy Bear ... they were available for purchase today at most post offices and believe me, they went fast. Since I am friends with most of the local postal employee's, I had them save me 5 sheets of 20 and these stamps are quite nice (forgive them bad images, the scanner is on the blink at the moment). Local post offices here reported that they were sold out of this stamp by 11am EST. (View Yavett's stamp images HERE)

BUY CHUBBLEY BEARS HERE
Kansas Brass & Pewter is an authorized CHUBBLEY BEAR retailer. La Rue offers top customer service with a smile each time. If you are looking for the hottest collectible Bear on the market right now, check them out. http://www.angelfire.com/ks2/kansaspewter/cb.html

LOOKING FOR TAG PROTECTORS OR BEANIE CASES
Tag protectors (clam shell style) for $3.99 per 100. You can also purchase a case of 25 Beanie cases for $24.75. Rainbow Tags also offers a number of other items. Please pay a visit to Rainbow Tags at: http://www.rainbowtags.com?src=pbeans and be sure to tell them that Lisa at Planet Beans sent you.

-=August 16, 2002=
EMAIL PROBLEMS
I have been having difficulty with my Microsoft Outlook Express email for over a month now. It just wants to shut down in the middle of retrieving or replying to emails. I found that there is one email message that I'm unable to delete or open and I think that may be the problem. I have tried and tried to delete Outlook Express and reinstall it by reinstalling Internet Explorer and that's not helped. I want my email cleared out so I can start over. Now everyone that sends emails to me to my pbeans@bellsouth.net email address are getting returned messages saying my inbox is full. It's not full at all since I keep up with my emails pretty regularly. If you need to reach me.. please send mail to gotbeans@yahoo.com. I will keep trying to get this problem resolved. :o)

INTERVIEW
Jamie from The Bean Scene interviewed yours truly. You can read the interview at: http://www.itzmeagain.com/beanscene.htm

Listed on Ty retailer site:
From: Ms. Janie
Currently not available! For the remainder of August through the month of September, Skippy and Jake will not be available for ordering. Thank you! 08/14/02

SLY FINDS MORE TY TRADEMARKS
From: Ms. Janie
On July 18,2002 Ty inc. applied to register 2 trademarks on the word "Boppers". NOT beanie boppers or Teenie beanie boppers, TY had applied for trademarks on those 2 a while back. This tyme Ty applied for a trademark on "boppers" Just "Boppers" and lists the 2 following Goods and services for these 2 new trademarks.
1)-Plush Toys
2)-Magazines, booklets and printed material
I wonder what the second listing for Goods and services is all about?? Magazines , booklets and printed material? Hmmm,,,,,?

Stores reaping in profits over collectibles
From: Ms. Janie
During his weekly visit to Stop & Shop last Tuesday, Jason Duponte rummaged through the shelves, struggling to find a cereal box with a prize inside. To his relief he found the hidden treasure: Post Cereals' Oreo O's with a free Major League Baseball bobble head doll inside. The only problem was there were only five left and Duponte, after buying more than 20 boxes since the promotion began, still had not picked one with Red Sox pitcher Pedro Martinez. "I bought all of them," says the 24-year-old financial planner. "I just want Pedro." When he returned home he opened each box, only to find three Sammy Sosa dolls, one Ichiro and one Jason Giambi, he says. No Pedro Martinez. "I just need to get one, and I'll keep buying 'em until I get it," Duponte said. If his grocery store runs out, the Norwood resident said he'll switch to one carrying the promotional goods. The cereal, he said, is only secondary to the prize. "I never ate it before," he said. While Duponte's shopping habits may not mirror your typical consumer, he is just one of the many collectors caught up in the new Beanie Babies-like craze http://www.dailynewstribune.com/news/local_regional/collectibles08142002.htm

NEW M.C. BEANIE TO COME
From: Ms. Janie
M.C. Beanie will be available to all Ty Credit Card Customers who redeem 1,500 points on or before August 16th, 2002 (before 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET)). After this time, M.C. Beanie will be replaced with a new Beanie Baby available exclusively through the Ty Credit Card Program.

All Ty Credit Card Customers who use their card to make their first retail purchase by August 31st, 2002 will also receive M.C. Beanie. Beginning September 1st, 2002 M.C. Beanie will be replaced with a new Beanie Baby available exclusively through the Ty Credit Card Program.

-=August 15, 2002=
Selling Collections
From: Bean eWonderland
I had a search around the eBay auctions to gather some information on the sort of prices people are paying for secondary bears. I decided to sort the results by the highest value first and I was quite surprised at the amount of people selling their entire collection. Is this because everyone is feeling the pinch a little or are there a few out there calling it a day?

Selling Collections Update
From: Bean eWonderland
Dean shares the following: As soon as I read your article about people putting their entire collections up for auction I thought I'd let you know how I feel about the situation. I can say that I have gone into the Beanie Storage Boxes and got out all the Beanies I have no need to keep. My collection of 268 has come down to 42 Beanies and Buddies. The others are soon going onto the "Auction Block". I'm not really selling them for the money either (very few collection auctions end with the average of more than 4 dollars a Beanie) I just have no room for the collection and I also have seen a lack in my interest in Ty's Marketing Tactics as well as some of the new designs.

I do still take an interest in Ty products and some pieces do find their way into my collection. I will say, however, that I really REALLY think about my need for one of the products prior to buying it. I won't lie though, some more money income would be nice, AND it seems now is the time to sale ... before the value seems to decrease A! NY MORE than it sadly has! Of course, this is just my two cents! Thanks for the great website, I always look forward to your updates! Dean KS, USA

TEDDYBEARSARY IN NEW YORK
Sue shares the following with Ms. Janie:
Just a quick note to say Teddybearsary has finally shown up in Western N.Y. Two retailers each got 12 of this beauty. He is a must have for all collectors.
Sue Queenie Beanie - HERE

-=August 14, 2002=
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MS. JANIE
May your day be blessed with many surprises and many smiles. :o) If you'd like to email a birthday wish to Ms. Janie, you can send the email here: ms.janie@comcast.net

DEB'S VISIT WITH MS. JANIE
Ms. Janie shares her story about Deb's visit:
"I had originally planned to allow Deb to share her story about her trip to Virginia and other than making a few comments here and there I was not going to write-up anything. BUT along with her story there were photos and a note sent by my daughter Jennifer that Deb felt the need to share, SO now it's pay back time!" http://www.msjanie.com/deb/deb_virginia.html

NEW YORK GIFT SHOW REPORT
From: Ms. Janie
News from New York Gift Show News from the NY Show. Here is the only news that is hot from the show. First all of us that thought that there was going to be a NYC release were surprised to find out that there was not one. There is good news for the Teanie Beanie Bopper collectors. Rumor has it that the first group of twelve will become sought after for the following reasons. They were all made with cloth eyes and will be the only ones to be made that way. Ty has had eyes made especially for the Teanie Beanie Boppers. The first twelve will be re-released with glass eyes and there will be an introduction of twelve NEW Teanie Beanie Boppers at the same time. They are supposed to be released in October. I spoke to a lot of venders and heard from more than a few of them some very interesting comments. They did not do well at the gift show in Chicago. They have all done VERY well at the NEW YORK GIFT SHOW. I was told that they see a change going on and that change is a positive one. They have been Busy writing orders and that the belief is that the economy is changing for the better. One vender told me that on Sunday they were so busy they were not able to have a break for lunch. She told me that when they finally did have a moment to run for food she though that it was around 2:30 in the afternoon. She was surprised to find out that it was 6 PM and time to get ready to go home for the night. A special thanks goes out to Mike for sharing this one and only report live from New York!

Tooter
From: Bean eWonderland
Will writes: "I've just been organising the latest beanie updates/pictures and filing them away into Folders on my computer, when I noticed that I had accidently saved 2 copies of every August release from the list on Ty's site, as I was ensuring I had one in hand picture and One from the Ty Site. I noticed that the two pictures from Ty's Site of Tooter had changed, they were completly different, see attached picture. This must've happened when Ty changed the istings by adding all 3 Sherbets, he must've done this at the same time. The picture shows the pattern on the chest has changed and the colour is COMPLETLY different. View Here:

Autographed Quackers Buddy
From: Beanieholics
Stephen writes to give us the story behind the story of Ethan Zohn, the million-dollar winner on Survivor Africa, autographing a Beanie Buddy this past Saturday in Toronto. Click Here For More

-=August 13, 2002=
CHINOOK BUDDY ARRIVES
From: Ms. Janie
Hi from Canada! I was lucky enough to find Chinook Buddy at retail over the weekend, so I decided to send in some pictures. I couldn't get a good picture of the tag, but it reads: "The warm, dry wind that blows down the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains is called a Chinook!" I also took a picture of him with the other Canadian exclusive Beanies and Buddies. They look great as a set! Thanks, and keep up the great work on your website! Trevor in Canada http://www.msjanie.com/temp/Trevor_chinook_buddy_8_2002.html

DAILY BEAN NEWS
Heather shares the following:
Good Afternoon Everyone~! I have two things to share with you today :)

1) Heather, the writer for Canadian Perspectives, has sent in a wonderful special edition article that most people would find interesting. :) This article is to tell you little bit about an organization that dedicates itself to the health, happiness and well being of children. http://www.dailybean.net/canada/

2) After being umm.... I'll say 'kidnapped' -- I have returned to DailyBean.Net to provide news & rumors again~! My captors promised me time daily to update the site. *SMILES

-=August 12, 2002=
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
Well we made it.. it's the first day of school. First day of waking up at 6:30 every morning and probably the weekends too since my internal alarm clock will be set in stone before too long. Robert is in the 4th grade this year and Jennifer is in the 8th. Keeping my fingers crossed that all goes well. Good luck to all of you that have kids to get ready for their first day of school today or coming up soon. :o) I took pictures of each both kids this morning as they were ready to embark on their first day of another year of school. Jennifer ~ Robert

COLLECTIBLEZSPOT CONTEST (Prize: Sherbet Beanie Baby Trio)
Today is Planet Beans day for hiding the graphic. Visit the contest page for further information: http://www.collectiblezspot.net/sherbet.php3

"A Visit with Ms. Janie"
Deb shares details of her recent visit with Ms. Janie
After compiling my journal notes, and the use of some fond memories, I have written a report of my recent visit with Ms. Janie. It was a bit tough to 'summarize', as we stayed quite busy. I failed to take my digital camera on the trip; I should pick up the photos tomorrow. "Part II" will follow, as soon as they're all scanned and posted. We had a blast ... I say no more ... you'll just have to read the story! (Her daughter Jennifer and I may be in big trouble, though ! :) http://www.doodlespage.com/msjanie_visit.html

Ty Inc. Donates 150,000 Beanie Buddies to the American Red Cross
From: Doodle's Page
As a follow-up to our news story on Friday, the following article from Investor.cnet.com gives details on the American Red Cross and Ty Inc.'s "New Buddy Program".

WASHINGTON, Aug. 9 / PRNewswire/ -- The American Red Cross and Ty Inc. are initiating a new program that will bring comfort to hundreds of thousands of families, who need vital assistance following disasters each year. Through the "New Buddy Program," Ty will be donating 150,000 new Beanie Buddies to the Red Cross to be used in its more than 73,000 disaster relief operations across the country.
Click here to read the entire article.

-=August 11, 2002=
PUNKIES IN NIAGARA FALLS, NEW YORK
Rose shares the following:
"Hi Lisa I just purchased my first punkie today I got Zig Zag & he is just beautiful My adult daughter loves small beanie sized monkeys so guess who he is for I seen the Pluffies to day to & they are gorgeous to thought I would give you a bit of news. Rose"

BARBARA'S NEW CHUBBLEY BEARS
LEFT: Half Sovereign & Sovereign
RIGHT: Chunky & Red-Nosed Joker
Barbara shares this picture of her newest Chubbley finds with Chubbley Corners.

Hatching an idea: What's in a name? At Three Chicks, kids
From: Bean eWonderland
Sally Nailon-Timbario named her gift shop after her three granddaughters, Alyssa Salvo, 11, Danielle Timbario, 11, and Brittany Timbario, 6, when she opened the shop in May 2000. Three Chicks Inc. stocks a wide variety of gift items for the home, greeting cards and a large Beanie Baby collection. Gifts and china account for 70 percent of sales, with cards making up 25 percent and Beanie Babies 5 percent. "I started calling Danielle 'chickie' when she was a baby," said Nailon- Imbario. "I called the granddaughters my three chicks." Full Article:

New York Trade Show Begins
From: Beanieholics
The New York Trade Show starts today and is set to run through Thursday, August 15th. Three more trade shows will take place over the next couple of weeks. These will be held in Seattle, Denver and Boston.

100 ANNIVERSARY TEDDY, NOT SO RARE
From: UGB
BritBites writer Karin sends this in:
"Hi Yavett, I just had a phone call from my retailer to say that 100 anniversary teddy has arrived! so much for being a show exclusive eh! My retailer hasn't been to any shows and they arrived just fine, LOL Karin"

-=August 10, 2002=
CollectingChannel.com Launches Television Programming Online
Sales OnLine Direct, parent company of CollectingChannel.com, announced on Tuesday it has launched a 24-hour broadcasting schedule of video titles from its purchase of the ChannelSpace Entertainment library nearly two years ago. On tap are over 200 episodes of the popular and critically acclaimed Treasures In Your Home with John Burke (originally broadcast on PAX-TV), 26 episodes of Collecting Across America (produced for PBS), as well as hundreds of expert feature pieces, "how-to" vignettes, and "Lunch Break Live" tip segments with premier appraising experts.

First broadcast exactly three years ago today, Treasures In Your Home showcases the broadest possible range of collectibles-everything from priceless antiques and million dollar purses to quirky collections of pop culture items such as Beanie Babies, lunch boxes, and vintage movie posters. http://www.auctionbytes.com/cab/abn/y02/m08/i09/s01

SEPTEMBER 2002 BEAN BAG MAGAZINE
http://www.planetbeans.com/BBMSept.htm

PEARL UPDATE
Pearl is doing great. She woke me up at about 4:00am Friday morning and kept me up until about 5:30 when I finally got up and put her in the bathroom where her food and litter box are. LOL She was WIDE awake at that time of the morning and Brandon came in and got in bed with me so we were both playing with her. She's a riot!! Every time one of us would move our feet she'd attack them. LOL

Something funny... at about 5 o'clock Friday morning after Pearl had woke me up I went and put on some chapstick. It was strawberry and I guess Pearl really liked it. When I went back to bed she kept coming up to me and smelling my lips. She drove me nuts and her little whiskers were tickling me. It was too funny. Brandon and I cracked up about that.

Punkies Punkies & Punkies
From: Bean eWonderland
Marilyn writes: I purchased the Punkies at a store that charges $6 for beanies.... the Punkies also cost $6. They are slightly larger than beanies and bigger bellied as wel. I managed to get six of them today.... missing the dog Shreds. The tush tag says Shell 100% TyTips. They are cute & colorful & the fabric is a riot of movement with it's long threads. The upper chests are lightly stuffed but there are pellets in the lower half of the torso so they're somewhat weighted in their bear behinds & this helps them sit up nicely. Their four limbs are the same.. lightly stuffed down to the paw areas which are filled with pellets.... makes for a flat shoulder. View Images:

UK Retailer
From: Bean eWonderland
Liz our UK retailer friend points out that Ty has retired celebrations at the end of the Queens jubilee tour which ended this week. She has also heard a fairly strong rumour that a Jubilee buddy will be launched on September 1st at Birmingham Autumn fair along with a few more September autumn releases.

Ty Introduces The "New Buddy Program"
From: Beanieholics
The American Red Cross and Ty, Inc. have announced a new program that will bring comfort to the hundreds of thousands of families who need vital assistance following disasters each year. Through the "New Buddy Program," Ty will donate 150,000 new Beanie Buddies to the Red Cross to be used in more than 73,000 disaster relief operations across the country. Click Here For More

Astros Bopper Promotion Today
From: Beanieholics
The Houston Astros have a 'Astros Beanie Bopper' promotion scheduled for today. Sponsored by Jiffy Lube, a free Astros Beanie Bopper will be given out to the first 10,000 children entering the game, ages 14 and under. The Houston Astros are set to play the Atlanta Braves. Game starts at 3:05 PM CT and will be carried nationally by FOX Television, so collectors that can't make the game may be able to catch a glimpse of this new Ty release.

INTRODUCING HOME RUN HARRY BOPPER ~ http://release.ty.com/harry
Available game day only at Minute Maid Park ~ August 10, 2002

ITZMEAGAIN'S AUGUST MINI-HUNT
Nina writes:
"The August Mini Hunt Begins this Saturday & runs for a week. This is a multi-site graphic hunt, where each graphic will remain up until the end of the hunt. We have lots of great prizes, and more expected to be donated before the week is out, so come on & check us out!!!"
http://www.itzmeagain.com/Contests/02augustminihunt

ASK TY
Q: Are there any Beanies you don't like? (submitted by I love beanies so much!!)
A: I definitely have some favorite Beanies but . . . . I've never met a Beanie I didn't like.

-=August 8, 2002=
PEARL UPDATE
I took Pearl to the Vet yesterday for her checkup and shots. She went from weighing just ONE pound to weighing 1.6 pounds in just a week. She eats like a little pig. The Vet said she looks 1000 times better than she did last week. We have to take her back in in 3 weeks for more shots and another $68!! LOL This little one has cost us over $200 so far but she's well worth it. She's such a sweetie. :o)

TAG PROTECTORS
Instead of paying $3.00 for only 10 tag protectors at Ty Trade.. how about paying just $3.99 for 100 (clam shell style - very nice) from my advertiser, RainbowTags.com? ;o)

Kids are real collectors
Callahan: Library holds annual show by young hobbyists
Kids had their toys, rocks, sea shells, dolls, coins and teddy bears scattered all around the Callahan branch library last week, and that was just great with branch manager Anne Hawn Smith.

The children had brought in their treasured possessions and collections to share with others during a July 29 party to end the summer reading program.

Phillip Coker, 7, and his brother Timothy Coker, 9, had their impressive displays of Beanie Babies, state quarters, baseball cards, Pokeman and Digimon cards and stamps spread over a table in the center of the library.
http://www.jacksonville.com/tu-online/stories/080702/nen_10095857.shtml

WIN A SIGNED 'PAWS' CHUBBLEY BEAR
Daphne (Editor of Bean Bag Monthly UK) is running several contests over at the Bears and Beans Fansite. This one is for a Paws Chubbley bear, signed on his hang tag by Charles 'Chubbley' Rogers. This would be a great addition to any collection and especially for Chubbley collectors. http://www.forum.bearsandbeans.com/

NEW BEANIES IN NC
Diana writes:
"Hi Lisa! I just had to share the good news - a Ty Retailer here in Raleigh, NC received a shipment of the August beanies last night and I got all mine today! That's the fastest I've ever been able to find some/all of the new releases! Sherbet is beautiful...but I've heard all the rumors and this store had about 2 dozen of them and the minty color was the rarest with only two that I could find. Just thought I'd pass this info along!!!!! Have a great day and thanks for all your wonderful beanie world updates! -- Diana"

-=August 7, 2002=
KITTEN UPDATE
Pearl has now been moved upstairs to my bedroom and she is doing soooo well. She has her food and litter box in my bathroom. Her boo-boos are almost completely healed. She's such a sweetie and loves to cuddle and be close to our faces and necks. I will be taking her to the vet in the next few days for her shots. Monday night/Tuesday morning I finally got to bed at about 1:30am and she was in the bathroom eating. When she came out I let her know I was in the bed so she jumped up in the bed. She loves to cuddle so she kept trying to lay on my head/ear as I was laying on my side. It was too funny. I couldn't sleep but it was cute. LOL Thank you so much for all of your kind words. You are simply the best!! :o)

Currently not available!
From: Ms. Janie
For the month of August, Scraps will not be available for ordering. Thank you!

SHERBET IN WISCONSIN
Terri writes:
"Hi Lisa, Just thought you'd like to share with your readers that Sherbet arrived in Eau Claire, WI, yesterday. I called a store in our mall to see if they had received any of the new beanies, and she told me that they had just received a shipment in. I was lucky enough to get all three versions of the Sherbet bear. It's such a soft bear with a beautiful ribbon. I was so excited. They also had the September bear, Pegasus, Toot, and Zoom. My mom stopped at another store that had just gotten Sherbet in yesterday as well. However, that store would only allow you to get one Sherbet, so she got the yellow one. Also, thanks for sharing your story on Pearl. What an adorable kitten. It looks like she is going to be spoiled. My husband and I can't wait to get one of our own. And thanks, again, for advertising about the Mom-e bear; I only had one response, but that led to me being able to get one. Well, that's all for now. Have a great day! Terri"

-=August 6, 2002=
NEW CHUBBLEY BEARS
Kathie of Chubbley Corners shares the following:
Introduction of Hazie and Spruce Chubbley Bears. Also introduced are First Cub and Sonny Cub.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Sharon shares the following at the Planet Beans Yahoo! Group
Free replacement lock-Older Lane Cedar Chests. If you have a Lane Cedar Chest that was manufactured between 1912 -1987, you need a replacement lock. The chests can be dangerous for children because it cannot be opened from inside.

Lane is offering free replacement locks at: http://www.lanefurniture.com/newlock/request.html

This horrible tragedy happened today not far from me.

Girls Die In Locked Trunk 8/5/2002
The girls, Anne, Darlene and Carla Oberholtzer were ages 2,4, and 6. The Sheriff's Department says Monday morning, the girls' mother, Shirley Oberholtzer, was out doing farm chores. Two of the family's older daughters, ages 11 and 13, helped Shirley watch the three younger ones while she worked. While making lunch, she checked in with the older daughters, and discovered the younger ones were missing. After searching, they found the three younger girls unconscious in the trunk in a bedroom.

The girls later died at St. Joseph's Hospital in Marshfield; the Sheriff's Department is treating the deaths as an accident.

Sorry to post such a downer but if this could save someone some pain, I thought it was worth it.

-=August 5, 2002=
Stock up on stuffed animals, toys
The Eighth Annual Toy Show and Sale is today from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Rodeway Inn Event Center, 1365 W. Grant Road. The show features action figures, dolls, Beanie Babies, comics, model kits, trains and more. Admission is $2; children under age 12 are admitted free if accompanied by an adult. For more information, call 578-8027.
http://www.azstarnet.com/star/today/20804highlight.html

No Gossiping at the Office? Do Tell.
About a year ago, the human resources department at the Brand Consultancy Inc. in Georgetown came up with a rule: no more office gossip.

The company likens gossip to an anaconda, because, well, "what it does is wraps itself around people and literally sucks the wind out of them," said Vickie Hann, director of human resources.

Soon after she came up with the gossip-as-anaconda simile, the office was bedecked with Beanie Baby snakes, posters saying "No Anacondas!" and even a skit put on by Hann and several colleagues for new recruits and training sessions, illustrating what happens to a workplace when gossip (or an anaconda) runs rampant.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A38894-2002Aug3.html

NEW BEANIES AT UGB
From: UGB
"HI This is Howie, fireman111 on E-bay. I just returned home with the new beanies. Just had to point out that Singapore isn't the only place that have these in hand. Look for your local Ty dealer to have them in hand early next week. Sherbet does indeed come in three colors with the yellow and green being the rarest. They come with 3 green, three yellow and 6 pink's in each Ty bag. The September Bear and Pegasus the horse is a MUST to collect. They both have a very pretty blue fabric on them. Sherbet has a real fine fabric like Samson and other's. This month's beanies are alot more exciting then last month's. Hope everyone has a great weekend!!!!!
Howie fireman111" (view pictures HERE)

TY TRADEMARKS
Sly shares the following with Ms. Janie:
On June 4,2002 Ty applied to register a trademark on "TyTips" 3 times and lists the following as the goods and services for the 3 trademarks.
1)Plush toys
2) yarns and threads for textile use
3) Namely synthetic Fabric for Textile use
Again Ty registers this trademark 3 times and goes all the way to protect their rights to it. This must be a new policy of Ty's when applying and registering their new trademarks on new fabrics?

-=August 4, 2002=
THANK YOU
I appreciate your kind words about our new little kitten, Pearl. Several of you have written to give well wishes and offer name suggestions. I've heard from people that loved the name Brandon (3) picked out for Pearl. I always love to hear from my readers and friends so keep those emails coming and thank you for being such a great group of people.

PEARL UPDATE (REASON FOR THE NEWSLETTER DELAY TODAY)
We had an issue this morning but luckily everything turned out just fine. Jennifer (13) accidentally stepped on Pearl. If I hadn't been there and she had put her full weight on the little one.. I'm not sure what would have been the outcome. Luckily I was in the room when this happened and she's okay. :o) Pearl has adjusted wonderful to her new home. Her belly is so big now from eating. LOL She still needs some fat on her bones to cover her spine and her hip bones. Pearl loves to have her belly rubbed and she's a cuddler. She cuddles around our neck and shoulders each time one of us picks her up. She's so cute!! Can you tell I'm in love?! ;o)

Seeking to survive
From: Bean eWonderland
Shauna Baldwin and Nicole Rockwell may be young, but they know what they want. They want to see an end to cancer. The girls, both 13, formed this year's youngest American Cancer Society Relay for Life team. The 24-hour event to raise money for the battle against cancer began at 6 p.m. Friday and ends at 6 p.m. today in Sparks Foundation County Park. The 85 teams hope to raise $340,000 for cancer research. Heading into the event the girls' team, American Angels, had raised nearly $500 through can drives, selling Beanie Babies, and asking for donations from family and friends. Full Article:

This could be a new trend from Ty. Lower amounts of items ordered or shipped means they will sell out faster. Beanies this month are at a maximum of 24, Buddies at a minimum of 4. Could Ty be doing this to cut down on shelf sitters? ~R and T

COMMENTS ABOUT RAINBOW TAGS (my new advertiser)
Shirley S writes:
"Hi Lisa, Thank you for the information concerning the availability of tag protectors from Rainbow Tags. I had problems the first two days with their online check out button taking me back to the ordering screen. They must have been extremely busy after everyone read your newsletter. :) On the third day, my order went through without a hitch, and the confirmation came very quickly. Another quick email said the tags were on the way. WOW! Thank you again. This is definitely a site that I will return to."

Sharon writes:
"Thanks Lisa For suggesting http://www.rainbowtags.com/ as a source for beanie boxes. I sent them an order on 7/25 and received it via UPS on July 30th. I ordered 25 boxes @ $24.75 and with the shipping it averaged out to $1.50 per box! Any others I have ever gotten were about $2.50 each and these are much nicer! Very roomy, tight lids and very clear! They were packed extremely well in a heavy carton and not a single one was cracked! I am so happy with them - I will def. be ordering from them again soon! A great retailer! Thanks! Sharon"

-=August 3, 2002=
KITTEN UPDATE
Mark cleaned off her boo-boo yesterday afternoon and it looks soooo much better. She purrs, rubs everyone, and 'knits' when we are holding her. I gave her a Silver Beanie Baby with the tag off of course. She loves it!! She rubs on Silver like she does on the rest of us. Well kitty has a name finally. Brandon was standing there while Mark was holding her and he said how about Pearl. Well it just stuck and Brandon named our new family member. Too cute!! The name Pearl came from one of Brandon's favorite shows, Sponge Bob Square Pants. LOL Pearl is a long haired grey kitten with grey eyes so it fits because her eyes look like grey pearls. Thank you for all your kind words and well wishes for our new little one. :o)

BBOC Notes
From: Bean eWonderland
The email and gossip most recently all surrounds the short hand notes on the BBOC web site. Some are my own opinions, others are from a selection of the emails received as to what the notes could be suggesting:

Busy Month Ahead - Most people assume this to be simply announcements and news flashes ranging from retirements and new releases.

Real Estate - Purchasing a new hotel has been suggested but this would not really be beanie news. Could be a new Casino Bear or another Ty Park, Ty Europe has recently sponsored the Portsmouth football club, could this be a clue?

Printed Observations - Magazine articles is the favorite, other possibilities could be more news regarding fake beanies, certificates given out with beanie purchases maybe but then these could still be copied or what about a form to report bad retailers. Message boards were also suggested but we already have the Ty Cyber boards, could these be set to expand?

Bear Market Strategies - More new bears maybe, we had a bear for each casino, we had a bear for each world cup participant, has Ty plans to follow this trend?

Meetings and Interviews - Meetings for possible licence agreements, Interviews could mean Ty is set to expand further and this will mean taking on extra staff, what about more signed items?

Personal Masterpiece - Another Ty signed bear, a second peoples beanie and a statue of Ty Warner are the top three choices.

WHAT HAPPENED TO PUNKIES?
I just clicked on the Punkies link at Ty.com and it says COMING SOON...

Woman charged with theft, faking story about Sept. 11
The Associated Press
BURLINGTON — A Burlington woman pleaded innocent Thursday to charges she made up a story about losing family members in the Sept. 11 attacks and stole donation money raised by her co-workers.

Carrie-Anne Drumm, 29, was charged with stealing cash and merchandise while working at the gift shop at the Radisson Hotel Burlington. According to court papers, she took $19,000 from the store, including $1,225 of Sept. 11 donation money.

Kohler cast-offs go on sale Saturday
KOHLER — Be assured that Saturday you will be able to find just about anything here, including the kitchen sink.

-=August 2, 2002=
HURT KITTEN UPDATE
Mark saw a baby kitten on Monday morning when he was leaving for work at 5am. He tried to catch it but it ran away. When he came home Wednesday afternoon it was all huddled up in front of the garage door and was soaked to the bone from the down pour we just had. Mark picked it up and noticed it had a hurt spot on it's neck. Looked like it had gotten badly bit by something. Mark said the kitten is probably no more than 6 weeks old. I called the vet we take our two cats to and the Veterinarian left at noon. She gave me the name to another one that wasn't too far away. I called them and they said if we hurry they would take a look at the kitten. I thought it needed to be seen right away since it was hurt.

The vet conferred the kitten is just under 6 weeks old and female. The spot on her neck was from some kind of infection. Apparently there was a worm or worms in that area one of which the vet removed. She was tested for feline leukemia, checked for worms, and de-wormed. She has some antibiotics that she has to have daily and we have to take her back in about 5 days to 1 week. Looks like we may have ourselves a new kitten. The kids are thrilled. They have wanted a kitten for a long time and we didn't want to get one because of our other two cats but the way this one worked out and if all goes well.. she'll be our new pet. It's as if we were the chosen ones to take care of her. Makes her so much more special. We are still deciding on a name. Mark wants to name her but wants the name to be different. Our other two cats are Nala & Simba. They are brother and sister. I'm sure most of you can tell where those names came from. <grin>

I've created a page with pictures if you'd like to see. The pictures of the boo-boo are quite gross but not as bad as seeing it in person. http://www.planetbeans.com/Kitty.htm

ASK TY
Q: Are you currently making a new style of Beanie, or are you just updating the site when it says, "Top Secret BBOC Meeting in Progress"? I understand if you can't answer this directly, but at least give us a hint! (submitted by beaniac7)
A: I see the meeting just adjourned . . . . I have the notes posted for your review.

CHUBBLEY HIBERNATION (not retirement)
La Rue shares the following:
Chubbley Bears UK announced the hibernation of two bears: Snowbear and Toots on 8/1/02. Will there be new releases coming out?
http://www.chubbleybears.co.uk

Parasaurolophus mistake?
From: Bean eWonderland
From the email I am a really big dinosaur enthusiast. Something struck me as a little odd about Tooter, so I went back to do some checking. Tooter does indeed look sort-of like a Parasaurolophus, but I think TY may have made an error! Parasaurolophus was a type of Hadrosaur, which were Onithischans (bird-hipped). That means they walked on two feet! Tooter LOOKS like a Parasaurolophus at the head, but the body looks like that of a Sauropod (brontosaurus etc.), which were Saurischians (lizard-hipped...walked on all fours). Tooter is pretty mixed up if you ask me! Matt (Bean eWonderlands comments - Thanks Matt, I haven't a clue about Dinosaurs but it certainly seems that you know a lot more about them).

BBOC SHORTHAND INTERPRETATION
From: Ms. Janie
Thanks to Leanne for sharing the following Looks like the three years of shorthand finally have paid off...I think the notes read... BBOC Meeting Notes...Busy month ahead..Real Estate...Printed Observations...Bear Market Strategies...Meetings and Interviews...Personal Masterpiece. Clues??

MEETING ADJOURNED (finally.. but can you read shorthand?!)
http://www.beaniebabiesofficialclub.com/coming_bboc_home

-=August 1, 2002=
MINER'S POEM
Rachel shares the following:
Written by
John Hilligoss
Casselman Motel & Restaurant
Grantsville, MD
9:30 AM
July 29, 2002

another day, with no daylight
that's the way for a miners life
nobody knew as they left home
nine would stay, and nine would go

coal dust flying, dirty and black
out of nowhere you hear "GET BACK"
A wall of water, 4 feet high
they all thought they would drown and die

nine men scrambled from a coal black grave
nine more below were left to save
nose deep in water, the boss threw a rope
nowhere to go, and not much hope

they finally stumbled to a shaft up high
they all crawled in and prepared to die
cold and wet, scared to death
they huddled for warmth and prayed for breath

they spoke of home, heaven, and hell
and many things they'd never tell
they heard the machines from way up high
prayed for forgiveness, and tried not to cry

families gathered in old fire hall
prayer groups formed to save them all
drilling crews came from far away
they worked like dogs day after day

9 knocks came on a ventilation pipe
12 hours gone, and they were alright
a hope, a prayer, a thread of light
they worked for 3 days and 4 nights

the town folks came with hot warm food
will they make it or not, no one knew
the governor cried, the families prayed
the drills kept drilling there were men to save

70 some hours, and the drills broke through
to a would be grave and a mining crew
nine were alive, wet and cold
a miracle for all, 250 feet below

the Quecreek mine, a Pennsylvania town
brought together by prayer
lost faith was found
the clouds blew away and left a clear blue sky
nine lucky miners are still alive

BEANIEHOLICS 'Older Than Air' Contest
The countdown is on to Ms. Janie's birthday! To help celebrate we offer a contest where you can win some great 'birthday gifts' yourself. Gifts include: Century "Forever Yours" from Celebrity Bears, an M.C. Beanie Baby or a Celebrations Beanie Baby. Click Here For More Info

Availability of Beanie Babies Official Club Exclusive Offers From: Bean Watcher I received the email below from Darren, a collector in the UK, who asked the BBOC if they would ship (their exclusive offers) to collectors outside of the USA. Surprisingly, the BBOC provided a response:

Availability of Beanie Babies Official Club Exclusive Offers
From: Bean Watcher
I received the email below from Darren, a collector in the UK, who asked the BBOC if they would ship (their exclusive offers) to collectors outside of the USA. Surprisingly, the BBOC provided a response: