While Christmas shopping with her mother and older brother Friday at Opera House Antiques in Kingsville, she focused on the stuffed collectibles. READ FULL STORY HERE

Won't You Track My Sleigh Tonight?
From: Beanieholics
It's Christmas Eve. Time to hang up the stockings. Leave out a plate of cookies and a glass of milk. And then log on to your computer and track Santa's progress on the Internet. It used to be, the only way to see St. Nick was to go to your bedroom window, wipe yourself a nice clear peeking hole, press your nose against the cold glass, and keep a sharp eye on the night sky. Now, all you have to do is visit http://www.noradsanta.org. Click Here For More Info

REMINDER ~ MESSAGE FROM La RUE
Want to let the Chubbley collectors know that the retired Chubbleys are now all $8 as of the 1st of January, they will be increased $10. Included with orders of Retired Chubbleys will be the new "Collectibles Extravaganza" publication, as I would like to hear your comments. Merry Christmas to you all and thank you for your support in 2002.
La Rue/Kansas Brass & Pewter http://www.angelfire.com/ks2/kansaspewter/cb.html

-=DECEMBER 23, 2002=-
Weaver Beanie Baby story turned out to be a talker
Readers reacted passionately to a front-page story on the missing Beanie Babies of Delores Weaver. It seems someone stole them from her Alltel Stadium luxury box.

Criticism fell into several categories. If you like the wife of Jaguars owner Wayne Weaver, then the story appeared to be making fun of her. Some readers felt it gave special treatment to one of Jacksonville's social elite.

Michael Pittius called the Dec. 13 story "insignificant drivel," a "puerile commentary" that did not belong on the front page.

"I understand the Times-Union staff cannot be held accountable for the immaturity and ignorance of its constituents, but it certainly can do a much better job of deciding what is relevant and what is the mindless ranting of someone with too much time on her hands," he said.

Strong reactions to the Weaver story are understandable. We received dozens of e-mails. I have no quarrel with the objections and don't want to debate the Beanie Baby issue here.

But the criticism that I would like to address is its placement on the front page. Readers challenged the relative importance of this story when compared to news of war, recession, racism, layoffs, smallpox and more. There's no comparison, of course. It's a legitimate point. READ FULL STORY HERE

Wishing and Hoping
Remember when you carefully penned letters to Santa Claus, making sure your penmanship was perfect and your spelling correct?

Every year we ask school classes and individuals to submit letters to Santa Claus.

The letters are printed in the newspaper in a special section. Publication of the letters makes it easy for Santa's helpers to know what kids want for Christmas.

This year we're sharing some of the letters in advance of the special section. These letters were written by MerryAnn Brower's third-grade class in Lyman.

Here's what they have to say: READ FULL STORY HERE

Girl, 10, strives for life’s high notes
WEST HAVEN — Jenny Glazier plays with American Girl dolls, hangs out at the mall and collects Beanie Babies just like other 10-year-old girls.
But unlike many of them, she doesn’t dream of some day growing up to be Britney Spears.

Jenny, a precocious blonde who began singing at age 5, dreams of some day becoming the next Pavarotti or Renee Fleming.

On her first CD, which came out last month, she puts her surprisingly big and well-controlled 10-year-old voice to work on 11 classical Christmas songs. READ FULL STORY HERE

Warning: Your Christmas presents can kill
Each holiday season, there are 25 toy-related deaths and 255,000 injuries among children. That's even more than you can blame on Michael Jackson. How did we survive?

I remember getting toy trains with exposed electrical wiring, guns that shot darts, action figures with tiny choke-hazard guns and accessories, and a sled my drunken father assembled backward, so the smooth handles were on the bottom and the running blades were on top.

What a gauntlet of death the holidays were! Most of us survived, and all that danger made us tough.

But if the toys considered hazardous now are any indication, today's kids are more fragile than Ted Turner's sanity.

The vigilant gang at Netscape News compiled a list of this year's most dangerous toys from two research groups, World Against Toys Causing Harm and the Public Interest Research Group's Toy Safety. READ FULL STORY HERE

-=DECEMBER 22, 2002=-
MESSAGE FROM La RUE
Want to let the Chubbley collectors know that the retired Chubbleys are now all $8 as of the 1st of January, they will be increased $10. Included with orders of Retired Chubbleys will be the new "Collectibles Extravaganza" publication, as I would like to hear your comments. Merry Christmas to you all and thank you for your support in 2002.
La Rue/Kansas Brass & Pewter http://www.angelfire.com/ks2/kansaspewter/cb.html

Oh, Christmas Tree ...
Just what will happen to thee? 
Pity your poor, innocent Christmas tree.

Sure, for the next few days, all of America's sentimental glances will be cast its way, as families gather around it to watch beaming children open brightly wrapped packages filled with toys and whimsical playthings. Scarf-swaddled youths will extol its virtue in carols, and lovers will cuddle beneath it, sipping frothy mugs of hot cocoa.

But for a noble Douglas fir or Scotch pine that's spent its waning days covered not with fallen snow but crudely glued popsicle-stick ornaments and garishly flickering light bulbs, a much crueler fate awaits: the whirring jaws of a mulching machine.

"We try to find a way to return the trees to their natural state," said Glenn Lightsey, owner of Lightsey's Trees, a staple of the St. Augustine Christmas season that's been in business more than 20 years. "So we started mulching the trees. We give it away for flower beds." READ FULL STORY HERE

Humble Slinky still a mainspring of fun
Thousands of high-tech toys are expected to be under Christmas trees Wednesday, patiently waiting to be ripped open, plugged in and played with.

Tiny remote control cars, PlayStation 2s, and talking and dancing dolls have been hot sellers at toy stores this season, but simple, old-school toys still have a place in children's hearts as evidenced by Saturday's Slinky Science workshop at Imagination Station, 600 N. Fourth St.

"I like them because you can stretch them," said Mallaurie Luedtke, a third-grader at Glen Acres Elementary, doing just that with one of the floppy, loose spring toys.

Slinkys were used to teach a small group of Greater Lafayette first-, second- and third-graders different ways energy and force is used in motion.

A closed Slinky shows compression. A stretched one shows tension, and a stretched Slinky swung around your head is a good example of centrifugal force. READ THE STORY HERE

Ty Withdraws Hotel Spa Plans
From: Beanieholics
Beanie Babies billionaire Ty Warner is withdrawing plans for renovating the Four Seasons Biltmore Resort in Montecito while he reconsiders whether the $100 million-plus project should include a controversial spa on adjacent property. His project agent said revised plans may be submitted to the county Planning Department early next year. Click Here For Story

Pompey Exclusive Update
From: Bean eWonderland
On Monday 16th December all TY Retail outlets in Portsmouth with the exception of the Fratton Park shop (football grounds shop) received an Invoice from TY Europe for an item called "Pack P". When Ty were telephoned to ask what the invoice was for, the retailers were told it was a surprise package, but they would like it.

On Tuesday, "Pack P" turned up to all TY Stores in Portsmouth. It contained 72 Beanies, 48 of which were Pompey Bears. There are approximately 20 retailers in the Portsmouth area, and every single one received this pack, except Fratton Park. They were told this was a one off delivery, however if they immediately put in another order, they would receive a second "Pack P" which would be delivered before Christmas.

A few of the stores did this, and received a further 48 Pompey Bears on Thursday 18th December. Most were put on the shelves, and were sold out in a very short time. From a separate source who is very reliable, I have been told that Fratton Park have requested no more Pompey Beanies for a while as they are causing them huge problems and they want to concentrate on Football Kits. The Beanies that went to the retailers were supposed to go to the Pompey Shop, which if you work out, 48 x 20 is 1080 which is what the Pompey Shop was getting each time.

-=DECEMBER 21, 2002=-
IN-HAND PICTURES OF BABE-e
Bean Watcher shares:
"Hi Lisa! Just wanted to let you two know that I have posted an in-hand photograph of Babe-e the Ty Store exclusive Beanie Kid on my news page:  http://news.beanwatcher.com/  I received permission from the seller to post his in photograph from his eBay auction on to my news site." Enjoy! Bean Watcher

Beary Merry Christmas
$15,000 for charity for card design
Now the Chicago Bears have yet another connection to Kankakee County.

Mary Dattilo-Apel, director of the Day Program at Good Shepherd Manor in Momence, is the winner of a statewide competition to design the NFL team's annual Christmas card.

The Aroma Park resident's design featured a Bears player decorating a Christmas tree and placing a football at the top instead of the traditional star. It was chosen over hundreds of other entries from Illinois.

None was more excited than Dattilo-Apel whose personal prize for winning included a box of Bears goodies: a hat, media guide, yearbook, Beanie Bear, pins and a Brian Urlacher bobble-head doll. READ FULL STORY HERE

Fire Department Sets Off 'Spark' For Holidays
From: Beanieholics
It's almost time for Santa to hop on his fire truck and ride through Redlands for the Spark of Love Toy Drive hosted by the Redlands Fire Department in association with KABC. Santa's little helpers, Fire Department employees and volunteers, are working hard to make the drive possible, which is scheduled to start at 9 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 23. Last year they were running low on donations, but this year "we have everything from Beanie Babies to bicycles," said Chief Investigator Rich Lindner, who was also volunteering his time. He estimated that they had around 1,000 gifts laid out on the tables. Someone donated 200 Beanies Babies alone, said Lindner. Click Here For Full Story

-=DECEMBER 20, 2002=-
COLLECTIBLES EXTRAVAGANZA ARRIVES
La Rue writes: " The "Collectibles Extravaganza" has arrived at Kansas Brass & Pewter and are available online for purchase. All pre-orders are being shipped today (Friday). I am very impressed with the publication. Lisa, this is an exciting magazine. " http://www.angelfire.com/ks2/kansaspewter/cb.html  Don't forget to check out all of the Chubbley Bears La Rue has in stock.

ASK TY
Q: What have you got up your sleeve for the 10th anniversary of Beanie Babies? (submitted by americanmaid)
A: This is a very special 10 year anniversary and . . . I think a year long celebration is in order!
http://www.tytrade.com/askty_home

Owl be home for Christmas
Frances Swick, 64 of Lantana, bought her first owl 30 years ago from JCPenney. She handed me hunk of flat green glass 2 inches thick that was shaped much like an owl, It weighed 7 pounds.

"I think it was the eyes that got me. I like owl eyes."

So buy an owl and you get a set of owl eyes. The logic stops there. The madness started with the first owl. One was too many and 3,700 is not enough. Swick wants in the Guinness Book of Records.

And, of course, more owls. All she can get. She also collects plush toys, Beanie Babies, snowman dolls, Christmas bric-a-brac. READ FULL STORY HERE

Hot holiday item: Bobbleheads
If you have to ask who Anna Nicole Smith is, you probably won't find her under your Christmas tree. But bobblehead dolls modeled after the busty, blond star of her own reality TV show may be an adult version of the popular Barbie as Rapunzel this year.

"They must be giving a lot of them because we have sold a lot," said Todd Bosley, co-owner of manufacturer Bosley Bobbers in Canton, Ohio.

The second President Bush, former Pirates outfielder Roberto Clemente and the Three Stooges all have proven their jaw-wiggling value in the bobblehead business, a craze that took off a couple of years ago and hasn't quit yet.

"Bobbleheads, right now, are a better investment than the stock market," said Albert Elovitz, a Pittsburgh novelty dealer with a flair for the dramatic. While Wall Street hasn't been too dependable, the dolls are profitable, he said.

Some compare the fad to the Beanie Baby madness and the Pog spree of the past. Others say baseball cards are a better comparison. Where few might want a card featuring former Pirate shortstop Kevin Polcovich, many will chase after one for Joe DiMaggio. READ FULL STORY HERE

Students learn lessons while giving to those in need
Students from Solon Springs chose the ‘divide and conquer’ method to purchase hundreds of dollars worth of toys for the Superior/Douglas County Toys for Tots program Tuesday.

Fourth-grade students were dropped off at Wal-Mart, fifth-grade students went to Kmart and the sixth-graders stopped at Target to do their holiday shopping.

“Let’s have some fun,” said sixth-grader Daniel Cosgrove, as he walked up and down the aisles.

His classmates Casi Rice, Alex Rowe and Devin Stone worked together to spend $30.60 on a brighter Christmas for others. Their expedition included forays into math and consumer education. READ FULL STORY HERE

Kids Bingo A Winner At The Y
From: Beanieholics
B-1. I-23, N-37, G-56, O-72. What does that spell? BINGO, of course. And when you win a game and get a chance to cart home a Beanie Baby as a prize, it's no wonder why the century-old game has become such a hit with the after-school crowd.
Click Here For Story

And The Nominees Are...
From: Beanieholics
The ballot is out! The nominees for the Toy Industry Association's Third Annual T.O.T.Y. (Toy Of The Year) Awards have been selected and they cover all aspects of the industry in 14 categories. Click Here For List Of Nominees

Ty Sponsors 'Amazing Kids!' Toy Design Contest
From: Beanieholics
Sal's Attic shares the following: One lucky young aspiring toy designer between the ages of 5 and 17 will be given the chance to work with a professional toy designer as their mentor as part of the winning prizes for the first annual Amazing Kids! Plush Toy Design Contest. Amazing Kids!, an educational non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring excellence in children and helping them realize their own amazing potential, announced today the launch of the Amazing Kids! Plush Toy Design Contest, which is being sponsored by Ty, creator of the wildly popular Beanie Babies and the leader in plush toys. Click Here For Link To Sal's Attic

CHRISTMAS CAROLS FOR THE PSYCHIATRICALLY CHALLENGED
Candy shares this in an email and I just had to share it with you. LOL
Schizophrenia --- Do You Hear What I Hear?

Multiple Personality Disorder --- We Three Queens Disoriented  Are

Dementia --- I Think I'll be Home for Christmas

Narcissistic --- Hark the Herald Angles Sing About Me

Manic --- Deck the Halls and Walls and House and Lawn and Streets and Stores and Office and Town and Cars and Busses and Trucks and trees and Fire Hydrants and......

Paranoid --- Santa Claus is Coming to Get me

Borderline Personality Disorder --- Thoughts of Roasting on an Open Fire

Personality Disorder --- You Better Watch Out, I'm Gonna Cry, I'm Gonna Pout, Maybe I'll tell You Why 

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ---Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells... 

PEACE JINGLE WITHOUT PEACE SIGN
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?MfcISAPICommand=ViewItem&item=3101463477

-=DECEMBER 19, 2002=-
FAST SHIPMENT OF BABE-e
SHeL shares the following:
Subject: Ty Store Shipment Confirmation 
Dear Shel, Thank you for your order from the Ty Store. This is to confirm shipment of the following order: 
Order - 9086xxx 
Ship date - 12/18/2002 
Item Detail: 
Qty     Description  
4           BABE-E  
4           CAND-e 
Ship To Address: Please note, all prices are quoted in US dollars. Your order is being shipped through the Postal Service. Thank you for ordering from the Ty Store. Regards, Ty Store

CHUBBLEY BEAR PRE-ORDERS
Gayle of Grandmas Bears is now accepting preorders of the latest batch of Chubbley Bears. She should have them in stock the first of the year. The following can be preordered: Honey (honey-colored) Chubbley, Snowbear (red scarf) Chubbley, Russel Chubbley, Bubbley Chubbley, Rollem Cub, and Sleepyhead Cub. Visit Gayle here: http://www.grandmasbears.net  Be sure to tell Gayle I sent you. ;o)

HALLMARK EXCLUSIVE ONLY FOR U.S.
Bean Watcher shares the following:
"Hi Lisa! I knew that Hallmark stores existed outside of the U.S., but was uncertain if any of them were "Hallmark Gold Crown" stores.  If any of them were, then those living outside of the U.S. could purchase the Hallmark-exclusive Beanie Baby within their own countries. So I wrote to Hallmark's Consumer Care Division.  Based on the response I received, it appears that the store-exclusive bear will be available only in retail stores within the U.S., making it a U.S. exclusive  I've posted my email and Hallmark's response on my news page at http://news.beanwatcher.com/ "

Ring bologna and a teddy bear picnic
A Christmas Eve picnic in front of a decorated tree is an essential part of the holidays for Perry Hall residents Donna and Craig Thompson, daughters Jamie-Lee and Elise and son Chad.

The menu for the indoor picnic never varies _ ring bologna and mustard, cookies and soda _ and neither do the extra guests: stuffed animals collected by Jamie-Lee, 12.

The picnic tradition was born on a Christmas Eve about eight years ago, said Donna Thompson, when her daughters were too excited to go to sleep and decided to have a snack by the tree with dad to wind down.

"I'm not excluded, but usually I'm somewhere else in the house cleaning or wrapping presents," Donna said.

The tradition survived, even after the family moved from their house in Parkville to live with Donna's mother while house-hunting for a new home in Perry Hall.

The girls now are joined by 5-year-old Chad as they sit by the tree with dad on their very traditional lace-edged baby blankets _ two pink, one blue _ kept by mom.

"It's a very low-key, relaxing event," said Craig, a Med-Evac helicopter pilot.

The ring bologna menu is a tribute to the Pennsylvania roots of Craig's parents.

The stuffed animals _ teddy bears, Beanie Babies, you name it, said Craig _ are a tribute to Jamie-Lee's love of collecting. READ FULL STORY HERE

Gifts carry kids' loving care
Lake Fenton - About 120 foster children soon will receive a piece of luggage they can call their own.

Students at Torrey Hill Middle School painted and decorated the suitcases, delivering 26 of them Tuesday to Fenton social worker Nancy Stockham.

"They're beautiful!" Stockham exclaimed as children paraded through her door with the colorful suitcases, some personalized with names. Inside each was a toothbrush, T-shirt and Beanie Baby. READ FULL STORY HERE

Beanie Babies Donated To Comfort Children
From: Beanieholics
A 1990s fad may bring some comfort and security to children today. Sally Kirkpatrick came up with the idea while looking at a box full of Beanie Babies gathering dust in her home. Kirkpatrick, a nurse who works at LaPorte Hospital, has seen little children, either as patients or family members, who go through traumatic experiences in the hospital emergency room. "I recalled the hospital giving teddy bears to the children to calm them down," she said. Kirkpatrick then decided to contact the New Carlisle Volunteer Ambulance Service to find out if they could take the Beanie Babies collection and use them on their emergency runs. Click Here For Story

Snowmen Popularity Snowballs
From: Beanieholics
Snowmen that don't thaw at 32 degrees are hot, hot, hot. Just take a spin around any neighborhood, craft show, mall or department store. Snowmen cool their heels everywhere. They're also collectible. "It's the face, because it's just so cute," says Lisa Haner, manager at Gags & Gifts Party. "That's what a lot of people look at, even in a Beanie Baby. If the face is cute, that's why they buy it." Click Here For Article

-=DECEMBER 18, 2002=-
CHUBBLEYS BACK IN STOCK
Kansas Brass & Pewter has received their replacement order on Chubbleys.
http://www.angelfire.com/ks2/kansaspewter/cb.html

CHARLENE'S GRANDBABIES LOVE TY Caden is holding CuddleCub to the left and holding Chubbley George above. Evan is giving Pluffie Grins a big squeeze. This is what it's all about folks. Look at them smiles!! :o)

SINGAPORE TY RETAILER DISPLAY PICTURES
Kendrick shares with Ms. Janie
"I passed by one of Ty retailer in Singapore today and I saw their very creative & cute display using Ty Beanie, so I took a few shots to share with everyone! I especially like the Jingle Rovers taking over the reindeer's job in the air with Jingle Santa! LOL! Snowgirl & Serenity's sing the Christmas carol, while 2002 Holiday Teddy, Jingle Mistletoe & December 2002 play the Christmas song! On the other side, the audience! LOL! Oh, by the way, did you see Herald & Halos flying in the air too? Very cute right? LOL! Hope all of you enjoy! =) Merry Christmas, Kenrick" http://www.msjanie.com/2002_photos/Kenrick_Ty-Display.html

Give safe toys this holiday season
Whether it's due to the demands of commercial-addled kids or the good intentions of exuberant gift-givers, the concept of toy safety is often lost over the holidays.

But experts say safety considerations should be at the top of any wish list.

Case in point: Last year, the hot gift of the season -- scooters -- arrived under many a Christmas tree without any accompanying safety accessories. Consequently, more than 42,000 children were treated in hospital emergency rooms for scooter-related injuries, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports. READ FULL STORY HERE

Boyds Donates $1.8 Million In Bears
From: Beanieholics
From Boyds Bears: On December 4, 2002, Liz Smith, VP of Stuff was on TV and no, for once we're not talking about QVC! She appeared with Katie Couric and Matt Lauer on the Today Show. That's because Boyds donated 1.8 million dollars worth of bears to the Today Show Holiday Gift Drive. (And, you thought we were just trying to get some free airtime…well that too!!) Some of our beary best friends are already on there way to help brighten the holidays for hundreds of thousands of children. Click Here To Visit The Boyds Website

-=DECEMBER 17, 2002=-
HAVE YOURSELF A CHUBBLEY LITTLE CHRISTMAS PAN CONTEST
La Rue and I are running another one of La Rue's famous PAN contests this evening (TUESDAY) at 8:00pm EST and 7:00pm CST. You won't want to miss out on these prizes. Check the PAN contest pages for details and to see what you can win.
La Rue's 1-300: http://www.angelfire.com/ks2/kansaspewter/1decpan.html 
Lisa's 301-600: http://www.planetbeans.com/PANDecember.htm

CHRISTMAS: A gift of patriotism
Patriotic gifts are among the hottest sellers this Christmas season, according to Fox News.

The White House, U.S. Mint and both houses of Congress have gift shops, and all are reporting very brisk business. Perhaps the two most popular items are White House ornaments and glassware with the presidential seal. Red-white-and-blue beanie bears have been a popular item. Quite a few people also are buying an Air Force One play set -- "complete with the plane, motorcade vehicles and other pieces," Fox says. READ FULL STORY HERE

BBOC Offer Extended
From: Beanieholics
Today was to be the last day to order the current items available from the Beanie Babies Official Club. The BBOC web site now states:

"The current Exclusive Offer is valid only from September 16th through December 31st, 2002, or while supplies last, whichever occurs first."

This info is found under the BBOC Exclusive Terms And Conditions page located through the link below. Click Here For More

-=DECEMBER 16, 2002=-
M.C. BEANIE II HANG TAG & PICTURES
Bean Watcher shares the following:
Just wanted to tell you that I was finally able to get a photograph of the INSIDE of the hang tag of the anniversary MC Beanie II bear.  The correct name of the bear is "MC II Anniversary Edition," as shown by the hang tag. http://news.beanwatcher.com

THE SPIRIT OF CHILDREN THE SADNESS OF LIFE
Becky shares the following:
" My other daughter will be 27 next week... I used to give her all my Susan B  Anthonys, and she saved them up until Christmas when she was about 6 or 7 yrs old... She had about $20 worth, and wanted to get me a present, and do it all  by herself... I let her shop alone, and she came back with a little bag... The store was closing, so as we were walking out to the car, I asked her how much money she had left... She said, "None"... I said, "You spent all of it?!? How much did it cost???" She said, "I wanted to get you a robe, but didn't have enough money"... I asked how much the robe cost, and she said an amount (I forget now) that she did have... I got suspicious, and asked to see the receipt... It was a total of about $5.00... That clerk took full advantage of her, and counted those Susan B Anthonys as quarters!!! I was livid, but the store was closed, and I knew she had probably kept them and taken them home with her, anyway... I never carried Susan B Anthonys to spend again... :'-( "

Beanies donated for kids at shelter
Children who flee abusive homes this holiday season in the Grand Valley will have a soft and cuddly animal to comfort them, thanks to some caring spirits in the area.

Debbie Pease and Rhonda Mumby of the Beta Sigma Phi sorority presented 200 Beanie Babies to Hilltop Community Services Vice President of Development Janell Bauer on Wednesday.

The soft creatures include Propeller the fish, Lefty 2000 the red, white and blue donkey, Topaz the bear, Niles the camel and Goattee the goat.

The Beanie Babies will comfort children of abused adults who seek refuge at a shelter provided by Hilltop's Latimer House.

Eighty of the Beanie Babies will be given to low-income children at a Hilltop Christmas party this week, said Bauer. The balance will be used at the Latimer House shelter. READ FULL STORY HERE

Hot toys hard to find on shelves
Stores stock less to avoid leftovers
NEW YORK -- Parents who haven't found FurReal Friends or Bratz accessories for their children this holiday season might have to rethink their shopping lists.

These toys, as well as several other popular items, including Chicken Dance Elmo, Kasey the Kinderbot, Yu-Gi-Oh! trading cards and Beyblades, a line of spinning tops, already are hard to find, retailers say.

Parents are having a difficult time locating the toys because stores were conservative in their holiday merchandise orders, hoping to avoid piles of leftovers Dec. 26. Aggressive discounting during the Thanksgiving weekend also helped deplete inventories. READ FULL STORY HERE

MY SINCEREST APOLOGIES
This morning was more hectic than most. Today is my son's 10th birthday so this morning he wanted to open a present or two before going to school. I also was gathering the snacks and drinks for him to share with his class to help celebrate his birthday. In the middle of doing all of this I tried to update the news. While on my news rounds this morning I saw a message on Bean eWonderland about the Underground Bean farewell message. I linked to this information without reading it. I want to send my sincerest apologies to Ms. Janie and the other people this slanderous article was geared towards. Mainly Ms. Janie. I DON'T share Yavett's views and most that know me know that I have the deepest respect for Ms. Janie. I have removed the information and link to this article and in the future, will read thoroughly before sharing. 

BBOC Deadline
From: Doodle's Page
Will 'Color Me Beanie' retire today? ... along with the BBOC Clubby 5 Anniversary set and pins? Or will the date be extended? As we reminded you a couple of days ago, Ty's site states 'The offer is valid from September 16, 2002 to December 16, 2002, or while supplies last'. Maybe we'll even see the 'BBOC is Back' removed from Ty's main page soon. Click here to visit the BBOC

INTRODUCING BABE-e 
http://www.ty.com/Babe-e-intro 

-=DECEMBER 15, 2002=-
Making a bad day brighter
MIDDLEFIELD -- Jessica Robinson knows that little things matter.
These include pennies, a toothbrush, a stuffed animal -- little things that can make a bad day a little bit brighter.

For the last four years, 13-year-old Jessica has organized the one-girl "Pennies for a Purpose" campaign to raise money to make bags filled with toys, toiletries, crayons and paper for children going into the care of the state Department of Children and Families.

"I call them emergency bags," Jessica said. "When kids are taken from their house by DCF, they can’t go back to their house to get things. With these bags, at least they’ll have something to call their own."

Every year Robinson creates about 80 bags, 40 for girls, 40 for boys and a few for babies.

To create the bags, Jessica has acquired donations from companies such as Lego Inc., which sends boxes of Lego playsets, and Kimberly-Clarke, which contributes packages of Kleenex.

During the summer, Jessica puts "Pennies for a Purpose" cans in stores in Durham, Middlefield and Middletown to raise the money for buying hair brushes, combs, stuffed animals and dental floss.

"I put a Beanie Baby in each bag so the children will have something to hold onto," she said. "It’s funny going into the stores and seeing the cashier’s faces when you’re buying all these single Chapsticks." READ FULL STORY HERE

Beanie Babies heist has trappings of foul play
Spinning around the news dial ...click.

The FBI is notoriously tight-lipped in such matters, but my sources indicate that the case of Delores Barr Weaver's missing Beanie Babies is more than a simple theft.

The Beanie Babies, taken from the Weavers' luxury suite at Alltel Stadium last month, were kidnapped and there is a ransom letter.

The letter, according to my sources, contains this message, spelled out in letters clipped from Times-Union sports stories about the Jaguars' eight losses this season: "You get the Beanie Babes [sic] back when Tom Coughlin is fired."

The FBI suspects there may be more than one person involved.

Click.

OK, pig lovers, now look at what you've done. READ FULL STORY HERE

Laughing till it hurts with Bengals fans
CINCINNATI -- So you're fed up with the Jaguars? You're tired of Decembers full of meaningless games? You want to see the coach fired, the quarterback traded and the owners' Beanie babies held for ransom?

Win eight games or Buzzie the Bee gets it.

The football fans in Cincinnati feel your pain.

No, wait, they laugh at your pain. READ FULL STORY HERE

On eBay, No One Can Hear You Scream (Over High Price of Hot Toys)
Td49244, known to some of his hundreds of satisfied customers as Santa Tony, has three dozen jovial Chicken Dance Elmos staring him down in his Staten Island basement, but he is hardly unnerved.

He takes the long view and will not sell short, at least through Dec. 25. Toys-as-commodities are a big game for him, as he watches the fickle fluctuations of the market for fun.

"Two weeks ago, FurReals were $70 each, and now they're $40 or $45," said Td49244, a Staten Island utility worker who buys popular toys at regular prices in stores and then sells them to the highest bidder on eBay, the Internet auction site where hard-to-find items are not so hard to find. "The people that want it are going to get it as early as possible."

Who knew that buying something as soft and purring as a FurReal Friend, a robotic cat, could require the hard-core economic calculus used in the world of pork belly futures?

Td49244 (who spoke on the condition that he be identified by his eBay screen name or as Tony D., instead of by his full name, so store managers will not recognize him) is one of those e-elves who give desperate shoppers a chance to buy the toys that are ranked first on many children's wish lists, but are not on store shelves. He is Santa's newest reindeer, perhaps. Call him Scalper. Or Super Seller, as he was called by someone who recently bought a FurReal Friend and a Chicken Dance Elmo from him for $71 plus $15 shipping and handling. (In stores, the two would cost a total of $55..)

Those who handicap hot toys each holiday season are intrigued by the snapshot of the market provided on eBay, where seller and buyer come together.

"I think it's a real testament to the power of the free market economy," said Chris Byrne (he spells it "B as in boy, Y as in yippee"), an independent toy consultant, researcher and analyst. "I use eBay as kind of the Nasdaq for toys, to really see what people are believing is going to be hot." READ FULL STORY HERE

CLARIFICATION ON THE M.C. BEANIE PROGRAM
Bean Watcher shares the following:
Your Friends at Ty have posted clarification on the MC Beanie program.  Check it out!  Bean Watcher

ONE MORE QUESTION ON THE SPECIAL MC BEANIE??
fiftiesnut1942   (Dec 14, 2002, 02:26 PM)
Message Id: 236683
fiftiesnut1942 writes:
My One Year Anniversary Date for $pending $5,000 was in August, 2002. The first billing that I can find is in September, 2002. Will I get the Special Beanie (in December) based on my Anniversary Date or (in January) based on my billing date? I have already received MC I and MC II Beanies. Comments, please http://www.ty.com/tytalk_Message_Display/1,3041,1_19-236683-0-1,00.html

Ellybeans Is Back
From: Beanieholics
After being down for a few weeks, Ellybeans is back up and running. Formerly located at www.infobeanie.co.uk, the site can now be found under a different domain name: ellybeans.com. Click Here For Link To Ellybeans

-=DECEMBER 14, 2002=-
Ask Ty
Q: Have you ever had a Beanie retire sooner than you expected and that Beanie became more rare and popular than you would have ever expected? If so, what is the Beanie? (submitted by Happy21)
A: I've learned to "Expect the Unexpected" when it comes to anything having to do with Beanies. I was surprised to see how quickly the June Birthday Beanie retired and . . . I have a feeling I will be surprised again real soon! http://www.tytrade.com/askty_home

Toys, warm clothes and checks continue to pour in
The North Pole just reported that Santa and his elves are hard at work getting all the toys ready for the eventful evening of Dec. 24.

They asked the elves at the Santa Claus Fund to keep packing for the many needy boys and girls in the area, and to let them know that everything is being done to deliver what they would like to have. Maybe Santa will have to make substitutions, but the elves do everything they can to ensure that all children will be pleased with what they find on Christmas morning.

Requests are still being received at the Santa Claus Fund post office box. Parents should drop what they're doing and write letters today, as tomorrow is the deadline. Mail to: Santa Claus Fund, P.O. Box 278, Brunswick, Maine 04011. Each letter must include parent's name and address, children's names and ages, and a telephone number where a parent may be reached if more information is needed.

New gifts and toys may be left at either the Bath or the Brunswick Elks lodges, Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Be sure to ask for a receipt in order for the Santa Claus report to give you recognition for your donation.

While the elves were hard at work packing, Sharon Mason from Village Candle Fund-raising brought in to the warehouse l00 Jungle Friend banks (lovely ceramic hand-painted elephants) with a dollar in each for 50 boys and 50 girls. They will surely delight the hearts of l00 children. She also donated five gifts to be given for some area moms. Village Candle Fund-raising would like to help area families who are less fortunate this year, and to wish everyone "Happy Holidays."

What's Up, Brunswick, donated six Beanie Babies, valued at $24; Richard's Restaurant, Brunswick, $25; Day's News, Brunswick, $30; Keith Field, Classical Goldsmith, Brunswick, $10; Bombay Mahal, Inc., Brunswick, $10; Topsham Rental Center, Topsham, $25; Stetson's Funeral Home, Brunswick, $200; Broadway Delicatessen, Brunswick, $25; Gulf of Maine Books, Brunswick, $25; J&A Seafood, Brunswick, $25. READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

-=DECEMBER 13, 2002=-
Delores Weaver angry over theft of 3 Beanie Babies at Alltel
Whoever took Delores Barr Weaver's Beanie Babies from Alltel Stadium last month should consider themselves warned.

Weaver is angry, and she isn't giving up.

Saying ''my heart is broken,'' the wife of Jaguars owner Wayne Weaver is demanding the return of three of the collectible stuffed toys that were stolen last month from her open-air luxury suite.

Weaver said yesterday she had taken the same four Jaguars-themed Beanie Babies to every game since the franchise began in 1995, until three of them were taken moments after a Nov. 10 home victory over Washington. READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

Faux cat phenomenon is FurReal
From: Beanieholics 
Animatronic critters leap off store shelves and onto eBay; some bring up to $80. In theory, toy cats ought to be cheaper than live ones. 

Not necessarily so if you've set your sights on tucking a FurReal Friends under the Christmas tree. The animatronic plush cat, this year's must-have toy, has sparked a buying frenzy.

The eerily realistic, battery-operated cat purrs or arches its back when petted a certain way, and hisses when its tail is pulled. The toy comes in black and white, solid white, solid gray and an orangeish color manufacturer Hasbro Inc. calls marmalade.

The cats retail for $34.99. Companion kittens are $19.99. But you won't pay that any time soon unless you're really lucky or well-connected. READ FULL STORY HERE

HOT TOYS
Here is a list of some of the toys we went crazy for in recent years: 
http://www.indystar.com/print/articles/6/007873-2116-047.html

• 1993: Beanie Babies
• 1995: Sony PlayStation, Pokemon, Tickle Me Elmo
• 1997: Tamagotchi
• 1998: Furby, Teletubbies
• 1999: Sega Dreamcast Game Console
• 2000: Razor scooters
• 2001: Sony PlayStation 2

TY PRODUCTS TO BE GONE AND MORE ITEMS TO BE RELEASED
From: Ms. Janie 
I have received the following e-mail. I can NOT verify its content but found it interesting just the same. If this information were correct it would mean a down sizing in Ty products. It would appear that Ty would be focusing in on their most popular lines. I will admit that the products sound exciting and I personally can not wait to view them. Although many will be disappointed with the deletion of some lines, 2003 does look to be a promising year for Ty. Companies across the country have had to make strong decisions to focus in on product lines that hold popularity and sell well. Ty is no exception! Hold on to those Attic Treasures as they may now be more popular and valuable than ever expected! Ms. Janie If any of you have additional information and photos to share, please drop me a line at ms.janie@comcast.net Below is the information received! http://www.msjanie.com/2002_photos/expected_changes_in_Ty.html Please remember that this information has not been verified but did come from a reliable source.

-=DECEMBER 12, 2002=-
Oh, Christmas Tree
Broadbent's sponsored "A Christmas Tree for Charity" program is done in an Americana theme this year.

Broadbents will give away five prize packages to the winners on Dec. 21. http://www.newutah.com/article.php?sid=4134&mode=thread&order=0

Teachers, students sell bears for March of Dimes
Two Sidney educators have taken the initiative to involve their students in a new and exciting March of Dimes fund-raising event.

After recently attending a March of Dimes convention in Billings, Lynn Obermeyer and Janine Danielson, Central Intermediate School, returned with a fuzzy fund-raising idea. 

"We wanted to start the fund raising earlier this year," Danielson said. Now available through Central Intermediate School students are a variety of plush celebratory beanie bears. The cuddly collectible bears are featured in elaborate costumes harmonious to each holiday and changing season.

The bears are ornamented with tags that read, "I was born a healthy baby for holidays 2002" as well as the name of the bear. Each breed of bear has a distinctive name. Additional bears will become available with the changing of the seasons and future holidays. A Valentine's Day bear is scheduled to arrive in February. READ FULL STORY HERE

Park District warms to corporate sponsorship idea
Though United Center and Tropicana Field already are taken, an Oak Brook Park District baseball field may have a similar name.

The Oak Brook Park District Board said it would allow corporations to sponsor facilities like baseball fields in exchange for the company providing improvements to the facility.

Commissioner Tom Truedson bounced the idea off the board Dec. 9 to see if it would agree to with the concept. He said a good example of what the Park District may be looking for is similar to Ty Warner Park in Westmont. The company donated money for the creation the park, which the Westmont Park District runs. READ FULL STORY HERE

CONNIE'S CHRISTMASSY CHRISTMAS TREE Do you recognize some of those tree ornaments? ;o) I love Connie's idea of using Teenie Beanies in her tree as well as the Jingle Beanies. << click on the graphic to the left for a larger picture. >> << Do you have any holiday pictures you'd like to share which involves your children, pets, and/or Beanies and/ or Chubbley Bears? If you'd like to share something please email me at Lisa@planetbeans.com >>

STYLE NUMBERS PAGE COMPLETED
Thanks to Ed G I've been able to update the Style Numbers completely. I have added Jingle Beanies, Basket Beanies, and Teenie Boppers to the Style Numbers page. http://www.planetbeans.com/StyleNumbers.htm

Fake eBay site shuts down
Char shares the following story and link:
Scam artists trying to steal credit card information from eBay customers apparently set up a fake Web site that mimicked the online auctioneer, an Internet watchdog said Wednesday.

The scam involved e-mails that asked recipients to log on to a Florida-based Web site, ebayupdates.com, and re-enter financial data for eBay, said Dean White, the Asia-Pacific coordinator of the U.S. group SANS Institute Internet Storm Center.

Identity theft is not a new issue for eBay. Criminals are constantly trying new ways to steal people's personal information and defraud them.

"Once you've got the credit card information, you can use it for everything,'' White said.

The fake site sported the eBay logo and colors but did not appear to have any connection with California-based eBay, White said.

Representatives of eBay were not immediately available for comment, but the company has a general warning on its Web site, urging caution over e-mails seeking passwords or credit card numbers. READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

-=DECEMBER 11, 2002=-
PROBLEMS PRINTING CHECKLIST?
If you are having problems getting the 3rd column to print Terry has figured out a solution. Terry writes: " I went to Internet Explorer, "View" and changed my Text Size to "Medium" and it printed great.  It was on "Largest." " http://www.planetbeans.com/beaniechecklist.htm

M.C. BEANIE 2 ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL EDITION?
Bean Watcher shares the following:
"Hi There! There's a post on the Collecting Nation news board that states that someone from Illinois received a brand new MC Beanie 2 (presumably the $5,000 anniversary special)!  To read more about it, click on the link below. Enjoy! Bean Watcher
 http://www.collectingnation.com/news/bn/20021210.shtml/bn#1039555522.20713

New Anniversary MC II
by beanien
Hello from Illinois. 
 
When I checked my mail today I had a package from TY. When I opened the box the beanie wasn't orange, but yellow!! It has the MC logo on the nose. On the chest it has a yellow button that has a red ring around the outside that reads 'Anniversary Edition'. In the center of the circle it has a white number one. The front of the hang tag has '10 years' (in silver) inside of a white star. It then reads 'beanie babies' and below that it says 'ty'. 
 
When you open the tag it says" 
 
MC II Anniversary Edition 
 
Date of Birth August 19,2002 
 
For having hit the mark and more 
There's one more beanie than before 
Our way of showing we're sincere 
And thanks for your support this year! 

Excited in Illinois!! 
Beanien 

PICTURE OF M.C. II
http://www.msjanie.com/2002_photos/Joe_MCII.html

HALLMARK GOLD CROWN EXCLUSIVE BEANIE BABY
Bean Watcher shares the following from Smart Collecting
Exciting News from Reader...
"Hi. I am a Hallmark store owner and just got a mailing from Hallmark announcing a new Hallmark Gold Crown store exclusive Beanie Baby available only to Gold Crown Card members starting March 21, 2003. She is the regular sitting bear style in a tye-dyed lavender color with a Hallmark gold crown on his chest. You must be a Hallmark Gold Crown member to purchase OR sign up for a Hallmark Gold Crown Card before purchasing. Limit is 4 per customer. As far as I can see there is no
limit on how many a store can order. More info. as more is available. Thanks for all you work!" Anonymous, IL United States of America

STYLE NUMBERS PAGE REVIVED
Thanks to Ed G I've been able to update the Style Numbers. I still need to add the Jingle Beanies and Basket Beanies then it'll be complete. Thank you so much for  your help Ed. :o)

Rapunzel Barbie predicted to be the bestseller this Christmas
If you admit that you don't know what a Groovy Girl is, Michael DeLalla will look at you like you have three heads.

The 12-inch tall plush dolls are the hottest selling item at Learning Express, a specialty toy store in Norwood which DeLalla owns. The dolls have names like Sidra and Solana and can be outfitted with clothes, accessories and automobiles.

"We can't even keep most of the accessories on the shelves," DeLalla said.

The dolls are the result of an emerging trend in toys, he added.

"A lot of manufacturers are following the model that Ty created with Beanie Babies," he said. "The dolls have names. It's a pattern." READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

NEWS FROM La RUE OF KANSAS BRASS & PEWTER
Stately Bears is pleased to announce the release and arrival soon of its final thirteen bears in its series of 50 State Bears: Denali the Alaska Bear™, Saguaro the Arizona Bear™, Spruce the Colorado Bear™, Aloha the Hawaii Bear™, Bluebird the Idaho Bear™, Treasure the Montana Bear™, Kernel the Nebraska Bear™, Chile the New Mexico Bear™, Sunflower the North Dakota Bear™, Wally the South Dakota Bear™, Bee the Utah Bear™, Rainier the Washington Bear™ and Meadowlark the Wyoming Bear™. http://www.angelfire.com/ks2/kansaspewter/sb.html

Chubbley Bears 1st generation tag protectors are now available 10/$1. Also the "Collectibles Extravaganza" will be arriving.

Full line of retired Chubbley are still $8. Beginning January 1, 2003 they will be increasing to $10. 
http://www.angelfire.com/ks2/kansaspewter/cb.html

The 2002 pewter Christmas Ornament, 3rd in the series, now available at Kansas Brass & Pewter.
http://www.angelfire.com/ks2/kansaspewter/kbp.html

DONATION ARRIVES
A donation from Bridget W arrives. I've updated the totals below. I believe that may be the end of the donation packages. I have a few more people I've been waiting to hear from that stated they would mail but may have forgotten. I'd like to take this time to thank each of you for opening your hearts and making this donation possible. Know that your donations will be making many kids smile and feel loved during the holidays. All of these great items have come from 13  people (Charlene G x2, Winnie C, Adrienne M, Suzi W, Beverly R x2, Candy S, Vicki L, Mary C, Barbara R, Angela W, Rose W, Charlene B, and Bridget W).

-=DECEMBER 10, 2002=-
COMPLETE BEANIE CHECKLIST
I have put ALL of the Beanies on 3 different pages. I hope this will solve the printing problem. I didn't realize there was a problem until several readers told me they had problems getting the full list to print. Thank you to Babs, Marc, and Terry for letting me know about this problem. :o) http://www.planetbeans.com/beaniechecklist.htm

<< Do you use 640x480 resolution for your desktop? If so.. please try and print the checklist as it is now and see if it cuts off the 3rd column for you. I've heard back from one person that can't get the 3rd column to print. I want the Planet Beans checklists to be the most complete you can find and I want them to be printer friendly of course. ;o) >>

Game's popularity is in the cards
For kids, Yu-Gi-Oh trumps Pokemon
NEEDHAM - In a family room crammed with video-game cartridges, Beanie Babies, Pokemon cards, toy action figures, and other artifacts of modern American childhood, 8-year-old Benjamin McDermott prizes one possession above all others. It's a blue loose-leaf notebook containing more than 400 colorfully illustrated trading cards, each carefully tucked inside its own plastic sleeve.

The cards, part of a multimedia franchise known as Yu-Gi-Oh (pronounced yoo-ghee-oh), depict mythological creatures with names like Roaring Ocean Snake and Malevolent Nuzzler. Although collected and traded like baseball cards, Yu-Gi-Oh (Japanese for ''King of Games'') cards are principally used in an elaborately structured game that combines aspects of gin rummy or canasta with fantasy games such as Dungeons & Dragons and Magic: The Gathering. Versions of the Yu-Gi-Oh game have also been adapted for play on Game Boy Advance and PlayStation. In addition there are comic books, action figures, and an animated TV series based on the ever-expanding cast of characters. READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

-=DECEMBER 9, 2002=-
CELEBRITY-SIGNED CHUBBLEY AUCTIONS END TODAY ~ MORE TO START
Sue writes: The first batch of Cherish a Celebrity Chubbley auctions are drawing to an exciting conclusion, with less than 24 hours left to bid. They are set to raise an amazing total for Cancer Research UK, which I will be sure to let you know once they have finished at 20.00 GMT on Monday 9th December.

As these auctions close, another batch will start! These include Cubs and photos signed by many members of the cast of EastEnders, also regular-size bears signed by the lovely Samantha Bond (aka Miss Moneypenny), the gorgeous Sean Bean and the equally gorgeous Ulrika Jonsson!

I would appreciate you mentioning these new auctions on your news site. They can now be accessed from the 'Hot Charity Auctions' link on the homepage of www.ebay.co.uk

Best wishes and thanks for all you do,
Sue Owen  http://www.geocities.com/sue_owenuk/ 

PLAY BALL, CHRISTMAS BALL THAT IS Arlene shares a picture of her babies, Rascal and Calose, playing with the balls on her Christmas tree.  << Do you have any holiday pictures you'd like to share which involves your children, pets, and/or Beanies and/ or Chubbley Bears? If you'd like to share something please email me at Lisa@planetbeans.com >>

CHECKLIST COMMENTS & HELP WANTED
Babs writes: "Hello there, 
Recently I was searching for the best Beanie Checklist  to complete 
my MAJOR task of inventorying all my Beanies.  I must let you know......
you have the BEST checklist I have ever come across!!!   Honestly, I spent hours searching, from site to site.  To my disappointment, upon printing the list out, it only printed (2) columns...ending with Prince the frog.  All four pages printed... but no matter how I tried to configure my printing, it would only print up to Prince.   Please HELP!!  Any advice you could give me, would be greatly appreciated.  I would recommend your site to Everyone!!!  It is truly the Greastest, most Informative site on Beanies I have found!  Keep up the GREAT WORK!
Hope you can help me..."
Sincerely, Babs

<< Has anyone else had this problem? I'd like to help Babs but I'm unsure what to suggest. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Please email me at Lisa@planetbeans.com >>

Win Pompey
From: Bean eWonderland
From the email Tom writes: I contacted you a while ago regarding my new collection of AOL CDs. I used to collect Ty Beanie Babies but decided I needed a new challenge and so began to collect the free AOL CDs that you get through the post.

Anyway, I am writing as I have just began a new contest which may interest your visitors, it is the chance to win a MWMT Pompey Beanie Baby. Please visit my site www.aolcds.co.uk for more info.

-=DECEMBER 8, 2002=-
Hallmark Gold Crown Store exclusive. 
To view a photo and more details please visit the following link:
http://www.msjanie.com/2002_photos/Michael_Hallmark.html

Pompey Today
From: Bean eWonderland
Jim writes: Today is the third day that they have had Pompey for sale in the Shop. They are now only selling in one of the 2 shops as people were going into both to buy Pompey Bears and getting more than 1 per customer.

Complete Collector's Pin Set
From: Beanieholics
Currently on eBay there is an auction for a complete set of the Beanie Babies Official Club Collector's Pins. The auction shows all nine 'mystery' pins as well as the two versions of Patriot. You have to wonder how many sets of pins were bought before the set was complete. Click Here To View Auction

CHRISTMAS TREE KITTY Pearl has found a new favorite place to sleep. Now her spot is being overrun with presents so she'll have to move to the other side of the tree skirt. LOL << Do you have any holiday pictures you'd like to share which involves your children, pets, and/or Beanies and/or Chubbley Bears? If you'd like to share something please email me at Lisa@planetbeans.com >>

CAND-e SIGNED BY TY
Bean Watcher writes:
"Hi Lisa!   Check out this Ty Talk post.  Seems like there will be more excitement in the days ahead!" Bean Watcher http://www.ty.com/tytalk_Message_Display/1,3041,1_19-228741-0-1,00.html

CAND-e ARRIVED and it is SIGNED!!!!
cspbeanies   (Dec 07, 2002, 02:23 PM)
Message Id: 228741
cspbeanies writes: I received my four CAND-e Bears....they are beauties! ...but the real prize....a Ty SIGNED HANG TANG!!!

Anyone else receive their CAND-e Bears!

GREAT GIFT IDEA
My friend Arlene wanted to share some items that her Mom makes. I think these are a great gift idea so I thought I'd share with you. Ann makes wind chimes, angel towels, and ornaments. http://www.planetbeans.com/AngelTowels.htm Everyone Ann has sold to has commented on how beautiful the towels are. There is still time to order for Christmas. Ann says to order by December 15th and if you are shipping to Canada order by December 12th. If you are shipping to another country please contact Ann via the email link on the webpage.

-=DECEMBER 7, 2002=-
ASK TY
Q: Do you ever use ideas posted on Bright Ideas? (submitted by MELIQ)
A: I must say . . you all come up with some great ideas ! Keep a close eye in January and let me know what you think.
http://www.tytrade.com/askty_home

CAND-e PHOTO
Bean Watcher shares:
"Hi Lisa! I wanted to tell you that there is an actual photograph of an in hand Cand-e Beanie Baby bear on my Bean Watcher news site.    I obtained permission from the seller to use her photograph on my news site." http://news.beanwatcher.com/

Dusty themes to have exactly the right idea
Manager Dusty Baker is making as big an impact on the Cubs' marketing department as he is on the roster.

A day after his introductory news conference two weeks ago, marketing vice president John McDonough had T-shirts printed with a comment Baker made about the team's 94 years without a pennant, ''Why not us?'' The phrase also will be part of new advertising the Cubs will run this winter in newspapers and pre-movie ads in the first month of a new six-month advertising contract.

And in a new twist on one of the team's most successful giveaway programs, the Ty Company has agreed to create a first-ever team Beanie Baby toy bearing the Cubs logo and to be named ''Dusty.'' The toy will be given away to children at the May 4 game.

''Dusty's comment when asked if it would be OK was, 'I must have arrived,''' McDonough said. READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

ONE CLICK TO HELP TOYS FOR TOTS
Thanks to Sharon for sharing the following in the Planet Beans Yahoo! Group
http://www.excedrin.com/# for each click at this site, the makers of Excedrin will donate $$ to Toys for Tots.
Dec 2 - Dec 31 limit of 1 click per day per user.

-=DECEMBER 6, 2002=-
Note from Ms. Janie
Just a quick note to let you know that Deb from Doodlespage lives in the Carolinas and has been hampered by an ice storm. She has no power and is unable to update her site. Please keep her and her family in your prayers during these difficult times.

Ty Retailer Site info 
From: Ms. Janie
Items currently not available for ordering in December! 
Brigitte, Cheery, Magic and Frisbee 
Cuddlepup, O'Malley, Slush, Baby Li-Li, Jake, MacDougal and Kitty 
Bonsai, Herald and Herder 
Elephanthugs 
Christmas Carol

Pompey Charity Auctions
From: Bean eWonderland
Jim our regular supplier of Pompey Beanie news has managed to obtain three more Pompey bears. He has decided to sell them on eBay for the Portsmouth Association for the Blind. Registered #203830. Charity Bear One. Charity Bear Two.. Charity Bear Three. All starting at £4.99 with NO Reserve.

STOCKING STUFFERS (many more auctions added)
Looking for some great Christmas gifts or Stocking Stuffers??? Desi has great items up on eBay for great prices. Feel free to check them out. http://members.ebay.com/aboutme/lovabledes/

-=DECEMBER 5, 2002=-
Beanie Baby Baker
From: Ms. Janie
Baker will make toy history next year when he will have a Beanie Baby made (with a Cubs logo on it) in his honor. In the past, Beanie Babies have been named for Cubs players, including Sammy Sosa and Mark Grace, but none had the team logo. "When Dusty heard about that, he said, 'I must have really arrived,' " Cubs vice president of marketing and broadcasting John McDonough said. http://www.dailysouthtown.com/southtown/dssports/pro/041sd3.htm

TURK-e "In Retirement"
From: Doodle's Page
Ty have moved the Ty Store Exclusive Beanie 'TURK-e' to the retirement section of Ty's Beanie Baby list. ('TURK-e' was removed from Ty Store on November 29th when the new Christmas Beanie 'CAND-e' was introduced.) Perhaps the January Beanie of the Month 'Sparkles' will move to the retirement list shortly as well, as it is no longer available for ordering.

PICTURES OF THE NEW RELEASES
http://www.msjanie.com/2002_photos/Marilyn_5december_beanies.html

CAND-e IS SHIPPING
Lisa hi i just wanted to let you know that cand-e is shipping i got my confirmation email

Dear Sandy,

Thank you for your order from the Ty Store.

This is to confirm shipment of the following order:

Order - xxxxxxx
Ship date - 12/4/2002

Item Detail:
Qty Description
4 CAND-e


Ship To Address:
xxxxxxxx

xxxxxxxx PA xxxxx

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

CHUBBLEY'S FOR CHRISTMAS
Gayle writes: "The Chubbley Bears are going to start getting some recognition in the North American countries.  With the new Collectible Extravaganza Magazine (out now) we are told that at least 25% will be used for Chubbley news and reports.

The perfect Christmas gift or stocking stuffer is a Chubbley bear to the collector or non collector.  These cute little bears with the belly buttons and cubby cheeks are just want Santa ordered. 

Go to WWW.GrandmasBears.Net and order yours today.  Mention you saw it here and get 20 % off your total order.

I had a presell of the new Chubbleys and was having a drawing for a red nosed Joker to be purchased at retail...the winner is RIDizzy@webtv.net. Carol please contact me and let me know if you need this HTF bear to add to your collection."

thanks
gayle of GRANDMASBEARS

Charities see increased demand for holiday help
There’s still time to help families in need
Jill Ristow, a volunteer at the Waukesha County Christmas Clearing Council, sorts through a bag of donated Beanie Babies on Tuesday afternoon in a storage room in the county human services building. After they are done collecting toys, the CCC will set up tables in a school gymnasium with all the toys and allow families to pick out about $55 worth of presents. http://www.freemanol.com/topnews04.htm 

-=DECEMBER 4, 2002=-
DID YOU ORDER FROM GRANDMA'S BEARS?
Gayle writes: "Lisa, someone sent me a forms submission on my Site but did not leave their name or email addy....they ordered Rollem Chubbley...Thought maybe you could post and see if they email me.. thanks" <<If you are the one that ordered from Gayle please email her at: GYOUNT49@aol.com

CHRISTMAS KITTY Charlene shares a picture of her mini Christmas tree which was on the dining room table along with some Beanies and her gorgeous cat, Alize`. She caught her precious kitty sleeping amongst the holiday decor. If you have a holiday picture which includes Beanies or Chubbleys.. email it to Lisa@planetbeans.com.

PHOTO OF FLAKY
http://www.msjanie.com/2002_photos/Kenrick_Flaky.html

Collectibles Extravaganza is now available for purchase. 
To view the full size cover of this detailed magazine please visit the following link 
Cover http://www.msjanie.com/2002_photos/mag_cover.html 
A & S Publishing Press Release http://www.msjanie.com/2002_photos/CE_Press_release.html 
Table Of Contents http://www.msjanie.com/2002_photos/mag_table1.html 
Feature Story http://www.msjanie.com/2002_photos/grandmas_attic.html 
Advertising http://www.msjanie.com/2002_photos/mag_advertising.html 
This magazine can be purchased at Pathmarks, Shop-Rites, and other Grocery Stores. 
Some of the websites that offer this publication are as follows 
http://www.cindysbeans.com/ 
http://www.wallos.com/ 
http://www.go2iguanas.com/ 
http://www.babieswithbeans.com/

Pops On Maury Povich
From: Beanieholics
From our email: Wanted to let you know that on the Maury show today (Tuesday), a 4-year old girl with a rare aging condition called Progeria gave Maury Povich a backpack filled, with among other things what appeared to be a Pops Beanie Baby. Also, since both the mother and girl had English accents, it's possible that the Pops could be the British variation with the Union Jack tie. However I didn't get to see the front of the bear. Progeria is a rare medical condition where the human body ages 7 or 8 times or more the normal rate, causing a 4 year old like the girl on the show to have a body similar to a 70-year old woman according to the girl's mother. Thanks and I love the site-keep up the good work. ~Katie L. from the Chicago area

-=DECEMBER 3, 2002=-
Tech toys keep going, and going...
Think of them as the gifts that let you keep on giving: Following in the footsteps of Beanie Babies, Pokemon cards and video games, more and more kid gadgets start out with the basics and offer add-ons that should see you through birthdays, holidays and tooth-fairy treats for months to come. Of course, that can be a good thing or a bad thing.

MICROPETS What do you get when you cross a Beanie Baby with a Furby? If you could reduce the result to an inch and a half in size, it’d probably come out like MicroPets, a series of pint-size plastic playthings produced by Tomy for kids aged 5 and up.
http://www.msnbc.com/news/839816.asp

TODAY SHOW RECAP
Nancy shares the following:
Theresa Lundeen, the VP of Ty, said they were donating $2.6 million dollars worth of product this year as opposed to $1 million last year.  She had an armful of Ty products.  She held up Flaky and announced that it was one of their new ones.  She also held up a Teeny Beanie Bopper, a Punkie and a Pluffie  (I did not recognize which ones those were because I do not collect them).  She was also holding a Beanie Bopper and the new Ty Store exclusive Cand-e, but she did not specifically mention those.  Katie asked her if Beanies were as popular and she said they were and the people that collect beanies keep challenging them to create new beanies.

I live in the Pacific NW and had just read your newsletter so turned on the TV as soon as I read it and it was the very next segment.  Katie and Matt were out in the street and they were collecting toys brought by people to donate. Nancy

DECEMBER CHUBBLEY WALLPAPER
Jen has done it again. Adorable Chubbley Christmas wallpaper can be found at: http://www.chubbleycorners.com/WP.htm

Koo auction nets $990,000
Last items snapped up Sunday
The bidding started with a Beanie Baby named Valentino.

Three days, four luxury cars, 975 bottles of wine, eight fur coats, one 65-inch projection TV, hundreds of crystal figurines and enough furniture for two average houses later, and Calgarians had spent nearly $1 million buying the last pieces of an extravagant lifestyle purchased with questionable money. READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

Local floral shop offerings include holiday gifts also
Poinsettias, greenery remain the mainstays
Christmas at the local flower shops is about poinsettias and greenery.

But it’s also about gourmet foods and snowmen figurines, Victorian ornaments and custom-designed bouquets. And according to area florists, the holiday season is already in full bloom.

The staff at Eveleth Floral and Greenhouse started growing 400 poinsettias in August. “It’s definitely the most popular Christmas plant,’’ said Paula Squillace, assistant manager. “The poinsettias are homegrown. We don’t import any. They’re really nice and fresh.’’ Red is the most popular, along with ivory and pink and this year a new, plum-colored variety.

The shop in Eveleth and Jim’s Flowers and Gifts in Virginia sell many cylamen plants during the holidays, along with “lots of Christmas greens in fresh cut arrangements,’’ said Squillace. “Some don’t even add flowers, just greens and pine cones and bows.’’ They offer a wide variety of greens, some local and some shipped in, including holly, spruce, cedar, white pine, princess pine, balsam and silver fir. “We like to keep it as much local as we can,’’ she said. Eveleth Floral sells fresh greenery crosses for graves and will deliver to area cemeteries.

“Christmas is very busy and lasts for a whole month,’’ she said. “People have already sent out poinsettias for Christmas even though it’s only Thanksgiving.’’ They also decorate for company parties. Besides the flowers and greens, the stores offer snowmen figurines, Beanie Babies and other Ty products. In addition, silk kissing balls are popular decorations this year, and the shop makes arrangements to meet people’s individual style, said Squillace. Her sister, Jamie Falkowski, is the company manager. READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

DO YOU DECORATE WITH BEANIES OR CHUBBLEYS?
If so.. would you like to share a picture of your decorations with my readers? Please email me at Lisa@planetbeans.com with your stories and pictures to share.

Site For Sale
From: Bean eWonderland
An announcement on the Underground Bean states that after 5 years reporting on Beanie news and information, the site is up for sale. I must admit I was privileged to this information a while back and although Yavett will be sadly missed I understand the reasons why she is selling the site.

There are a lot of people and sites reporting on Beanie news, some genuine others not. There are some that stick together in a small clan and some that avoid bad or negative news and even some that have agreements with Ty Inc. I could even mention a couple of sites that have claimed to have a policy not to report on 'rumours' or news before it is official one day and a week or two later they break that 'policy' because they have found some information for themselves.

I have never known for Yavett or the Underground Bean to be amongst any of these groups and it will be sad to see them go. I have my fingers crossed that someone might be willing to buy the site who is willing to carry on with the same policies.

-=DECEMBER 2, 2002=-
CELEBRITY-SIGNED CHUBBLEY BEARS
Hi, I have several interesting charity auctions starting at 20.00 GMT on eBay on Monday 2nd December. They are the first ever celebrity-signed Chubbley Bears to go on auction, and I hope that they will not be the last!

The auctions are to raise money for Cancer Research UK, a charity very close to my heart and that of many people. All of my fundraising campaigns with Chubbley Bears use the word 'CHERISH' in the title, which stands for:

Creating Hope Enabling Research Informing Supporting Helping

Most of the celebrities are British and therefore not well-known by collectors in other countries, but there are some who may be familiar. Here is a link to a page that has links to more information on the celebrities featured on this and future auctions:

http://www.geocities.com/sue_owenuk/Current_projects.html

There is one special item listed that will be of great interest to ALL Chubbley collectors everywhere. It is quite unique in that it is a Chubbley Cub that cannot be bought in any shop; it was produced exclusively for the UK monthly 'Bean Bag Magazine' and has been signed by the creators of Chubbley Bears, Charles Rogers and Darren Barker, and by the editor of Bean Bag Magazine, Daphne Roberts. All three people have been unstinting in their help and generosity towards my fundraising for Cancer Research UK.

Many thanks.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1920976051
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1920973608
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http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1920959628
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1920957795
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1921154236
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1921153395
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1921152149
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1920966580
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1920965625
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1920964618
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1920963590
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1920962913
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1920968865
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1920967689
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1920967004

Sue Owen  http://www.geocities.com/sue_owenuk/

Bikers come out in droves for a holiday toy run
Sure, it's all about the ride. About a good excuse to hop on your Harley and feel the wind in your face and the roar of the engines and the camaraderie of your fellow bikers.

But more than that, it's about the kids. About wanting to give a little, wanting to share hope and holiday spirit.

"As a biker you just can't go through the holidays without being a part of a toy run," said Christine Davis, a member of the Oceanside HOG (Harley Owners Group) chapter. "Every time I get on my motorcycle, I'm so happy, I'm shaking because I'm so thrilled. It's that same feeling you get as a little kid, so excited when it's Christmas."

Yesterday, more than 600 bikers joined Davis in giving away that feeling of joy by donating toys for needy children. The Hope for the Holidays Toy Run started at Harley's House of Harleys in Oceanside, where bikers dropped off their Beanie Babies and Barbies, teddy bears and art kits, and then rode to The Hideout Saloon and Steakhouse on Highway 76 in Santa Ysabel for a free barbecue.

Bikers and toy runs have become synonymous with Christmas. READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

BEANIE BABY OF THE MONTH Holmes is the 2nd BOTM to be released. http://www.tytrade.com/bom_order_page  When clicking on the above link you will see "eggs" in the basket which represent the different Beanies of the Month. You will find Holmes by clicking on the "egg" highlighted with "Want to see me? Click here"

DECEMBER WALLPAPER AT TY.COM
http://www.tytrade.com/December_Wallpaper 

From The Ty Retailer Website 
Information you should know for December ordering! Ordering will resume at 7:00 am December 2nd, 2002. All open orders will cancel at the end of November. The following items are currently not available for ordering in December: -Brigitte, Cheery and Magic -Cuddlepup -O'Malley, Slush, Scraps, Baby Li-Li, Jake and MacDougal

TOY DRIVE REMINDER
I am asking for you to reach into your hearts and help some needy child and their families by donating any kind of toy new or used, beanies, plastic toys or any other kind of toy as long as it is in good shape. We are also needing Bibles, or anything else you feel like giving that will help the needy. You can contact me at ladyknightbeat@charter.net 

TANYA LUNDEEN (Vice President of Ty, Inc.) APPEARS ON TODAY SHOW
She was talking about how Beanie Babies have been sold for 10 years now. Ty tops the 2002 Today Toy Drive Donor List. Tanya had in her hands Flaky, Cand-e, a Pluffie, a Beanie Bopper. 

THE UNIQUE drive, which provides gifts for children and teenagers across the country, who might not otherwise receive any holiday gifts , officially begins Monday, December 2 and will continue every day through Tuesday, December 24, including the Weekend Today Show. http://www.msnbc.com/news/827091.asp#BODY

-=DECEMBER 1, 2002=-
WELCOME TO DECEMBER 2002
Can you believe it's already December 1st? Just 24 days remaining till Christmas. :o)

TIME IS RUNNING OUT As the graphic to the left says.. "Only ONE DAY left to reserve your Beanies!" for the Beanie Baby of the Month. This graphic pops up when going to http://www.ty.com

CHUBBLEY CORNERS IS DOWN
They are aware of the problem and are working hard to correct the problem. I have been able to access the site on occasion and perhaps you, too, will be lucky enough to be able to get in. I just wanted to help spread the word that most aren't able to get in and hope you will try again.
http://www.chubbleycorners.com/

PLEASE VOTE
I've entered PEARL in the "Kitty of the Month Contest". Please vote for who you'd like to see win. Pearl would love your votes. ;o) http://bitsy.lisaviolet.com/contest/showpoll.php?showpoll=12