January 31, 2005
LIL' ICEBOX & ICEBOX PLUFFIES, COUNTDOWN BEANIES RETIRE
Thanks to Michael for sharing the following: "The snowman Pluffies Ice Box and Lil' Ice Box , and the Countdown beanie baby trio have silently retired and are no longer in the Tystore. however there is an empty window at the bottom of the page. Could there be a tystore exclusive on the way? I guess as always Tyme will Tell. Michael"

HUGZ FAMILY SILENTLY RETIRES
Thank you again to Michael for letting me know the HUGZ Family is now listed as retired. Michael writes: "I was updating my Tyfolio and noticed that Ty had silently retired The entire Hugz punkie family. Including the American Greetings (USA) exclusive Pink Hugz and the Carlton Cards (Canada) exclusive Pink Hugz. Michael"

CONTEST AT BEANZADDICTION
Hayley writes: "It's Beanzaddiction's third Birthday and to celebrate we're holding a little party. Complete with new design of the website and new pages, there's a new competition.

The competition requires visitors to be a bit more creative...although I know that not everyone has the time to write stories or draw pictures, so I've created a competition that will, hopefully, suit everyone. Visitors can submit their name and email address for one entry in the draw. However, if visitors want to stand a better chance of winning, they can increase their chances by earning bonus entries. By drawing, sharing opinions, stories, poems...anything...just being creative! http://www.beanzaddiction.com

Plus, I'm really excited - It's the big Spring Fair at Birmingham's NEC this weekend. I'll be reporting from the fair, and will send newsletters through my topica list throughout the day, as I can't update the website from the NEC. If collectors would like to recieve the news from Ty, Tatty Teddy, Diddl and others, there's details about my newsletter on my website. I'll have a full report online after I arrive home from Birmingham. Two years ago I met Mr Warner himself at the fair...I'm curious to know if he's planning to show this year too. lol!

BBOC KIT
http://www.ty.com/bboc_kit

FEBRUARY INTRODUCTIONS
http://www.ty.com/BB_Feb05Intro BEANIES: MARDI GRAS
http://www.ty.com/BBD_Feb05Intro BUDDIES: POOKY, GARFIELD
http://www.ty.com/PL_Feb05Intro PLUFFIES: WHIFFED (large), WINKS (large), DANGLES (large)
http://www.ty.com/BT1_Feb05Intro TY BABY: MY BABY BEAR, MY BABY BUNNY, BLESSINGS TO BABY
http://www.ty.com/TC_Feb05Intro TY CLASSICS: SQUIRT, JUMBLES, CHIPS

January 30, 2005
NEW CHERISH DEC-AID AUCTIONS
http://www.planetbeans.com/SuesCharityAuctions.htm

Let's get ready to rummage
WHITE ELEPHANT Sale volunteer Shirley Campbell holds a dainty golden bird cage on her fingertip and points to the tiny wooden swing hanging from its roof.

"This is a signed, numbered and dated piece, handmade," she says, smiling and admiring the miniature craftsmanship. "It's absolutely smashing."

Campbell has spent months lovingly researching, pricing and repairing doll house pieces for sale at today's White Elephant Preview Sale.

She is one of 700 volunteers who brave runny noses and icy fingers to put on the Bay Area's biggest and most anticipated rummage sale.

Remember the Beanie Babies craze? Well, Phelan pointed to boxes of the bean bag toys stacked atop one another.

"I remember not too long ago you could only buy two of these at a time," she said. Now selling for $2.50 each,   Phelan said she expects the toys will sell. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

January 29, 2005
TY STRIKES BACK AT PROTOTYPES; ASKING FOR HELP
Michael writes: "Ty just posted a posting on the Ty Talk Cyberboard. It's about his feelings about the prototype auctions that are on ebay. One thing is for sure....Ty is not happy about it and wants justice served. Below is a link to the post and what it says: Michael"

I need your help !
Ty Warner   (Jan 28, 2005, 05:20 PM)
Message Id: 924112
Ty Warner writes: I was shocked to see the auctions for my prototypes. I have not given anyone the authority to sell these items. I do not know how they found their way out of our office, or if they are even authentic. Please know one thing is for certain, I will find out how this happened and who is responsible. I ask you not to bid on any prototypes until I have resolved this issue. If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of my prototypes please email my office at contact@ty.com. Thank you for your help and your continued support. VIEW POSTING & REPLIES HERE

January 28, 2005
JANUARY RETIREMENT
Beanie Babies: Sugar-Pie, Honey-Bun, Chuckles, Lovey-Dovey
Beanie Buddy: Heartford http://www.ty.com/Jan05_MainRet

EYE OF THE TIMES
EYE-OPENER. What is up with Common Pleas Judge Judith Kilbane “Mrs. Doubtfire” Koch and her Beanie Babies? For years, she has kept a cluster of the collectible little critters in her chambers, proudly introducing new acquisitions to visitors, but her Beaniephilia may be getting out of hand. There are unconfirmed reports that the judge has been bringing Beanie Babies into the courtroom lately, where they perch beside her on the bench, watching the proceedings in respectful silence. Some court observers would not be surprised if she calls one to testify as an expert witness any time now. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

ASK TY
Q: You must be a great artist to make such beautiful Beanies. Do you do any other activities related to art? (submitted by horsechickie92)
A: Thank you for the wonderful compliment, although I really don't think of myself as a great artist. I truly enjoy designing, creating and working with different colors, textures and materials. I guess you could say most of my life is related to art ! http://www.ty.com/askty_home

January 27, 2005
Historic S.C. island up for sale on eBay
Morris Island was site of key Civil War battle
An important piece of U.S. history with an incredible view of Charleston harbor is for sale on eBay, right beside Beanie Babies and potato chips shaped like the Virgin Mary.

The asking price for Cummings Point, known to most locals as Morris Island and to history buffs as the site of the Battle of Battery Wagner: $12.5 million. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

Thousands of Children Affected by Tsunami Will Receive Comfort From Beanie Buddies(R)
SCOTTS VALLEY, Calif., Jan. 26 /PRNewswire/ -- Assist International announces the donation by Ty of thousands of Beanie Buddies that will be distributed to children affected by the tsunami in Southeast Asia. Experts on the ground have requested that the children devastated by this disaster have a stuffed animal that they can hold onto to help provide comfort. Ty has generously donated Beanie Buddies to fill this need.
     "We are grateful to Ty for the Beanie Buddies that they are generously donating to Southeast Asia," said Bob Pagett, President of Assist International. "These toys will be a source of comfort to the many children who have lost their parents, other family members and homes in this disaster." 
     Ty is donating the Beanie Buddies to Assist International, who will be distributing the stuffed animals in Sri Lanka. Accompanying the Beanie Buddies will be a child psychologist who is training relief workers on crisis and trauma care for the children. The Beanie Buddies will be a source of security for the children amidst the turmoil and upheaval that they are experiencing. It will also provide a source of comfort and hope and help to replace the toys they have lost in the tsunami. Assist International has already purchased water purification kits, antibiotics and other relief goods to help in this disaster. 
     "This tragedy has left a great deal of loss and devastation in its wake," said Ty Warner, Chairman and founder of Ty. "We are proud to help out in some small way to bring comfort to the children who have been affected by the tsunamis." VIEW FULL PRESS RELEASE HERE

January 26, 2005
Children's Hunger Fund and Ty Airlift One Million Toys to Iraqi Children; Photo Available
KANSAS CITY, Jan. 26 /U.S. Newswire/ -- A toy given in love to a suffering child can often mean the difference between hope and despair. With Iraq's first elections on the horizon, the children of Iraq are unsure about their future and security. Children's Hunger Fund (CHF) seeks to ease their suffering and fear by airlifting 1 million Beanie Babies(r) and plush toys donated by Ty directly to these very special children.

"Recognizing the truth that children represent the future of our world and that investing in their needs yields a positive return, we are determined to show love to the children of Iraq", said Dave Phillips, president and founder of Children's Hunger Fund. "The children of Iraq need to know that they are not alone in the world. They need to see that the world cares for them and wants them to have hope."

By teaming up with Ty, CHF is able to bring high quality toys directly to the children who need them most. "So many times, the toys donated to children in need are either low quality or present an inappropriate message. We are so grateful to have a partner like Ty, because we know their plush toys enable us to communicate the high level of care and concern we have for these children", said Phillips. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE --- VIEW PICTURE HERE

PUNXSUTAWNEY PHIL (RED TIE) SOLD OUT
Michael writes: "According to a post on the Ty Talk Cyberboard the Punxsutawney Phil PA COC 2005 Red Tie edition has sold out. That's what they told them when they tried to order a few. Below is a link to the post. Michael" http://www.ty.com/tytalk_Message_Display/1,1581,1_21-922069-0-1,00.html

No more Phils being sold!! 
not-my-turn (Jan 25, 2005, 03:53 PM) 
Message Id: 922069 
not-my-turn writes: I just got off the phone. The nice lady on the other line told me that they sold their last Phil via phone order about a half hour ago!!!!! I guess its true when they say....if you snooze, you lose! I'm so mad at myself for waiting so long to order!! Now I wonder how much I will pay for him on the secondary market!

<< my comments: It seemed to take a long while for this version to be sold out; almost 2 weeks! The 2004 version sold out within 3 days. This can mean two things.. there were many more available this time around or have collectors become less interested in ordering Phil given the hassles of trying to get through on the phone lines? >>

Americans embrace charities' bracelets
Supporting causes is becoming a wristy business across the United States.

People of all ages are sporting rubber wristbands to show their support for cancer research, AIDS awareness and other causes. And the craze, which began with charities, is spreading to the mainstream. Those rubber wristbands are now being worn to show off collegiate pride and military supports.

Erin Baca, a UTEP marketing professor, gives cyclist Lance Armstrong credit for adding fuel to the fad. The yellow Armstrong "LIVESTRONG" rubber wristband to benefit cancer research started the country's obsession with the bracelets last spring. After the success of the LIVESTRONG campaign, other charities followed suit and began creating the wristbands, including the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the Target Corp.

The saturation of the wristband market hasn't hindered the growing success of the LIVESTRONG campaign, though. An estimated 150,000 bracelets are sold every day online at the Lance Armstrong Foundation store, according to the organization's Web site.

What's all of the fuss about? Baca said that's the nature of a trend.

"It's a trendy thing that crosses a lot of demographic groups," she said. "When a trend occurs in the marketplace, people feel like they are behind the times if they don't have one. At first, it meant you supported something. Now, it's just a fashion thing."

Baca said that in the case of this fad, which is comparable to Beanie Babies and friendship bracelets, only the strong will survive.

"Fads happen quickly and fade quickly. Don't expect it to last. The only ones that will are the more meaningful like the cancer research and disaster relief ones." VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

eBay comes to town
Local businesses looking for international customers as well as people with a closet full of unwanted Beanie Babies are the target audience for a workshop being held by eBay Saturday at the Renaissance Hotel in Nashville.

The company estimates that one in six Tennessee consumers is a registered user of the massively popular Internet service, which is an online auction site for all types of products. eBay claims to have more than 125 million registered users worldwide who buy and sell items in more than 50,000 categories. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

Army docs do what they can for needy Iraqi patients
BAGHDAD — The soldiers had intentionally left the event unadvertised, a security measure made necessary by insurgents’ appetite for soft targets.

Still, by the time the gates of the girls’ school in southwest Baghdad had opened at about 9 a.m. Tuesday, dozens of neighborhood residents were lined up, most leading children by the hand, hoping for a few moments of attention from a physician at a one-day medical clinic.

Over four hours, a team of Iraqi and U.S. Army medical experts saw 338 patients, caring for everything from runny noses and coughs to paralyzing gunshot wounds — part of 1st Squadron, 7th Cavalry’s effort to balance the stepped-up pace of raids and arrests in recent days with a helping hand to Baghdad’s impoverished citizens.

“My husband has no job, no work, and I am living with my brother,” mother Sihaam Ahmed said through an interpreter. The woman brought her 10-month-old girl, Nebaa, suffering from a persistent flu. “It’s a big problem to go to a doctor. This today is good.”

Treatment for youngsters also came in the form of Beanie Baby toys.

“It all started when my mom cleaned out her closet,” said Capt. Stacy Nelson.

Her mother found eight Beanie Babies, which she though would come in handy for Nelson’s interaction with Iraqi children.

A few phone calls later and Nelson’s mother had shipped more than 20,000 of the stuffed toys to Iraq, with more now on their way to Afghanistan and the tsunami-damaged areas of Asia. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

January 25, 2005
WHERE'S THE NEWS?!
I've searched all over bright and early this morning for something worthy of sharing and have come up empty-handed unfortunately. If you have something to share please email me at Lisa@planetbeans.com with NEWS in the subject line.

January 24, 2005
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS RE: ORIGINAL 9 BEANIES
I'm sure many are you are familiar with Karen Holmes (KarenBrit on Ty Cyberboard) and her extensive knowledge about Ty products. Karen shares the following about the original 9 Beanies. "There's doesn't seem to be a week that goes by, without someone asking a question on Ty's site about one of these beanies.  I've had many questions myself about them, over the years, and it's only by asking questions, that we learn.  However, somewhere along the road, wrong information has been posted about these, and I wanted to clear things up.

I only just found out myself that Punchers wasn't a name change!  As I keep saying, the more we learn, the more we learn we need to learn! lol I hope this helps a lot of people who are interested in knowing more about these earlier beanies.  I asked all the questions either I've had, or I've seen others ask recently on Ty Talk. Love: Karen http://www.planetbeans.com/OriginalNine.htm

January 23, 2005
TY SHOWS THIS WEEKEND
Los Angeles, Chicago, and Kansas City. If you are attending any of these shows I'd love to hear your show report and share with the Planet Beans readers. Lisa@planetbeans.com 

You can view the entire show schedule along with links to the home pages of the trade shows here: http://www.planetbeans.com/2005TyShows.htm

Agency collects items for overseas troops
VAN WERT — Participants in the Challenged Higher Drop-In Center in Van Wert are keeping Christmas alive for the winter months in respect to our troops in Iraq.

Clients developed a “Patriotic Tree,” complete with flags, American memorabilia, and a pa-triotic angel, setting off a red, white and blue theme honoring our troops. In addition, the cen-ter’s officials are leading an effort to collect gifts and personal needs items to be shipped to local military members in Iraq.

“Some people forget about people oversees after the holidays and we didn’t want to do that,” said Fran Lowe, a client at the center. “That’s when we came up with the idea of this tree. We keep it lit all of the time in memory of what they’re doing for us.

“We’ll also take pre-paid phone cards, disposable cameras, mosquito coils, playing cards, beef jerky, nuts, gum, foot powder, pens, pencils, shaving gel, combs and flea powder,” Oechsle said.

Oechsle said they also “really like Beanie Babies. They like to give them to the little children when they meet them on the street. So many of those children are scared and hurting and they like to have the Beanie Babies to hold on to.” VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

Not-so-open house
Security concerns prompt realtors to keep a closer watch on visitors
NEWTON -- April Morris-Murphy stood beside a real estate agent, visibly annoyed. To tour an open house in West Newton, she was being asked not only to sign her name on a sheet, she was also being carded. And the 33-year-old Waltham resident didn't have her ID on hand.

"This is a new one," she remarked as her husband, Bernard Murphy, entered the open house -- luckily, with his wallet.

"They're afraid people are going to steal from the house?" he asked, laughing. "You're serious?"

Serious indeed. Advertisements for William Raveis Real Estate & Home Services properties now warn that all guests attending open houses should bring photo identification. The policy, launched last fall, requires wary browsers to sign their real names and addresses on agents' sheets, and puts visitors on notice that if any valuables disappear from the home, they're among the suspects.

William Raveis appears to be among the first Massachusetts agencies asking to see driver's licenses, but the National Association of Realtors says that security concerns are prompting agents nationwide to get to know their clients better. More and more realtors are asking open house visitors to sign their names and e-mail addresses on guest lists, said a spokesman for the association. Agents now routinely warn their sellers to hide jewelry, collectibles, and even prescription drugs when they open their homes to potential buyers.

Sometimes, they take even more extreme measures. Agent Dino Rossi of New England Preferred Properties Real Estate in Newton said he once set up a video camera on a tripod to keep guests on guard.

"I just wanted them to understand that someone was watching," he said. Often, an agent showing a sprawling house will "double up" with a colleague to help keep an eye on visitors.

"You tell people all the time, you wouldn't let a stranger in your house, but here you put an ad in the paper and invite them in," said Nick Patsio, the broker and owner of Century 21 West Realty Inc. in Watertown.

About five years ago, at a Waltham open house, a woman gave him such a bad vibe that he refused to let her out of his sight. But in the moment he stepped into the hallway to tell other guests to come in, she snatched medication from the bureau, he said.

"It was a split second," he recalled. "She acted like nothing happened."

Though no one admits to a serious spate of thefts, agents trade plenty of tales, such as a run on Beanie Babies when the furry collectibles were having their heyday.

"It was enough of a rampage that I did warn my sellers to put away their Beanie Babies," recalled Kathy Kelley, a realtor with Prudential Town and Country in Natick, Needham, and Wellesley. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

NEW CHERISH DEC-AID AUCTIONS
http://www.planetbeans.com/SuesCharityAuctions.htm

January 22, 2005
HUGZ CONFUSION CLEARED UP
Adrienne writes: “Hi Lisa, Maybe this will help the American Greetings/Carlton Cards confusion. I was in Carlton Cards recently and talked with the manager. As you know, I am in Canada. American Greetings is the parent company of Carlton Cards. Hence they will both carry the Pink Hugz in the "buddy size". The Carlton Cards ones will of course have the extra 3rd tag denoting that they are from Canada. Hope this helps !!! I don't believe that we have any "American Greetings" stores in Canada, but just because I haven't seen any doesn't mean there aren't any !! Carlton Cards in my area just recently began to carry TY products . They don't have every item, just the most popular ones. Hope this helps !!!”

The Inside Scoop
HERE'S WHAT WE HAVE PLANNED FOR SUNDAY MORNING

Charles Osgood anchors from New York.

EBAY: John Blackstone takes a look at the eBay phenomenon and how what began as an online auction site known mostly for its Beanie Babies and Pez Dispensers has exploded into a $23 billion marketplace where a car sells every minute, a diamond ring every 2 minutes, and more than 8000 collectibles are sold every hour. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

Local effort sends Beanies, balls to Iraqi children
Hundreds of Beanie Babies and more than six dozen soccer balls have made their way into the hands of Iraqi children thanks to the efforts of Easton residents.

Easton resident Paula Vogler and her family began collecting and shipping the toys and balls to Iraq this fall.

Vogler got the initial idea from a newspaper article she read about a Beanies shipment program. She contacted Roy Blanchard, a Southeastern Regional School teacher serving in Iraq, and offered to send the small stuffed collectibles to the Iraqi children.

Blanchard, who had been coordinating shipments of school supplies to the area, put Vogler in touch with Sergio Caro, a soldier Blanchard knew from Civil Affairs on a base in Mosul, Iraq.

Thus, Beanies Without Borders, was born. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

MICHAEL RECEIVES HIS SURPRISE FROM PUNXY PHIL
http://www.planetbeans.com/MichaelsPhilSurprise.htm

TY SHOWS THIS WEEKEND
Starting today (22nd) and through Tuesday (25th) the shows are in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Kansas City. Starting on tomorrow (23rd) and going through Wednesday (26th) is the Washington D.C. show. If you are attending any of these shows I'd love to hear your show report and share with the Planet Beans readers. Lisa@planetbeans.com 

You can view the entire show schedule along with links to the home pages of the trade shows here: http://www.planetbeans.com/2005TyShows.htm

January 21, 2005
TY SHOWS THIS WEEKEND
Starting tomorrow (22nd) and through Tuesday (25th) the shows are in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Kansas City. Starting on Sunday (23rd) and going through Wednesday (26th) is the Washington D.C. show. If you are attending any of these shows I'd love to hear your show report and share with the Planet Beans readers. Lisa@planetbeans.com 

You can view the entire show schedule here: http://www.planetbeans.com/2005TyShows.htm

PINK HUGZ SILENTLY INTRODUCED
Michael writes: "They just silently introduced the 2 Hugz pink exclusives. This is very confusing though....it says that the Carlton Cards tag is the US Exclusive....but Then it says that the American Greetings in the canadian version. Is it just me or did this just get even more confusing. I bought the American Greetings tagged Hugz pink in Saint Louis....last time i checked Saint Louis was not in canada.... Michael"
U.S. EXCLUSIVE HUGZ: http://www.ty.com/12_detail?id=5754
CANADIAN EXCLUSIVE HUGZ: http://www.ty.com/12_detail?id=5756

ASK TY 
Q: Would you ever come out with your own Ty TV show? (submitted by cuteguy7599)
A: Interesting ! Maybe a children's show like "The Adventures of Minksy, Binksy & Winksy". Or maybe "Name that Beanie", a reality show "Who's your Buddy" or how about "Wheel of Punkies" ? Could be fun ! http://www.ty.com/askty_home

‘Stretch-N-Grow’ coach gives kids a healthy start
Imagine a workout that requires you to use Beanie Babies as hand weights. Or, how about doing Jumping Jacks to the "Spider Man" soundtrack? For hundreds of preschoolers in the Huntington area, these are just a few examples of what it’s like to participate in the "Stretch-N-Grow" fitness program taught by Mary Dempsey, affectionately known as Coach Mary. For nearly 10 years, she has brought her love of exercise and children into area day cares and preschools, teaching them everything from basic stretching techniques and exercises to making healthy eating choices and the importance of building good self esteem. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

Many answer the call for tsunami relief drive
RANDOLPH TWP – The youngest victims of the tsunami in Asia will be awash in Beanie Babies, thanks to the efforts of three young township residents.

The three Higgins children, Molly, Conor, and Seamus of Alexander Drive, are among many young and old township residents who are being creative and generous in helping the victims of the Asian tsunami.

A total of about 5,000 Beanie Babies have been collected and shipped to Asia on Wednesday thanks to a drop off and shipping plan provided by the Denville Rotary Club. The Rotary Club has arranged for the toys to be shipped to Sri Lanka, where volunteers will give each child a Beanie Baby. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

January 20, 2005
WHERE'S THE NEWS?!
I've searched all over bright and early this morning for something worthy of sharing and have come up empty-handed unfortunately. If you have something to share please email me at Lisa@planetbeans.com with NEWS in the subject line.

CHUCKLES IN GEORGIA
I managed to finally find Chuckles yesterday at the Mall of Georgia in Social Expressions (an American Greetings/Carlton Cards store). This is one CUTE Beanie Baby and I'm so glad I finally found him. I hope that all of you are able to locate the Beanies and such that you desire.

AI RETIRES
Finally! LOL http://www.ty.com/AI_Ret

January 19, 2005
Patients with Serious Illnesses Cheered by Pulmonary Specialist
Waiting for Dr. Andrew Goldberg of the Springer Clinic is an uplifting experience. An avid Batman fan, Dr. Goldberg displays his collection of Batman memorabilia in one of his patient exam rooms. Another room is filled with his nurse’s Beanie Baby collection.

“Many patients referred to me have serious problems and many are depressed,” says Dr. Goldberg, “My philosophy is to give them something fun to look at to help cheer them up.” Dr. Goldberg, a pulmonary specialist, sees patients with a variety of breathing problems including shortness of breath, wheezing, chronic cough, and congestion. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

PUNXSUTAWNEY PHIL COC 2005 ADORE & MASQUE FRUSTRATIONS
Michael writes: "I just recieved in the mail My Punxsutawney Phil 2005 COC Red tie edition and i recieved Adore the bear. I just love its unique looking nose. Still working on trying to get a picture of them to you sometime this week. Masque has yet to ship though....its driving me bananas about masque not shipping. Perhaps they are adding purple to Masque. The reason i think this is because Masque's picture only shows green and gold though no purple. Maybe they are adding purple somewhere to Masque the bear. Either that or their could be a production error or delay. Michael"

BIG WINNER
Margie writes: "Hello Lisa, GUESS what ?? i just Won the raffle at Beanies4you ,won the Set of Authenticated Dinosaur Beanies !!! I am so excited am shouting it from the ROOF TOP ran up the stairs shouting  I Won, I Won ! Hubby thinks I am bit off LOL the excitment and stairs have me bit out o breath not so young now , decided i better sit down and tell all my Beanie Friends online , I will take picture and email it to you when they arrived Thanks for listening and letting me share my excitment . Margie"

HONEY-BUN & SUGAR-PIE SOLD OUT
Thank you to Ryan of CollectiblezSpot and Michael for alerting me to this new addition to the "sold out" page.
http://www.ty.com/Jan_Soldout

January 18, 2005
Center links donors, needy
FLINT - The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Flint didn't know what to do with 22,000 Beanie Babies, but they did know who to call: The Resource Center.

The center worked with club Executive Director Jamie Gaskin to find agencies that could use the toys, which were part of a nationwide donation to the Boys and Girls Club right before Thanksgiving.

"He was blessed with this embarrassment of riches," said Sybyl Atwood, the Resource Center's program director for volunteer and information services.

Within three days, all 22,000 Beanie Babies found homes at local agencies that would give them to low-income children.

Gaskin said he also used the Resource Center's annual holiday Wish List to ask the community for donations. Within days of the list's publication in The Flint Journal, the club, which helped 700 children last year, received the Christmas trees and decorations they had requested. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

ATLANTA & DALLAS TRADE SHOWS
http://www.planetbeans.com/2005TyShows.htm
Did you attend the Dallas or Atlanta trade shows this past weekend? If you did and are able to share your report of the Ty booth and your experiences please send to Lisa@planetbeans.com

SOLD OUT
Chuckles Beanie, The Hugz Family, Heartford Buddy
http://www.ty.com/Jan_Soldout

January 17, 2005
Warner ready for a showdown over rubdown
Ty Warner has gathered an attorney, traffic engineer, planning consultant and the most tenacious PR firm in town to make a case before the Board of Supervisors in February to allow him to offer 15 more rubdowns a day at his Biltmore Hotel spa. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE (for subscribers only)

IN-HAND PICTURES OF PINK HUGZ
http://www.msjanie.com/2005photos/Laura_Hugz.html

 UPDATED: YOUR PUNXY PHIL 2005 ORDERING EXPERIENCES
There are some very happy collectors while there are also many that are very dissatisfied. Read their comments here: http://www.planetbeans.com/OrderingPunxyPhil2005.htm

January 16, 2005
MICHAEL’S SURPRISE FROM PUNXY PHIL
Michael writes: “I just got an envelope from Punxsutawney PA and it was my special surprise i talked about. The beanie baby didn't come but the surprise did. An autographed photo of the real Punxsutawney Phil. It has his paw print on the photo. Like i said i have yet to recieve the beanie but i got the special surprise already. I will try to get a picture of it soon to email it so you can share it with your readers. Michael”

On eBay - CHERISH DEC-AID DECADE - Ty Beanie Package for TSUNAMI
http://www.planetbeans.com/SuesCharityAuctions.htm

CHUCKLES LOCATED IN OKLAHOMA
Judi writes: "Hi Lisa, I found a bunch of Chuckles the hedgehog today. He was at Woodland Hills mall in Tulsa, Oklahoma in the Kirlin's Hallmark store. Hope this info helps someone. Judi/gs205."

Coin-collecting obby attracts renewed interest
Even though Americans have become mostly disenchanted with collectibles, assigning them to the "pesky dustables" pile, coin collecting seems to be gathering new converts.

The U.S. Mint estimates 140 million Americans are collecting.

The hobby — which only a few manage to turn into an investment — is bolstered by the U.S. Mint's penchant lately for issuing new coins.

The 50-state quarter series, for example, has done a lot to fire up interest. Five more state quarters will come out this year.

However, do keep your eyes open for coins and notes containing errors. If you do your homework, you'll be better able to recognize errors.

Lewis said a sharp-eyed cashier in a Winn-Dixie store in Sarasota took in five $1 bills from a customer. She noticed the serial number was printed on the wrong side. Lewis knows because he bought them from her for $200 each.

Also keep an eye open for unusual serial numbers or consecutive numbers, he said. They might turn out to be worth more than their face value.

But overall, the markup on coins is low. "It's not as good as Beanie Babies," he said. And these days Beanie Babies don't bring much. VIEW FULL ARTICLE & PICTURES HERE

Kids reach out to victims
Salinas students sending cash, stuffed animals to aid agencies
Youngsters throughout Salinas are getting creative in their efforts to help families battered last month by the Southeast Asian tsunami.

They're raising money by selling lemonade, brewing hot chocolate and designing fliers urging students to donate.

Some are even pulling out their careworn stuffed animals, reassigning them to needier children for a new tour of snuggle duty.

At John Steinbeck Elementary School, Riley Ashen, 9, and Hannah Green, 10, collected more than $2,300 this week for the American Red Cross' relief efforts.

The girls made bilingual fliers and spoke to classes to promote their "Dollars for Disasters" drive, encouraging each student to bring in $1. Some families donated checks for $100, and one gave $500, said Riley's father, Bill Ashen.

Hannah Dutro, 11, a sixth-grader at Buena Vista Middle School, aspires to collect 150 stuffed animals by the end of the month. She kicked off the drive Friday by decorating a "Send a Friend" collection barrel and adding the first stuffed animals from her own collection: teddy bears, beanie babies and a floppy-eared bunny called Dorothy. VIEW FULL ARTICLE & PICTURE HERE

January 15, 2005
CHERISH DEC-AID DECADE
Sue writes: "Just a reminder that the CHERISH DEC-AID DECADE package is available to order NOW and is selling fast - so if you would like to buy one and support the DEC Tsunami Earthquake Appeal at the same time please visit the website at www.cherishonline.co.uk to place your order before they sell out! Best wishes, Sue"

RED TIE PHIL ADDED TO TY.COM
I've finally been able to update the info pages with this Beanie. http://www.planetbeans.com/beanie_info.htm

CHUCKLES LOCATED IN ILLINOIS
Michael writes: "My dad brought me home the new beanie baby Chuckles the hedgehog. He bought him for me at the Kirlin's Hallmark in Effingham, IL. I will try to send a picture of him sometime next week for your readers to view along with a picture of the American Greetings Hugz Pink Punkie. Michael" 

NOTE: If you have found the elusive Chuckles the Hedgehog Beanie Baby please email me with the location to help your fellow readers locate one for themselves. Lisa@planetbeans.com

January 14, 2005
PROBLEMS WITH MASQUE?
Michael writes: "I ordered Masque from the tystore a week ago and it still says submitted. So i posted on the ty talk and it appears mine is not the only ones whose status of Masque is submitted according to several posts that replied. Below is the link to original post and someone else who posted. But what i find most troublesome is that MY ADORE SHIPPED and Masque is still saying submitted. I agree with a post about i wonder if there was a problem with it...My guess is they are adding purple to the Masque beanies possibly because the mardi gras colors are green, gold and purple, and purple is no where to be seen on him. Also is another post that says about the possiblity of Alaska becoming the next state bear. Below is that post also. Michael"
VIEW POSTING & REPLIES ABOUT MASQUE
VIEW POSTING & REPLIES ABOUT ALASKA

ARE HUGZ PUNKIES SOLD OUT?
Michael writes: "I just read a post on the ty Cyberboard that all that Hugz punkies are sold out. I wonder if the Amercian Greetings Hugz Pink i got also sold out...who knows...i guess tyme will tell. Michael"

HAVE YOU FOUND CHUCKLES?
There seems to be a lot of talk about Chuckles not being shipped to stores. Have you been able to find him yet? If you have found Chuckles in your area please email me with the location so we can help other collectors locate this Beanie. Lisa@planetbeans.com

Red-tie specials
PUNXSUTAWNEY - There was a line Wednesday to purchase the prized 2005 Punxsutawney Phil Beanie Babies, but it didn't quite stretch the whole way down the block.

In fact, it just barely stretched down to Hair Trends, but that was OK by the staff and volunteers at Phil's Souvenir Shop, which enjoyed a steady stream of Beanie-seekers all day.

"Today went as well as we thought it would go," said Janie Juliette-Lowry, manager of Phil's Souvenir Shop, which began sales of the exclusive red-tie Beanie Phils at 9 a.m. Wednesday. "We're about halfway there."

Retail black-tie Beanie Phils also went on sale Wednesday at local Ty retailers.

"There was a very steady stream of customers," Juliette-Lowry said. "It was really nice." VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

CHUCKLES SPOTTED
Michael writes: "Someone just said on the Ty talk that they had found Chuckles at a kirlin's hallmark in NW Indiana. So at least he is showing up somewhere. CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE POST

Also here is my story about chuckles:

i had no luck in the search for Chuckles. Although Carlton cards in Saint Louis said they would get it in soon. Since the carlton cards in saint louis is out in west county mall, they will call me when it comes in then mail it to a Carlton Cards closer to my town. In Fairview Heights, IL. They said they were only going to get 6 of them in. Michael"

January 13, 2005
Top ten great spa experiences
2. LOS CABOS , MEXICO
If you are going to Las Ventanas al Paraiso, book treatments at the seven-cabana spa long before you arrive - many guests particularly like the Sea & Stars night massage. Las Ventanas, which is now owned by Beanie Babies' owner Ty Warner, is not primarily a beach place. The really knowledgeable Beautiful Bodies here congregate around the S-shaped pool, where butlers offer water sprays, complimentary sorbets and filled iPods. I like casita 208, which has a jacuzzi on the terrace, and private sunbathing on the roof. General Manager is Luis Fernandes. VIEW FULL LISTING HERE

School Children Collect Beanies for Iraqi Children
LUCKEY -- They've gone from collectibles to comfort toys. Students at one local elementary school are gathering Beanie Babies to be shipped to children in Iraq.

Students at Luckey Elementary in Wood County hope the squishy, stuffed toys warm the hearts and ease the fears of Iraqi children. "We know that we are helping some kids, little kids, and it's nice to know that we can get people calm," said fourth grader Taylor Ernsthausen.

So far the students have collected more than a thousand beanie babies with more still coming in. Eric Ward is a fourth grade teacher. He's spearheading the effort. Eric read about a group in Michigan that sent thousands of beanies to Iraq. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

TY BEANIES & MORE, NO MORE!
Bean Watcher has posted information about the cease in production of this magazine. VIEW HERE

ASK TY
Q: Have you ever considered making a Beanie of yourself? I think a Ty Warner Beanie would be the best seller of all time! (submitted by GeneralBean)
A: Now you've got me thinking. If I were a Beanie what style of Beanie would I be? I need your help with this one. I'll be watching Bright Ideas ! http://www.ty.com/askty_home

January 12, 2005
READY TO ORDER PUNXY PHIL?
Today is the day that many have been waiting for! Get those fingers ready for dialing at 9:00 this morning and order early as these are sure to be a quick sell-out.

PLEASE CALL 1-800-752-PHIL (7445) FOR EXPRESS SHIPPING

2005 TY Beanie (Red Tie version) will be available for purchase by phone beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 12, 2005.  No faxes, e-mails or advance orders will be taken.  Selling prices is $5.00 per Beanie, maximum 12 Beanies per purchase.

For those of you that live outside of the United States you can call the regular phone number to place your orders at (814) 938-7700. http://www.groundhogstuff.com/

Good luck getting through. I'd love to hear about your experiences when calling. Please email me at Lisa@planetbeans.com if you would like to share your experiences with other Planet Beans readers. I suspect the red tie version will be listed on Ty.com later today.

TY STORE RELEASES
Introducing Secret Buddy and Adore Beanie: http://www.tytrade.com/Adore_Secret_Intro

ADDED TO THE MAIN PAGE AT TY.COM
There is now a banner below the big TY heart for donations to the American Red Cross.

LI MEI SILENTLY RETIRES
Michael shares the following:
"Lei Mei just silently retired. Its no longer in the tystore. Probably had to make room for Adore and Secret. Michael

HAPPY BIRTHDAY (ORANGE) SILENTLY RETIRES
http://www.ty.com/3_detail?id=4601

January 11, 2005
PHIL UPDATE: RED VERSION PICTURED
Michael shares the following website update:
PLEASE CALL 1-800-752-PHIL (7445) FOR EXPRESS SHIPPING

2005 TY Beanie (Red Tie version) will be available for purchase by phone beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 12, 2005.  No faxes, e-mails or advance orders will be taken.  Selling prices is $5.00 per Beanie, maximum 12 Beanies per purchase.

Welcome to the world of Punxsutawney Phil merchandise, official online source of Groundhog Day souvenirs! Browse our site to find all the stuff you need to celebrate Groundhog Day February 2nd!

Come rain or shine, Groundhog Phil annually makes an appearance to forecast whether there are six more weeks of winter or if spring is just around the corner.

To begin shopping, please select from the categories on the left.  To request a print catalog and to learn more about Punxsutawney Phils Official Souvenir Shop, please select from the navigation menu, above.

And dont forget to have a "Happy Groundhog Day!" VIEW PICTURE OF RED VERSION HERE

AMERICAN GREETINGS EXCLUSIVE PUNKIE?
Michael also shares the following: "According to a Ty talk Cyberboard post, the Buddy Size Hugz Punkie that is exclusive to  American Greetings will be released January 17th. Below is what the post says and the link to the post itself. Michael"

Pink Hugz Comes Home Today In Toronto!!
Elektrobahn   (Jan 10, 2005, 12:40 PM)
Message Id: 911924
Elektrobahn writes: Hi everybody! I just now purchased a pair of Carlton Cards exclusive Pink Hugz, one for my collection and one for a very good collector friend Stateside. These are the pieces I described last Friday, same as White Hugz but EXCLUSIVELY for Carlton Cards stores. These two also have the extra Canadian tush tag - ALWAYS a nice touch! If I can get hold of a digi-cam I'll post on MsJanies, but don't hold your breath.
***
January 17th is the official date, I believe, for the roll-out of these FINE pieces. Check out Carlton Cards and American Greetings stores next Monday! VIEW POSTING & REPLIES HERE

TY SHOW SCHEDULE RETIRED CLASSIC BUNNIES AS EXCLUSIVES?
Michael shares the following: "I just saw the Ty show schedule the other day and i noticed 2 bunnies on it. They look like attic treasures. All i can remember is that one bunny had a blue shirt on and with a image of a carrot on the blue shirt. Just thought i would share this info with you. I will try to get a better look at it when i go out of town on Monday to the Ty retailer where i saw the schedule postcard. Michael"

January 10, 2005
Chinchilla goes from prized pelt to cherished pet
The animal's super-soft fur has drawn a new breed of fan.
Everyone knows there are dog people and there are cat people.

Then there is Ginny Shiplet, who can't seem to get enough of the charms of the chinchilla. She loves the little rodents so much that as soon as she got one, she had to have another, and another, and another.

"They're like Beanie Babies. You see another one in a different color, and you say, 'Oh, I have to have that one,' " she said as her "babies" bounced around their enclosure like pinballs, banking off walls and leaping vertically into the air.

This may come as a surprise to some, but chinchillas aren't just for fur coats anymore.

The super-soft furballs, which look like a cross between a mouse and a squirrel, are the latest exotic animals to nuzzle their way into Americans' pet-obsessed hearts. They are showing up in pet stores, at $80 to $250 apiece, and were under many Christmas trees this year, appealing to pet lovers who find your standard dog, cat or goldfish to be bo-ring.

They're not big eaters. A tablespoon of commercial chinchilla food in the morning and again at night, with a little hay or alfalfa, should do it. An occasional piece of Cheerios or Wheat Chex makes a nice treat.

Dust baths are a must, and very entertaining to watch. The animal's extremely fine, dense fur can get very greasy from its natural lanolin, which keeps it from matting. Put some dust (purchased at the pet store) in a shoebox-size container and watch the chinchillas go at it. Be prepared to get out the Hoover. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

The Name Game
You can shield your trade name from being ripped off by a larger company--if it's distinctive enough.
Five years ago, a small Georgia toy company called Peaceable Planet began marketing a stuffed camel named "Niles." The next year, Ty Inc., the maker of Beanie Babies, flooded the market with stuffed camels also named "Niles." Peaceable Planet sued to protect its trademark. Last April, the 7th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals ruled in favor of Peaceable Planet and ordered Ty to withdraw its stuffed camel.

Normally, lawsuits over trademarks involve a big company trying to fend off a copycat. But under a legal doctrine called "reverse confusion," a small company can fight back when a giant threatens to overpower it by adopting a confusingly similar trade name. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

January 9, 2005
CHERISH AUCTION REMINDER
Just a reminder that the auction for a beanie sweater designed and knitted to the buyer’s requirements will finish later today. Here is the link: http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=5947234480&ssPageName=STRK:MESE:IT

Starting later today on eBay under seller ID sue_owen is a series of auctions comprising all 6 Flag Nose Beanies (Discover, Pippo, Jack, Union, Pinata, Deutschland), each with an additional CHERISH DEC-AID ear tag and neck tag. Each will also come with a card stating that it was sold in aid of the Disasters Emergency Committee Tsunami Appeal.

Also on sale this week from the CHERISH website at www.cherishonline.co.uk will be a Special Edition Beanie Package in aid of the DEC Tsunami Earthquake Appeal Registered Charity No: 1062638. This numbered edition will be limited to 50 and there will be purchasing restrictions.

Heartfelt thanks go to the companies and individuals who donated or discounted the various goods and services that were needed to put these packages together. As soon as the packages are ready for sale information will be posted on the website. No advance orders will be taken.

Thank you so much for the support and donations already offered to help CHERISH fundraise for this appeal. Although the various Governments are now giving more aid to the countries and victims the need is huge and desperate. Best wishes, Sue

PHILADELPHIA GIFT SHOW REPORT
Linda shares the following: “Hi Lisa, I attended the Phila gift show. I spent an hour at the Ty booth there was so much to see. The Ty reps were wonderful, friendly and helpful. They were impressed with my knowledge of their products and the size of my collection. They gave me Ty pins, Ty pens and a Ty carry bag. Ty has really outdone himself with beautiful new fabrics and pretty sheer ribbons. My favorite newbies include; Beanies-Twirls, Bali, Pretzels, Punx Phil, McWooly (reminds me of a chenille bedspread) Classic-Presto, Serena and Hareston are gorgeous curly fabric, so soft and lightweight. Sugarcane has soft longer "hare". Baby Ty-the reps said this was a great selling line. The newbies are even softer than the pluffies if that's possible. The flower ones each have a little bug on their heads. In the Beanies and more magazine is a valentine bear I have yet to see. Ty store? Birth date is Feb 14 2005. It's a pink bear holding a red heart that spells I Love You. I sure enjoyed myself and I'm happy to share with fellow Beanie lovers! Linda”

The toughest miracle
Premature Ashleigh makes it, but the road is still hard
Ashleigh Vannatta didn’t look anything like a baby should.

Her body was as thin and gangly as a stick figure. Her skin was almost transparent.

"She was so little, we were in shock when we saw her," says her mom, Keli Vannatta.

Weighing just over 1 pound, Ashleigh was what doctors call a micropreemie — a baby who, only a few decades earlier, would almost certainly have died.

"When someone gets to 24 weeks, it is a very different outcome (than at 23 weeks)," she says.

Lying in her hospital bed, Keli tried to stay positive. She and Bobby tried not to think of the possibility of their baby being born severely disabled.

"It was straight denial," Keli says.

Then just before 3 a.m. on Halloween — at the start of Keli’s 25th week of pregnancy — monitors showed Ashleigh’s heart was slowing.

Doctors did an emergency cesarean section, and Ashleigh was born at 3:18 a.m.

She weighed 1 pound, 3 ounces.

"She was the size of a Beanie Baby," Keli says. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

January 8, 2005
CHERISH TSUNAMI RELIEF AUCTION REMINDER
Ending tomorrow: http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=437&item=5947234480

January 7, 2005
ORDERING INFO FOR PUNXSUTAWNEY PHIL
PLEASE CALL 1-800-752-PHIL (7445) FOR EXPRESS SHIPPING

2005 TY BEANIE WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE BY PHONE BEGINNING AT 9:00 AM ON WEDNESDAY JANUARY 12, 2005.  NO FAXES, EMAILS OR ADVANCE ORDERS WILL BE TAKEN.   SELLING PRICE IS $5.00 PER BEANIE, MAXIMUM
12 BEANIES PER PURCHASE.

Welcome to the world of Punxsutawney Phil merchandise, official online source of Groundhog Day souvenirs! Browse our site to find all the stuff you need to celebrate Groundhog Day—February 2nd!

Come rain or shine, Groundhog Phil annually makes an appearance to forecast whether there are six more weeks of winter or if spring is just around the corner.

To begin shopping, please select from the categories on the left.  To request a print catalog and to learn more about Punxsutawney Phil’s Official Souvenir Shop, please select from the navigation menu, above.

And don’t forget to have a "Happy Groundhog Day!" http://www.groundhogstuff.com/

UPDATE
PLEASE CALL 1-800-752-PHIL (7445) FOR EXPRESS SHIPPING

2005 TY BEANIE(RED TIE VERSION) WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE BY PHONE BEGINNING AT 9:00 AM ON WEDNESDAY JANUARY 12, 2005.  NO FAXES, EMAILS OR ADVANCE ORDERS WILL BE TAKEN.   SELLING PRICE IS $5.00 PER BEANIE, MAXIMUM 12 BEANIES PER PURCHASE.

New year, New Beanie Phil
Plumper version of Punxsutawney Phil unveiled for 2005
PUNXSUTAWNEY - What's the first thing you may notice about the 2005 Punxsutawney Phil Beanie Baby?

He's put on a little weight.

"He's got substantially more girth," said Mike Johnston, the Groundhog Club's Big Flake Maker, "much like the real Phil."

Wednesday, the Groundhog Club, the Punxsutawney Area Chamber of Commerce and Phil's Souvenir Shop unveiled the 2005 Punxsutawney Phil model of Ty's wildly-popular Beanie Babies series. While the toys are not yet in stock at the shop, it is hoped that they will be available for purchase beginning Wednesday, Jan. 12.

Like last year, there are three different Beanie Phils available this year. Each of the three models features a different colored bowtie, and collectors will want to get their hands on the red-tied Beanie Phil, the one available only at Phil's Souvenir Shop.

Additionally, the 2005 Beanie Phils differ in several other ways from models in 2003 and 2004.

For instance, Johnston said, the 2005 toys feature a heftier Phil. Also, Phil's hat is almost twice as big as that of the 2004 model, and the face is one color, unlike the brown and white faces on previous models.

The 2005 Beanie Phil's nose is a bit bigger, and his paws are made of a different color of suede.

Johnston said while there will be thousands of the toys manufactured this year, it still won't be as many as last year, making this year's exclusive version all the more sought-after.

The continued success of the Punxsutawney Phil Beanie Babies has gone beyond anyone's expectations, including Ty's. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

January 6, 2005
NEWS ON THE CYBERBOARD
Thanks to Michael for pointing this out:
NEWS! NEWS! NEWS! ;) Part Two...
beanykid (Jan 05, 2005, 04:07 PM)
Message Id: 908664
beanykid writes:
1) Canadian Discover was retired because of a production problem at the factory...when the hot pellets were poured into the Beanie, the red Canadian flag bled into the white fabric making the Beanie turn pink.

2) Not included with the first shipment of Beanies (for the January release) are the Basket Beanies, all Baby Ty, and Bali. (There are a couple of other Beanies not shipping with the first shipment, but my retailer couldn't remember which ones.)

3) One Beanie (from the January release) will retire soon. (I asked my retailer which one, but he said he couldn't tell me! He said it is one with "different looking fabric." He said the different looking fabric makes this Beanie not cost effective to manufacture.)

4) "I Love Australia" will be introduced on January 21st.

I thanked my Ty retailer for all the "gossip," and he said, "Not gossip...*gospel*!" ;) So that's the news I have! :) Just wanted to share!

Smiles,
Starlet =^..^= VIEW POSTING AND REPLIES HERE

TY’S POEM WINNER OF SIGNED COUNTDOWN
Michael shares the following: also the winner of the Countdown poem contest was some1 with the username Kittenkatter. Below is the link to the ty cyberboard posting that replies that she won:

below is the 2 links to her poem that won:
Part 1: VIEW HERE
Part 2: VIEW HERE

Note: Great poem indeed! Well worth a read. Congratulations to the lucky winner!:o)

NEWS ON THE APPEARANCE OF TY SWEATSHIRTS
A reader shares the following:
"Hi, Lisa, I've seen photos, from other TY Collectors, of the TY UNIVERSITY SWEATSHIRTS; that were submitted and viewed via newsletter links. One photo showed a sweatshirt's lettering  in "mint" condition. The other photo showed a sweatshirt's lettering in a "scratched & worn" appearance condition.

So; when I was awaiting to receive my, ordered, TY UNIVERSITY SWEATSHIRT, I wondered which version, I would receive. And; had hoped, that I might receive my sweatshirt in "mint" condition.

However; when my, ordered, sweatshirt arrived, I discovered that the lettering on the sweatshirt looked  "scratched & worn". It looks just like the photo I'd seen, earlier, when I'd viewed the two versions of this sweatshirt.

Needless to say; I was, very, disappointed with the manufacturer's letter printing on these sweatshirts. I e-mailed the Ty Store Customer Service; concerning my disappointment concerning the printing on my sweatshirt.

I received an e-mail reply and will add the message, I received, below, so you may read it.  I have substituted "****'s" in the places; where my name and order number appear, so others may read the message.

Please note; that in the email message, they state that the "screen printing" on the sweatshirts was "intentionally produced" to appear distressed so the garment has a worn in look.  So; it is supposed to look, the way it does...."scratched & worn".

If; you wish to use the response e-mail in your newsletter, please, omit my name. Thanks."

~~~~~~~~~~~

E-mail message, from Ty Store Customer Service, appears below:

******,

Thanks for contacting the Ty Store.

We are sorry to hear you are not satisfied with your Ty University Sweatshirt. Please note that the screen printing is intentionally produced to appear distressed so the garment has a worn in look. While we can send you a replacement, the screen printing on the replacement will have the same appearance as the original you received.

You may return your sweatshirt for a replacement or refund.  Please include your complete name and address along with the order number ******** on the outside of your box and return to:

  Ty Inc.
  P.O. Box 1426
  Bolingbrook, IL  60440

After we receive your return, a credit will be issued to your credit card in the amount of $33.00. Please allow 1-2 billing cycles for the credit to appear on your statement.

Customer Service

BIDDER RAFFLE TO RAISE FUNDS FOR TSUNAMIS RELIEF
Just sending a note to let you all know about a new raffle CollectiblezSpot has started for a chance to win the exclusive, Bidder the Beanie Baby. Last time all funds raised from the raffle were donated to the Red Cross to support the victims of the hurricanes. This time around, the money raised will all be donated to the International Red Cross to help support the victims of the Indian Ocean tsunamis.

IRS agrees Sosa's charity foundation is tax-exempt
WASHINGTON -- Home run king Sammy Sosa scored again as his charitable foundation thwarted an Internal Revenue Service attempt to tax it.

The IRS conceded in negotiations that Sosa's Clinica Materno Infantil 30-30 Inc. was entitled to tax-exempt status. As a result, the IRS dropped its demand to collect $203,241 in taxes for 1998-99.

Richard A. Josepher, a Boca Raton tax attorney for Sosa, said his client was pleased with the decision in favor of the foundation, which had been named the Sammy Sosa Charitable Foundation Inc.

"He's happy to have it [the tax case] behind him," Josepher said. "It was something that created a lot of aggravation" for Sosa. "It was just a matter of getting a reasonable result, and we were able to get that. It speaks for itself. The decision is short and sweet."

The agreement between Sosa and the IRS in the two cases that have been before the court for two years became part of a stipulated decision that U.S. Tax Court Judge David Laro signed Dec. 17.

Besides the charitable works of the foundation, Josepher said, Sosa built a shopping center in his Dominican hometown to create 200 jobs, and he gives Dominican schools $500,000 annually.

Seven years ago, Sosa gave 2,720 computers to Dominican schools -- four computers for each of the 68 homers he hit that year in the home run derby he had with Mark McGwire of the St. Louis Cardinals. McGwire hit 70 round trippers that year.

In 1999 when Sosa belted 63 homers, he donated 1 million Beanie Babies to needy children. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

Beanie Babies well received
They are young and cute and full of smiles.

And at 9, 10, and 11 years of age, that's just how they should be.

One group of these pre-teens resides on the South Shore, on streets like Chittenden Lane and Meadow Brook Road, while members of the other group were born, raised, and live in Iraq.

And despite a war that - depending on one's point of view - stands them on either the same or opposing sides, a simple gesture has created for the two groups of youngsters, an international connection.

And the diplomatic tool that was used to bring about this bond: Beanie Babies, in various colors, shapes and animal-faces.

In October, 20 girls in Norwell's Girl Scout Troops 4460 and 4436 joined efforts and collected approximately 800 new and "once-loved" Beanie Babies from their friends, families and even from their own collections. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

Beanie Baby drive put on hold
IRONWOOD -- It's "mission accomplished" for Ironwood's Beanie Baby Brigade.

A shift in the volunteer group's ability to ship the lovable dolls to Iraq for distribution to children there means the trio of Ironwood women who launched the project aren't collecting more dolls.

Three Ironwood women -- Tricia Doan, Lynda Van Rossum and Pamela Mack -- responded to Doan's son's request for gifts to share with children in war-torn Iraq.

Lt. Anthony Doan's idea spawned the Beanie Baby Brigade.

"As far as our mission to Iraq, we've sent 10,000," said Mack. "Thanks to the community and so many people, we've been able to do more than expected." VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

INTRODUCING MASQUE
Ty Store: http://www.tytrade.com/Masque_Intro

Sandy shares the following:
This is from our news station here in N.E. Pa!!! http://www.wnep.com/Global/story.asp?S=2773051

2005 edition of Punxsutawney Phil beanie on sale Jan. 12
PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. Beanie Baby lovers won't have to wait until February Second for Punxsutawney Phil to poke his head out of the ground.

Ty Company, the makers of the popular stuffed toys, say their 2005 Punxsutawney Phil beanies should be ready for sale January 12th.

Punxsutawney's Groundhog Club, the town's chamber of commerce and a souvenir shop will sell the beanie Phils, which come with three different colored bow ties.

The new Phils are said to be different from tens of thousands of Phil beanies sold the last two years -- the little guy is said to be fuzzier and fatter this year, and he's wearing a bigger hat.

Past proceeds from the Beanie Baby sales helps the Groundhog Club purchase Gobbler's Knob, the plot of land where the real Phil makes his annual weather prediction.

ASK TY
Q: Is it hard to make up all the names of the Beanies? (submitted by tennisplayer07)
A: Naming the Beanies is getting harder all the time. What you may not know is that every name we use must be cleared through a sophisticated legal process. Just when I think I've come up with the perfect name . . . I find out I can't use it ! http://www.ty.com/askty_home

January 5, 2005
CHERISH TSUNAMI APPEAL
Sue writes: “Coming very soon! Special Edition Beanie Package in aid of the DEC Tsunami Appeal

Please check www.cherishonline.co.uk to read updates.
No orders will be accepted until the official launch in a few days.

If you wish to donate any items specifically for this appeal I would be happy to accept them for use during January.
Please mail to:

Sue Owen
CHERISH/DEC Appeal
PO Box 2630
Marlow
Bucks
SL7 2ZN
UK

CHERISH will resume fundraising for Cancer Research UK as planned in February. Best wishes and thanks for your support for this special appeal. Sue”

AUCTIONS OF INTEREST
Since news has been so scarce lately I decided to check on eBay to see if I could find some interesting auctions to share with you. I've managed to find a handful.
=AUTHENTICATED TY PROTOTYPE "ROYAL BLUE" NEW FACE TEDDY
=AUTHENTICATED TY PROTOTYPE "PARROT" BEANIE BABY
=AUTHENTICATED TY PROTOTYPE "INSECT" BEANIE BABY
=AUTHENTICATED TY PROTOTYPE "IGUANA CHAMELEON" BEANIE
=AUTHENTICATED TY & PAUL GLASER SIGNED ARIEL CELEBRITY BEANIE BABY
=AUTHENTICATED TY & WINONA RIDER SIGNED ARIEL CELEBRITY BEANIE BABY
=AUTHENTICATED TY & DUSTIN HOFFMAN SIGNED ARIEL CELEBRITY BEANIE BABY
=TY SIGNED DECADE BEANIE BABY #49 OF 100
=THIS SELLER HAS LOTS OF AUTHENTICATED RARE BEANIES

eBay's Bid For Success
(CBS) In just a few years, online auction company eBay went from little dot.com company to one of the biggest business stories in America.

When 60 Minutes Wednesday first reported on eBay two years ago, there were an estimated 50 million people worldwide using the Web site.

What started as a hobby is now a cultural phenomenon. But, as Correspondent Charlie Rose reports, eBay seems to have tapped into something uniquely American and entrepreneurial. It's an auction house that never sleeps, where anyone can be a buyer or a seller.

“You have to remember that in September of 1998, 8 percent of the items on eBay were Beanie Babies," says CEO Meg Whitman.

And she says it's only the beginning.

"I think I am most surprised by the fact that we have become the largest site on the Web for the buying and selling of used cars, motorcycles and auto parts," says Whitman. "So from Beanie Babies to Beamers, I'm not sure that anyone would have actually have predicted that." VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

January 4, 2005
NEWS NEEDED
I've searched all over and haven't found anything worth sharing. If you have anything to share please email me at Lisa@planetbeans.com.

CATEGORIES REMOVED FROM TY.COM
There are now two blank hearts on the navigation bar at Ty.com. Beanie Boppers and Teenie Beanie Boppers have been removed. http://www.ty.com/. Perhaps this means there will be no more Beanie Boppers or Teenie Beanie Boppers made.

POSSIBLE REASON FOR BOPPER RETIREMENT
Gwyn writes: “Hi Lisa, My strong suspicion, regarding what seems to be the retirement of all Boppers, is that they failed for a very simple reason. The Groovy Girls, the line of dolls that were their most obvious competition, can be dressed in outfits other than the ones they come in. The Boppers can't. Also, just like with the Beanie Kids, ethnic minorities were way underrepresented -- I can only think of Jazzy Jessie and Smashing Cherise off the top of my head. The Groovy Girls have dolls that look Asian, Latina, and various mixes as well as African American. But seriously... think about it. The big Boppers are about the height of a fashion doll, and part of the key to a fashion doll is that you can change their outfits! Happy New Year! Gwyn”

DISCOVER NOW RETIRED
Thank you to Michael for pointing out the silent retirement: http://www.ty.com/3_detail?id=4683

January 3, 2005
Children's Fund provides year-round assistance
SAN BERNARDINO - Children are in need all year long, not just at Christmas. That's what keeps the Children's Fund in business.

Whether they have just been removed from an abusive home or a family in court-ordered drug treatment is in need of emergency assistance, the Children's Fund is there to step in and provide help.

"Christmas Day is just a little piece of the puzzle. We are about so much more than that,' said Rebecca Stafford, executive director of the agency that was selected as this year's beneficiary of The Sun's Holiday Fund.

Some of the most heartbreaking cases for the agency are of children who are taken out of homes where authorities feel they are in danger.

"The kids have nothing. Everything that's familiar, everything that's safe, everything that's theirs' is gone, Stafford said.

Putting a donated Beanie Baby in their clutches or handing a teenager a bag of personal hygiene items can make a huge impact. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

PUNXSUTAWN-e PHIL
http://www.tytrade.com/Punxsutawn-e_Intro2005