July 2001 News

== July 31, 2001 ==
Beanie Baby fad not what it used to be
From Bean eWonderland
In the late 1990s, plush little critters with clever names and shrewd marketing were riding the crest of a tidal wave of popularity, one almost unmatched in the annals of consumerism. With names like Zip and Garcia and Moo Cow, they ruled the collector universe. Remember Beanie Babies? For a lot of people today, interest in Beanies has been retired, to borrow a word from their parent company's marketing strategy. "I'd say now the number of collectors has probably been cut a third to half of what it was two years ago," said Chris Sandridge of Gainesville, who remains a diehard collector of Beanie Babies.
He and other collectors and dealers said that interest in Beanie Babies saw an abrupt decline in the few weeks after Christmas 1999. Full Story:

Fake Oddity Bears
From Bean eWonderland
Chris from Bean Crazy has posted a new article regarding more 'fake' oddity beanie babies. Large amounts of money can exchange hands for a Beanie with a missing badge, to read the article Click Here:

Planet Beans Comments - Wonderful article by Chris.. will be interesting to keep up with other "Fake Oddities" he will be letting us know about.

TY'S PAINTING OF POSSIBLE 2001 SIGNATURE BEAR
Do you remember when Ms. Janie had information regarding an auction of a painting done by Ty Warner himself back in March? View the original story HERE
You can view the painting HERE

Planet Beans Comments - As Ty always says "Expect the Unexpected".. we could have known for 4 months what the 2001 Signature Bear was going to look like and not realize it. Looks like it will be a beautiful bear and I'm anxious to see if it will look anything like the painting Ty did. :o)

Sal's Attic has a wonderful story on the Third Annual Collectibles Convention.
Check it out and take a sneak peek at Randy and Theresa from Beanieholics. http://www.salsattic.com/con01pg1.htm

== July 30, 2001 ==
Oshkosh fan gets sales going for Lambeau
From Bean eWonderland
Dan Henning plans to make good on a green-and-golden opportunity. The Oshkosh man wanted to help the Packers and he wanted to start a business. Now he's doing both, and the sales are starting to come in quickly. Henning, 40, will head to Chicago this week to pick up the first batch of Lambeau Field Pack Rat stuffed animals. Like the wildly popular Beanie Babies, Pack Rats will come in limited editions. The first edition is 60,890 Pack Rats. Full Story:

== July 29, 2001 ==
MORE NEW PRODUCTS ON THE WAY
"Ms. Janie As a retailer, I did attend the Chicago show...In Ty's booth there was only standing room...the new products that he has brought out are beautiful..they should be hot sellers..I am so happy that I was able to attend it. The Celebrate bear is the best yet along with the matching beanie..I don't know how he does it..but this should get alot of the collectors going again..I was able to order 36 of the beanies and 12 of the buddies...wish that I could have gotten more of the buddies...they are georgeous!!!!!!!!!!!!!" Betty N

From Ty's Cyberboard
NEWBIES at Chicago Show!! WOOHOO!!
Mags2001 (07:00 pm. Jul 28, 2001 )
Message Id: 925665 Mags2001 writes: The Ty booth had some new surprises for us today. 5 new beanies! Didley is a green dog, style of Rover but laying down with a yellow checked ribbon. Starlett is a fuzzy white cat also laying with a blue&green stripped ribbon. Poopsie is a newest face style bear in golden pooh color with a red ribbon with gold edges. Giganto is a Wooly Mammoth, no ribbon. The 5th is the mystery beanie, Signature 2001, not shown but orders were being taken. New buddies are Neon, Pincher, Mooch & Almond. No new attics or Classics were shown. Mags

RyeByPost Lottery Update
This weeks winning numbers, prizes & winners have been announced on the lottery page. Just the 3 & 4 number prizes in last weeks draw were won. Next weeks winning lottery prizes are:

6 number prize - 'Billionaire #1 Bear'
5 + Bonus number prize - 'New York Issy with Card'
5 number prize - 'Buckingham Beanie & Buddy Duo'
4 number prize - 'Celebrate Beanie & Buddy Duo'
3 number prize - 'Tradee Beanie Baby'

The weekly lottery is totally free to play and you can enter daily. You just need to register/join at RyeByPost to receive your very own Unique Member ID. Click here to visit RyeByPost

== July 28, 2001 ==
MORE TRADEES ARRIVE WITH ANTS
Donna shares the following:
"oh my goodness lisa, the same thing happened to me.i had 2 shipments of tradee and the boxes were filled with big black ants. my hubby and i both thought that it was strange that nobody else had these ants in there mail boxes. now this might just solve the mystery. have had no other ants since the boxes came and they were there only when the boxes were. the boxes came a week or better apart.guess i should email them and tell them about the same thing happening to me.yucky. we just kinda chucked it off but now they must have been in the boxes all along. :O)" donna

Nancy shares the following:
"Hi I am the person that had the ants in my tradee box that was posted on underground bean. Thank you so much for letting me know that I am not the only person. Ty tried to say that it was the post office and not them. I am very sorry for what happened to the other woman as I know how it feels. I also feel that Ty should stand up and take responsibility for this problem and not pass it off on the postal service."
Thank you , Nancy Spann

TY2001 BUDDIES!!
Have you visited the Ty2001 Buddies page? http://www.planetbeans.com/Ty2001Buddies.htm
Since I received so many wonderful comments about the Ty2001 Beanies page and requests to make a page for the 2001 Buddies, I got around to doing it today. I thank you for your wonderful emails. :o)

THANK YOU BEAR RAFFLE COMING SOON... (finalizing the details now.. so stay tuned!!)

Lewis and Clark Beanie Babies
From Bean eWonderland
Beanie Baby collectors often go far and wide to get their hands on the latest item. You'll find one of the newest ones at the North Dakota State Fair. Heather Graner has a beanie baby stand there and started selling them three years ago. Full Story:

== July 27, 2001 ==
Birthday Bears ... July/August/September
From: Doodle's Page
All three Birthday Bear Beanie Babies are now showing up at retail stores. A couple of days ago, I posted a picture of July ... now you can view all three by clicking below. (Each of the bears have seven candles!) Our thanks once again to Norma for sharing her 'finds'!) You can view the pictures HERE

MORE TRADEES ARRIVE COVERED IN ANTS
Annie shares the following:
"Lisa,
I just read the article in your news letter about the Tradee arriving with ants in it. When my box arrived about a week ago, I was also laying in bed and my husband brought it to me. I sat it to the side without looking at it until I felt something crawling on my arm. Large black ants. As I live in Florida, ants getting in the mail box is nothing new and we always shake everthing before bring it in the house. Then I notice not only was my bed covers crawling with ants, they were coming out of my Tradee box! It was full of them! As I have MS and spend alot of time in bed, I can't begin to tell you how unhappy I was to have to totally break down my water bed, spray everything with bug spray, wash everything including the mattress and liner and then have to re-fill the bed and wait for it to heat up. I thought I was crazy as I have never had ants come in a package like that and just thought it was a fluke with Florida ants. Like the lady in the article, I was totally freaked out and very unhappy about receiving two tradees in a box full of ants."

TY2001
Have you visited the new page yet? http://www.planetbeans.com/Ty2001.htm

I've received so many wonderful comments. You love this page and I thank
you for your wonderful emails. :o)

== July 26, 2001 ==
ADVERTISING
(several people have requested info for this spot.. grab it while you can!!)
The most sought after advertising spot on Planet Beans will become available on August 1st. Andrea has been in this position for over a year now. Due to circumstances beyond her control.. she is unable to continue right now. You can view her "Beanies for Sale" page to learn more.

If you are interested in obtaining this banner spot on Planet Beans as well as having your ad in the daily newsletters.. contact me at Advertising@planetbeans.com

SITE UPDATE
I have updated ALL Beanie Info pages and Checklists. I didn't realize I was behind on adding style numbers to a number of the Beanies on the Info pages. Now I'm happy to tell you that you will find everything complete and correct.

NEW ADDITION
I had a hard time getting this page made yesterday but I got it done eventually. LOL I'd like to introduce you to a one-stop page to find both the 2001 release Beanie Babies along with their release dates AND
if that wasn't good enough by itself.. you can now see what the current selling price is of every one of these releases. Meta Exchange updates constantly so you can see what your Beanies are worth if you wanted to sell them or you can click on the "price tag" and order at the price shown. I'd love to know what you think about this page. Please visit Ty2001 - http://www.planetbeans.com/Ty2001.htm

Beanie Charity Auction
From Bean eWonderland
Jim sends us the following: "I am again holding an exhibition showing off my huge collection of TY Beanies and Buddies in JERSEY. This will take place on the 3rd & 4th August, ending with the Charity Auction for famous sporting personality unique autographed TY beanies. These range from Footballers from Liverpool, Everton and Leicester City, Cricketers such as David Gower, Dermott Reeve and Geoffry Boycott, Racing Drivers Nigel Mansell and Derek Warwick, British Touring Cars Jason Plato and Yvan Muller, Golfers Ian Woosnam, Tommy Horton, MOTD people Gary Lineker and Alan Hansen and many many more.

There are over 54 lots on the auction and the money raised will go to a worthy Children's Charity called "JABS" who are a cancer support unit who deal mainly with the Brothers or sisters of victims, a team of
volunteers offer support and outing."

Last MBBBW Not On Newsstands
From: Beanieholics
Smart Collecting is reporting that the final issue of Mary Beth's Bean Bag World here in the US will be made available only to subscribers of the magazine and will not be sold on newsstands. The very first issue of this magazine that we picked up was the second one (we missed the first). Now we will miss the last one.

"Ivy Leaguer" Beanie Bopper ... Update
From: Doodle's Page
On July 22nd, I reported - '"Exclusive news for all Beanie Bopper collectors!"' While checking out the Chicago Cubs Schedule, I noticed the Cubs promo schedule for Sunday, September 30th, read ... "Fan
Appreciation Weekend; Beanie Boppers named "Ivy Leaguer" featuring exclusive Ty Gear (1st 10,000 Children)". It has now been updated to read "... Beanie Boppers named "Ivy Leaguer" featuring Cubs home uniform (1st 10,000 Children) Exclusive Limited Edition."

TY2001 CORRECTIONS
I had some corrections to make to the Ty2001 page earlier. I didn't realize that when clicking on the "price tags" you weren't being taken to the Meta Exchange "pit" like you were supposed to. That has been fixed now. :o)

TRADEE ARRIVES WITH A FEW LITTLE FRIENDS
From: UGB
"I received my package today with my 2 Tradee Beanies that I ordered and Guess what else I got with it? Ants and Ant eggs !! The box was full of them .I would like to know what Ty is going to do about this? I just had major surgery on friday and I was laying in bed when I opened the box. At which time Ants and Ant eggs fell all over me and my bed. Trying to get rid of the Ants I jumped up out of my bed and almost ripped my stiches open. Now I am in extreme pain and not happy at all. Thanks to my friend for grabbing the box out of my hands and running outside with it at which time my husband had to spray everything with Bug spray. My 2 Tradee beanies have Ant Eggs all over them and I can't even bring them in my house. I expect an phone call within 24 hours . Thank you , " Source: Nancy Spann

== July 25, 2001 ==
Special Olympic "The Beginning" Beanie Buddy Available!
The Sports Celebrities Festival website is promoting the sale of the Special Olympic Beanies now where you can purchase them still! A Special Olympics Halo is $20, Special Olympics Millennium is $20, and a Special Olympics Maple for $50! The prices are in Canadian funds which means you can get a Maple here for much cheaper than what they are selling on the secondary market, and you could help a terrific cause in the process. The Beanies come from Ty Canada, and are guaranteed authentic. Ty is also listed among their Sponsors List. However, shown on the Special Olympics SCF Beanie Babies store, The Beginning Beanie Buddy is also featured! The photo of The Beginning Buddy is from the Ty website, but it could most probably also come with a Special Olympics tag as well.

Special Olympics SCF Beanie Baby Store: The Beginning Beanie Buddy
http://shopx.canoe.ca/shops/BeanieBabies/product.cfm?ProductID=5
Sports Celebrities Festival: Special Olympic Beanies
http://www.canoe.ca/SportsCelebritiesFestival/merchandise.html
Collectiblez: Special Olympic Beanies
http://www.geocities.com/collectiblezz/SpecialOlympics/
Source - http://www.collectiblez.net

COMMENTS FROM A PLANET BEANS READER
Dear Lisa,

Hi, my name is Allie. I just wanted to let you know that I appreciate every single thing that you do! The contests, the e-mails, the news pages, and keeping your site updated for all the beanie lovers in the world. This job is not easy nor does it pay you. Your self esteem and your assured tenacity is what keeps it going. There are people out there who very much appreciate your web site and everything you do. I have been noticing that it looks like you are getting a little tired of doing things and not being appreciated for it. Well I am speaking for everyone of us out here who love what you do. I read your news page and e-mails everyday. I look on your web site for helpful information, I also refer my friends to it who need help on beanies or are just looking for a good site to cruise on. The contests and news pages are just the beginning of your wonderful job. I can't even imagine the countless hours you spend on this web site and probably many others!! I just wanted to let you know there are people out there who care! I usually don't enter the contests so that other people who really want to win may have a chance. I hope that this e-mail reaches you and gives you a little boost of self esteem to have you continue to do this awesome job!

Sincerely Yours,

Allie :o)

BRIGITTE WARNING
Posted on the Beanie Phenomenon Guestbook
Got a chance to drop into a beanie store this afternoon and found Brigitte, little one was with me so she got it. Along with the other dog and cat. Now for the warning. Brigitte's bows were not sewned on, she held that dog for less than 30 seconds when she said "mamaw broke" I looked and she was holding one of the pick ear ribbons in her little hands! This little girl takes wonderful care of her babies, except for all the kiss, hugs, and things like that she is very nice to them. I couldn't figure out how this happen, but when checking it out discoved the other ear ribbon was not sewned on either, just lightly glues. I was lucky enough they had a hot glue gun going there, so I borrowed it long enough to hot glue it till I got home where I could stitch it down. Please, if you get Brigitte for a child, check the ear ribbons, too easy for a child to chock on this one for sure. Take the time to stitch that ribbon down so it don't come off and the child choke on it. Thanks Linda

July & Classy Beanie
From Bean eWonderland
Finally I get to see the July beanie in real life. I was just looking over the beanie web news sites last night trying to find a picture, but having no luck. I think July is prettier than the picture from the Ty web site... the colors aren't quite so bright on the body. There are sparkles hidden in the nose if you look closely and a gold edge to the ruffle. I was expecting to see a maroon tail, but no, it's just body color. Anyway here are some pictures that I hope you will enjoy & can share with your readers: View Here: What a funny pattern on Classy.... I was expecting some sort of different fabric, not simply a backwards "S" printed all over the fabric. I do like the hang tag. View Here: (thanks Marilyn for the great pictures & report).

MORE JULY & CLASSY PICTURES
From: Doodle's Page
Click here for Classy pics
Click here for July Birthday Bear pics

Fake Addison Cards
From Bean eWonderland
Nikki sends us the following: Inspector Bean's latest discovery, fake Addison commemorative cards. The Beanie community is no stranger to the monster of deception that so often rears its ugly head at innocent, albeit sometimes naïve, collectors. Full Story:

McDonald's Posts Lower Earnings
From: Beanieholics
Okay, we admit to being a bit slow at times but the more we read about this the less sense it makes to us. McDonald's is saying that last year's Teenie Beanie promotion was their 4th biggest Happy Meal promotion ever and YET they did not do one this year? We don't get it and we bet the McDonald's shareholders are asking the same questions as we are as Mickey D's announced Tuesday that their earnings for the 2nd quarter were down this year compared to last year. Click Here For More

I want to compliment Ty on the prompt response to my tag damaged Tradee.
From: Ms. Janie
I received my shipment on Monday afternoon. One of the bears tags was torn in half. I wrote to customer service that evening, and received the automated acknowledgment receipt response within 10 minutes. The very next morning (today) I received an e-mail from customer service authorizing the return of the bear, notice they will ship a replacement, and with an RMA number and a postage pre-paid address label. No one could ask for better or prompter service. I appreciate it!! I don't know another company who has ever responded so quickly.

== July 24, 2001 ==
Rumour Round-up
From Bean eWonderland
The following are all rumours and should be taken as just that, I have received several over the past few days and decided to place them all on one list with 'my own opinion' next to each one in the way of a star system. Five stars I feel it could be true down to one star don't hold your breathe:

"Bears Of Summer" Contest Winners
Ms. Janie has posted the winners of her "Bears Of Summer" contest. Click HERE to see if you were one of the lucky winners.

'Ask Ty' (Page Addition)
From: Doodle's Page
Several readers have mentioned being interested in an 'Ask Ty' page summary of previous questions and answers that were posted on the Ty site. So for those of you who may have missed any, all the questions and answers to date are now located on a separate page (beginning with June 26th ... when 'Ask Ty' was first launched). Click here for 'Ask Ty' previous Q & A's on this site

== July 23, 2001 ==
SAKURA BUDDY TO RETIRE?
From: UGB
"Spoke directly with a Ty rep on Okinawa. He is telling me (and store retailer) Sakura Buddy will retire this month and Nipponia Buddy will be released in Late September. Now taking pre-orders. TY oficial store in Yokohama, Japan confirmed the same statement made to them up in the Mainland. Get ready! "
Source: ED
Thanks Ed, we have heard similar information from another source, so it looks like this could happen folks, if you don't have a Sakura Buddy™ don't wait too long.

The Rural Life
From Bean eWonderland
A couple of years ago, judging by roadside signs, it looked as though the rural economy of America depended almost entirely on the sale and resale of Beanie Babies. On every country road you passed hand-lettered squares of cardboard, nailed to a fence or tied to a mailbox, announcing the availability of Beanie Babies. If you didn't know what Beanie Babies were, the signs could be confusing — "Lambs for Sale" at one farmstead, "Piglets" at another down the road, and "Beanie Babies" at a third. As I drove home from the train station the other night over nearly an hour of country roads, I realized I hadn't seen a "Beanie Babies" sign in a long time. That sector of the rural economy has moved, I think, to the Internet. Full Story:

Boxers or Briefs?
From Bean eWonderland
I had to smile when I noticed one of the latest questions on the ask Ty page which is: "Sorry, but I just have to ask.... boxers or briefs? You said "the sky's the limit", right? (submitted by TyLuvR)". Ty Warner has always kept his life so private and now the world is on the verge of knowing what he wears under his trousers, the question is comfortably in the lead with 47% of the votes. View Here:

== July 22, 2001 ==
"Ivy Leaguer" Beanie Bopper!
From: Doodle's Page
Here's some Exclusive news for all Beanie Bopper collectors! While checking out the Chicago Cubs Schedule this morning, I came across some interesting information. The Cubs promo schedule for Sunday, September 30, 2001, has changed to now read ... "Fan Appreciation Weekend; Beanie Boppers named "Ivy Leaguer" featuring exclusive Ty Gear (1st 10,000 Children). (Perhaps a new boy Beanie Bopper is debuting soon?)
(Note: The previous promo announcement read: "Fan Appreciation Weekend; Beanie Kids featuring exclusive Ty Gear with Cubs home uniform (1st 10,000 Children) Exclusive Limited Edition)
Click here for the Chicago Cubs Schedule

Collectiblez Saigon
Ryan shares the following:
The sixth installment of the Collectiblez Saigon has now been posted for the month of July 2001. This month, Singaporean Beanie writer, Tim Lai, shares his thoughts on what Singaporean collectors thought about the gift show releases now that they've arrived on their island, as well as Singapore's disappointment to the closure of Mary Beth's Bean Bag World magazine. Tim also says that Beanie collecting seems to be on a decline! Read more at http://www.geocities.com/collectiblezz/Singapore/

THE TY STORE RESPONDS ABOUT TRADEE
From: Andrea's Attic
Viewing the current TyTalk boards, I came accross this post regarding the availability and pricing of Tradee for International collectors. "greatwhitebeaniehunter writes: I am annoyed with TY for two reasons: 1. Internet beanies are ONLY availible to the USA. People in the USA can buy Tradee from the website for $10 including shipping but people in The UK and other countaries have to pay upwards of £20 ($40) thats 4 times more. Its totaly unfair 2. TY has strangled the supply of new beanies to the UK, stores are getting old beanies instead of the new ones, beanies like the zodiacs that most people have allready got, not only is this affecting the buisness levels at those stores but collectors are getting bored because there is nothing to collect, i know at least 10 people who have given up collecting beanies and sold thier collections on the secondary market because of this IF YOU AGREE WITH ME THEN PLEASE REPLY TO THIS MESSAGE AND POST YOUR OWN AS WELL IF ENOUGH OF US RALLY TOGETHER THEN TY WILL LISTEN! HE HAS TO. P.S I AM NOT TALKING ABOUT COUNTRY EXCLUSIVE BEANIES,ONLY THE INTERNET ONES AND THE ONES AVALABLE IN STORES! GWBH"

*Ty Store Response*
"Ty Store writes: Thank you for your post. We are working through a process that will allow for international orders for Tradee and Speckles. We are committed to making our line available to you at the lowest possible cost and with the highest level of security. Stay tuned for an update on this! While we work through these procedures, we thank you for your patience. Ty Store" See it at: http://www.ty.com/cyberboard/news/msg920024.html

== July 21, 2001 ==
ADVERTISING
The most sought after advertising spot on Planet Beans will become available on August 1st. Andrea has been in this position for over a year now. Due to circumstances beyond her control.. she is unable to continue right now. You can view her "Beanies for Sale" page to learn more.

THIRD VERSION OF DIZZY
From: Ms. Janie
YES folks it's true!! Ty has gone completely mad and now can officially be called DIZZY! LOL Check out his latest version of Dizzy at the following link - http://www.msjanie.com/typhotos/dizzy_thirdversion.html

KEEP TRACK OF THOSE TUSH TAG NUMBERS
From: Ms. Janie
As a protection for retailers and collectors I have often times recommended that you copy the inside tush tag numbers.

These numbers can be used to track product shipped and returned. In other words, if you ship something and wrote the numbers down and someone else ships it back for a refund you can verify that what you shipped was returned.

The reason I remind you of this again is because a few retailers have written to me concerning orders shipped. After the orders were received the person or persons claim that there was some damage merchandise and wanted to return it. The retailers offered to exchange the products but requested the inside tush tag numbers as verification.

In MOST cases the buyer changed their mind and no longer wanted to return the merchandise. This may prove that he or she had intended on switching the merchandise for possible fakes.

I would strongly suggest that you keep a record of tush tag numbers on all high priced ticket items to protect you and your buyer. The same should apply to auctions, trades or sales! It protects and helps to keep everyone honest.

Ms. Janie

Boot camp officials tried to cover up teen's death
From Bean eWonderland
Officials at a tough-love boot camp for problem teens in the Arizona desert tried to cover up the death of a 14-year-old boy, who died after being punished for asking to go home, according to court documents. Anthony Hayes, who liked to collect Beanie Babies and wanted to build a robot to do housework for his mom, collapsed and died on July 1 after being forced to stand in sweltering heat as punishment for wanting to go home. Full Story:

== July 20, 2001 ==
ADVERTISING
The most sought after advertising spot on Planet Beans will become available on August 1st. Andrea has been in this position for over a year now. Due to circumstances beyond her control.. she is unable to continue right now. You can view her "Beanies for Sale" page to learn more.

Customs crushes shipment
From Bean eWonderland
Local officers seized 8,880 of the knives in April from an imported housewares shipment in Greenville, after being told to watch for them by "I'd say, a very alert inspector" on the West Coast, said Port Director Julian Miller. The inspector earlier came across 8,880 springs in a shipment. In the customs world, where anything from Beanie Babies to Rolex watches could be contraband. Full Story:

Sly Writes
From Bean eWonderland
I just wanted to let you know That the essay That Danny sent you is a Bit off. The last shipment of 2000 Sakura beanie was shipped to The Sony Plaza in Tokyo, Japan and ended up in 2 stores there. That shipment was not split up amongst all the Japanese Ty retailers Like Danny states in his essay.

The source That Danny's quotes for this figure of 2000 sakura "Sakura Beanie World" as being last shipment even states That this last shipment went to 2 stores at the sony Plaza. Scroll down it's on the middle of their news page View Here. This throws Danny's Theory off since The "2000" Figure Is the basis for his theory and Figures on the production numbers for Sakura. Just thought I would let you know! Sly The Beanie Guy. (Thanks Sly).

IMA Hero Collection News
CHOOSE OR LOOSE
The "Your Page" section of the IMA Hero Web Site will truly be "YOUR PAGE"
for the week of August 6, 2001. It's your chance to CHOOSE your favorite
quote, picture, book, and trivia question from the "Your Page" Archives or
Current "Your Page." Just email your favorite and see if your favorite is
selected for the August 6 "Your Page." Don't wait---CHOOSE OR LOOSE.
http://www.imahero.com/heroclubhouse.html#Choose

A MOST TOUCHING STORY
From: Ms. Janie
Please visit the following link for one of the most touching stories I have ever read! I cried as I read it and I'm sure it will move you as well. http://www.msjanie.com/typhotos/baby.html

Planet Beans Comments: Have your tissues ready for this one. You will read the story as written by a wonderful lady with a heart bigger than Texas. I feel blessed to have been able to help with this most awesome surprise. It warms ones heart!! :o)

JEN SHARES THE FOLLOWING:
Lisa,

I have read the letter on Ms. Janies site and I must say it is the most touching thing I have ever read! When I saw in your newsletter today that you were one of these beautiful people who helped this woman and her Baby I knew I had to email you. I am hoping you will pass this on to the other Angels. The letter effected me on so many levels.

First, the fact that you wonderful Angels gave of not just money, but heart. That you reached out to someone who needed a hand and asked for nothing in return. If only we had more people in this world like you all! The kindness you have shown was so beautiful. I hope that others learn from your generosity!

Second, I recently lost my dog Sapphire whom was not just my pet, but my baby girl, my protector, my best friend, and my gaurdian angel. I know she is still with me but the emptiness in my heart is sometimes over whelming. And for you all to save this woman from feeling that pain is beyond anything I could ever imagine. I could not help thinking as I read the letter that maybe if I had Angels like you when my Sappy got sick then maybe she would still be with me. Your kindness has touched my heart in more ways then you can believe.

I just want to Thank each of you for youe kindness and for letting your story touch my heart and I am sure many many others! Even though I do not know any of you.... in my heart you will all be the Internet Angels!

Blessings to you all,

Jen

== July 19, 2001 ==
Not The End After All?
From: Beanieholics
(What was that line that Mark Twain used?) Yesterday we learned that the August issue of Bean Bag World that is currently on newsstands would be the last. Now in the light of a new day it looks like there may be at least one more issue after all. Smart Collecting has the info on this breaking story.
Click Here For Link To Smart Collecting

Retail's Piece of the Auction
From Bean eWonderland
The new seller on eBay was off to a good start. Twenty-nine people went for the sets of girls' polyester pajamas before the high bidders grabbed them for $7. But this time, the seller wasn't one of the tens of millions of ndividuals and small dealers who have made eBay the only profitable large company to emerge from the dot-com era. It was J.C. Penney Co. A few weeks ago, the retailer began auctioning off its 2001 spring clothes at a Web site better known for inventory like Beanie Babies and Bionic Woman lunch boxes. Full Story.

Sakura Beanie
From Bean eWonderland
Danny writes: I've put together an Essay on Sakura that proves how many Sakura bears are in existence. Thought that a Ty production figure would be some breaking news. Also, the essay includes some Sakura Trivia and a prediction for the bear's future View Here:

== July 18, 2001 ==
REFUND FOR MBBBW & SEPTEMBER ISSUE
From Bean eWonderland
P.S. I just received an answer from H&S Media regarding those of you who have outstanding subscriptions for Bean Bag World. Please call Subscriber Services at 1-888-763-6411 Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM CST to request your remaining refund. Apparently, they are offering a refund or Beanbag merchandise in excess of the value, whichever you prefer.

Buyers Flock to garage sale
From Bean eWonderland
Hundreds of vendors filled three floors of the Center Street downtown parking structure during the weekend, selling everything from books, Beanie Babies and hardware to jewellery, clothing and antique furniture. The event is the largest fund-raiser of the year for the Greater Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce, which charges $1 entry per person. Full Story:

A Happy Ending
From: Beanieholics
A happy ending for the two-year-old girl from the UK who lost her Blizzard Beanie Baby. After the Daily Record told of Catherine's plight, there was a flood of calls offering her a replacement Blizzard. Last night, she was happily tucked up in bed with her new companion as her mom and dad thanked readers for their help. Click Here For Story

== July 17, 2001 ==
Mary Beth's Bean Bag World ... ceases publication.
From: Beanie Mom
Mary Beth Sobolewski shares the following letter:
July 17, 2001

Dear Beanie Friends,

It is with great sadness that I share the news that after almost four years, H &S Media, Inc., has decided to cease publication of Mary Beth's Bean Bag World Monthly.

My heartfelt "THANK YOU" to each and every one of you that has supported us in some way over the lifespan of this magazine. I have always maintained that Beanie collectors are wonderful people-they are kind, warm, loving and have a very soft spot in their hearts. I have so enjoyed your letters, your photographs and your encouragement over the years. I am honored to have personally met many of you at Beanie conventions and shared stories of how Beanies have touched our lives. You, my friends, are the best!

I was informed of this decision only yesterday early evening, via email, from the Managing Editor at H&S. We had the September issue finished and ready to go to press tomorrow, but the decision was made not to print. The issue presently on the newsstands, August 2001 with Addison on the cover is our last.

This decision was strictly a financial one. Although the Beanie collecting market is very strong and will certainly continue indefinitely, the national phenomenon is not was it once was. The first thing affected is that a reduced market results in reduced magazine sales. Then advertisers -- necessary to the success of a national publication - quit advertising. These factors forced H&S to experience cutbacks in terms of editorial/production staff, number of pages, paper quality, etc. over the last year until this decision became inevitable.

As many of you know, I am expecting my fifth baby in just two days. Ironically, this is not the reason for closing the magazine. When Beanie World (Oh, how I LOVED that title!) first opened its doors, I was four months expectant with my Danny. I was fully planning to continue working with the publication if it continued. It was just not meant to be.

Beanie World/Bean Bag World was a very unique opportunity for me, one for which I will always be grateful. I am most thankful to our wonderful team of Staff Writers-Jackie, Karen, Jacki, Joe, Claudia, Sharon and Linda-that have not only done a fantastic job, but became my dear friends in the process. Thank you to Harvey and Steve and Bob and the staff at H&S that believed in me.

To my friends at Ty-Mike, Scott, Linda, Annie, John, Lorie-it has been my pleasure working with you. Keep up the great surprises that keep us all on our toes. And lastly, to Ty Warner-thank you for creating this wonderful product that has brought so much happiness into so many of our lives. I am forever indebted.

I fully intend to keep one of every Beanie Baby, Beanie Kid and now Beanie Bopper displayed in my collection. If you happen to see me in a retail line somewhere scrambling over the last Celebrate Beanie or Sassy Star Beanie Bopper, be sure to say, "Hi!" :-)

Happy Collecting!
Mary Beth Sobolewski

MARJORIE SHARES THE FOLLOWING:
"I read will interest about MBBBW ending with August issue, so I called the number to inquire about subscription refund. They told me they had decided to publish the September issue and subscribers would be informed individually about further issues or refunds. It is so sad to see such an informative magazine discontinue....I thank Mary Beth for all her hard work and wish her well in the future............and good wishes for the expectant one coming. M"

Find My Girl's Lost Beanie
From: Beanieholics
From The Daily Record in the UK comes the story of a family's search for their two-year-old daughter's missing Beanie Baby. Catherine Tweedie has had her Blizzard Beanie since she was born and took it everywhere. Her father is offering one hundred pounds to anyone that can find his child's favorite toy.
Click Here For Story

More comments have been posted HERE
I was asked yesterday if I was upset that Planet Beans wasn't included in MBBBW and here is my response: "I am not at all upset. I believe that the sites interviewed were great sites and I respect and admire all of the Webmasters in question. I do, however, think there were some other sites that I, personally, would have liked to see on the list. There are so many great sites out there and many new sites that are well organized and thoughtful in their layout."

BUDDIES ON BOZO
Stephen shares the following:
I was watching the Bozo 40 Years show, well, the Grand Prize game featured 3 buddies.. Lg, XL, and Jumbo Schweetheart Buddies.. I couldnt believe it!! Do you think Ty donated these??

BEANIES ON JUDGE WAPNER!
Michael shares the following:
This morning on the Animal Planet's show "Judge Wapner's Animal Court," there
was a case involving a more different type of animal... guess what? Beanie
Babies! A stockbroker who buys Beanie Babies on the secondary market sued a
store manager for not handling threats from Howard and Richard, two employees
who work at a Ty retailer. The store manager won the case. Beanies featured
in the case include the 1997 and 1998 Holiday Teddy, Britannia, Halo,
Millennium, Valentina, Peace, Strut, Jabber, Kuku, and Whisper.

Richard from Bean eWonderland shares the following:
"We have received the following email: We attended Harrogate Trade Fair (UK) yesterday and we placed our July order with our rep and we ordered all the boppers. The rep explained that their were seven boppers on the order form,even though only six displayed. The seventh boppers name is Dazzlin' Destiny. Mr TY Warner is playing games with his retailers as well as with his customers. Expect the unexpected Thanks A UK RETAILER."

== July 16, 2001 ==
HAVE YOU NOTICED...
The Kid's Collection Toys banner at the top of the Planet Beans main entry page may spark some interested in the next few days. Be sure to check out the great deals that Kody is having right now. Righty 2000 Beanie Baby for only $1.59!! And many more great deals. Speaking from personal experience.. Kody ships VERY quickly and all Beanies are MWMT. Sunny and Periwinkle Buddies are only $13.95. :o)

On Tuesday, July 17 the STYLE network is going to repeat "Beanie Baby Mania" from 10:00-11:00 P.M. Eastern. The special previously aired on the same channel as well as its "parent" network, E! Entertainment Television. It's been a while since I saw it (I think it originally was on 2 or 3 years ago) but I think Mary Beth was in the show as well as the dissection of a Beanie Baby (Spunky I think). ***WARNING...the following program contains graphic footage...viewer discretion advised!...LOL*** Also discussed are the poems (iambic pentameter if I recall correctly) and attempts to reach the company for comment (I won't give that part away!). If you get this channel, then watch it & tape it! :7)

Most Wanted
From: Bean eWonderland
The most wanted section on the Ty web site has some surprise selections, August, Brigitte and July fill the top 3 positions. #1 Bear, Unity and Tradee are 8th 9th and 10th. View Here:

BEANIE WEBMASTERS IN MBBBW
If you have read the August issue of Mary Beth's Bean Bag World Monthly, you may have seen the interviews with select Beanie Webmasters. I haven't seen it myself as MBBBW is very hard to get around here since most places just don't carry it anymore. It was brought to my attention that some people have made comments asking why certain Webmasters were excluded and why and how Mary Beth and Jackie La Berg selected those that were interviewed. I now have an URL which shows such comments. The comments ask why sites like Doodle's Page, UGB, Beanieholics and Planet Beans weren't included. Read the comments yourself HERE

== July 15, 2001 ==
Atlanta Gift Show
From: Bean eWonderland
A big dissapointment for many including ourselves, we were hoping that Ty would announce a few more new releases but it wasn't to be.

Info Beanie Polls Open
From: Beanieholics
The voting for the August Info Beanie has begun. One of the Birthday Beanies, August, is currently among the top six candidates. By viewing the Voting Results page you can view a comparison between the Birthday Beanies and the traditional Ty bears like Ariel or Tradee.
Click Here To Vote
Click Here To View Current Voting Results

== July 14, 2001 ==
No Celebration with Celebrate
From: Bean eWonderland
Bob Writes: I got my Celebrate beanie and buddy today and you would not believe what I had to go through to get it. In order to purchase Celebrate the beanie I had to purchase 2 other old style beanies priced at $7 each. In order to purchase Celebrate the buddy I had to purchase a $20 grab bag which consisted of 3 beanies and 1 Attic Treasure. I already had most of what I had to purchase to get these so it felt as though I had to spend $60 on one beanie and one buddy. I hope it was worth it and I hope I am not the only one who is being forced to purchase such a load for these two. Thanks for your time and can you find out if all retailers are forcing customers to purchase other beanies in order to get these.

Sue sends in the following comment about the "No Celebration with Celebrate"
Don't know why this person is so upset - we have to do this all the time in the UK to get new beanies - without the grab bag variation though. We usually have to purchase between 3 & 5 for basic new beanie and some shops demand up to 20 others all bought at the same time. Sue

Beans on the Letterman Show!
Well... Not exactly... Only through the "Closet Collector" does Knuckles have the chance to appear as a guest on the David Letterman Show.

The Wonderful Designers of Ty.com
Ryan of Collectiblez shares the following:
Surfing the Internet, I came across the company which actually designs the Official Ty Website! The company is called SGS Net from Chicago IL, and their website, SGSNnet.com, lists Ty Inc. as one of their clients! The company states their challenge when designing the Ty website was "to capitalize upon the global demand for their Beanie BabyT products, Ty Inc. wanted to maintain their Web site content in five different languages." Full information about their creation of the Ty website and the TyFolio is
available on Collectiblez News

Tradee Tag Variations
From: Doodle's Page
As you are probably aware, there have been various reports of 'Tradee' with two different hang tag variations. One tag (which seems more rare) is the 6th generation tag, with '2000' written across the star and the 'Ty Trade' logo written across the back of the hang tag. The 8th generation tag has 'Beanie' above the star, 'Babies' below the star ... and no reference on the back to 'Ty Trade'. It's also interesting ... there is a slight variation to the poems of both as well:

6th generation hang tag:
Tradee™
Date of Birth: June 29, 2000
Now that the trading has begun
Let's buy and sell, it's lots of fun.
So come along and play with me
I have some things that you must see !

8th generation hang tag:
Tradee™
Date of Birth: June 29, 2000
Now that the trading has begun
Check it out, it's lots of fun.
Come along and play with me
I have some things that you must see!

First Ty Japan Beanie Giveaway
From: Doodle's Page
From our email, 'Asano' writes:

Hi
How are you? Sorry, I can't speak English well. But I want to tell next news.
First Sports promotion Beanie in Japan!
Do you know J.LEAGE ?
Japan professional Football game
Shinizu ESPULSE vs FC Tokyo
21/7/2001 in Nihondaira Studium Shizuoka - kick off 7:00pm
Beanie Babies Night
Kicks Bear and Com Card
3000 kids and women
produced by Ty Japan & Shimizu ESPULSE

http://www.s-pulse.co.jp/s-pulse/pre01_07.html#0713-2

COMING SOON TO KID'S COLLECTION TOYS
We have a special surprise coming to Kid's Collection Toys in late July/early August... MICKEY MOUSE and friends! The all new antique toy collection of Mickey and Minnie Mouse brings America back to the good ole days of the 1930 Mickey and friends! Coming are... 16" and 9.5" collectible cloth dolls, Mini Mickey and Minnie wooden dolls, and Fun-E-Flex Mickey and Minnie wooden dolls! We are very proud to add this new line to the "toy collection"! Also coming in August is a whole new Bendos adventure, from Republicans to Santa Clause... they're all coming to Kid's Collection!

== July 13, 2001 ==
DIZZY THE CONFUSED DALMATIAN
From: Andrea's Attic
So how many colors do Dalmatians actually come in? The real ones I have seen in my life have either been white with black spots or white with brown spots, but never have I seen one with pink and blue spots! LOL! Only in Beanie Baby land can we find technicolor pets! Dizzy has been spotted in traditional black and white, and also in pink and blue. But now reports are surfacing that he is showing up with purple spots, and most recently in green spots! If you have pictures to share with our readers of the 4 (or more!) Dizzy's, we would love to hear from you! Please e mail Andrea@andreasattic.com

1.) Ty Inc never gives out unreleased product for any reason. QB also claims that the same day the Tradees were given out the employees were given Addison bears. It is true that Addisons were given out to employees that had received tickets to and attended the baseball game in which Addison was introduced. Ty Inc does NOT hand out product for doing a good job. That is what their paycheck is for.

2.) Ty Inc NEVER offered QB any money to return the product. They did not need to as the law was on their side. It was QB that asked for $800.00 a piece for the items, which is what she alleges to have paid for them. Ty Inc refused and told her that what she was doing was paramount to extortion, it was then that she agreed to return the stolen merchandise. If in fact these items were on the up and up, why were they so valuable to her?

3.) QB was specifically told that Ty Inc would NOT drop this case until they knew the names of the employees involved. She flat out refused to give that information which leads most to believe that she is hiding something. Why is she so adamant about protecting "innocent" people? If they have nothing to
hide than they should have no worries, if they did indeed receive them from a supervisor than it's the management staff that has to worry not the "little guy" as she claims.

4.) QB needs to understand that "protecting sources" is reserved for the media not for those that fence stolen goods.

5.) QB has been attempting and succeeding in getting into the back door at Ty for quite some time. She's gone as far as finagling her way into their EMPLOYEE ONLY party and then reporting on it. What will she do next, go through Ty's garbage?

6.) QB is now explaining the differences in tags on Tradee. The fact that she had the old tag leads most to believe they were NOT authorized for release of ANY type. If Management had legitimately handed these bears out why would they give out the ones with the wrong tags? I would be very careful of any bear that came from QB with the old tag. She may have had more than the five she returned. It also makes me wonder if other Ty product she sells is a bit warm (if you get my meaning)

7.) If it looks like a duck, quacks like a duck and walks like a duck... guess what? It is a DUCK! In the same vein, a thief is a thief is a thief, regardless of what the stolen goods are. Whether it's computer parts, cars or Beanies. If it's stolen the punishment is the same in the eyes of the law. And if the law doesn't get you Karma will!

6.) QB has a small retail store in Chicago and yet drives a very expensive Mercedes convertible. I have known many people who have retail stores that can barely afford a Ford Aspire let alone a Mercedes of any kind. Makes you wonder what else she has going on in her store. My hopes are that the media does investigate and begins with her.

More Pictures To Celebrate Over
From: Beanieholics
Speaking of Beanie Mom, she has posted pictures of the Celebrate Beanie Baby AND Beanie Buddy along with their hang tag info. Click Here For More

Wedding Party Of Two
From: Beanieholics
To let you know that Beanies can pop up when you least expect them too, my for-real-life-job (the one that pays the bills) is managing a professional photo lab. Now on occasion I have seen pictures where kids have posed with their favorite Beanies or Beanie Baby collection, that is not unusual. Yesterday, however, while I was analyzing a wedding I was surprised to see Mr. and Mrs. They were a part of the wedding reception and were placed next to the wedding cake. The photographer even gave them a close-up shot. I believe that Mrs. was blushing a little bit over all the attention they were getting. We knew that these two would become a part of weddings everywhere but this was the first time for one of us to actually see it. The two bears were posed holding hands. It was an 'aahhhh' moment. ~Randy

SPILL THE BEANS
Jen has sent in her latest article on Beanie Contests be sure to read it HERE

== July 12, 2001 ==
Rumour
From: Bean eWonderland
We have received the following rumour: "It's probably too cool to be true, but I thought I'd share. Rumor is that Ty had several Cubs baseball players sign the inside of 25 Addison Bears and Ty signed the back of them, just like the Ariel auctions. He then had them distributed randomly to the shops. So keep a look out, you may own an Addison with Sammy Sosa's autograph. (Bean eWonderlands comment - Although the source of this rumour has supplied us with information before, we agree it is probably too good to be true. I don't wish to suggest that all retailers would do this but, you have to be honest and ask how many of these would be found by a customer and how many would be found by the retailer. My own opinion... just a rumour don't waste too much time looking but you never know).

== July 11, 2001 ==
Operating costs eating many restaurants' profits
From: Ms. Janie
The very good times many restaurant companies enjoyed in recent quarters are fast becoming wistful memories. As an uncertain economy makes dining out more iffy for consumers and as some basic food costs rise, fast-food and fine-dining outfits alike are feeling the squeeze on earnings. "Everyone is in some element of pain, for a variety of reasons," said Peter Oakes, Merrill Lynch restaurant industry analyst. The inflictions range from higher prices for meats, cheese and other dairy products to exorbitant energy bills to weakening same-store sales. Still, second-quarter results will vary by sector. Once again, casual-dining chains are expected to easily outpace fast-food rivals. Andrew Barish at Banc of America Securities LLC calculates a 14 percent earnings-per-share growth for casual-dining restaurateurs but "flattish" results for those in quick-serve. Specialty restaurants could turn in 30 percent gains, or more, he says. Dropping Teenie Beanie Babies as a U.S. promotion also hurt. Read the article HERE

Business Uses Sign Language
From: Beanieholics
The message board out in front of Purity Cylinder Gases Inc. in Grand Rapids, Michigan has been used for posting all kinds of crazy to clever quotable quotes like "Should carpenters Be Paid By The Pound?" and "Save the Planet - It's The Only One With Chocolate!". Well one day, during the height of the Beanie Baby craze they put up a sign about 'Beanies'. Collectors we not amused and the sign was pulled before the day was over. Why? Use the link below to find out. Click Here For More

Saturday, July 21st...From 10am to 12 Noon

JUMBiES are the hottest, original collection of beanbag toys. JUMBiES, which stands for jumbled babies, are combinations of two breeds from the animal kingdom. The designs utilize characters derived from mammals, reptiles, birds, insects, and even dinosaurs. Apparently, the Stork Delivery Service (SDS) jumbled up countless species when they continually crashed into one another resulting from their faulty air traffic control center. The results, for example, are hilarious combinations like the DINGBAT (Dingo + Bat), the BLABBIT (Bluebird + Rabbit), and the PANDAPOTAMUS (Panda Bear + Hippopotamus).

Unlike ordinary bean bag toys, JUMBiES are supported by a complete story line describing their origin. Each JUMBiE has its' own character name and breed name on its' hang tag as well. Some of their character names seem to be geared more to adults by utilizing names like Darwin the Duckey, Arthur the Camelot or Bunker the Dingbat. Furthermore, each hang tag has a D.O.J. date in lieu of a birth date. The D.O.J. date (i.e. Date of Jumble) is the date of each JUMBiE breed that was created from the stork accidents.

Ty In Kentucky Derby's Great Balloon Race
In 1997, 1998, and 1999, Ty Kentucky participated in the Kentucky Derby Festival's Great Balloon Race. Collectiblez has research Ty's participation in the event, and have spoken with Marc Howard, who actually designed Ty's balloons and pins! Visit the link below from Collectiblez for more information about the whole event! http://www.collectiblezzz/Balloon/index.html

== July 10, 2001 ==
THE CONTEST HAS BEGUN!!
This is a HUGE contest which offers OVER 100 Bean Bag Bears!! Click on the graphic above for Ms. Janie's "Bears of Summer Contest". Be sure to check here on Day 7 as the question will be posted right here at Planet Beans. :o)

RARE DIZZY
From: BeanySpot
"Hello Ryan, I was just at Paula's Hallmark near my house and they just received a bag of 12 Dizzy the "Pastel" dotted dog. But.......in this bag was ONE dizzy that had 4 green dots on it! Yes, GREEN dots. I was able to purchase it --- as soon as I get some photos I will be sure to send them to you." Trisha L

Ariel Info Removed
From: Beanieholics
All info and pictures for the Ariel Beanie Baby have been removed from the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatrics Aid Foundation home page. Info had been in place there since Ariel was first announced. A change in website content perhaps? Or maybe the sign of an upcoming Ariel retirement?
Link To the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatrics Aid Foundation

Ariel Buddy - Proceeds to Charity
From: Doodle's Page
I have had several emails over the last few days, inquiring about the Ariel Buddy. Will the proceeds for the Buddy also be donated to the Elizabeth Glazer Pediatric Aids Foundation? The below information was posted on this site June 1st; for those that missed it, it reads: ...

8:45 pm EDT ... Sherry, from the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatrics AIDS Foundation, has responded to a question I submitted regarding the Ariel Beanie Buddy. Her response: "Thank you for your email. .... The (Ariel) Beanie Buddy that has been created for the Foundation will absolutely benefit the Foundation with 100% of Ty's proceeds being donated to EGPAF. Thank you for your support and kind words." (Although we assumed that to be the case, the clarification was worth mentioning ... something to think about when you purchase your Buddy. Thank you, Sherry.)

PROBLEMS WITH THE DAILY BEAN CONTEST
As you may have heard or read, Heather at the Daily Bean has had some contest problems with her latest contest. Speaking from personal experience.. I know that Heather is an honest and kind young lady and she in no way would be involved in something that wasn't run with complete honesty. I hope you will take the time read about this. She has been kind enough to detail everything from the beginning. It's hard enough sometimes for us Webmasters to get sponsors for contests.. and when something like this happens it makes us ALL a bit more hesitant to keep contests going unless we know and trust our sponsors.

From: Heather
"I know that a lot of you are confused about what has happened with the "Challenger" contest, and to be truthful, myself, as well as all the contestants are as well. I apologize for not being clearer in my initial statement, but I will try to clear things up. We are going to tell you everything (and I mean EVERYTHING) that has happened, as we do not want this to happen again on our site, or for that matter, any other beanie site out there."

IMA HERO NEWS
PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The IMA Hero Web Site has received two new awards!!! Gigglepotz.com Gigglepotz.com Teaching and Learning for Life Award has been given to the IMA Hero Collection for its educational and entertaining Web Site. http://www.imahero.com/press/award_gigglepotz070201.html

Cyber-Teddy The IMA Hero Collection Web Site has been chosen as a People's Choice Web Site 500 and received the Cyber-Teddy Top 500 Web Sites Award for its always-educational and always-fun Web Site. http://www.imahero.com/press/award_cyberteddy070601.html

PAYPAL WARNING
From: Ms. Janie
****IMPORTANT****
The following note was in regard to a note posted last night about a warning for Pay Pal users. Ms. Janie This "Hacker" got me too. Only I did not know not to click the links. I clicked the links. Went to the page. I even responded to this guy feeling sorry him as if he had sent me the money in error, like a wrong E-mail address. I knew something wasn't right and I wrote to Paypal, but THEY never wrote back to me. So, as freaked as I was I ran back to paypal and changed my password. I sure hope things work out. I am a bit scared. And as of today Paypal has not contacted me in regard to my complaint to them. Mine E-mail too was from James Holland. Thanks Ms. Janie

BEANIE BOPPERS PICTURES
Planet Beans reader, Cheryl, has been kind enough to share pictures of her new set of Beanie Boppers. I've created a page to show you the group as well as individual pictures of each Beanie Bopper and of the hangtags. BEANIE BOPPERS PICTURES

== July 9, 2001 ==
MORE ON TRADEE'S HANGTAG
From: Ms. Janie
I ordered tradee on the 26th. Never received any confirmation e-mail from TY. So I was quite surprised to see them in my mailbox this Saturday. After reading the messages about new hang tags I checked mine. Both have the new hag tags. I wonder which will be more collectable? Here is a picture of the new hag tag. Laurie Maplewood MN http://www.msjanie.com/typhotos/tradeenewtag.html

DETAILED REPORT FROM THE PHILADELPHIA GIFT SHOW
From: Ms. Janie
Hi Ms. Janie- We've just finished our long and detailed report of the Ty Booth at the Philadelphia Gift Show. Here it is for you to use as you please. http://www.theturtletrail.com/ttt/news.html

New Use For Beanies
From: Beanieholics
The comic strip 'Adam', which appears in papers today, shows us a brand new use for Beanie Babies...and on a camping trip no less. Click Here For Comic Strip

== July 8, 2001 ==
NEW CONTEST
Win yourself a copy of the much talked about software program, "Simple Bookkeeping for Beanbag Collectors". Planet Beans Contest Page

LOOKING FOR CONTEST SPONSORS
If you are interested in sponsoring a contest here at Planet Beans please contact me at GotBeans@yahoo.com If you own a website and sponsor a contest, your banner will be placed on the contest page for the duration of the contest.

Miracle baby arrives
From: Bean eWonderland
Jonathon Matthew Henry came into the world March 19 weighing roughly the same as a dozen eggs. On his own, Jonathon would have died. He was born when his mother was merely 23 weeks pregnant. At just a few days old, his small beanie baby teddy bear was larger than he was. But doctors were determined to keep him alive. Full Story:

Greedy for Glory
From: Bean eWonderland
The following auction was found by one of our readers on eBay who also wrote: "This is what I call greed no wonder people have trouble getting them for collections". View Here:

2000 & 2001 Hang Tags Found on Tradee
From: Ms. Janie
Here's someone who got both the old 2000 tag and the new tag on their Tradees in the same shipment!~ Andree

Tradee hang tag wrong?
ladyfootfrog (10:06 pm. Jul 06, 2001 )
Message Id: 909630 ladyfootfrog writes: I recieved 2 tradee's in perfect condition. On arrival I noticed that one beanie had the hang tag off the ear with the new design on it (star with beanie babies written around it) the other same exact bears hang tag was the star with 2000 written across it. What does this mean? Is this an error worth money? http://www.ty.com/cyberboard/news/msg909630.html

Ty Store Provides More Answers
From: Beanieholics
The people at the Ty Store must have had some free time last night as they answered quite a few questions from collectors on the Ty Talk Cyberboard. Answers we found of interest include how to check on the status of your order, what to do if you get the "Attention kids, only parents can order" screen and the "unable to connect to this site securely" message.
How To Check Order Status
Only Parents Can Order
About Ty Store Security

Beanies, Buddies, Attics Burgled
From: Beanieholics
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that an estimated $5,000 worth of Beanie Babies, Attic Treasures and Beanie Buddies were stolen late last week from an apartment in Racine, Wisconsin. Police are investigating the burglary.

DONATE YOUR EXTRAS!
Andrea of Andrea's Attic shares the following:
A couple of months ago I sent off a box of all my extra Series 4 cards and a few Beanies I had extra to a wonderful grade school teacher. She has since handed them out and sends in this nice letter to us:

"I wanted to thank you again for the extra beanies and cards you sent me to pass out at school. They were a hit! I had a drawing for the beanies and I had some mighty excited kids! Of course some weren't as happy but not everyone can win. I used the beanie cards that you sent with some others I had been given and "sold" them in two stores. They cleaned me out of about a box and a half of cards! They spent a lot of points on those cards and walked away with big grins! One little boy told me he was keeping his until they got really expensive and then he's sell them! LOL! They are so innocent in some areas. I love that side of the kids. Feel free to use my note. If it will encourage others to donate to schools during these days of economic cutbacks I will feel honored! We all ought to be concerned with the children who will one day be our country's leaders! They need to be motivated to do their best so they can be their best! Thanks for helping!" -Karen

Andrea's Comments: If you have some extra Beanies or Cards lying around that you could donate, please consider dropping them off at your local elementary schools. They will be warmly welcomed!

Planet Beans Comments: What a great idea!! Please do take some extras to your local schools. Kids these days don't always have a lot to look forward to and receiving a new Beanie or some cards can bring about such a special smile. :o)

NOTE FROM KAREN
"Thank you for printing the thank you letter I sent Andrea! The more people who think about donating, the more donations we are likely to get in our schools. I realize that preemies are important, as are children with AIDS, etc. but a lot of times people overlook the obvious. What is the saying? You can't see the forest for the trees! Our children today face so many problems in their own homes not to mention at school. Anything we can do to encourage them is well worth our time and effort! Thank you for yours!"

TY MAKES DONATION TO LIBRARY
A Ty Talk poster shares that CITY TV in Toronto reports that Ty Canada has recently made a $25,000 donation to the public library in Aurora, Ontario, where Ty Canada's headquarters is located. Ty Canada chose a wonderful time to donate considering we are at the point in Canada where organizations like public libraries are severely hurt due to the effects of government cutbacks.
Source - http://www.collectiblez.net

== July 7, 2001 ==
A tribute to their Hero
From: Bean eWonderland
Tony Haynes loved to collect Beanie Babies and action figures. He killed imaginary monsters for the little girl he baby-sat. He planned to build a robot that would do all the housework for his mother. On Thursday, his friends added "hero" to the list of things that made Tony special. Tony, 14, died Sunday at a "tough love" boot camp run by the America's Buffalo Soldiers. Full Story:

UK Price Increase?
From: Bean eWonderland
Just thought people might want to know the new beanies have had their price increased (to the retailer) in the uk by 25 pence per beanie this is only on the new styles. (Thanks Nigel)

Philadelphia Gift Show
From: Beanieholics
Ty's next stop on their Summer Gift Show Tour rolls into Philadelphia tomorrow. The Philadelphia Gift Show will run from July 8 through July 11. Will we see more new introductions from Ty this month? It can't be ruled out. Last year Ty unveiled new releases at both the Dallas and Atlanta Gift Shows. We've already seen new releases from Dallas last month. This year's Atlanta Gift Show begins July 14th.

TY LAWSUIT FILED
From: The Underground Bean
Some of you may or may not know that on June 26, 2001 Ty, Inc filed a lawsuit against Tigi Linea, Inc (a subsidiary of Toni & Guy, Inc. ) [they make hair care products] and after watching this lawsuit unfold, and watching all the information from the clerks office as well as reading the case, and the minute order issued by the assigned judge, the lawsuit was dismissed by the judge stating, in part "concerns with the appropriateness of venue".

The suit was originally filed stating, in part, "TIGI has distributed, sold, and/or offered to sell hair care products with a promotional plush toy bear that infringes Ty's Purplebeary Bear" further explaining that "TIGI is violating Ty's copyright rights by manufacturing, importing, distributing, selling and/or offering for sale, a plush bear in connection with TIGI's "Catwalk" line which is substantially similar to Ty's Purplebeary". Ty, In c also goes on to say that it is Trade Dress Infringement.

The judge assigned to the case has asked that certain information be submit to him regarding the suit filed to include, but is not limited to: Basis for jurisdiction, compensation sought by plaintiff [including computation of claimed damages], major legal issues and major factual issues. This status report is due by August 1, 2001. UGB will keep you updated as information becomes available.

Ty-signed Beanie Zodiacs Collection Up For Sale!
Nicole Moran, winner of the Ty autographed Zodiac Beanie Babies from the US Olympics Challenge on TyTrade.com, has contacted Collectiblez to inform us she has now decided to start taking offers for one or two of them. Here is your chance to own your favorite Zodiac Beanie including TY signature. When offering please remember that these are one of a kind Beanies. Nobody but you will own another one just like it. There are hundreds of signed Billionaire Beanies out there, plus many fakes, but you will own the only Zodiac ever signed by Ty, and he is guarantied to be authentic. Nicole has not yet gotten them authenticated yet, but is willing to do so at her cost if requested. She will be going on leave from 8 July till 16 July so please be patience with her as she promises to answer all e-mails as soon as she get back. Please also be advised that some of this collection will be put up for auction as soon as she get back from leave. If you wish to contact Nicole about buying some of the Zodiacs [I believe she is selling them one by one], you can contact her at nmoran5156@aol.com. If you wish to learn more about these Signed Zodiacs, Collectiblez has featured a page just about these!! http://www.geocities.com/collectiblezzz/TyTrade/Challenge.html
Source - http://www.collectiblez.net

== July 6, 2001 ==
CONTESTS AT ITZMEAGAIN
There is still time to submit graphics for the Summer Graphics Contest,
entries close Sunday July 8th, then a week of public voting begins.
http://www.itzmeagain.com/graphics_contest.htm

The "July Mini-Hunt" begins Saturday July 7th, check out the details here:
http://www.itzmeagain.com/july_mini.htm

CANADIAN BEANS CLOSED AGAIN
"Sorry Lisa.. Canadian Beans is Closed... Im sorry for the confusion... too much work, too little time" Stephen Blair

Issy the Info Beanies leaves hints of retirement.
From: Ms. Janie
Thursday July 5, 2001 4:07 p.m. This has been such a quiet day. After breakfast, all of the retired Beanies took off and it was so sad to see them go. I know that they will write to us but we'll still miss them terribly. Maybe they will come back to visit us. That sure would be nice. I know that they were all happy to go off on their grand adventures. It made me wish that I could have gone with them. Maybe I'll be lucky and get to retire soon, too! I'm kind of tired so I'm going to take a nap before dinner. I'll talk to you later. Bye! Thursday July 5, 2001 8:29 a.m. Good morning! We all slept in this morning because we were all up so late last night. I still feel sleepy though. We are going to see off all of the retired Beanies and then I think I'm going to take a nap out in yard. Gee, I wish I had a hammock. Oh well, I guess I'll just have to use a blanket in the grass. Oh! I wonder if we're going to have a special going away breakfast for everyone. I'm going to find out! I'll talk to you later. Bye! http://www.ty.com/infobean

Nipponia will be replaced by a Buddy next month.	*****
Bridesmaid bears will be released very shortly.	***
Issy will officialy be retired next month.	****
A new UK exclusive is set to be released next month.	**
Chinook Buddy is in production.	*****