June 2003 News Archives

-=June 30, 2003=-
LAST DAY TO ENTER POMPEY CONTEST
http://www.planetbeans.com/PompeyContest.htm Please enter by midnight tonight. The winner will be announced tomorrow, July 1st.

TINA'S AI BEAR
Tina shares a picture of herself and her Ai bear. :oD VIEW PIC HERE

<< my comments: La Rue has a LIBEARTY Beanie Baby that ends in under 30 minutes and she has some great deals on Chubbley Bears, the "Ty Store" American Trio. Hurry.. 4 of these auctions end in under 6 hours. >>

'He just looked at me, and then he went under'
LOWELL On the ledge of the Lawrence Street canal where their friend jumped into the water and drowned Friday, three boys sat solemnly staring into the water in the early evening sun yesterday.

Their bikes lay in a row behind them as the dark water swirled beneath their feet. They came to remember their friend, who they watched slip under the water after they tried to save him. Nearby, a few Beanie Babies and a prayer card sat on a wall, in a small memorial.

William Fernando Guzman, 19, died Friday afternoon after his friends jumped in to the canal to save him. VIEW FULL STORY

Looking for a remedy
Service helps independent drugstores contend with chains
Fran Edelman decided about a year ago "to shop around for a drugstore where I'm not a number, I'm an individual," she said recently while picking up a prescription at a local pharmacy.

"One day, I decided that even if I had to go a little further, I had to find a place that cared ... As you get older, that's important," she said.

The place she found was Bolton Health Mart on Perkins Road -- one of the many independent pharmacies that are locally owned and compete with national drugstore chains such as Eckerd, Rite Aid and Walgreens, as well as the pharmacies in grocery chains and in department stores.

There are also the Ty Beanie Babies toys, and at Christmas time it carries some pieces of the "Department 56" collectibles of figurines and miniature holiday scenes. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

<< If you know anything further about Beanies in Canada.. email me: Lisa@planetbeans.com >>

-=June 28, 2003=-
VACATION PHOTOS
TWO MORE PICS ADDED (these were added Friday morning and are found at the bottom of the page.)... http://www.planetbeans.com/Vacation2003.htm

CONTEST DONATIONS
I was thinking of having an American style contest for July with Ty items like the Liberties, Glory, Spangle, Soar, and ANY of the American themed Beanies. If you'd like to donate a prize and mail it directly to the winner.. please contact me at Lisa@planetbeans.com. Those that donate will also be able to participate since I plan on having more than one winner.

DONATIONS SO FAR: Lynne has donated 2 White America Beanies w/reversed ears. Steve has donated Red & Blue. Stephen has donated England.

Stuffed animals make hard times easier
The Bonnes Meres Auxiliary is seeking donations of teddy bears and Beanie Babies for Children's Fund, to give to children in juvenile court or who may have been abused.

REDLANDS Bonnes Meres Auxiliary of the San Bernardino County Children's Fund is asking the community for donations of new or gently used Beanie Babies and teddy bears, which will be distributed to children who visit the Assessment Center or juvenile court.

The Assessment Center, located north of Costco on Tippecanoe in San Bernardino, is a child-friendly facility where children who are thought to have been physically or sexually abused may be interviewed by the different county agencies.

Mary Alice Grosser, supervisor of the Assessment Center, said that last month 91 children were seen at the facility, and the supply of Beanie Babies and teddy bears is running out because the stuffed aninlals are given to the children to keep as their own. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

Libraries mull 'Net policies
Officials at the Sedalia Public and Boonslick Regional libraries are still considering policy changes after Monday's Supreme Court ruling that anti-pornography filters for the Internet must be in place on public computers for libraries to receive federal grants.

The Sedalia Public Library does not have filters on any of its 10 computers with Internet access; Boonslick has filters on three of its six computers at the Sedalia branch.

Both libraries require parental approval for minors using the Internet. Both also have policies that computers are to be used for education or research. The Boonslick library does not allow users to enter chat rooms.

Sites about Harry Potter and Beanie Babies have been blocked at Boonslick, said Andreas Nowag, 13, of Sedalia. "I think that's unnecessary," he said. He said he asked for the sites to be unblocked in the spring, but they had not been. Mr. Nowag said that he used the Internet about once a week, and has no access at home. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

The classic statement, of course, is the flag outside the house. But it's not the only way to give the home and garden a jolt of patriotism.

At Cost Plus in Hillsdale Mall in San Mateo, manager Frank Udall says accessories are the big sellers -- patriotic-themed kitchen towels, placemats and napkins, candles and star-shaped red, white and blue ceramic plates, which are $2.99-$5.99, depending on size.

In addition to red, white and blue flowers and American flags on her front porch, she has red, white and blue Beanie Babies displayed throughout the house, and she recently gave her son's bedroom a U.S.A.-themed makeover, with a flag-adorned bedspread. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

Ty Warner buys Sandpiper Golf Course
Hotel magnate Ty Warner, the father of the Beanie Baby, has purchased the Sandpiper Golf Course in Goleta, and plans to "enhance and improve" the links facility.

The purchase was announced last week by Warner’s representative, Greg Rice, who said, "The course will remain a public course. Our goal is to address numerous existing environmental issues and provide needed upgrades to areas of the course that have been neglected."

Warner owns the Santa Barbara Four Seasons Hotel, the San Ysidro Rancho in Santa Barbara and the Four Seasons New York.

Rice said the new management will work with the City of Goleta to "enhance and improve Sandpiper in a way that honors its beautiful coastal location." VIEW STORY HERE

A Dozen New Beanie Babies for July!
From: Smart Collecting
NEW BEANIES FOR JULY! News Source: Phyllis, IL The latest issue of "Ty Beanies & More" magazine reveal that their will be new Beanie Babies, Beanie Buddies, Beanie Boppers, and Pluffies introduced in July. The new Beanie Babies are as follows:
Toast (Trade Show Exclusive)
Fizz (Trade Show Exclusive)
Bubbly (Trade Show Exclusive)
2003 Signature Bear White (Ty store exclusive)
Blessed the white bear w/wings
Decade the hot pink bear (Beanie Baby of the Month)
Frosty the white bull
Amigo the German Shepard (Ty store exclusive)
Fidget the Scottish dog
L'amore the white poodle
Rumba the striped tiger
Premier the U.K. exclusive bear, Date of birth: August 18, 2002.

<< The latest issue of Ty Beanies & More is starting to show up all over the country. Rumor has it that the new "hot pink" version of Decade will only be available to BOTM subscribers. If this is the case... I'm sure there will be a number of angry collectors. I'll keep you posted as I hear anything new. >>

-=June 27, 2003=-
TISSUE PAPER
HJ writes: "Hello Lisa-- I'm hoping you and/or your readers can help me out. When I get my shipment of a Beanie order from either BBOTM or the Ty Store, I open the box, take out and carefully fold the tissue paper, and then put tag protectors on the Beanies. I didn't think much about the tissue paper until more recently and now I wish I'd paid more attention to what paper came with what order.

Here's the info I DO have:
Holmes (BBOTM #2)--red hearts on white background
Cappuccino (BBOTM #5)--red hearts on white background
Virunga (BBOTM #6)--red hearts on white background
LUCK-e--solid green
DUCK-e--pastel stripes
MOM-e 2003--flower pots/vases motif
DAD-e 2003--burgundy and beige stripes
HERO (Australia)--no tissue(?)
Blue--red, white and blue stripes with gold stars

Here's the info I NEED:
Sparkles (BBOTM #1)
Dreamer (BBOTM #3)
Buttercream (BBOTM #4)
PUNX-e Phil
KISS-e

I think some of the five listed above were packed with the red hearts/white background tissue paper as I seem to have a bit of an excess of that style.

Any assistance you can provide would be most helpful to me. Thanks for you time and I'm glad you had a fun vacation! Heidi Jo :-)"

THANK YOU BEAR RAFFLE UPDATE
NEW Update http://www.planetbeans.com/ThankYouBearRaffleTWO.htm

Betty's Auctions
Desi/Betty has asked that I let you know that she has auctions currently running for Beanie Babies and jewelry: http://members.ebay.com/aboutme/lovabledes/

Students' Canberra trip of a lifetime
EXCITED year nine students at Wagin Districts High School departed this week for a trip of a lifetime to Canberra on an educational excursion.

The 16 students were accompanied by teachers Mrs Anne McAllister and Mrs Nietta DeGaris and Mr Trevor Patterson.

Their action-packed week will include visiting Parliament House and the war museum and a visit to the snow fields.

School principal Brenda O'Neill said she is sure the students will return with an expanded understanding about Australia and its political and historical landscapes, and make new friendships formed through sharing such a great experience.

The trip has been made possible due to the concerted fundraising effort of parents, the students and teachers.

Individuals and businesses in the Wagin community have supported the venture.

Syngeta Pty Ltd of Albany has sponsored a student and donated beanies and sunglasses for all participants. VIEW ARTICLE HERE

ASK TY
Q: When a Beanie is released, do you get one of each Beanie? (submitted by Beaniemonnium)
A: I must admit, I am a collector. You may be surprised to learn that I purchase my Beanies at retail, just like you. I enjoy the hunt and it helps me see things from a consumer's perspective. By the way . . . . Does anyone know where I can find Soar the Beanie Buddy ?

-=June 26, 2003=-
TY CANADA COMMENTS
Heather writes: "Hi Lisa, I don't have any new information on the availiability of Ty in Canada and wonder if by now the market hasn't sagged too much here to properly recover. Hard to say exactly but there certainly has been very little information from the parent US company so we have to speculate that there are unexpected delays. As to the issue of the extra tush tag I say hogwash to that theory. However, I've wondered for years why Ty didn't simply design a universal tush tag the met the needs of all the countries. It would certainly have been a simple approach to a headache of a problem. Heather Softley"

<< my comments: If you happen to know more information about the status of Ty in Canada.. please email me: Lisa@planetbeans.com :oD >>

Locks of Love
Teacher, students donate hair to chemo patients
In three years, Joani Heavey grew her hair out, from just below her ears all the way down to her waist.

The Park Ridge/Niles School District 64 music teacher wasn't doing it just so she could tie her hair in a nice ponytail.

She had other motives.
As a part of a service project, Heavey, who teaches at Eugene Field Elementary School, joined several of her students at a Park Ridge salon recently, and got it all cut off.

Each student received a beanie baby and ruler for participating and was given a flower to give to the hairdresser who cut their hair, Heavey said. Also, each student received a button indicating their donation.

"The kids were all excited," Heavey said. "It was a really good experience." VIEW FULL STORY HERE

Room to grow
Siblings can thrive in any room arrangement -- shared or solo. But each has its pros and cons.
The last straw might have been when my older daughter tried to charge her little sister rent for a drawer in the dresser. Or when the younger daughter got a hamster, and the creature's nocturnal romps on a squeaky exercise wheel kept the older sister awake.

The girls had shared a room all their lives, as siblings often do in a high-priced area where many families buy small houses if they are lucky enough to buy at all.

Once our family decided to make the change, the girls got involved in the planning -- and the work. Nora chose a hot-pink for her wall and helped do the painting. Zoey picked a sponge-paint treatment of blue over lavender, and inherited the jointly acquired menagerie of Beanie Babies that her older sister no longer wanted. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

Donna shares pictures of her BLUE Beanie. Notice the red, white, and blue tissue wrap that her Beanies came wrapped in.

ANOTHER COUNTERFEIT BUCKINGHAM
From: Ms. Janie
Greetings Would you please alert your readers... We found a new counterfeit Buckingham serial number: 4SE5RF3H Have a nice day. Kind regards, Peggy Gallagher http://www.peggyg.com

Children's hospital seeks Beanie Babies for patients
The sight of a Beanie Baby can put a smile on the face of a frightened child, which is why so many patients get them at Akron Children's Hospital.

A hospital nurse, Kathy Crowder, and her two sons started the stuffed-toy donation program in 2000 to help hospitalized children.

Donors interested in giving Beanies or other small stuffed animals may drop them off, starting at 9 a.m. July 12, at the rotating doors of the hospital's main entrance on Bowery Street. They must be new, not even gently used. And it's especially important that they don't have any cigarette smoke odor. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

Latest Internet Scam: Deceptive Advertising
From: Bean Watcher
Traderlist.com, an internet site where collectors can post comments, both good and bad, about other traders, has identified the latest scam involving the sale of beanies. The scam involves an eBay seller who has misrepresented Teenie Beanie Babies (TBBs), such as Humphrey, Tusk, Bronty, and Steg, as regular-sized Beanie Baby styles. The TBBs in question are posted in eBay's Beanie Babies category and are called Beanie Babies in the seller's auctions. One collector states: The seller has been informed about this deceptive advertising again and again. Her only response has been to say that they are beanie babies as far as she is concerned -- just small ones (teenies).... When you call it a beanie baby, when you place it in the beanie baby category on ebay, and especially when you put a $50 Buy it Now price on it, what do you think people are going to believe.... This seller knows what she is doing....

<< my comments: This is deceptive advertising when putting Beanie Babies and not putting Teenie Beanie Babies. One thing I noticed on the descriptions of these auctions is nib or nip. Most people know that "nib" means NEW IN BOX and "nip" means NEW IN PACKAGE. If something appears to be too good to be true.. BEWARE!! :oD >>

Report About Ty Canada
From: Bean Watcher
Sharon from Canada writes: ... a friend who sells beanies at a flea market... heard that, due to the extra expense of adding the extra tush tag to beanies to be sold in Canada, TY would no longer be supplying beanies to Canada. I find this one hard to believe, since our market is considerable. If the cost is too high, perhaps TY could just add a tag by using an "attacher" (like the one holding the hang tag) to the regular tush tag). I have seen that in the past on Attic Treasures and Beanie Buddies. The extra tag then could be either retained or removed, as the buyer wishes. True, there would be a small hole in the tush tag but that would be acceptable to me. I would be curious as to how other Canadian "collectors" would feel about this practice! ... I do hope that beanies return to Canada soon!!

<< my comments: I've posted reports in the past about Ty items in Canada. If you happen to know more information about the status of Ty in Canada.. please email me: Lisa@planetbeans.com :oD >>

Some observers may wonder whether Beanie Babies magnate Ty Warner overpaid for the Sandpiper Golf Course. He closed escrow last week, buying the 18-hole links for $25 million. After all, people wondered if Mr. Warner overpaid for the Four Seasons Biltmore. He paid $150 million in cash in 2000 for the 236-room landmark hotel in Montecito. Then he tried to get the county to lower the hotel's assessed valuation to reduce his property taxes. His real estate broker, Greg Rice, told the assessment appeals board Mr. Warner paid an inflated price to acquire the hotel. Sandpiper was sold to Mr. Warner at a loss by Golf Trust of America, which paid $32 million for the course in 1998. Sources close to the deal said that prospective buyers had made offers between $22 million and $23 million prior to Mr. Warner's interest in the course, according to Golf Inc. magazine. Mr. Warner originally offered about $26 million but dropped the price in light of sensitive environmental issues, according to the magazine.

-=June 23, 2003=-
Parent: School didn’t meet child’s needs
Ruth-Ann Carrier’s son didn’t last long at the new alternative middle school.

After six weeks at the school, the 13-year-old seventh-grader had been arrested and suspended.

His behavior and commitment to school seemed to be getting worse, not better. He seemed to have been thrown into a school with the worst students in the School District, his mother said.

So Carrier pulled her son out of the school.

He was one of 21 arrests made at the Academy of Learning and Technology during the past year, according to statistics from the Nashua Police Department. With its small size, the school saw far more arrests per student than any other school in Nashua this year.

In his room, he still keeps a pile of Beanie Babies above his bed. He burns his own CDs off the Internet and plays them on the stereo system in his room. During his many days of suspension this year, he spent a lot of time on the family computer. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

-=June 22, 2003=-
CONTEST CONTINUES
I've changed the location of the Pompey contest graphic. :oD I will post some news below.. some may be old news to you as other sites have reported on them while I was on vacation.

BILLIONAIRE BEAR 6?
Charlene shares the following: This was taken from a site named, The Toylet. He is pre-selling this bear for, $1,999.95. BILLIONAIRE BEAR 6, Ty Exclusive Beanie Baby (there is no picture currently) Less than one thousand of these bears will be given only to Ty employees during the Ty Picnic the weekend of the 4th of July. The purchase of Billionaire #6 also includes authentication by Peggy Gallagher.

GREAT CHUBBLEY NEWS
The Chubbleys are BACK! Please read the full statement HERE

-=June 21, 2003=-
RETIREMENT
I've just returned home from vacation this evening and noticed that BLUE has been retired. http://www.ty.com/Blue_Ret

I will take the time tomorrow or within the next couple of days to update the website, news, info pages and such. :oD I hope you've all had a wonderful week and will continue to have a great weekend.

-=June 13, 2003=-
ON VACATION
I'm leaving today and will return on June 21st. I hope everyone has a great week. I will start doing the news again on Sunday, June 22nd. I will reply to any emails when I return.

Beanie collecting was a hobby I really enjoyed with my youngest daughter. But when she commented that there are just too many and she didn't want anymore it made me stop and think the whole thing over. Now we find the occassional special beanie and give little thought to variations. Recent additions to Meg's collection are special because they come from friends near and far, not because they are rare, hard to find or yet another addition. In the end what we've discovered is that having it all hardly matters as much as enjoying the ones you do have. No more variations for this household, the loss of Ty Canada has made that infinately easier for us and we've rather enjoyed the break from the hunt. It would be unfair to only make negative comments and I should add that Beanie Babies are still a wonderful value for dollar, a sweet toy for young and old alike and of very good quality. There's just too darned many of them. Heather"

CONNIE'S SHERBETS
Connie shares a picture of her gorgeous Sherbet Beanies with Red Decade and writes:
"Hi Lisa, I stopped by Hallmark on my home from work and found Sherbet (blue and raspberry) and Decade (red). I thought I was never going to find Decade around here, I kept missing out when they got a shipment. There was only the 2 colors of Sherbet left when I stopped so I am hoping I can get the Lilac one next time. They had many of the raspberry colored Sherbet and only 2 blue ones left." VIEW PIC HERE

PICTURE OF VIRUNGA
Sandy received her BOTM today and shares a picture and writes: "Lisa I got my bbotm in the mail today and just wanted to share a pic of him with you the button is on his chest instead of like the others having in on their back ends Sandy" VIEW PIC HERE

-=June 12, 2003=-
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
--- Brenda points out the possible reason why Bloom wasn't retired shortly after it was noted that the Beanie wasn't able to be ordered again. Bloom is the 'Info Beanie' this month so look for this Beanie to be retired on June 30th.

--- Ed writes: "Hi Lisa Since I don't do your kinds of contests I'm not sure where to send this answer [and my commentary] - but for the record I guess that I care least about the Beanie boppers and teenie beanie boppers - Wouldn't even consider getting one unless asked to by a friend.

Very thought provoking edition of the newsletter today - I must have lots of extra change hanging around as this is the second time this week that I am throwing my "two cents" in.

Several reasons why I called today "thought provoking" -it made me think about several things - One of them being about how different some products can seem to people. I don't care for the pluffies at all and keep toying with starting to get ALL the punkies but sure don't need another addiction. Would never consider them coarse in fact am surprised by their softness - the pluffies look bloated and uninviting.

On a general note I wanted to say how pleased I am to see that I am not the only phool still collecting beanies and that I am not alone in collecting most of the variations." ED Q aka Boolphrog

--- Sonya writes: "Dear Lisa, You have been asking questions to any collectors about the collections of variations of beanies. Yes, I collected all varaitions and the versions of Beanies or Bears. It is fun to hunt all of them down....thru retailers. If no luck, then hunting them down at secondary markets or flea markets or the eBay...makes all the fun to hunt them down seem never ends for me. For examples of what kind of versions/varaitions I collect depends on the the color of any kinds, hangtag differences, and the ribbons/flag changes on any beanie. I have three versions of Brittianas...Flag Patch, Indonesia version and China Version. Maple with Pride, fourth generation with "what" and "which" country u are from and fifth generation. Uk, Canada and US version of Nectar....Celebration of Canada, UK and Germany...Five version of Millennium.... rare Tradee with "2000 " hangtag along with regular Tradee with 2001 hangtag, Libearty with red ribbon on the outside back of its neck with "beanie" Tush, and Libearty with blue ribbon on the outside back of its neck with "Beanine" tush, New York Issy with "2000" hangtag, or the Vancover Issy with 2001 hangtag with "baby" hangtag and other Vancover Issy with 2001 hangtag with "babies" hangtag...plus many lists that I can write it down will never ends. I find a way to display my variations/'versions of beanies with plastic display cases that I can put it on the floor against the wall and piled them up all the way to the ceiling...I have small beanie room with all the decorations with shelfs, displays of Ty hearts, old chest opened with bears of old Ty Plush to make it more of "antique" look. I have begun decorating the room after I see the pictures of people how they displayed their beanies and created my own idea of this so called "Beanie Room". I bought the Ty Tree from Ty Retailer to display my Beanie Boppers that I also have some varaitons of beanie Boppers, also like Strikers with white/gold boots... Hat Trick Hunter with different numbers. I managed to find the way to have the room to display the beanies. I never get tired of collecting the varations or the different versions of Beanies....I am called as "VariationHunter" over the Ty Cyberboard. It is fun to be part of the beanie world with all the collectors to share the news of beanies!! I have been collecting varaitions/versions of beanies for five years.
Beaniesmiles... Sonya Saville"

LIMITED SUPPLY OF SERIES 1 COUNTIN' SHEEP
A limited supply of 2nd batch of Series I Countin' Sheep arrived yesterday. They are cuter than ever!
http://www.angelfire.com/ks2/kansaspewter/cs.html Take a look at Kansas Brass & Pewter.

TY PRODUCTS
I was taking a poll to find out which Ty product people are LEAST interested in. Here are the results.
PUNKIES = 20
PLUFFIES = 17
BOPPERS = 15
CLASSICS = 11
TEENIE BOPPERS = 9

Oak Grove grads praise alma mater
Class of 2003 consists of eleven at private Ojai-area high school
Eleven students graduated Wednesday from Oak Grove High School in Meiners Oaks.

"During my nine years at Oak Grove School, I have been educated about humanity and life as a whole," Katy Komaiko said in a written statement released by the school. "The concept of a classroom has been extended to art buildings and music studios as well as camping trips."

Among the graduates was Maggie Lin, who holds the distinction among her classmates of traveling the farthest to attend Oak Grove, according to a written statement from the school.

Said Lin, a native of Canton, China, "Oak Grove is a place where you can learn without fear, but with stimulation, where students and teachers learn together, where learning is experiential and where students are encouraged to take responsibility for their own education and not let the teachers do it for them."

Graduate Kevin Goddard, who became an entrepreneur at age 11 when he began selling Beanie Babies online, found that Oak Grove continued to encourage his ideas. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

Area summer reading programs for children are just doggone fun
Reading is a laughing matter at area libraries.

"Laugh It Up at the Library" is the summer reading program at the facilities. A laughing canine called "Doggone Funny" is one of the program's symbols.

The Nebraska Library Commission establishes the statewide theme and makes available promotional material and suggestions for implementation. How each library presents the program is individualized as the needs of each town and its clientele.

Children, fourth grade and older, get a sheet with paw prints that they color for every 15 minutes they read. They get tickets for every hour they read and can redeem their tickets for prizes.

"The businesses in the community have been very supportive," Dunker said. "A lot of the prizes have been donated. We have certificates for mini-pizzas, bowling, candy, and ice cream. Stores have donated beanie babies, pop and even theater tickets." VIEW FULL STORY HERE

-=June 11, 2003=-
COMMENTS: DO YOU COLLECT VARIATIONS AND...
---Diana writes: "Hi Lisa! I don't know if this has been noted yet or not, but yesterday my Australian Hero bears arrived and upon inspection, the back of the tags have a bar code on them. Don't they usually have "BEANIES" on the back of the tag or "TY STORE" or something to that effect? Wonder if this means he'll show up retail in the U.S. or if he was just made that way so Australian retailers wouldn't have a different tag version? I hope it's the latter as I'd hate to know I bought a bear online and paid shipping charges when he could show up in a retail store up the road!

Can't wait to find U.S. Hero with the flag on his chest... and Royal Blue Decade. I've managed to find all the new bears with the exception of this Decade and now the new variation of U.S. Hero..

Speaking of collecting variations, I tend to collect variations of special bears, with the variation being ON the bear itself (not the tag), such as Hero and Peace (mainly because I have a close trading friend in Singapore). When it came to beanies like Issy with numerous tags, I quit with one. I get so excited at the beginning of the month when Ty reveals his new releases, however, it seems back in the days that beanies were only released what, four times a year? I wish he would scale down a bit, because it's getting to where I spend probably $40 a month at least between the bears in the store and the bears released in Ty Store and need I not bother mentioning that I have long since run out of room in my curio and on my dresser... the rest are in Rubbermaid boxes in my closet, so what's the point in having them when you can't display them? Yet I STILL go buy the newbies! Have a great vacation! Diana in NC"

---Becky writes: the variations ...have me ...hooked ;-p Several of my online fellow collectors also do the variations . We have fun finding them for one another :-)

---Nancy writes: "I used to try to collect the variations. I've always mostly just collected bears with a few of the other animals if I particularly liked them. Now it's only bears that I really like. I think the last variation I bought, however, was Sherbet last summer. I saw the three new colors of Sherbet at Hallmark yesterday and didn't buy one...I already have three from last year. It has gotten to the point where I don't buy any beanies at all some months....like this month. I bought the light blue Decade several months ago and figured one Decade bear was enough for me. If I get too many "decades" I'll feel really old! I have enough decades on this old body as it is! HeeHee! I didn't even buy one Dizzy. It's sad when you see all these BEARS!!! sitting on shelves now. Yes, collecting beanies is "stone cold." But I still love them....well some of them. :-) I don't think I would be capable of going on a "beanie run" like I used to several years ago. Of course, all the people I used to go with have either moved away and/or quit collecting. So I think that is part of the reason why I don't collect so much anymore. Maybe it was more of a "social" thing for me? I met some really nice people in beanie lines and I still keep in touch with some of them. Nancy"

<<my comments: "Yes.. it would make collecting fun again to have friends to go on Beanie hunts with. One thing that is disappointing to see is all of the Beanies that are shelf sitting these days. It seems that every time I go into a store that sells Beanies I see so many of the more desirable Beanies just sitting there. Buddies just sit there too. You can go back into the same store several days or so later.. and they are in the same positions they were in days earlier. I used to enjoy the "hunt" but those days are long gone. If I wanted to spend the money on Beanies.. I'd be able to walk into a store and easily find some I'd like to own but I choose to spend the money on other things such as my family and bracelet supplies. I'm out of room anyway! LOL">>

---Stephen writes: "hello Lisa.. yes i do collect all the variations but not for much longer...i am getting a bit sick of ty bringing them out... i even
think all the misspelt ones are done on purpose...like the bo dog with the spots at the moment.. i cant believe that the spellings are a mistake all the time... even the new peace beanie is out in different variations as well. a retailer friend of mine told me that she was not going to order anymore buddys.. she also told me that sells less beanies than ever before.. people just dont seem to be bothered with them..."

TY DECALS?
Charlene writes: "Received this yesterday in my postal mail. It's a car-window decal, it came inside a Ty Beanie Master Card application envelope. I got it yesterday. If you notice, one corner is sort of stretched out, because I tried to rip the entire envelope in half without opening it first. I don't apply for credit cards, always rip the envelopes in half and throw away. *Learned a lesson, from now on, will be going through envelopes first; LOL."

VIRUNGA IS SHIPPING
Sandy has received confirmation that Virunga, the June 2003 BOTM has shipped: Ship date - 6/10/2003

<<special note: the Lacey Classic shown on Ty.com doesn't have a flag sweater on.>>

-=June 10, 2003=-
HERRINGTON TEDDY BEARS
June & July 2003 Teddy Bear Club Bears!
Currently available is our 10" classic old-fashioned fur June Graduation Bear! As the ninth in our collection of Teddy Bear Club bears, or as a graduation gift, get in early to assure yourself the lowest number! Graduation day is a huge day in any graduate's life - bring this little bear home to share in your joy! The Herrington's Teddy Bear Club logo is embroidered on the back of the gown, while "Class of 2003" is embroidered on the front.

This Limited Edition Teddy Bear is available to Teddy Bear Member for $13.50, and to Non-Members for $16.00 Of course, sign up now for Herrington's Teddy Bear Club and you will be eligible for the $13.50 price. Only 72 pcs of this hand numbered May Bear have been produced! This is the eigth in our new ongoing series of "Teddy Bear Club" teddy bears.

Available now for pre-order is our patriotic July 4th teddy bear! Dressed to brave the weather while watching the fireworks in a classic rugby shirt and khaki chino pants, he's all set! This 10" tall, fully-jointed 10th in the Teddy Bear Club series, is made of a new silky soft fabric. A sure hit!

Orders will be filled as received with the lowest possible hand-numbered teddy bear while supplies last. Due to the extremely limited production of these exclusive releases, orders will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. www.herringtonteddybears.com

COMMENTS
Hi Lisa As usual I have a comment.
Number one ... Enjoy your vacation, you deserve to !!! 8~))
Number two ... I'm with you on variations and I'm about ready to quit collecting !!!
Number three ... In an Article in Parade Magazine on Collecting, last month, They listed collectibles from hot to cold. In last place was ... you guessed it; Beanie Babies ... Stone cold !!! More later
SHeL 8~))

-=June 9, 2003=-
GOING ON VACATION
Just to let you know.. I will be gone from Saturday, June 14th through Saturday, June 21st. I will be able to update when I return on June 22nd. If you are going to place a bracelet order and need me to make something for you by Friday.. let me know! If you need anything.. email me. :oD

<<my comments: Are you as sick of variations as I am?! LOL I don't collect the various variations of Beanie Babies. I know many of you do spend the money to collect all the different versions of the Beanies. I'd have to say... more power to you! ;o)>>

IN RESPONSE TO TY'S "NEW" SHIPPING POLICIES
Ed writes: "I'm pretty certain that that statement hasn't changed much at all in the last few years. TY has always indicated that it would give priority to those stores that carried the fullest product line.

Personally I am skeptical that the demand far exceeds the supply. Certainly not at retail - almost all the stores that I visit have "specials" from time to time to try and move the shelf-sitters. The bears might sell out from a particular shipment but almost nothing else does. I do appreciate that the TY store will have stuff for only a day or so but they do have to try and create demand in some way so i don't fault them at all for doing it. Ed Q"

<<my comments to Ed: "Ed.. I'm with you on the skepticism. I don't believe the demand is that much more than what's being made. If it is.. then it's obvious that Ty isn't making near as much as he used to. Most people I know have either quit collecting or cut back to getting only those they REALLY want. I, myself, haven't purchased a Beanie for some time now. It's just not a priority any longer! :oD" If you have comments about this or any subject please direct them to Lisa@planetbeans.com>>

-=June 8, 2003=-
THANK YOU BEAR RAFFLE UPDATE
Jodi has another new kitten. I've posted pictures of this new little one on the raffle page. Don't forget about this raffle. You are helping a good cause. http://www.planetbeans.com/ThankYouBearRaffleTWO.htm

Museum opens new building
The Children's Discovery Museum in Grand Rapids is celebrating the opening of its new $2.2 million building today and Sunday. The museum had been housed in temporary headquarters in downtown since its 1997 opening.

To celebrate its new 15,000-square-foot building, the museum will offer guided tours. The first 100 children through the doors today and Sunday will receive a free Beanie Baby. VIEW HERE

-=June 7, 2003=-
PEARL HAS A TWIN
Charlene shares a picture of her cat, Zachary. He looks like he could be Pearl's twin. VIEW ZACHARY HERE ~ VIEW PEARL HERE

Jonathan Ross, CHERISH updates and reminders
Sue Owen writes: "Hello! Well it was a thrill to have CHERISH mentioned on national radio today! Last week on his Saturday radio show, Jonathan Ross mentioned that he felt a cuddly toy would improve the prize package that he had on offer.

Seizing my chance I sent along some CHERISH tagged Chubbley Bears to the show for Jonathan to give away with this week's prizes.

I was delighted to hear Jonathan talking about the bears and the work of CHERISH, along with sending good wishes to Johnnie Walker, another Radio Two DJ who has just announced that he is taking some time off for treatment for Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma.

On the home page there are updates on my Race for Life sponsorship appeal and special Race for Life Decade with sweater, the Windy Ridge Charity Draw, and news of an enterprising cycling team from RAF Strike Command, which has entered a stage of the Tour de France to raise funds for Cancer Research UK.

I have now received all of the Beanies, Chubbleys and other collectables which have been signed by American sports stars. These will make excellent auction packages as there are extras included with the items! More photos will be added to that page on the website very soon.

'Say it with Chubbleys' has taken off well and I am pleased to have received several orders already. I have enjoyed the challenge of composing little rhymes especially for those who have requested this service at a small extra cost. I do have a supply of ready-made ear tags (which are included in the basic cost) with rhymes to suit all the occasions listed on the website. If you are looking for a gift with a difference why not send a Chubbley to that special person?

Finally, at the bottom of the home page there are links out to the main Cancer Research UK website where there are details of the Man Alive 2003 campaign. This runs until Father's Day (next Sunday) and aims to raise awareness of men's cancers. There are all sorts of activities to do as well as e-postcards that you can send to the 'Hero' in your life.

Father's Day will be a poignant occasion for my family as last November we lost Robin, my father-in-law, to secondary bone cancer, resulting from prostate cancer 8 years previously. Having lost my own father to bowel cancer when I was just 10 and he was 38, the special relationship that I had with my father-in-law was one which we both cherished.

Please make sure that your special father/hero knows how much you care about him!

TY'S NEW SHIPPING POLICY
Sandy shares the following found at the bottom of Ty.com
It is our desire to make available enough of our product for all consumers to purchase at a fair price. However, currently the demand for our product far exceeds our supply. For this reason, we will ship our product to accounts that are our most supportive first. Once we've done this - any remaining product will be shipped to our other accounts.

-=June 6, 2003=-
PICTURE OF PEARL
From time to time I receive emails asking about my baby girl, Pearl. I took a cute picture of her yesterday and thought I'd share it. Pearl will be a year old this month. Unfortunately we don't know which date she was born so we are picking Jennifer's birthday of June 14th. Pearl will be 1 and Jennifer will be 14. :oD VIEW PICTURE HERE

Cornelius Natalie Jacobsen is novel young woman
Natalie Jacobsen's family and friends know to heed Hagrid's warning before entering her literary lair on Susbauer Road in Cornelius.

"You are entering Natalie's room. Please deposit $1 before you enter. Otherwise, I curse." The raven-haired, slender author, 13, has made $4 so far from some who entered her bead-curtained doorway.

While many of Natalie Anna Jacobsen's peers were watching cable TV or playing video games, Jacobsen spent a lot of time writing in her upstairs bedroom of the family's 1912 farmhouse.

Her tidy bedroom, with pink curtains on windows overlooking a verdant expanse of farm and field, resembles a museum of fantasy with its Harry Potter cardboard stand-up, pictures of Harry Potter movie actors autographed by J.K. Rowling, British flags, decor from the movie version of J.R.R. Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings," a Beanie Baby collection and pop-star clippings. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

ASK TY
Q: When you make the Beanies, what do you think about most? As in the most important feature? (submitted by froglover93)
A: There's really no set feature that I concentrate on or that is more important than another. Sometimes I may design the Beanie to fit a name I like. Other times, a design comes first and then a poem. With Pappa, the orange and yellow stubbly fabric was created first with a Father's Day theme in mind.

-=June 5, 2003=-
Special deliveries
Alexis Rogers collects Beanie Babies, school supplies for Iraqi youth
ELKHART -- Most Beanie Babies never travel any farther than the distance it takes to get from the toy store shelf to a child's bedroom. But Alexis Rogers' Beanies will journey as far as Iraq.

Alexis, 14, has collected 750 Beanie Babies and 100 pounds of school supplies during the past month to send to children in Iraq.

Her project began by accident. An avid Beanie Baby collector for years, Alexis was exploring a Beanie Baby Web site when she stumbled upon a letter sent in by Maj. Jim Barker, who is stationed in Iraq. VIEW FULL STORY HERE

COALITION EFFORTS AID IRAQ'S RECOVERY (June 4, 2003)

CAMP DOHA, Kuwait – Coalition Forces continue to assist in developing a safer and more secure environment in Iraq through the following activities.

-- Conducted the Coalition's 9th Task Force Neighborhood mission in the Al Baaya neighborhood, which:
-- Removed 22 truckloads (about 440 tons) of trash from around local soccer fields and schools.
-- Provided dental care to 39 civilians.
-- Assessed and provided support to local medical facilities.
-- Verified the clearance of unexploded ordnance at several sites, located three sites for further excavation and removal.
-- Provided security and helped local police stop a bank robbery nearby.
-- Repaired an exterior wall of a school
-- Rewired a local school and are almost finished re-wiring a fire department building.
-- Established primary electrical power to the school.
-- Welded three school gates.
-- Repaired 12 desks and built three shelving units for the Al Baaya school.
-- Handed out over 100 Beanie Babies to children at a school and to children receiving dental treatment.
-- Graded two local soccer fields, and filled in two old fighting positions.

AUSTRALIA HERO IS SHIPPING
Charlene sent me her Ty Story confirmation of shipment. Be on the lookout for your Australia HERO and please share a picture if you receive yours quick. :oD

-=June 4, 2003=-
COMMENTS REGARDING POSSIBLE HERO BEANIE FOR CANADA
Laura writes: "Lisa, just wanted to comment on "Gwen in CA" and saying that Canada was not involved. I would like to tell her as a Canadian I am seriously offended at a comment that is just untrue and with no facts to back up that statement. Although Canada was not in the front lines of fighting we had military there. Canada has also helped funded millions of dollars to help the Country with it's poverty and to help restore order. I think comments like that keep wedging a line between our two countries. I have some American friends and I have prayed and hoped for safe arrivals to all the men and women that are there. Keeping you all in our thoughts. I may agree that I wish we (Canada) were more involved but for what ever reason our Prime Minister decided to keep more on the traditional "Peace Keeping" ethics, but this does not reflect all of Canadian's views on the actual "war" I would like to comment the fact that we are talking about "BEANIES" for crying out loud!!! Maybe Canadian beanie collector's are crying out to Ty that we love Ty products and not to forget us because I think that is how some feel. I personally adore the Hero beanies and have mixed feelings on the may I say RUMOURED Canadian Hero. I think someone just started that rumour like I said a cry for Ty, not to forget Canadians. So in light of the topic, lets just wait and see. There has been no new beanies here for many months and hope that Ty Canada gets straighten out soon! Take Care and Keep Beanie lovin' Laura"

Barbara writes: "Hello, My name is Barbara Moroz and I just received your newsletter and read about the possibility for a Canadian Hero that Gwen commented on. I for one would be upset if this was true as we still do not have a Hero for Poland the 4th country to send in troops. As she said nothing against Canada, but they did not even support us, why should they get a Hero. My feelings are 4 countries sent in troops to Iraq and 4 countries should have a Hero, USA, UK, Australia and POLAND. Spain did support us but did not send in troops to help us. I really hope the Mr Ty Warner does not forget to make a Hero for Poland. Thank You for reading my comments and also for your wonderful site, I look forward to your newsletter daily. Sincerely, Barbara"

Sheila writes: "Hi Lisa, I'm sure you'll get lots of comments but I had to express mine. I think Gwen in CA read a lot into the HERO beanie that Ty never said. Ty never said HERO "represented men and women fighting for Iraqi Freedom" - Ty said "in support of the USO proudly serving the Men and Women who serve our country. Besides over 40 countries provided assistance to USA in Iraq - many did not send troops they sent food, medicines etc which was just as important. Thanks for letting me, hopefully, clarify this a little Sheila in CA"

COMMENTS REGARDING LACK OF BEANIES IN CANADA
Adrienne writes: "The last time I talked to the TY rep for my area, he told me that TY Canada's receivership has to be settled before any new Beanies can come from the US. He did not anticipate that this was going to happen overnight. We all know how long things can take in court."

JODI'S LETTER TO THE EDITOR
City falls short with regard to animals

Editor:

I have lived in San Angelo for five years. I love this city. However, as is the case with most cities, I have come to realize that there is some major overhauling that needs to be undertaken with the city animal shelter and the Humane Society of Tom Green County.

I find it unacceptable that so many animals are being killed by the city on a daily basis. I understand that the animal shelter has only so much space. But then we have a no-kill humane society that doesn't actually have a facility to house animals. It is simply an office located in the animal shelter.

What good is the humane society if it is not able (or willing) to save animals? I understand that the humane society does have a fostering program, although I am not familiar with it personally.

It seems to me that with the number of people in this city who I know do care about animals, there is a solution to the problem. But I have also discovered that no two animal organizations can agree on anything. This organization doesn't like that one because of such and such, etc.

There is a lot of politics involved, and that is unfortunate. The animals should be the only concern of all of the organizations.

We also have the major problem of animals that are not spayed or neutered and are allowed to roam free to breed. Did you know that if you live in Tom Green County and are on Medicaid that you can get your dog or cat spayed or neutered for free at North Concho Vet Clinic? If your dog or cat is old enough, they can also get a free rabies shot. Why are more people not taking advantage of this service?

Do you realize that the animal shelter is currently so overrun with kittens that they are now routinely killing all kittens that are brought in regardless of their age or health? My guess is that no fewer than 20 kittens are being killed daily.

Recently the animal shelter received a litter of very young kittens that were not old enough to be weaned yet. They were also sick. Instead of allowing me to ''foster'' them and finish raising them to weaning age, they simply killed all of them. Why? Are the citizens of this city truly that callous and uncaring about the animals that share our space? Please tell me that we are better than this.

TY STORE CHANGES
The Teenie Beanie Bopper backpack has been removed from the Ty Store. The shade that was on the bottom right is now in the place of the backpack. http://www.tytrade.com/TyStore

TY PRODUCTS NO LONGER AVAILABLE
From: Ms. Janie
Red, White & Blue and Red our Beanie Baby bears along with Iceberg and Baby Iceberg are currently not available for ordering.
Thank you.
06/03/03

-=June 3, 2003=-
Come Celebrate!
Chubbley Corners turns 1 Year old this month. On June 21st and 22nd CC will be having an appreciation day. We will be running a number of different contests simultaneously. Loads of special games, hide and seek a chubbley Contest, a special Chubbley Jigsaw Contest, What's wrong with this Picture Contest, a Posting contest, and a special contest for non members to enter.

There will be a fun informal chat ( sorry only members can access the chat room). Lots of surprises yet unmentioned. And for new members come and browse the site and put your name down for a special one of a kind Chubbley Signature! Some of the prizes up for grabs are 1 Terri Sopp Rae Decorated Chubbley, 1 Nugget yet to be released Chubbley Cub, 1 Canadian Tagged Jubilee, A Chubbley knitted Sweater, Donated prizes of Tatty bears, beanies and surprises! Separate contest details will be posted on the main board as well as our Chronicles page! Hope to see you there! http://www.chubbleycorners.com

SURPRISE CONTEST AT CHUBBLEY CORNERS
Nicole writes: "Hi Lisa, could you please let your readers know that we are running a VERY short surprise contest on ChubbleyCorners. It will only run till MIDNIGHT Pacific Time Tuesday (yes - today), but is open to EVERYBODY! You don't have to be a member of CC to enter. Please check out the contest question and the prize HERE. Thanks, Nicole

BEANIES IN CANADA
Good afternoon Lisa: There is still problems with Beanies in Canada (at least in the province I am living now - Alberta). The order service for Ty Retailers (to order Ty products) suppose to be restored long time ago, but so far nothing happened. Let's say this way the last Beanies I was able to purchase were .... February's new releases (which were available by the 3rd week on March). After that simply NOTHING. I am checking Ty Retailers on the regular basis without any luck. Has anyone else talk to you about of "lack" of Beanies in Canada? Yours truly, Iga

<my comments: Have you heard anything about the happenings with Ty Canada? Please share your comments and concerns. Lisa@planetbeans.com>

CANADIAN HERO COMMENTS
Gwen writes: "Lisa, I just read someone's comment that there might be a Canadian Hero. I certainly hope not! I have nothing against Canada, or it's citizens, but the idea was that these bears would represent the men and women fighting for Iraqi freedom. As I am sure you are aware, Canada did not, and is not participating in this action. I don't think it would be right if they got the bear. Thanks for letting me vent, and thanks for the newsletters. Gwen in CA God Bless America"

Herrington Teddy Bears Make Third Annual Trip to Rosemont IGCE Show Booth # 905
Costa Mesa, CA -- June 2003-- The end of June is always a landmark experience for California based Herrington Teddy Bears as they make the annual trek to Rosemont, Ill. for the International Gift & Collectibles Exhibition. Having celebrated fifteen years in business last summer, Chris Herrington, founder and head artist at Herrington Teddy Bears, is very excited about the future of his company.

Most recently, Chris Herrington gave life to "signature" teddy bears Harry and Hannah Herrington when he signed with National Book Network to distribute their children's book series, The Adventures of Harry and Hannah. The first book in the series, Harry & Hannah: The American Adventure, was co-authored by Chris Herrington and Jean Lubin with illustrations by Jorge Pacheco. The "official" book launch is set for September at bookstores nationwide but Herrington will debut the book as a special "early bird" release at the Rosemont show in June.

" We are very excited about this year's show," said Herrington. "We look forward to seeing our collectors each summer and meeting all the newcomers to our club. We have lots of new bears and exciting happenings to share with our retailers and collectors this year!"

Collectors filled Herrington's booth last year and are expected to be lined up again this year at booth #905 for Herrington's personal signature. Retailers will undoubtedly be stocking their store shelves with the hottest Harry & Hannah plush products, from key chains, to backpacks and 18" collector edition bears for the upcoming holiday season.

Herrington is known for pioneering the "Signature" plush category. Currently selling in more than forty countries, Herrington co-brands his plush with high profile global brand names like Hard Rock Cafe & Hotels, The Cheesecake Factory, Giorgio Beverly Hills, Cartier, Mercedes-Benz, Notre Dame University and hundreds of Colleges and Universities around the United States and more.

Beverley Hills Teddy Bear Company Interprets Wyland's Art with New Marine Plush Line

-=June 2, 2003=-
NAME OF THE NEXT BOTM
Diana writes: "Hi Lisa! Just checked my order status and June's BOTM is named Virunga! Doesn't tell me what he is, BUT you've already had others guessing along those lines! TTYL! Diana"

Keith writes: "When you check the status of your BBOM order the new name is Virunga. Keith G. ( Miami Fla. )"

<my comments: Brenda suggested on May 30th that the next BOTM will be a gorilla. Perhaps you will received Virunga the Gorilla!>

CHUBBLEY LOTTERY
Daphne writes: "Hello I thought you may like to hear about our latest competition on www.bearsandbeans.com. We have a beautiful 'golden couple' - Klondike and Nugget - two unreleased Chubbleys, as the prize for one lucky person. The lottery has just been launched today and will run until Wednesday ... or Saturday if the prize isn't won by then. Regards, Daphne"

The Right To An Education
Parents At Odds Over Teaching Disabled Child In Regular Classroom

He's a 10-year-old boy with Down syndrome. On typical weekdays, his mother takes him to Prudence Crandall Elementary School in Enfield, where he is part of a regular class with his own aide and 23 classmates.

But on June 11, his mother will take him to Superior Court for Juvenile Matters in Rockville, his fourth trip there since Enfield police arrested him Feb. 26.

Police charged the fourth-grader with assault and disorderly conduct after the mother of a classmate filed a complaint alleging that he had punched her son in the stomach, leaving a bruise.

He doesn't understand why he has to miss school. As a judge tries to determine if he is competent to stand trial, the 4-foot-2 child sits at a table, chattering to a pocketful of Beanie Babies. VIEW FULL ARTICLE HERE

CANADIAN HERO?
Stephen writes: "hello lisa...i have been in a shop today that sells ty beanies and the manageress told me that she as heard their is a canadian hero..."

SHADE PULLED DOWN.. Adrienne points out that the bottom right shade at the Ty Store is now pulled down also. My guess is we will be seeing something special released very soon for July 4th. We'll soon see! :oD http://www.tytrade.com/TyStore

They’re the ones who seem to be trying to climb into your trunk; who tailgate so closely you can’t see their grille in your rear-view mirror; who burn a half a tank of gas to pass you, only to be stopped by the same traffic light.

Now comes a national survey that reveals that at least 90 percent of drivers admit to engaging in risky behavior on the road.

We’ve all done it. Searching for a good song on the radio, writing notes, yelling at the kids as in, “Don’t make me stop this car!” Eating french — excuse me — freedom fries; trying to read a map while looking for an address.

Drivers whose rear windows are crammed with air fresheners, flags, and Beanie Babies. VIEW FULL STORY HERE