January 2002 News

... Ty Newsflash - German Exclusive
11:00 am EST ... Ty has released a new German Exclusive Beanie Baby this morning ... Freiherr von Schwarz.
Click here to view the announcement on Ty's site

... Press Releases
Ms Janie has shared two press releases ... one from New Zealand on the new Ty Exclusive "Ferny" ... and one from Australia on the new Ty Exclusive "Wattlie". Background information, as well as the Beanies' birthdays, are included.
Click here for New Zealand Press Release
Click here for Australia Press Release

... Counterfeit Buckingham Beanies
Do you own a Buckingham Beanie Baby? Peggy Gallagher notes that a new counterfeit Buckingham Beanie has been discovered ... serial # 48PRDE93. This adds to the list of three other fake Buckinghams ... serial #4HBNGFRD, 4DDB339J, and 4ZSOGT6D. Keep yourself educated and beware!
Click here to visit Peggy's site

... Differences in Sakura and Sakura II?
I have received several emails from collectors, wondering what the difference(s) are in Sakura and Sakura II Beanie Babies. Looking at the pictures on the Ty website, there doesn't appear to be any significant changes. However, if you compare the two side-by-side, there are a couple of notable differences. (It will be interesting to see these two Beanies actually side-by-side, when Sakura II starts shipping.) Beanieholics has posted the two pictures together for comparison, noting some differences.
Click here to view the report

... Just How Rare IS (Right-Eye) Cupid?
12:30 pm EST ... Martin shares the following with us:
Hi Deb, Well we got to see all the country exclusives that I mentioned to you sometime in November. Now some interesting news for you. The Right Eye Cupid ... Ty Singapore only got 216 pcs. and Ty Malaysia only got 108 pcs. This in my opinion is going to be a rare piece indeed.

Note: Amazing how he's always right 'on the money'. Thanks again, Martin, for sharing this information. If that's true, guess that's another Beanie I can mark off my list!

Added note: We have received a report of the right-eye Cupid showing up in the UK, although not confirmed. It will be interesting to see just how rare this Beanie may be!

... Ty Newsflash - Introductions
10:20 am EST ... New Beanie Babies, Beanie Buddies, Basket Beanies, Asia-Pacific Exclusive Beanies, and a U.S. Exclusive Attic Treasure have been announced by Ty this morning. Check them out at the links below.

Asia-Pacific Flower Excl. Beanies
Click here to view on Ty's site

... More News from the Chicago Show
Beanieholics has also received a report from a retailer friend that attended the Chicago Trade Show. A new American exclusive Attic Treasure was announced called 'McKinley'. Also provided are the birth dates and descriptions of some of the new Beanie Babies that were announced.
Click here to read the report

... Chicago Show Update
11:35 pm EST update ... Note: Ms Janie has also posted some updated info on her site, along with a photo.
Click here for the updated report

... Chicago Gift Show Report
Could more new Ty products be on the horizon? Basket Beanies? Ms Janie has posted a report she received from a reader who says they attended the Chicago Gift Show on Saturday.
Click here to read the report

... RyeByPost Beanie Lottery Update
This week's winning numbers, prizes and winners have been announced on the RyeByPost lottery page. Just the 3 and 4 number prizes in last week's draw were won. Next week's winning lottery prizes are:
6 number prize - Billionaire #1 Bear
5 + Bonus number prize - New York Issy with Card
5 number prize - 5 number prize - Tyra Attic Treasure
4 number prize - Smooch Beanie Buddy
3 number prize - Sizzle Beanie Buddy
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

... 'Godzilla' Update
1:00 am EST ... On Tuesday, Martin informed us that the Ty Japan retailer order form includes Godzilla, King Ghidorah, and Mothra. With these three Classics no longer expected to be 'movie exclusives, many collectors began wondering if variations to the Classics (and/or tags) would occur. Ms Janie has received an email from a reader which includes a picture of the 'new' Godzilla (retailer version). And yes, there IS a difference (at least in Godzilla so far anyway.) Check out the eyes!
Click here to view and compare both Godzilla Classics

Update: 4:10 pm EST ... Ms Janie has been informed that the photo that accompanied the email belonged to someone else. The link above will direct you to the Japanese site to view the comparison.

Note: The 'movie version' Godzilla is the one with the white eyes. Kooler of Bean Book has this version posted, including tag photos. It is unknown whether a variation of the tags exists.
Click here to see the original 'movie' version of Godzilla

... Hallmark '2002 Olympic Winter Games Kiss Kiss™ Bears'
12:45 am EST ... This year, Hallmark is proud to be a sponsor of the 2002 Olympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City, Utah, and of the U.S. Olympic Team. This is the first major sponsorship deal to be signed by Hallmark in the company's history. The picture above is the pair of the adorable Kiss Kiss™ Oympics Bears, available for a limited time online and at Gold Crown stores. Sporting their festive wardrobe and ice skates makes them perfect for anyone who gets caught up in the emotions of the games. (I love the ice skating portion of the Olympics ... and just HAD to pick up this cute 'duo' today.) You can buy one bear for $3.99 and get the second bear free with the purchase of three Hallmark cards. (The Hallmark Valentine Kiss Kiss™ Bears are also available ... might want to check them out on your next Beanie 'hunt'!)

... Ty Newsflash - 3 Boppers Retire
4:00 pm EST ... Ty has retired three Beanie Boppers this afternoon ... Huggable Holly, Loveable LuLu, and Rockin' Rosie. These three Boppers were first introduced at the Dallas Gift Show (6/23-26/01) and later (7/3/01) on the Ty website.
Click here to view the announcement

... 'Ask Ty' Q & A (and just what does 'he' mean??)
3:50 pm EST ... The next 'Ask Ty' question and answer has been posted, along with your chance to vote for the next question you would like Ty Warner to answer.
Q: When someone asks you a direct question, why don't you ever give a direct answer? (submitted by RIP33)
A: I was a little surprised to see this question receive over 40% of the vote. I really wanted to answer the Godzilla question (and fill you in on a little secret).
Click here to visit 'Ask Ty'

Doodle's Comment: And just what was the question asked last week? What is the 'little secret'???
"I hear that Godzilla and King Ghidorah are Classics, is it possible there will be Beanies available in the USA? (submitted by corpach)"

(Note: A summary of all Q & A's to date can be found on this site by clicking here)

... Lessons on Collecting
3:30 pm EST ... What do you do with a kid's urge to collect 'stuff'? Below is an interesting link to an article that puts things a bit in prospective, and possibly a lesson to be learned along the way.

By Steve Rosen
Knight Ridder Newspapers
January 25, 2002
Popular collectibles hold money-related lessons for children
Accumulating Gundams or Barbies teaches cash flow, spending limits and sense of discerning value of things. ... I know I'm not the first parent to try to deal with their kid's urge to collect stuff -- whether it's Barbie dolls, Beanie Babies, comic books, coins, stamps or rocks. These things can fill up a bedroom, and empty a piggy bank, fast!
Click here to read the article

... Ty Newsflash - Retirement
10:25 am EST ... Ty has announced the retirement of Beanie Kids ... Jammer, Boomer, and Cutie this morning.
Click here to view the announcement

... Another Cupid Variation
As you know, Cupid first appeared with a heart over his left eye. Then a variation appeared in Japan (see above) with a heart over his right eye. Now a reader has informed Ms Janie that a Cupid has been found with NO heart. You can view a photo of this 'heartless' Cupid by clicking here.

... Tokyo Gift Show
2:15 pm EST ... Martin writes:
The Tokyo Gift Show will be held from Feb 26 till Feb 28th. Ty will be in exhibiting in Hall #1 Rumors are he will announce a new Japanese exclusive ... Perhaps a Nipponia Buddie? Only Tyme will tell!

... Thanks for the info, Martin. We'll keep our eyes and ears open! Many have been waiting for a Nipponia Buddy ... perhaps another Exclusive Beanie or Bopper?

... 'Hard Rock Cafe' Bears
If you are a collector of 'Hard Rock Cafe' Bears, you may be interested in the latest in Japan. Kooler informs us that the "2002 New Year Bean Bag Bear", the "Event Bear", is sold at Hard Rock Cafe's in various cities of Japan. What's interesting is that the color of the bear changes with each city where it is sold.
Tokyo - Red
Yokohama - Purple
Osaka - Blue
Kobe - Yellow
Universal Citywalk Osaka - Orange
Fukuoka - Pink
Nagoya - White
Click here to view Tokyo and Yokohama HRC Bears

... Hat Trick Hunter - #10
The rumor that has been going around of a change in Hat Trick Hunter's jersey number appears to be true. The first 'version' showed #99; the new 'version' now showing up is #10. A reader reports to Ms Janie:
Just wanted to confirm the rumor that has been going around: Hunter does now wear a #10 on his shirt. I don't know if this variation is permanent or if it will be intermixed with the old #99. I saw this one for the first time today, but other stores that recently got shipments still got the 99. I am attaching a picture of Hunter's new look. ... Annie
Click here to view Hunter's #10 Shirt

... Another Counterfeit Sakura
From Ms Janie ...
Peggy has informed me that there is another version of fake Sakura's entering the market. This version can be distinguished by a fire engine red blossom on the cherry blossom flower instead of the authentic pink blossom. She also informed me that there is NO serial number inside the tush tag!
Visit Peggy Gallagher's site here

Doodle's Note: Be aware of the many fake Sakura Beanies out there! The list on Peggy's site of counterfeit Sakura serial numbers is as follows:
4B8G9DP8, 49F8GDZB, 49P8GDZE, 4FWEZTKT, 4FROEAQZ, 47P8B6GD, 4E6GBA8Z, 48GEZ07P, 4UP0ERG9, 40GEA78G, LP0U887U

... Ty Newsflash - Retirement (Clubby IV 'Group' Retires)
11:25 am EST ... As you know, January 18th was the last day to be able to order the BBOC Clubby IV Beanie Buddy, Cuddly Crystal Beanie Bopper, and/or Clubby Jingle Beanies. (The offer had been extended twice.) This morning, Ty has officially announced the retirement of these, as well as the Clubby IV Beanie Baby.
Click here to view the announcement

... "Godzilla Trio" Available to Order in Japan!
11:45 am EST ... When first introduced, it was suspected that Godzilla, King Ghidorah, and Mothra were 'movie exclusives'. However, apparently there's a new twist now! Martin informs us this morning of the following:

Hi Deb. Hope all is well. Just got our order forms from Ty Japan a few minutes ago and... We can order Godzilla, King Ghidorah and Mothra as part of the regular order. So much for these items only being available thru the cinema.
Take Care Martin

Also Kyoto has been removed from the Ty Japan order form so I guess Ty Japan is finally starting to follow the policy of not selling retired items.

... Speckles Buddy
1:30 pm EST ... As you are probably aware, several collectors are reporting that the Speckles Beanie Buddy is now being shipped. (That's quite fast, considering it was just introduced on January 10th.) 'Will' has sent pictures of this Buddy, along with hang and tush tag information.

Hi, Speckles Buddy came in today and I thought that you would like some pictures.
The Tush tag says: 100% Ty Dye Tylon
The Hang Tag says: Speckles was the first Beanie Baby sold only on Ty's website.
Will
Click here for image

Note: Update ... 4:50 pm EST ... Brandon has also sent pics, including the tush tag (viewable at the above link).

Thanks to both of you!

... Coral Casino Beanie Baby Silently Retires
Although not really surprising, the Coral Casino Beanie has quietly been listed in the retired section of Ty's site now.
Click here to view Ty's Retired Beanies Listings

... Thank You!
Thanks to all of you that sent Birthday wishes to me yesterday (some of the cards were hilarious!) You guys are the best! ... (And by the way ... nope I don't tell my age, but having a college-age daughter, that's pretty simple to figure out.)

Along with the '40's' comes the reminder that we're not getting any younger ... my reminder was a few days ago when I slipped on a freshly mopped kitchen floor and injured my neck. (I know, I know ... GO GRACE!) I've had previous surgery due to a neck injury from a car accident ... this was hopefully just a 'refresher course' to be a little more careful. It does NOT have anything to do with age (does it?) :)

At any rate, I still need to answer a few emails and get the next contest launched (which will be SOON) ... but I'm getting there. The next few weeks should be exciting ... there's lots to come, so keep watching! (I don't think I'll move out of this chair! LOL)

... "Will You Beanie My Valentine?"
Sizzle, Smooch, Romance, and KissMe are all ready for your kiss and cuddles this Valentine's Day. These adorable Ty Beanie Baby and Beanie Buddy bears have arrived in stores and are tipped to be the hottest gift items for your special Valentine. Click the link below to read the Australian press release on Ms Janie's site.
Australian Press Release

... Fake Signature on Clubby IV Buttons
Ms Janie alerts us ... Please view the link below carefully and become familiar with Ty's signature ... be careful not to purchase a fake signed Clubby IV. There has obviously been some tampering with the buttons for the counterfeits to be able to get into them to forge the signature.
Info on Clubby IV Forged Signatures

... Celebrity Bears News
The Celebrity Bears January newsletter brings news of many exciting events. They have recently introduced the 100th Celebrity Bear ... the Namesake Line continues to grow in popularity and in production ... 25 new names are coming soon. Also, two new Wizard Celebrity Bears have been added to the line up which will be available in February. For more details, click the link below.
Celebrity Bears January newsletter

... RyeByPost Beanie Lottery Update
This week's winning numbers, prizes and winners have been announced on the Rye By Post lottery page. Just the 3 and 4 number prizes in last week's draw were won. Next week's winning lottery prizes are:
6 number prize - Billionaire #1 Bear.
5 + Bonus number prize - New York Issy with Card.
5 number prize - Tyra Attic.
4 number prize - Kissme Beanie Baby.
3 number prize - Romance 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

... BBOC Store Offers Close
Well, yesterday was the last day to be able to order the BBOC Clubby IV Beanie Buddy, Cuddly Crystal Beanie Bopper, and/or Clubby Jingle Beanies. The offer had been extended twice over the last few weeks and is now officially closed. The page now reads: "Sorry, this offer is no longer available." "NEW 'MEMBERS ONLY' OFFERS COMING SOON!" Unfortunately, if you lived outside the U.S., you were never able to order them online.
Click here to visit the BBOC

... 'Ask Ty' Q & A
The next 'Ask Ty' question and answer has been posted, along with your chance to vote for the next question you would like Ty Warner to answer.
Q: When you make Beanies that have profits donated to charitable funds, do you just decide to make those or do the charities ask you to help them out with your creations? (submitted by Prairie*Mountain*Maple)
A: I'm sure you all know the story behind America, Rescue and Courage. I created these Beanies and contacted the American Red Cross and the Widow and Children's Benefit Fund. The one common thread that all charitable Beanies share is you. Thank you for your continued support.
Click here to visit 'Ask Ty'
(Note: A summary of all Q & A's to date can be found on this site by clicking here)

... Ty Newsflash - Retirement
Ty has retired Midnight the Beanie Baby this morning. Midnight was shown on Ty's website on 4-26-01, with an introduction date of 5-1-01.
Click here to view the announcement

... BBOC Offers
11:45 am EST ... Today is (supposedly) the last day to place your order for the BBOC exclusive items. The site currently reads "It's not too late ... You still have time? All BBOC exclusive items will be available to order through January 18th, 2002." If you haven't placed your order yet, I'd advise you to do so right away.
Click here to visit the BBOC

... 'Teenie Beanie Boppers' at McDonalds
Looks like Sly is on the ball! He writes to Ms Janie:
Looks Like the rumors were right! Ty has applied to register 2 new Trademarks. According to the US Trademark database on December 27,2001 Ty applied to register a trademark on "The Teenie Beanie Bopper Collection" and "Teenie Beanie Boppers" Ty lists "plush Toys" as the good and services for both of these 2 new trademarks. I Guess Ty collectors will be heading to McDonalds this year for burgers, fries and Teenie boppers!-LOL
Have a Great Day and Weekend!
Sly The Beanie Guy

... Cupid Variation - Update
As you may recall, on January 4th, Martin informed us of a variation of Cupid - to be showing up in Singapore, Malaysia, and Japan "in a week or so". And sure enough, on January 12th, Cupid showed up in Japan 'winking' with his right eye! Our friend Kooler has now posted some great close-up pictures of both of the variations! (Thanks again to both of you for doing such a wonderful job of keeping us informed!)

... Spunky Sammie - BD
We have been informed that Spunky Sammie is shipping now; his birthday is June 8. Our Beanie Boppers page is now completely up to date, with the exception of Paula Plappertasche's birthday.
... Thanks to Robert for letting us know Sammie's BD.

... Canadian Shipments
If you ever ship to Canada, you may want to read this. Heather Softley (Canadian Perspectives author of The Daily Bean) writes a detailed article concerning problems with shipping to Canada and ways to get around it.
Click here to read the article
... Thanks to Heather of The Daily Bean for sharing this with us

... Plappertasche?
12:10 pm EST ... Looking back over the names of the Beanie Boppers, it appears that most of them have descriptive names, such as 'Pretty Patty', 'Bubbly Betty', etc. (Of course, Ivy Leaguer, Footie, and Bronx Bomber do not.) So, all four 'country Exclusives' have a different approach to their name. Now you may wonder, what in the world is 'plappertasche'? Where did the word come from? I looked it up in the German / English dictionary with no luck. However, a posting on the Cyberboard this morning has an idea:
"I think it comes from Plaudertasche meaning Chatterbox.:)nm"
Click here to view the post

... Ty Rep Ad
Looks like there may soon be a new Ty Rep in the Kentucky area. Randy at Beanieholics has posted an Ad found in his local paper. Now, the question is ... will he or won't he??
Click here to view the ad

... The Truth about the Real Sakura Tags
As a follow-up to yesterday's news regarding the hang tag on Sakura Beanie Babies, Ms Janie has posted an article which you may wish to check out. Pictures of both versions are posted as well.
Click here to read the article

... Ty Newsflash - New German Beanie Bopper™
Around 4:30 this afternoon, I surfed over to check out the Ty website. There was a newsflash announced on the main page, with a link to 'releases.ty.com'. However, the link did not work. The newsflash has now been (re)posted, with the announcement of a new German Beanie Bopper Exclusive ... 'Paula Plappertasche'. She's a cutie! (No homepage has been linked yet for this Bopper.)
Click here to view the announcement

... Sakura Beanie Baby - Real or Counterfeit?
7:05 pm EST ...As you may be aware, collectors have been concerned lately regarding the authenticity of certain Sakura Beanie Babies, specifically in regards to the hang tag - with or without a (.) <period> after the word "age".
Ms Janie writes:
I have received MUCH e-mail about Sakura's hangtag and the (.) period after the word age. I can tell you that I believe the first batch released did not have a period while the later releases did. Don't panic or ship your Beanies back for authentication yet! More news to follow!

7:40 pm Update: Mary Beth writes the following on the Cyberboard:
" .... The Sakura tag information was printed (in the magazine) based on all available information at press time. Since that time it has been verified that there are two authentic versions of the Sakura hang tag; one with a "period" after the word "age and one without. ...."
Click here to read the Cyberboard message

... Ian Thorpe Signed 'America' Bear
Ian Thorpe's signed 'America Bear' Beanie Baby has been sold to the highest bidder for $1,475 on http://www.sold.com.au. The Australian Olympic and World swimming champion signed the bear to raise funds to assist the children of Australian families of the September 11 tragedy. All proceeds of the signed bear have gone to Ian Thorpe's Foundation for Youth Trust, a trust established to assist the charity organizations that support children who are facing great difficulties and challenges in their lives due to the illnesses they face.
... Source: Ms Janie

... Ty - UK Packaging/Shipping Changes
RyeByPost has informed us of a letter that has been sent to UK Ty retailers, in which there is a change in the way their orders will be packaged and shipped.
Click here to view the letter

... 'Bean Bag World UK' Website Launch
Daphne Roberts, editor of the 'Bean Bag World' UK magazine, has informed us of the launching of their website ( www.beanbagworld.info ). She writes:

"We'd only originally intended to launch a forum for people to share news and views, but it grew like Topsy! We're not intending to be a news site, as there are plenty of people doing a great job out there already, but we shall have information on the latest and back issues of the magazine, subscription details, links to manufacturers' sites as well as those of our contributors and advertisers. We hope that people will use the forum to give us direct feedback, suggest ideas for future features in Bean Bag World and also to have fun with other collectors."

... Cupid Variation!
2:10 pm EST ... Well, Martin was 'right on the money' again! (See below). A variation of Cupid has now been found, (in Japan), with the heart on his right eye. Our friend 'Kooler' from Bean Book writes "there is a type in which the heart (mark) of Cupid is on the left side and a type on the right hand side." (Hopefully, we can post a picture soon.) Way to go, Martin!

**********************
January 4, 2002
Cupid Variation!!!
11:30 am EST ... Just as we've been wondering, a variation of Cupid appears to around the corner. One of our readers writes the following:
Hi Deb.
Hope all is well and that you had a great New Year. Was with the people from Ty SNG for dinner last night and got to see the new Cupid that will be released here in a week or so. Cupid has the heart on the other eye.. I guess Cupid is going to be exploited like her brother Dizzy..
BTW this varitation is only going to be be for SNG , Malaysia and JPN
Feel free to share, All the best, Martin

... Thanks for sharing, Martin. That IS quite interesting ... we'll be watching. :)
**********************

A sincere thanks to Martin and Kooler for keeping us updated with the latest news 'across the waters'!

... "A Special Invitation From Ty"
1:10 pm EST ... We have received the following email from Ty concerning the Speckles Beanie Buddy:

From: Special Offer
We're having an Open House and you're invited ! We have done some major remodeling at the Ty Store and would love to have you stop by and see what's new. We know you're busy, but try to take time out to meet Speckles the Beanie Buddy (and don't forget to say hi to Tradee too). Click here www.tytrade.com/TyStore and we'll have Rescue and Courage meet you at the door. We look forward to seeing you.
P.S. Rumor has it that this is a very limited appearance by Speckles so stop by soon.

Note: Thanks to several readers who also sent us the information. And what's interesting is that 'D.J." (from the UK) also received the same message (although collectors in the UK STILL cannot order).

... Dallas Gift Show Report
12:55 pm EST ... A reader who attended the Dallas Gift Show has sent a report to Ms. Janie.
Click here for the Gift Show Report

... Beanie Bopper Page Updated
12:50 am EST ... A few readers have written to us recently stating that they were interested in a complete Beanie Bopper list, specifically with birthdays. The Beanie Bopper page has now been updated, with pictures, birthdays, release dates, and more. There are a few listed without birthdays ... if you have one of the missing dates, we would love hearing from you ... email webmaster@doodlespage.com.
Click here to view the Beanie Bopper page

2:00 pm EST ... Update: Thanks to ALL of you who have written in with the needed information. The only birthdays needed now to complete the list now are Spunky Sammie and Ivy Leaguer. If you know their birthdays, please email at the above address.

... RyeByPost Beanie Lottery Update
This week's winning numbers, prizes and winners have been announced on the Rye By Post lottery page. Just the 3 and 4 number prizes in last week's draw were won. Next week's winning lottery prizes are:
6 number prize - Billionaire #1 Bear.
5 + Bonus number prize - New York Issy with Card.
5 number prize - Tyra Attic.
4 number prize - Sewn On Patch Britannia Beanie Baby.
3 number prize - Unity 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

... Gift Shows
The Dallas Gift Show, as well as the Atlanta Gift Show, both begin today. Will there be some new introductions? ... We'll keep you posted. The dates are are follows:
Dallas Gift Show ... January 12 - 15
Atlanta Gift Show .. January 12 - 16
Note: Click here for Ty's Winter Trade Show Schedule on Ms Janie's site

... Ty-Signed Zodiac Raffle - Update
Nicole informs us that the rules of the Ty-Signed Zodiac Raffle have changed a bit. Now the winner of the raffle will have his/her choice of the following authenticated Ty-signed Zodiac Beanies: Monkey - Rooster - Goat - Ox - Horse. Further details can be found by clicking here.

... Counterfeit Buckingham Beanie
Another Counterfeit Buckingham has been discovered. Peggy Gallagher writes:
**IMPORTANT** Please alert your members:
Another counterfeit Buckingham has been discovered today!
The serial number is: 4ZSOGT6D
A total of 3 counterfeit Buckingham Beanies discovered so far:
serial #'s: 4HBNGFRD, 4DDB339J, and 4ZSOGT6D
This is really very very sad. )O: Please remind everyone to check their Buckingham to see if they have any of these counterfeit Ty Buckingham Beanies. Thanks and sorry for the bad news. Sincerely, Peggy Gallagher
Beanie Phenomenon
... Source: Ms. Janie

... Ty Newsflash
4:30 pm EST ... Following the recent retirement of Speckles Beanie Baby, Ty has now introduced the Speckles Buddy, only available through Ty Store. While visiting Ty Store, check out the new look!
Click here to view the announcement
Click here to visit Ty Store

... Speaking of Exclusives ...
5:50 pm EST ... A German Ty Retailer has sent Ms Janie a copy of a letter, mentioning a NEW German Exclusive Beanie Baby.
Click here for more information

... New Exclusive Beanies Soon?
4:30 pm EST ... As you may recall, last month we posted some information shared from Martin of new January 'potential' Beanies and Buddies, along with their style numbers. (See December 13 news archives). We must commend him for passing along this info; he was right 'on the money'. Also mentioned at that time were new ('potential') country Exclusives, specifically in the Asian market (Australia/New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, and Malaysia). Potential, of course, meaning unofficial ... as not yet announced by Ty. Now wouldn't these Exclusives be an exciting 'twist' for early 2002?! Martin has been quite reliable in the past, so we shall see!

... 'Bean Bag World' Magazine - February Issue
'Bean Bag World' magazine's February issue hits the newstands in the UK today. Daphne sends us information on what's included in this issue, as well as a photo of the cover.
Click here for magazine review and photo

... 1 + 2 = 4 or 1 + 3 = 3?
OK! So now you're confused? Just count the lambs! Randy at Beanieholics points out an interesting observation. The hang tag of the Fleece Buddy reads: "Fleece the Beanie Baby was one of three lambs; can you name the other two?" If we count correctly, there's Chops, Ewey, Fleece and Fleecie.
Click here to view the Fleece Buddy hang tag

... Buddies with "Ty Hair"
There are specifically two new Buddies that are sporting the new "Shell 100% Tyhair" material ... Sizzle and Trotter. Ms Janie has posted a photo of the tush tag showing this newer material on these Buddies, as well as photos of Trotter.
Click here to view the photos

... "Max"?
Ms Janie has information about a possible new Beanie spotted on the UK order form, style #4611.
Click here for more information

... Altered Pins on Clubby IV Beanies
Peggy Gallagher notes the following:
There appears to be many altered Ty signed Clubby 4's with the cracked and damaged buttons. Someone is trying to claim the button is damaged and copying Ty's signature. Ty only signed the inside of the Clubby 4 button. So if anyone is buying or selling a damaged ty signed Clubby 4 button it is very suspicious and should not be purchased and or sold! This is an altered Ty Beanie Baby and is not authentic. This is important and everyone should be very careful and BUYER BEWARE! The button should not be cracked or damaged in any way!
... Source: Ms Janie

... Ty-Autographed Zodiacs - Update
As you may remember, Nicole Moran was the lucky winner of last years' Ty Trade Olympics Challenge Contest ... the prize being a set of Beanie Zodiacs signed by Ty Warner. These are the only Ty-signed Zodiacs in existance. She has now made a website of these Zodiacs, and notes which ones are still available for purchase. She writes the following:

Hi Deb,
just thought you and your readers might be interested in knowing that I have put together a web page with lots of pictures and some info on the Ty signed Zodiacs at www.geocities.com/tysigned. Yes, I am still trying to sell some of them - LOL - but I though even people who can't afford them might be interested in just stopping by to look at the pictures, and maybe sign my guestbook and let me know what they think of my site. I also have an "about me" page, so people can read how I came to own these special Beanies, and what has happened to the collection since I got them.
Nicole
P.S. Lisa (from Planetbeans) and I are working on a little surprise for one of the Ty signed Zodiacs - more info soon!

Update: Lisa at Planet Beans has now informed us of the following:
TY-SIGNED ZODIAC RAFFLE
Planet Beans is pleased to help Nicole raffle off one of her prized Ty-Signed Zodiacs. YOU will have a chance to own a TY-SIGNED HORSE ZODIAC complete with the CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY since it has been authenticated. Visit HERE to learn how: http://www.planetbeans.com/ZodiacRaffle.htm
-smiles
Lisa

... Ty's Winter Trade Show Schedule
Ms Janie has posted a list of the 2002 Winter Trade Shows being attended by Ty.
Click here for Ty's Winter Trade Show Schedule

... Win a Set of the Nine New Beanies
RyeByPost has added a contest to win a set of the nine new Beanie Babies (Clover, Carrots, Cottonball, Chickie, Eggs II, February BD Bear, Kissme, Spring and Romance). This contest is exclusive to Members only - all you need to do is enter you ID number. The closing date for entries if February 11, 2002.
Click here for contest details

... Celebriducks
Although this is not Beanie-related, I just had to share this link with you. A while back, I came across this site ... Celebriducks. These celebrity bath tub ducks include entertainment, athletics, and history ducks, from The Three Stooges to Babe Ruth to Shakespeare. With some new recent additions, I thought you may enjoy a quick peek at them. :)
Click here to visit the Celebriducks website

Note: Don't worry! I haven't truly lost it. We recently had almost a foot of snow, and the cabin walls are closing in quick! You must admit, they are cute though! Maybe I need that 'Beanie hunt' fix soon ... please MELT snow!!!

... Philadelphia Show Report
The Philadelphia Show, with Ty in attendance, began yesterday. Although nothing new was introduced at the Show, one of Ms Janie's readers that attended has reported some interesting observations.
Click here to read the report

... Rare 'Coral Casino' Beanie on eBay
A rare Beanie Baby, 'Coral Casino', is now on eBay. It is number 275/588. The bear is coral colored and has a teal ribbon, and embroidered on the right chest is 'Coral Casino. The bears were a gift at a December 9, 2001, Open House reception dinner for members only of The Coral Casino Beach and Cabana Club (at the Santa Barbara Biltmore Hotel).
Click here to view the auction, with photos
... Source: Ms Janie

... New Beanie Tush Tag
Along with the new hang tag, Ty has also made a new Beanie tush tag. Ms Janie has provided a great photo you may want to take a peek at!
Click here to view the new tush tag

... New Attic Treasures
Think ... Barrymore, Flynn, and Lancaster! Why these names? Is there a connection? Have you seen all three of these new Attics together? A reader has provided Ms Janie with some interesting possibilities, or should we say probabilities.
Click here to view pics and read the connection

... RyeByPost Beanie Lottery Update
This week's winning numbers, prizes and winners have been announced on the Rye By Post lottery page ... Just the 3 and 4 number prizes in last week's draw were won. Next week's winning lottery prizes are:
6 number prize - Billionaire #1 Bear.
5 + Bonus number prize - New York Issy with Card.
5 number prize - Unity Beanie and Buddy Duo.
4 number prize - Buckingham Beanie Buddy.
3 number prize - Unity Beanie Buddy.
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 view RyeByPost

... Contest at Planet Beans
Lisa shares the following:
PLANET BEANS is having another great contest sponsored by BeanieTown-USA. One winner will receive a great Valentine Set which consists of: SMOOCH Beanie & Buddy, SIZZLE Beanie & Buddy. Answer one simple question each day of the month to gain daily entries. The answers are given on the sponsors site to make it quite easy on participants. Read the CONTEST page to see how to gain BONUS & EXTRA entries. A random draw of all correct entries will take place on February 1st so the winner will receive their Valentines set in time for Valentines Day. http://www.planetbeans.com/January2002Contest.htm
-smiles
Lisa

... New Buddy Hang Tag Info
Ms. Janie has posted the Buddy hang tag info for Sizzle, Smooch, and Shamrock. (Smooch is quite interesting, wouldn't ya say?! Can you imagine a Bear with YOUR lip prints on it? :)
Click here to visit Ms Janie's site

1:00 pm EST ... Added Note: One of our readers, Will, also informs us of the hang tag info for the Regal Buddy ... interesting!
Regal the Beanie Baby escaped from the factory before his red collar could be put on!

Norma adds the info for Hoppity Buddy (see pic below):
Hoppity was the last of the "Bunny Trio" of Beanie Babies to be made into a Buddy; the others were Hipppity and Floppity!

... Philadelphia Show
Ms Janie also reminds us of the Philadelphia Show, which begins today. Ty usually attends this show. It will be interesting to see if anything new will be unveiled. I personally would like to see some Olympic Beanies ... the Winter Olympics start next month!

... New 2002 Hang Tag !
12:10 am EST ... The new January 2002 Beanie Babies™ are now sporting a new hang tag! (Well, some of them are.) Take a look!

Thanks again to Norma for sharing. As far as the new hang tag, she states:
"Romance has the 'old' one, and Eggs II and the Bunnies have the new one."

... New Beanie / Buddy Pics
12:05 am EST ... In addition to Singapore and the UK, the new January 2002 releases are now showing up in the U.S. are reported earlier today. Norma kindly shares some pictures for you to view.

Romance Date of birth: February 2,2001 Valentine's Day is the perfect chance To give some love and show romance This little bear can hardly wait She wants to help you celebrate!	Kissme Date of birth: February 7,2001 I'm as sweet as I can be Wearing hearts for you to see My new outfit is quite dandy It looks as if I'm wearing candy!	Clover Date of birth: March 17,2001 A bit o' good luck I will bring If you believe in such a thing Fortune will follow everywhere As long as you have friends that care!
EggsII Date of birth: August 15,2001 When hiding eggs around the yard You shouldn't make it very hard It won't be funny, you'll agree If one of the eggs you lose is me!	Spring Date of birth: March 7,2001 Springtime is my favorite season Maybe you can guess the reason Pretty colored flowers bloom And bring us out of winter's gloom!	Carrots: Date of birth: September 13,2001 Of all the things I love to eat A carrot is my favorite treat I'll eat them raw or in a stew But either way I'll share with you!

Cottonball
Date of birth: August 30,2001
Most bunnies like to hop around
They like to leap and love to bound
But the thing that I love best
Is lying back to take a rest!

Chickie
Date of birth September 20,2001
When it was time to break my shell
My little beak worked really well
It took some time, but now I'm free
So come out and play with me!

... 'Ask Ty' Q & A
The next 'Ask Ty' question and answer has been posted, along with your chance to vote for the next question you would like Ty Warner to answer.
Q: Will you ever make a Beanie that looks like you? (submitted by cats/dogs)
A: The rumor around the office is that Tumbles the Beanie Kid looks very much like me when I was 4. Maybe that's why we share the same birthday.
Click here to visit 'Ask Ty'
(Note: A summary of all Q & A's to date can be found on this site by clicking here)

... Cupid Variation!!!
11:30 am EST ... Just as we've been wondering, a variation of Cupid appears to around the corner. One of our readers writes the following:
Hi Deb.
Hope all is well and that you had a great New Year.
Was with the people from Ty SNG for dinner last night and got to see the new Cupid that will be released here in a week or so. Cupid has the heart on the other eye.. I guess Cupid is going to be exploited like her brother Dizzy..
BTW this varitation is only going to be be for SNG , Malaysia and JPN
Feel free to share, All the best, Martin
... Thanks for sharing, Martin. That IS quite interesting ... we'll be watching. :)

... Newest Releases in the UK
11:20 am EST ... Following Singapore, the newest Ty releases are also showing up in the UK. Steven writes:
Hi Debs
Good news here the UK..... The December 27 releases are already showing up in the UK. My local retailer got a small delivery today but it was mainly new stuff. I guess this close to Christmas small deliveries are kinder on the wallet!!!
Beanie babies - Romance, Clover Rescue!!! & Kissme
Beanie buddies - Regal, Brigitte, Shamrock & Smooch
No sign yet of the latest Beanie Kids, Boppers or non-bear babies. Thought this might be of interest.
Steven :-)
... Thanks for sharing, Steven. I wouldn't 'expect' the "Valentine releases" to be around too long. I never saw the Smooch Beanie last year at our local retailers. Hopefully we can catch the Smooch Buddy this time around. Guess we should keep our eyes peeled for these soon!

Update: 2:55 pm EST ... Beanieholics writes that the new releases are now shipping in the U.S. as well ... Beanie Babies, Attics, Classics and Boppers. So be on the lookout!

... Snoopy Doll Promo Turns Violent
Although not 'Beanie' related, I found this article rather interesting:
Snoopy Doll Promotion Turns Violent
McDonald's outlets in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou could face fines of $1,200-$12,000 after a Snoopy doll promotion which turned violent, the Xinhua news agency said on Thursday. Dwindling supplies of the hot-selling cartoon canine doll triggered a run on the U.S. fast food giant's restaurants last May, resulting in scuffles among customers and a smashed window at one location. An investigation by the city's industry and commerce administration found the chain's 34 Guangzhou outlets were not licensed to sell the toy, said Xinhua. Provincial authorities would render a final decision on the alleged violation, which under Chinese law is punishable by a fine of $1,200-$12,000, it said. McDonald's in Guangzhou could not be reached for comment. Last April, McDonald's started offering the eight-inch Snoopy dolls for 10 yuan apiece with a ``value meal'' in a two-days-a-week promotion. McDonald's sold 233,140 Snoopy dolls in April and May, said Xinhua, citing investigators.
Click here to read the article
... Source: Ms Janie

... Ty Newsflash
1:30 pm EST ... Ty introduces the new magazine "Beanies and More".
Click here to view the announcement

... January Beanies in Singapore
11:05 am EST ... A reader from Singapore shares news with Ms Janie that the new January Beanies have arrived there. Pictures are posted are her site. Looks like some of them are 'sporting a new look'. (My fave is the 'Kissme' Beanie! :)
Click here to view the January Beanies and Buddies

Note: I have a feeling Singapore may be getting a new Exclusive soon! We had received news earlier from Martin to "look for new Exclusives in the Asian market soon". We shall wait and see!

... Retirements - and they continue ...
The retirements continue, either officially on Ty's site, silently placed in the relevant Ty products retired category, or "no longer available for ordering" on the Ty Retailer page. (As you are probably aware, some of these have already been listed on Ty's site as 'retired'):

Per the Ty Retailer page, no longer available:
Ty Gear - Santa and Elf
Ty Classics - Allioop, Bamboo, Blossom, Butterbeary, Lilacbeary, Mystery, Pearl, Penny, Prissy, Rags, Shadow, Stretch, Sugar and Taffybeary
Baby Ty - Hippobaby and Moocowbaby
Beanie Kids - Noelle and Baby 2002
Beanie Boppers - Kooky Kandy, Jolly Janie, Holiday Heidi

The allowable quantites and a complete ordering update can be found on Ms Janie's site by clicking here.

Thanks to Randy at Beanieholics for sending us this information as well.

... Ty Retirement
Although not a surprise, Ty officially announced the retirement of Kooky Kandy, Jolly Janie, and Holiday Heidi this afternoon.
Click here to view the announcement

... Speckles e-Beanie Retired
1:00 am EST ... On June 29, 2000, Ty launched 'Ty Trade' on the website. Along with this official opening, the first 'e-Beanie' was introduced ... Speckles. It was stated on Ty Trade:

Ty Trade is proud to introduce Speckles the e-Beanie Bear. Speckles is the first exclusive Internet Beanie Baby ... and it's only available to registered users of Ty Trade!

On December 19th, we informed you that Speckles days were 'numbered' ... as 'Ty Store' posted - "Only 14 days left to order Speckles". A year and a half later, Speckles is now listed as officially retired and unavailable to order.
Click here to visit Ty Store

... How Many Left to Retire?
After the recent retirements by Ty, perhaps you're wondering just how many are left? ... what is the 'oldest' Beanie still current? It appears that Midnight, shown on Ty's website on April 26, 2001, with a release date of May 1, 2001, is the 'leader of the pack'. For a quick view of what Beanie Babies are left from last year, click here.