*************************************************************************

  ....  Next?
If tradition holds true, we should expect the see the August Beanie Baby of the Month announced on Ty's website tomorrow.  The August desktop wallpaper should also appear for those interested in downloading.  And of course, the newly released Ty products will be appearing at your local retailer very soon, so  keep your eyes open.  (I personally LOVE the new clown, Juggles.  I love clowns ... along with the fact that It's quite different than the typical Beanie Baby :)  Something new always puts a spark in the collecting!

  ....  Beanie Buddies? Hmmm
Wonder what the latest is with Beanie Buddies?  The last Buddies to be introduced were 'Sport' and 'Avalon' - on June 30th; the last Buddies to retire were Baby Girl and Baby Boy on April 28th.  There are 47 current Buddies yet to retire, with the oldest being lg and x-lg Schweetheart (introduced on July 10, 2000).  'Unity' follows as the next oldest, introduced on October 1, 2001.  Just an interesting observation ... looks like several other 'older' Buddies should be headed to the retirement home.  Then again, we all know there is no 'pattern' to a retirement.  Being a Buddy collector, it's just one of those things that makes us go ... 'hmmm'.
Click here to view our Beanie Buddy history page  


  ....  Did you Order?
When visiting the 4-H website, it provides a link for ordering Clover.

Click here for order details

The site states:
Item Number: TY 1
Ty 4-H Clover Beanie Babies Bear.
Note: Clover will begin shipping on or about August 15th!
Our 1st official 4-H Beanie Babies Collectible is here!
Honey brown with a green ribbon, Clover is sure to win your heart!
Don't miss out - order yours today!.
Unit Price: $5.95

  ....  More on '4-H' and 'Clover'
The newly introduced Beanie Baby, '4-H-, is noted to be available at your local Ty retailer.   'Clover' is listed as "Sold exclusively through 4-H at www.4-hmall.org".  The club is now accepting orders on-line for the new Beanie Baby.  You must register to purchase this bear first.  To order, click here.

  ....  Ty Newflash - Retirements
Today Ty has retired the following  six Beanie Babies:  Dad, Delilah, Tender, Stubby, Bits, and Tux.
Click here to view the announcement   

  ....  Next?
Ty news should be stirring again soon, as collectors anticipate a few retirements in the next day or so.  This, of course, is usually followed by next months' releases .... and rumors are abound.  (A post on the Ty Cyberboard, although unconfirmed, is quite interesting.  Click here to read) 

(With the heat index topping 110 F today, we're just trying to keep cool right now.  A little too hot for me; the pool water is even too warm.)


  ....  'Promise' Bears
It appears that the new 'Promise' Beanie Baby will only be available to Northwestern Mutual employees.  Karen (aka KarenBrit) shares information with Ms. Janie of a company called Image Mart, who has done the promo for NWM employees.  If any are available after the meeting in Milwaukee this week, they will reportedly be available to others.   The phone number listed, to presumably get on the waiting list, is (# removed).  (For some reason, I don't anticipate a large amount of these Bears to be available, just a personal opinion.  I still dream of one day getting a Ronald McDonald Bear,)

  ....  'Angeline' Photos
While browsing around the internet today, we've come across some great photos of 'Angeline', including the hang tag, tush tag, book, and the box / bag she comes in.   The website (Japanese) is Beanie Tenjishitsu.  You may want to take a peek.  If you're interested in purchasing this doll, hopefully she will be coming to a store near you soon ... she's too cute!


  ....  'Promise' Exclusive Beanie Baby (Silent Introduction)
Our thanks to Susan, who writes:
Hi Deb, Looks like Ty has sneaked another exclusive Beanie Baby into the current Beanie listing.  Called Promise, a Northwestern Mutual Exclusive, there are two "versions" listed, one is blue and the other one is orange.  The Northwestern logo is imprinted in the nose of this Bear.  I wonder if it will be sold only at Northwestern Mutual locations???  Guess we shall see find out.  Thanks for such an informative site. Have a great weekend! ~Susan

Northwestern Mutual, with its subsidiaries and affiliates, offers insurance products, investment products and advisory services that address client needs for financial security and protection, capital accumulation, asset distribution and estate preservation.


  ....  'Illinois Violet' (Silent) Introduction
The Chicago Gift Show begins today and runs through July 26th.  Introduced silently on Ty's website, in the current Beanie Baby listing, is 'Illinois Violet'.  This is the fifth Bear in the State Flower series.  (Click here to view all the State Flower Bears.)

OFFICIAL FLOWER SINCE 1908
The state of Illinois agrees
This pretty flower's sure to please
It's simple beauty you can't forget
That's why we love the violet !
Click here to view on Ty's website 

A list with detailed information of all City States Bears, including the Flower State Bears,
can be found on this site by clicking here 

  ....  #1 Teacher Beanie
The most recent Ty Store Exclusive  Beanie Baby introduced (on July 13th), #1 Teacher, is arriving.  Marilyn kindly shares photos of this adorable Bear, including the hang tag and a photo of the tissue paper accompanying this Beanie.  If you have ordered this Beanie, you may want to keep an eye on your mailbox.  (Thanks for sharing, Marilyn)

  ....  Pinky Key Chains
Our special thanks to Marilyn for also sharing photos of three Pinky Key Chains ... Pinky Poo, Ratzo, and Dazzler ... along with photos of the hang tags.
Click here to view the photos 

  ....  More on Ty UK Ltd.
Following the recent news of Ty Europe Ltd. (in administration), an article on the 'Business Credit Management' website reports the following:

TY Europe Limited (in administration) - sale of business preserves local jobs
www.creditman.co.uk
Jul 19 2005
The joint administrators of Ty Europe Limited, Colin Haig and Karen Dukes, from PricewaterhouseCoopers, are pleased to announce the sale of the business and its assets to Ty UK Limited. The business, which distributes the highly popular children’s collectible soft toy range, ‘Beanie Babies’, across Europe, operated from premises in Fareham, Hampshire.

Colin Haig, joint administrator and partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers, said:
“We are extremely pleased to have been able to ensure the continuation of this business for the 1300 trade customers in the UK, Germany, Ireland, Spain and Poland. We understand that in addition to the significant existing stock acquired, supplies of new stock have already landed and are being distributed by Ty UK Limited.”

“We are delighted to have been able to negotiate a solution whereby this business may continue to develop under new ownership going forward, preserving a significant number of jobs and creating new positions in the local area. I would like to thank all the parties who have contributed to this successful outcome.”
Colin Haig and Karen Dukes of PricewaterhouseCoopers were appointed joint administrators of Ty Europe Limited on Wednesday 8 June 2005.
The company has operations in the UK, Germany, Ireland, Poland and Spain.
Click here to read the article 

  ....  'Founders' Photos
The July 2005 Beanie Baby of the Month, 'Founders', is quite a patriotic Bear.  Marilyn shares photos of this new Beanie Baby, including the hang tag - and the tissue paper which accompanied it.  If you're a BBOTM member, you may want to keep an eye on your mailbox.
(Added note:  The style number has also been added)
(Thanks for sharing, Marilyn)

  ....  Ty Warner to Purchase Golf Course
Santa Barbara News-Press
Billionaire Ty Warner closed the deal to purchase the 18-hole Rancho San Marcos Golf Course near Lake Cachuma from Premier Golf International on Friday for an undisclosed price.
Click here to read the article (subscription required)


  ....  UK Trio - Photo
Our special thanks to Cathie, who shares the following:
A dear family in the UK has brought the UK trio for me. This is the picture they just sent me...thought your folks might like to see it...I think Ian did a great job taking the photo! Thanks too for all you both do for all of us! Hugs, Cathie;)

  ....  Alphabet Beanie Tush Tag
Marilyn shares a photo of the tush tag on the Alphabet Beanies.  This tush tag is from the letter 'E' Alphabet Beanie, as noted under the Ty logo. .She earlier shared various photos of these Beanies, which can be viewed at the links below:|

Alphabet Beanies - Group Photo 
Alphabet Beanies - Size Comparison and Hang tag 
Alphabet  Groups A-E, F-J, K-O, P-T, U-Z 


  ....  'Georgia Cherokee Rose' Beanie Baby
The Atlanta Gift Show begins today in Atlanta, Georgia, and runs through July 19th.  Introduced silently on Ty's website, in the current Beanie Baby listing, is 'Georgia Cherokee Rose'.  This is the third in the State Flower Series, each making a special debut at the relevant Gift Show in that particular State.  (The first State Flower Bear, Texas Bluebonnet, was introduced on July 5th ... second in the series was Pennsylvania Mountain Laurel, introduced on July 9th.)

OFFICIAL FLOWER SINCE 1916
They say I grew from mothers' tears
That's been the tale for many years
I'm bright and sunny and you'll see
The Georgia rose called Cherokee
Click here to view on Ty's website  

  ....  Ty Newsflash - Ty Store Exclusive
Ty has introduced a new Ty Store Exclusive ... "#1Teacher".  (Maybe other professions will follow?  :)

  ....  Angeline - Newsflash
Ty has posted a 'newsflash' about the new 'doll' Angeline'.  Including in the arrival announcement ... 'I've Arrived' - "Read my Story" and "Find me Here" (the Ty retailer locator).  Click here to view.

  ....  Pinky Poo 'Versions'
As you are probably aware. there are five difference 'versions/variations' of the adorable pink poodle 'Pinky Poo'.  There is the key chain style, 'Ty Classic' (big) style, Beanie style, key chain style, and Fab version.  Sakurako of Japan (Bottega Beanies)  shares a photo which shows a comparison of all five of these Pinkys.  (You can view additional photos on her site, including the latest 2005 releases in Japan.  Thanks for sharing, Sakurako!)

  ....  Pennsylvania Mountain Laurel Silently Introduced
The Philadelphia Gift Show in Ft. Washington, PA, begins today and runs through July 12th.  As reported on July 6th, in conjunction with this Show Ty has silently introduced the Pennsylvania Mountain Laurel Beanie Baby.  Click here to view this new Bear on Ty's current Beanie listing.  (The first State Flower Bear, Texas Bluebonnet, was introduced on July 5th.)

OFFICIAL FLOWER SINCE 1933
The Pennsylvania mountain laurel
Our first choice for all things floral
Beautiful bloom so bright and pink
Simply the best, what do you think?

  ....  New 'Ask Ty'  Q & A
A new 'Ask Ty' question and answer has been posted on Ty's website:
Q: Have you ever met a celebrity who collects Beanie Babies? (submitted by boonesgirl)
A: My close friends, SpongeBob and Garfield, have very impressive collections !   SpongeBob prefers the aquatic Beanies while Garfield has a fondness for the bears !
Click here to visit 'Ask Ty'


  ....  Two New Ty Trademarks
Ty has applied to register two new trademarks, as reported by Sly and Ms. Janie.  On June 29, 2005, Ty applied for 'Santa Claws' and 'Frankenteddy'.  Looks like holiday planning already.  (Although Frankenteddy has already been 'used', it apparently was never registered.)


  ....  CHERISH Auctions Update 
Sue Owen shares the following:

CHERISH has, however, now got an auction running for the new UK trio - Pride, Mystery and Y Ddraig Goch.  Many thanks to a great retailer, Southern Collectables, who rushed this set to me in order to get the auction started. This is a 3 day auction that will close on the same day as all the other current CHERISH auctions - this Sunday  .Click here to view 

The Beanies are really lovely and I have created a page on my website that gives more photographs and a little information about the animals and their conenction to each of the countries in Great Britain: http://www.cherishonline.co.uk/uktrio.htm  (Please do not use the photos without permission.)

Pride Beanie Baby (England)

Mystery Beanie Baby (Scotland)

Y Ddraig Goch Beanie Baby (Wales)

  ....  Photos and More Photos!
Our special thanks to Marilyn, who has generously shared a variety of photos - new Beanie Babies, Alphabet  Beanies (including size comparison with a Beanie Baby), hang tags, and more.  To view the pictures, click on the individual links listed below:

Alphabet Beanies - Group Photo 
Alphabet Beanies - Size Comparison and Hang tag 
Alphabet  Groups A-E, F-J, K-O, P-T, U-Z 

Radiance and Oriel Beanie Babies and Hang tags 
Tux and Weaver Beanie Babies and Hang tags 
Shortstop Beanie Baby and Hang tag 

(Note:  Additional photos will be posted on Friday, thanks to Sue Owen)

  ....  'You're Special'
Our special thanks to Marilyn for sharing various photos of the Ty Store Exclusive 'You're Special' (introduced on June 28th).  Included in the photos are the hang tag and tissue paper which accompanied this adorable bear.
Click here to view 'You're Special' 

 I agree with Marilyn ... there are many special people that we could send this Beanie to.  (And Marilyn is expecting a very special new addition soon, a granddaughter!  Our best wishes to the new family !  Keep us posted.)


  ....  Angeline
If you're a collector who has been patiently waiting for 'Angeline', it looks like the adorable new doll by Ty is arriving now.  Sal of Sal's Attic website has posted photos of 'Angeline', along with the various accessories, which can be viewed by clicking here. 
... Thanks to Ms. Janie for sharing this news

Official Introduction on Ty's website on March 4, 2005
Click here to view 

  ....  Summer Flower Show Bears
The following list includes the names and style numbers of the upcoming new Summer Flower Show Exclusive Bears:
New York Rose - 40288
Texas Bluebonnet - 40289
Pennsylvania Mountain Laurel - 40290
Georgia Cherokee Rose - 40291
California Poppy - 40292
Illinois Violet - 40293
Kansas Sunflower - 40294
Minnesota Lady's Slipper - 40295
Ohio Scarlet Carnation - 40296
Washington Rhododendron - 40297
Colorado Columbine - 40298
Massachusetts Mayflower - 40299

... Thanks to Ms. Janie for sharing this news

  ....  'You're  Special'
Our friend Sakurako of Japan (Bottega Beanies) shares a photo of the recently announced  'You're Special' Beanie Baby.  This bear was introduced on June 28th and is available exclusively through Ty Store.
... Thanks for sharing, Sakurako

  ....  'Texas Bluebonnet'
Reportedly exhibited at the recent Dallas Gift Show (see our news of June 27th),  'Bluebonnet' Beanie Baby has silently appeared on Ty's website in the current Beanie listing.  The poem reads: 

Texas Bluebonnet the bear
OFFICIAL FLOWER SINCE 1901
Our State flower's named for its hue
It's really a beautiful shade of blue
It's one of our favorites, we must admit
That's why in Texas we love the bluebonnet !
Click here to view 'Texas Bluebonnet'

  ....  CHERISH News Update
Sue Owen kindly shares the following:

Hi,
 Information about the Limited Edition of 10 extra-special CHERISH Race for Life Lilac Shebet Beanies is now on the CHERISH website at www.cherishonline.co.uk These are NOT the same as the 50 sold at the weekend. They have some extra accessories produced especially for these bears, including embroidered gym bag and 'Beanie towel', a Beanie charm bracelet and many more lovely extras. Each bear has a different running number on its back (with the words SPECIAL EDITION), from 1-10. A postcard size commemorative card (numbered /10) and magnet accompany the set.
 
Most of these sets will be offered for sale on eBay, starting today. I will space out the start times to give more people a chance, as each auction will begin with the option of Buy It Now at £49.99. This option will disappear if a regular auction bid is placed. Auction bidding will begin at £19.99. As usual, all profits will go to Cancer Research UK.
 
One set is also offered for sale direct from the website (payment by PayPal).
 
There is another auction also starting tonight for a pair of the 2004 and 2005 CHERISH Race for Life Beanies. These have the special running numvbers 00 on their backs. The 2004 edition sold out in a week through the UK Bean Bag and Collectables Magazine. The 2005 edition sold out in an hour through the CHERISH website. Here is a chance to add BOTH bears to your collection and help a worldwide cancer charity at the same time!
 
I am taking part in the Race for Life tomorrow - at the moment it is poring with rain - please think positive thoughts for the UK weather tomorrow! I did the event last year in the rain...
 
I expect to add a few more special auctions this week - not least of all one for the new UK Trio - please check the CHERISH website for updates!
 
Best wishes,
Sue

Have a Safe and Happy July 4th !

  ....  Beanie Give-Away
So what Beanies will be given away today at Ty Warner Park?  On June 23rd, Ty Warner posted the following in the 'Ask Ty' question and answer:
Q: A lot of people have never been to the Ty Warner Park. Can you tell us a bit about it? (submitted by 9143929)
A:  Where do I start? Tennis Courts, Ball Fields, Fountains, Lakes, Playgrounds, Walking Paths, Trees, Flowers, Pavilions, a Monument and Water Park, Fun ! You really should visit the park on the 4th of July . . . we're giving away Beanies ! 

Note:  If you do a search for 'Ty Warner Park' on google.com (or click here), there are links to various sites on this Park (some including photos).  The Village of Westmont website reports the following on the Beanie Baby giveaway today:

EVENT INFORMATION
Schedule of Events: (UPDATED 6-28-2005)
10:00 am Spray Park Opens

4:00 - 9:00 Ty Warner will be distributing one beanie baby to every guest.*
4:00 Food Vendors Open
4:00 - 6:00 pm Celebrity Dunk Tank
5:00 - 6:00 pm Westmont Community Band and Jazz Band

4:30 - 6:00 pm Hula Hoop Contest, Tug-o-war, Sack Races
5:30 - 6:00 pm Watermelon Eating Contest
7:30 - 9:00 pm Grand Avenue Big Band
9:30 pm FIREWORKS! (North of Chestnut Avenue)

*Ty Warner will be distributing 4 different Beanie Babies from 3:00 PM to 9:00PM at the Veterans Memorial.  Only one Beanie Baby per guest will be allowed.  There will be enough Beanie Babies for all guests who wish to receive one.  You do not need to arrive early to receive a Beanie Baby.

Update - July 5
Thomas, Benjamin, John, Free and American Blessing were given away.  Everyone, regardless of age, received one beanie.  No card accompanied the Beanies, 


  ....  Guard Soldiers Expand Toy Drive
Article posted on delawareonline.com ... 

Soccer balls added to Beanie Babies

Dwight Eisenhower knew something about the nature of war and warriors.

He also knew enough about human nature to remark that "people, in the long run, are going to do more to promote peace than governments."

A half century after he uttered that quote, American troops in Iraq and civilians in the United States are working together to do what they can to promote peace in that war-ravaged country through simple acts of kindness.

And, in the long run, it may turn out that Beanie Babies and soccer balls will be as effective as machine guns and artillery when it comes to ending the slaughter there.

Since March, Delaware state troopers and the RGW Foundation have collected more than 20,000 Beanie Babies to carry on the legacy of Cpl. Steve McGowan, a paratrooper from Newark who gave them to Iraqi children when his unit went on patrol. McGowan was killed in Iraq in early March.

Foundation spokeswoman Jennifer Hawkins said donations of Beanie Babies have come from across the United States.

Click here to read the entire article 

  ....  July Desktop Wallpaper / Calendar
Ty has posted the desktop wallpaper / calendar for July 2005 ... a patriotic theme.

Click here to view and download the wallpaper on Ty's site