September 2002 News

... Newbie Tidbits
Do you know that ....
... The Jingle Beanies will differ from last year?
... There's something different about the button on the new Holiday Teddy Beanie?
... There's a possible design change to the new Teenie Beanie Boppers?
Find out the answers to these and more at Beanieholics by clicking here.

... Ty Introduces October Products
Ty has posted pictures of the October releases.
Click here to view the announcement

... Attic Treasure Retirement
Ty has announced the retirement of 'Logan', the Canadian Exclusive Attic Treasure.
Click here to view the announcement

... Keep a Watch Out
12:30 am EDT ... With the recent news of 'new October releases', perhaps Ty will introduce them on the website soon. Retailers should be able to order their October shipments tomorrow. I would imagine it would be just a matter of days then before they start showing up in some areas. I will be in and out today ... I'd advise you to keep an eye on the Ty Website. (Who knows, maybe even the curtains will open soon at Ty Store)

... Asia Pacific Flower Buddies
Although you may have viewed photos of the six new Asia Pacific Buddies (from Saturday's news), you might want to take a look at pictures taken by Kooler, our friend at 'Bean Book'. He has done a marvelous job, as usual, of capturing close-up images of each Buddy, including the flower, hang tag, etc.
Click here to view the photos

New Beanie Buddies - Billionaire Bear #1, 1998 Holiday Teddy, and 1999 Holiday Teddy

New Teenie Beanie Boppers - Sunny Sue, Kool Katy, Dear Debbie, Rockin' Ruby, Shy Shannon, Brave Buddy, Home Run Hank, Lucky Linda, Snappy Cindy, Pretty Penny, Darling Daisy, and Beautiful Belle

New Jingle Beanies - Halo II, Santa, Jingle Pup, Zero, Mistletoe, The Beginning, Snowgirl, 2001 Holiday, Dizzy

... Asia Pacific-Flower Buddies - Photos and Style Numbers
12:05 am EDT ... Our friend Kenrick has informed us that 'Bottega Beanies' has posted photos of the six new AP Buddies recently released.
Click here to view photos

Martin has further provided us with the style numbers of each Buddy:
9610 - Sakura II
9611 - Mugungwha
9612 - Wattlie
9613 - Ferny
9614 - Vanda
9615 - Bunga Raya

... New 'Ask Ty' Question & Answer
A new 'Ask Ty' Q & A has been posted:
Q: Dear Ty, I just love your Pluffies and Punkies collection! Are you going to make more of them? If so when?? Thanks, ~Kris~ (submitted by Kris24)
A: Great question Kris ! I'll keep this one short and simple . . . Punkies soon and Pluffies a little later.
Click here to visit 'Ask Ty'
Click here to read previous 'Ask Ty' Q & A's

... Ty Newsflash - Retirements
Ty has retired Beanie Baby Exclusives 'Scotland' and 'Wales' today.
Click here to view the announcement
(Sniff, sniff ... do we smell England, Scotland, and Wales Buddies soon?)

... Clubby V's Arriving
5:30 pm EDT ... Stefanie from the UK writes:

Hi again from the uk. I've got my 2 clubby sets - they are really pink!! 2 pin sets also - one had a left foot partriot and one a right foot (thats lucky!) and the mystery ones were chocolate and squealer!

Buddy - Clubby V
5th Anniversary edition
The traditional gift for a fifth
anniversary is wood, but we prefer
the 5th Aniversary Edition of clubby

Beanie - Clubby V
5th Anniversary Edition
Date of Birth, June 20, 2002
Five years ago we made some plans
To make a club for beanie fans
We introduce this new clubby
to thank you for you loyalty!

Hope that helps
Stef

Updated: 10:15 pm EDT ... A reader of Ms. Janie's has sent pictures of Clubby V Beanie and Buddy, as well as the pins. (Notice there is no BBOC 'button' on these bears?)
Click here to view the photos

... BBOC Items Shipping
From the emails received today from several readers, looks like the BBOC items are shipping now. The email reads:

Dear Club Member,
Congratulations! We shipped your BBOC order #800**** on 9/24/2002.
The following items were shipped to you.

Qty        Description
1         Clubby 5th Anniversary Edition
1         PIN SET

Total Items : $25.00
Tax (if applicable) : $0.00
Shipping & Handling : $5.75
Total Order : $30.75

Regards,
The BBOC

... Ty Newsflash - Retirements
The following Beanie Babies and Buddies have retired today:
Beanie Babies - Mattie, Pounds, and Toothy
Beanie Buddies - Cashew, Fleece, Hero, and Dearest
Click here to view the announcement

... BBOC Pins
Steve writes:
Hi, I received confirmation from TY that my BBOC pins have shipped and I checked my credit card account and I was charged the $10.00 for the pin sets, and NOT the $3.00 I authorized on my credit card. When "stores" make a pricing error they should stand by it. I will dispute the charges with my credit card company!!
Love your site,
Steve

... A Question for Ty ... and Ty's Answer
12:05 am EDT ... A post on the Ty Cyberboard asked about the MC Bear II in regards to the amount spent on their Ty MasterCard. Below is their question, along with Ty Warner's response.

MommyTheMaid writes:
Did you honestly think that by giving the MCII bear to people for spending $5,000.00 on their Ty mastercard in one year, and then giving it to people for spending only $1,500.00 on the Ty mastercard wouldn't cause a problem?? You gave the incentive to purchase $5,000.00 in a year. Why bother making the statement about spending $5,000.00 in a year if you were not going to do anything different than send the same bear that the $1,500.00 spenders get.
Click here to view the Cyberboard Message

Here you go!
Ty Warner writes:
I have read your posts and understand the issue. I have been working on a special anniversary surprise. Keep an eye on the boards and "Ask Ty" for more information very soon.
Click here to view Ty's response

... Ty's Pricing Philosphy (Update)
12:20 am EDT ... Regarding Ty's newest pricing philosophy we recently pointed out ... apparently Ty has made a change now. The European Currency (EUR) has now been added, replacing the Deutsch Marks (DM).
Click here for Ty's Pricing Philosophy

... Ty's Pricing Philosphy (Update)
12:15 am EDT ... Yesterday we posted information regarding Ty's newest pricing philosophy. A couple of readers ("John W." and "Dave") report that Germany does not have any Deutsch Marks (DM) anymore (for nine months now). They use the European Currency (EUR).

And an added note: "Diane D." writes: "In the pricing list, it says "Ornaments"! Either we will be getting more Jingles or there will be a new product!"

(... Thanks to all for sending in the info. Some interesting points!)

... St. Jude Hospital - Donations (Update)
On September 4th, we posted information regarding 'Beanie' donations for St. Jude Childrens' Research Hospital. Pat Inman shares the following:
Thanks to you and so many generous Angels we have received 3,463 as of today (and I expect more to come in yet this week). We will be taking them to the hospital on Saturday, 28 September...on our "Wings Across Tennessee Ride".
Click here for additional information

(I would also like to personally thank everyone who contributed their time and effort to help out. Many of you accepted Martin's challenge to send Beanies, etc. ... What 'hearts of gold!' The hospital is looking forward to their arrival soon!)

... Asia Pacific Buddies
12:10 am EDT ... Martin reports that the Asia Pacific Buddies will start to ship in Singapore on Friday. He also writes that "each shop will only be allowed to order one set which will be composed of 3 pieces of each of the six Buddies". (Hope that changes over 'tyme'. Apparently that's with the first shipment; we shall see.)

... Interview
Jamie from The Bean Scene has posted his recent interview with yours truly. You can read it at the following link:
http://www.itzmeagain.com/beanscene.htm

... Peggy Gallagher
1:00 am EDT ... Ms. Janie shares the following:
I received a phone call today from Peggy Gallagher's husband Dan. Dan informed me that Peggy had suffered from appendicitis, which burst over the weekend. She is currently in the hospital and is expected to be there a few days.

Peggy would like to notify everyone that she expects to be back at her desk on Friday and will get all orders out ASAP. I ask that you please be patient and keep Peggy in your thoughts.

... Ty's Pricing Philosophy
12:20 am EDT ... Have you looked at Ty's newest pricing philosophy? Included in the chart are all of Ty's products, from Beanie Babies to Punkies. Also listed are the various countries where Ty products are sold ... USA, Canada, UK, Germany, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia.
Click here for Ty's Pricing Philosophy
(Thanks to Will for pointing this out to us)

... Asia Pacific Buddies
Looks like the newly announced Asia Pacific Buddies may be arriving in Japan soon. Martin writes:
Hi Deb,
The Asia Pacific Buddies will start shipping in Japan on Sep 29th... Each shop will be allowed to order 12 of each of the 6 styles. Thanks, Martin

... "Bopper Magazine"
Beanieholics shares the following with us:
The latest issue of Beanies And More comes wrapped in plastic and contains a separate 16 page magazine called 'Bopper Magazine." It is dubbed a 'special magazine for girls.' Under the title is a web address for mybopper.com. This takes you to a page that begins a 'Beanie Bopper
Adventure' in which you vote on what happens next in the story. Results will be revealed in the next issue of 'Bopper Magazine.'
Click here to visit "mybopper.com"

... Ty Store 'Change'
A little activity is going on at Ty Store this evening. Ty has pulled the shade and closed the red and blue curtains. Maybe something soon?
(Thanks to Andre and Rosemary for passing along this info.)

... New 'Ask Ty' Question & Answer
A new 'Ask Ty' Q & A has been posted:
Q: Do you design the Beanies yourself or do you have other people to do
it for you? (submitted by Lcee)
A: Old Face Ted-e, Color Me Beanie, Frankenteddy . . . . . the list goes
on and on. Who do you think designs the Beanies? P.S. The Color Me
Beanie designs you have entered on our BBOC Gallery are great !
Click here to visit 'Ask Ty'

... "Itzmeagain" Contest
Nina writes:
Hi, Could you please help me spread the word . . . The September Mini Hunt begins Saturday Sept 21st. This is a multi site graphic hunt, where each graphic will remain up for the full duration of the hunt, so you have pleanty of time to hunt, even skip a day or two & still complete the hunt. Lots of great prizes this month, and more coming in. For complete details, visit:
http://www.itzmeagain.com/Contests/02septemberminihunt.htm
Thank You
Nina / itzmeagain

... Two Interesting eBay Auctions
Remember the 'Halloweenie Contest' last year on Ty's website? The Ty employee contest winner is offering the following on an eBay auction:
AUTHENTICATED/RARE BEANIE KIDS AS N*SYNC
Hi...I'm Ty Employee...Maggie B. I am auctioning the 2001 WINNERS of the "Dress Your Beanie for Halloweenie" Contest
Click here to view the auction

AUTHENTIC TY M. C. BEANIE LIGHT BROWN NOSE
VERY RARE HIGHLY COLLECTIBLE/AUTHENTICATED*** M.C. Beanie with the LIGHT BROWN NOSE. There were three noses...black, dark brown, and the rarest LIGHT BROWN! Estimated 25 of these were sent to Ty MasterCard customers!AUTHENTICATED BY PEGGY GALLAGHER ENTERPRISES, INC. No.18962
Click here to view the auction

(Note: After searching through our news archives, we found the following link from Ty's site, announcing the costumed 'N*Sync Beanie Kids' as the winners. Click here to view the announcement)

... Fastball Freddie (Pics and Update)
We have added a photo of 'Fastball Freddie', as well as a photo of the card and a ticket from the game, to the Beanie Boppers MLB page. Thanks to Richie for sending in the photos, along with style number information. Tammy also informs us of 'Freddie's' birthday, which has been added as well.

The Complete Beanie Bopper Info Page has now been updated as well, with birthdays, style numbers, introduction and retirement dates, and other info.

Thanks to Richie and Tammy for helping us with this info! (Both are the lucky owners of all five Major League Baseball Beanie Bopper Exclusives.) Readers such as you two have helped me tremendously in keeping this info up-to-date for Bopper collectors. (I had erroneously typed the style number wrong for Homerun Harry, which has now been corrected.)

Tammy writes: "Hi Deb, I am a lucky owner of a Fastball Freddie--thanks to EBAY! The birthday is September 7 and the style is 00107. Glad I can help in return for all you do for us "Ty addicts"! Thanks, Tammy"

Richie writes: "Hi Deb Find attached picture of Fastball Freddie for your MLB Bopper page. He is style 0107. Harry is actually style 0108 Regards Richie"

... A Halo In Your Future?
Beanieholics reports:
"We had a reader tell us that there are new releases from Ty on the way for the Holidays. They write: The Christmas Buddy is the '99 Teddy. It was blue with snowflakes on it. It's in the Hallmark Christmas catalogue along with Halo 3, Signature, Teddy 2002 and a unicorn. ~M"

... Ty Newsflash
3:00 pm EDT ... Ty has announced the introduction of the six Asia Pacific Flower Buddies this afternoon.

... MLB Bopper Fastball Freddie
If you are one of the lucky owners of 'Fastball Freddie' Beanie Bopper, given away September 7th at the NY Yankees game, we could use your help. His birthday and style number are needed to complete our Beanie Bopper page. Thank you!

... Satsuma family members indicted for eBay fraud
9:15 am EDT

By JOE DANBORN
Staff Reporter
09/17/02
Three members of a Satsuma family face federal charges they ran a seven-year wire-fraud scam -- primarily through the online auction house eBay -- fleecing dozens of people to the combined tune of about $250,000.

That's a lot of Palm Pilots and Beanie Babies, which appear to have been the main commodities involved, according to court records in the case against Bill Curtis; his wife, Mattie Curtis; and his father, Jessie Curtis.
Click here to read the article

... Counterfeit Buckingham
Peggy Gallagher has discovered another new counterfeit Buckingham. The serial number is 4AEDSFRA

... Signed M.C. Beanie II
As you are probably aware, several collectors have recently received their M.C. Beanie II Ty MasterCard bear. A few people have even received one signed by Ty Warner. Ms. Janie has posted one on her site, which can be viewed by clicking here. Remember, Ty said 'watch those tags'!

... BBOC Exclusive Order - Ty Confirmation
4:45 pm EDT ... Looks like some people that ordered their BBOC items first thing this morning did get a deal (see below). A reader has received a confirmation from Ty for their order, including the pins at $3 each ... it was quickly changed on the BBOC back to the price of $10. (The Beanie/Buddy set is $15.)

Dear Club Member,
Thank you for being a part of this exciting offer. We know you will love everything you ordered! The following order, 800**** , has been acknowledged in our system: Please note, orders are confirmed after credit card approval is obtained.

Total Items : $36.00
Tax (if applicable) : $0.00
Shipping & Handling : $6.30
Total Order : $42.30

Your order will ship within 8-12 weeks via the United States Postal Service. You will receive an e-mail confirming shipment of your order at that time.

FREE TY BEANIE BABY!
Next time, use the Ty MasterCard(R) credit card and you can qualify to receive a FREE Ty Beanie Baby. Simply go to http://www.applyonlinenow.com/us/NRR4-A00000060U for more information on this offer and to apply today!

Added Note: A few readers have reported that, although they ordered the pin set at $3, their confirmation reads the correct price of $10. The display cases and pin sets had reversed prices on the order form. All has been corrected now.

... Ty Newsflash - Retirement
Ty has announced the retirement of Ferny, the New Zealand Exclusive Beanie Baby.
Click here to view the announcement

... BBOC Opens Today for Ordering
The Beanie Babies Official Club officially opens today for ordering the BBOC exclusives - Clubby 5 Anniversary Edition Beanie Baby and Buddy set, Ty's five-piece Collector Pin Set, and Beanie Baby display cases. Apparently there was a glitch in their system when it first opened, as some readers are reporting they purchased the pin set for $3 each. It has since been corrected. (You can also order by phone at certain designated times.)
Click here to visit the BBOC

... BBOC's Exclusive Offer
Although several readers have reported that they have already ordered their BBOC exclusives today, you should be able to officially order the Clubby 5 Anniversary Edition Beanie Baby and Buddy set, Ty's five-piece Collector Pin Set, and Beanie Baby display cases beginning tomorrow, September 16th.
Click here to place your BBOC order

... McDonald's Happy Meal Promo
Six enchanted toys "come to life" at participating McDonald's from September 13 - October 3. Featured in the Happy Meal are Disney's 'Beauty and the Beast' characters The Beast, Belle, Lumiere, Gaston, Mrs. Potts and Chip, and Cogsworth. The movie will be available on DVD and video October 8th.
Click here for more

... M.C. Beanie II
Following Ty's response on the Cyberboard yesterday, looks like the new Ty MasterCard Beanie is now arriving. One of Ms. Janie's readers, Diane, shares several photos of this new Bear. (It also came with a one-year Anniversary Card.)
Click here to view M.C. Beanie II

Birth date: January 11, 2002
Poem:
For purchases both large and small
From on the Web or in the mall
TY's MasterCard is the best way
To buy the things you want today!

(This has now been added to our birthday list)

... Ty Warner Ranks #26 in Forbes Magazine
Ty Warner moved from #42 to #26 this year in Forbes Magazine's wealthiest Americans. His net worth is actually $2 Billion more this year than last year ... with a net worth now of $6 Billion.
Click here to view the rankings

... M.C. Beanie II ... Ty Clarifies Your Questions
12:40 pm EDT ... Ty Warner has appeared on the Cyberboard to clarify some questions regarding M.C. Beanie II. Many collectors are confused as to exactly what needs to be done to receive the latest Exclusive Ty MasterCard Beanie.

Eureka of Napa (Sep 12, 2002, 10:09 PM)
Message Id: 122700
Eureka of Napa writes:
Ty - How about an answer ??????
Ty only you can clear up the matter of the mystery of the $5,000 Beanie.
You offered a free beanie for me to open a credit card account. This I did and received my MC I. Thank you.
I redeemed 1,500 points to gets a MC II beanie. Which at this date no one has received, but just the MC I.
I charged $5.000 for that "SPECIAL BEANIE" which no one knows what it is.
Ty, you need to address the problem and solve the mystery.
The people at MBNA can't keep their answers straight to what is going on.
Cick here for Cyberboard Message

Ty Warner (Sep 13, 2002, 09:27 AM)
Message Id: 123066
Ty Warner writes:
Here is your answer!
Let me try and clear up the confusion. M.C.Beanie II is shipping right now for those of you redeeming 1,500 points and as the anniversary special. Watch your mail boxes (and check out your hang tag), you should be seeing M.C.II soon.
Click here to read Ty's Answer

... Counterfeit Sakura
Ms Janie passes along the following information:
Good Morning
Would you please alert your readers that we discovered a new counterfeit Sakura serial number. The number is 4TPOGFR3. Thank you and have a nice weekend!
Sincerely,
Peggy Gallagher Enterprises, Inc.
www.peggyg.com

Doodle's Note: The above serial number can now be added to other counterfeit Sakura serial numbers, as listed on Peggy's site:
4B8G9DP8, 49F8GDZB, 49P8GDZE, 4FWEZTKT, 4FROEAQZ, 47P8B6GD, 4E6GBA8Z, 48GEZ07P, 4UP0ERG9, 40GEA78G, LP0U887U, 4BZAFDRP and 4G9R6WB7

... New 'Ask Ty' Q & A ... Why Surprised?
A new 'Ask Ty' question and answer has been posted.
Q: Will the "Purple Legs" In The Ty Store EVER get to where they are going? (submitted by sega-surfer)
A: I stopped by the TyStore to see if "purple legs" needed some help and . . . . . . WOW, was I ever surprised. Wait until you see what's planned for the rest of 2002 !
Click here to visit Ask Ty

... Color Me Beanie - U.S. vs Europe version
Daphne Roberts, editor of Bean Bag Magazine, informs us that 'Color Me Beanie' has started to arrive in Ty accounts in the UK. Pictures (tags, etc.) are posted on the 'Bears and Beans' website. For a comparison of the differences between these two versions, click here to check them out.

In remembrance

Don't know exactly what to do today? ... Enjoy life and spend some time with a friend! May peace be in your heart.
'Soar Like an Eagle'
(Originally Posted 9-11-01)

... Something Brewing at Ty?
Do we sniff something brewing at Ty? Maybe a special September 11th tribute bear? One of our readers, Rosemary, points out that it currently reads:
This portion of the Ty website is temporarily unavailable. We apologize for any inconvenience and ask that you please check back later. Thank you for your patience and support.
Click here to visit Ty Store

I also noticed that the Ty Talk Cyberboard, BBOT, and others pages on Ty's site read the same as well. That's 'sometimes' an indication of something new. (On Monday, August 26th, Ty Store appeared with three 'empty' windows ... it's been over two weeks now! We shall see!)

... RyeByPost Contest
You might want to check out the latest contest at RyeByPost ... a chance to win Bubbles the fish, a Cuddly Crystal Bopper with upside down logo, and other great prizes.
Click here for details

... Ty Newsflash - Retirement
Ty has retired Beanie Baby 'Sherbet' and Attic Treasure 'Franny' this morning.
Click here to view the announcement

... The 28th Osaka International Gift Show
Following yesterday's note regarding the upcoming Show later this month, in Osaka, Japan, Martin sends the following information:

DATE: September 25th (Wed) - 27th (Fri), 2002
Hours: 10a.m. - 6p.m. (27th:10a.m. - 5p.m.) VENUE: My Dome Osaka
2-5 Honmachi-Bashi, Chuo-Ku, Osaka 540-0029 Japan
Click here for link to the Osaka Gift Show

... A Huge Thanks!
5:50 pm EDT ... Last Wednesday, September 4th, we reported the news below regarding St. Jude Hospital:

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital was founded by entertainer Danny Thomas in 1962. It treats children from across the U.S. and 60 foreign countries who are stricken with the most severe childhood cancers. If you are interested in donating, or want to know more about this charity, click on the link below.
Click here for more information

Update: Martin has contacted the above charity and informs us of the following:
Hi Deb,
Just wanted to let you know we donated 1855 Beanies (8 boxes) to Pat Inman for the St Jude's Charity. Especially with the Anniversary of September 11th I would like to put a challenge to all the other people who are in the Beanie Business to donate to St Jude's as we need to stand together and even the smallest donation can make a difference in a child's life!
Thanks, Martin

Doodle's note: Wow, Martin! 1855 Beanie Babies! Now that is a heart of gold. I think that's a challenge we all need to look into. As you say, even the smallest donation CAN make a difference in a child's life. On behalf of Pat, and from myself, a huge thanks for your true generosity.

... Color Me Beanie
Ms. Janie has posted a photo of Color Me Beanie ... showing six different colored ribbons.
Click here to view the photo

... Show in Osaka, Japan Next Weekend
Martin also informs us that "nothing 'special' was at the recent Tokyo Show" ... but "there is still some hope as there will be a show in Osaka, Japan next weekend."

... New Boppers' Birthdays
In addition to the pictures below, Lori also informs Beanieholics of the Bopper information inside the hang tags:

Lucky Lucy
Birthday: September 19
Hometown: Newport Beach, California
Favorite Things: Dolphins, water skiing and fish sticks

Precious Pammy
Birthday: July 7
Hometown: Brandon, Mississippi
Favorite Things: Board games, bunk beds and soft ice cream with sprinkles

The left side of the hang-tag is in the new three line/six copyright format on both Boppers:

Ty Inc	Ty Japan
Ty Canada	Ty Asia
Ty Europe	Ty Australia

Hope this helps. I tried taking photos of the inside of the tags but they didn't turn out too well.
Lori from Texas

(Thanks for passing along the info, Randy. This information has been added to our Beanie Boppers info page, and well as our complete Beanie Baby and Bopper birthday list)

... New Bopper Pics
Lori from Texas, one of Beanieholics' readers, has supplied photos of the two newest Beanie Boppers - Lucky Lucy and Precious Pammy. What's interesting is Lucky Lucy has the American flag on the back of her denim jacket. Will she be a USA Exclusive, or will there be other country variations? We shall see.
Click here to view the pictures

... BBOC Message Board
1:35 pm EDT ... When visiting Ty's BBOC page, there is a link to the left that reads "Message Board". You can then enter your BBOC membership number and zip code. This will then take you to a page that reads "Want to talk to other BBOC members? Speak up to be heard. POST NOW!" The interesting thing is it takes you to the Talk Cyberboard ... Daily Tymes ... (which now reads "A special welcome to our BBOC member"). Many were wondering if there would be a separate BBOC Message Board ... guess not!

... 'Fastball Freddie' Bopper Day

1:10 am EDT ... Today the NY Yankees play Detroit at 4:05 pm EDT. Beanie Bopper 'Fastball Freddie' (with a limited edition collector's card) will be given away to the first 18,000 fans 14 and under. (I have yet to own a Sports Promo Bopper ... but I must admit, this is one of my faves, a real cutie! Now just where is my NY Yankee game ticket? (I wish!)

Update: 1:15 pm EDT ... 'Fastball Freddie' is now listed on the 'current' Beanie Bopper section on Ty's site. It reads "Available game day only at Yankee Stadium September 7, 2002 ... His hometown - Bronx, New York. No official announcement?
Click here for Beanie Bopper list on Ty's site

Update: 2:05 pm EDT ... Although he made it to the 'current list' first, Ty has just posted the official announcement. A retirement newsflash will probably follow later this evening or tomorrow.
Click here to view the announcement

Update: 10:45 pm EDT ... Ty has now retired this Bopper. (The Yankees lost 2-1 against Detroit.)
Click here to view the retirement

... St. Jude Childrens' Research Hospital - Update
Earlier this week, we posted a note regarding the St. Jude Childrens' Research Hospital. (Pat followed up with an email that same day, which can be found at the following link.) They will be taking these toys on their annual "Wings Across Tennessee" Ride on Saturday, September 28th. Any extra Beanies you may have would be greatly appreciated - be sure to include a note with the value ... a St. Jude tax receipt will be mailed back to you upon receipt of the donation. Thanks from Pat to all who have showed your interest in wanting to donate to this charity.
Click here for more information

... 'America' Buddy Variations
So now we've seen all the 'America' Buddy versions ... which makes a total of five if you're looking for (and lucky enough to find) all of them. There's the blue version (all blue), the red version (blue ear, white ear - and reversed); and the white version ('stripes and stars' ears - and reversed). All these Buddies will match their Beanie counterparts. Randy at Beanieholics has posted the latest find - the 'stripes and stars' white America..
Click here to view

... Ty Does it Again
According to Giftbeat Ty takes the #1 slot in overall collectibles
# 1 slot in cat-themed collectibles
# 1 slot in highest markups
# 1 slot in most popular item at the register
# 2 slot for reorders
#5 Teen collectible - for Beanies and Boppers
... Source: Ms. Janie

... NY Yankee's Game - Bopper Give-away
Tomorrow is the scheduled NY Yankee's game with Beanie Bopper 'Fastball Freddie' to be given away to the 1st 18,000 fans 14 and under. We can probably expect an official announcement by Ty today or tomorrow, followed by a quick retirement. There is a picture of 'Fastball Freddie' in the new BBOC newsletter mailed to members. There is also a picture on the NY Yankee's promo page - view here.

Looks like he has made it big in the newspaper as well. A reader has shared a photo with Ms. Janie of a full page ad of 'Fastball Freddie' recently shown in the New York Post. Click here to view.

Note: We have a separate page on the site of all the MLB Beanie Bopper promotions to date. Click here for pictures and information

... Birthday Bear - Hang Tag Error
One of Ms. Janie's readers points out that Ty has the wrong birthdate for Martin L. King, Jr. on the recently introduced October Birthday bear. The tag reads his birthday as October 23 - his birthdate is actually January 15. (Martin L. King, III, has a birthdate of October 23.) Oops!
Click here to view the tag

... 'Currently Not Available'
From the Ty Retailer site:
At this time, Nuzzle and Franny are not available for ordering.
Thank you. 09/04/02
... Source: Ms. Janie

... 'Pin-Demonium' - Pins (Update)
4:15 pm EDT ... As you are probably aware, Patti the Platypus was shown on the pin image in the BBOC newsletter recently sent in the mail. If you take a close look at the 'Pin-Demonium' page on the BBOC, you will see pins on a Beanie image as the background. (Now wouldn't THAT make a nice Beanie Baby? ... A "personal Masterpiece" ... remember the shorthand BBOC notes? :)

So apparently that does answer the question regarding the 'mystery pins' as being 'the original nine'. Included on the image are: Patti, Chocolate, Cubbie (Brownie), Flash, Legs, Pinchers (Punchers), Splash, Spot and Squealer.

... New 'Ask Ty' Q & A ... More Trading Cards?
3:50 pm EDT ... A new 'Ask Ty' question and answer has been posted.
Q: I would really like to see some more trading cards. Are you planning on making any more? If so, will they just be Beanies and Buddies or will you add Beanie Kids, Boppers, Classic, etc.?
(submitted by adrienneelisha)
A: I think some new trading cards would be fun. Maybe we could do some special Bopper cards. Give me a little time on this one . . . . . I may surprise you.
Click here to visit Ask Ty

... Ty Newsflash - Retirements
12:15 pm EDT ... Ty has just posted the retirement of three Buddies ... X-large Dotty, Trotter, and Addison. (X-large Dotty is the oldest of the three, of course ... this Buddy was introduced on January 1, 2001.)
Click here to view the announcement

Just as a little trivia, Large and X-Large Schweetheart Buddies, as well as Sneaky, are the oldest Buddies still remaining current. They were introduced on July 10, 2000. A history of the Buddies can be found on this site by clicking here.

... Ty Main Page - New Look, With Official BBOC Intro
12:05 pm EDT ... Ty has posted Clubby 5 Beanie and Buddy, as well as Color Me Beanie, on the main page - over the Ty heart. Clicking on the link takes you to the BBOC introduction.

... Summary of the Latest
12:50 am EDT ... Below are links to photos and information on some of the latest 'Ty happenings':

... Thanks to Ms Janie for sharing with us.

... Pin-Demonium at BBOC
12:05 am EDT ... Along with the exclusive BBOC Color-Me Beanie and the Clubby 5th Anniversary Edition Beanie and Buddy ... this year's BBOC Members Only Offer includes a set of Ty Collector Pins. One of the pins in each set is a 'mystery pin. There will be a special "pin-trading center: PIN-DEMONIUM" on Ty's site, where you can trade pins with other BBOC members ... official opening September 16th.

What's interesting is one picture (on the main BBOC page) shows five pins plus a 'mystery pin' (two different pictures of Patriot) - another picture (on the Pin-Dimonium page) shows four pins plus a 'mystery pin'. (The BBOC newsletter received in the mail mentions a "5-Piece Ty Collector Pin Set" ... and shows Patti the platypus apparently as a 'mystery pin'.) Perhaps the Patriot variation is a 'mystery' pin, too? (Sorry, these 'variations' sometimes make my head spin. LOL)

If you have any questions concerning the BBOC, you might want to check out the F.A.Q. section on the site as well. Hours are posted for ordering in the U.S., Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and Europe (UK) - (internet ordering is 24/7); phone numbers, email addresses, and postal addresses for customer service in each of these countries; how to become a member, and more.

The offer is valid from September 16 to December 16, 2002 (or while supplies last).

What does it take to get a top PGA Tour player to attend a non-major event? Would you believe bass ponds, Beanie Babies and a whole whack of begging?

To attend the 1995 Canadian Open, Corey Pavin, who was fresh off his U.S. Open win, wanted a Maple Beanie Baby for his efforts. Other lures of enticement have included selling the advantages of a bass pond to those who like to fish as well as the usual perks: babysitting services (with every mother receiving a pager), a courtesy car and theatre tickets.

... BBOC Website
4:50 pm EDT ... Ty has now posted all the newest BBOC news on the site. (Items are available for ordering beginning September 16th.)
Click here to visit the BBOC

... 'America' Buddy ... and Variations Update
3:10 pm EDT ... Although lingering behind a bit (see yesterday's note), 'America' (blue) Buddy is now listed on Ty's current Beanie Buddy list. (No other variations in color are listed ... but we know how that works sometimes.)
Click here to view Beanie Buddies on Ty's site

Update: 4:15 pm EDT ... Oh my goodness! Speaking of variations, remember Beanieholics mentioning red, white, and blue versions of 'America' Buddy? Apparently, there may be even more (can we say 'reverse ears'?) ...

America Buddies Have Arrived
michigan_bear (Sep 04, 2002, 02:24 PM)
Message Id: 109825

michigan_bear writes:
Several stores in town recieved America Buddy today. And guess what, it's variation hunting time again. Yes today I saw all three colors of America-Blue, White and Red. But that's not all. Oh no! It couldn't be that easy. Can I hear anyone say "Reverse"? Yes that dreaded word. I have found a Reverse Red America Buddy but no luck on White so far. So DT's, it's time to put on your speedy hunting shoes. Best of luck.
michigan_bear

P.S. Maybe I can manage to get a picture to Ms. Janie tonight.
Click here to view the Cyberboard message

... St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital was founded by entertainer Danny Thomas in 1962. It treats children from across the U.S. and 60 foreign countries who are stricken with the most severe childhood cancers. If you are interested in donating, or want to know more about this charity, click on the link below.
Click here for more information

... More Pics of New Beanies
5:50 pm EDT ... Kooler of Bean Book shares some photos of Frankenteddy, Rusty, and Woody Beanie Babies. You can view them at the link below. (Nice close-up pictures!)
Click here to view the pictures
Note: Kooler adds that the images are from TyOk ... these have not yet been received in Japan.

... Next Soccer Promo in Japan
5:50 pm EDT ... Kooler also writes of an upcoming soccer promotion in Japan. September 7, 2002, is "Beanie Babies Day" at the game of "Shimizu S-Pulse vs JEF United Ichihara. The Beanie to be given away is 'Nuts' ... to the first 5,000 women, and children under 19.
Click here to view Ty Japan's Sports Promos List

... Ty Newsflash - September Wallpaper
4:04 pm EDT ... Ty has posted a link for downloading the September wallpaper calendar.
Click here for Sept wallpaper

... New Beanies and Buddies Added to Currents List
3:05 pm EDT ... Ty has also now added the recently introduced Beanies and Buddies to the current list (no birthdays or poems yet), as well as 'Fluff' to the Classics list. (What's interesting ... America Buddy is not listed yet. Now exactly what color will it be? available soon through Ty Store? Hmmm ... We shall wait and see.)
Click here to view Beanie Babies on Ty's site
Click here to view Beanie Buddies on Ty's site
Click here to view Classics on Ty's site

... New Boppers Added to Current List
1:15 pm EDT ... Lucky Lucy and Precious Pammy have been added to Ty's current Beanie Bopper list. Lucky Lucy's hometown is Newport Beach, California; Precious Pammy is from Brandon, Mississippi. All the Boppers (including birthdays, pics, style numbers, etc.) can be found on this site by clicking here. (Their birthdays and style numbers are only noted on the hang tag of each Bopper ... our many thanks to those that provided us with all this information! As soon as these two newest releases show up at retailers, we will add their birthdays as well.)
Click here to view the Bopper homepages

... Ty MasterCard
A few minor changes have been made to the Ty MasterCard page on Ty's website. Check out the appearance of the new card! (A smaller version had been showing on the main page; this one shows more detail.)
Click here to view Ty's MasterCard Promo

... Happy Birthday, Ty Warner
Our best wishes for you on your special day!

... What's Next?
3:10 pm EDT ... Remember my idea from last Thursday? I'd advise everyone to keep an eye on the Ty website over the next day or two. With Ty Warner's birthday tomorrow, one never knows! :) And don't you think it's about time for something new in Ty Store???

Hi Deb,
Just wanted to let you know that it's time again for the THE 54th Tokyo International Gift Show... TY will be there once again this year and hopefully with a NEW JAPAN EXCLUSIVE!
Click here for Japan Gift Show link

DATE: September 4th(wed) - 6th(fri), 2002
Sep.4 (Wed.) & 5 (Thur.)10a.m. to 6p.m.
Sep. 6 (Fri.)10a.m. to 5p.m.. VENUE: Tokyo International Exhibition Center (TOKYO BIG SIGHT)
3-21-1 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0063
East Hall (all 6 Halls), West Hall (all 4 Halls), and Atrium

... Style Numbers
Martin has shared the following style numbers with us, along with what will be available in Singapore:

4549 ... October Birthday Bear (new style)
4562 ... Frankenteddy
4563 ... Rusty
4539 ... Woody

The above new Beanies and Buddies are on the Ty Singapore order form, as well as the Japan Spring 2002 Edition Collectors' Guide. Included, of course, are also some previously released Beanies and Buddies as well.

... Once again, thanks for sharing, Martin! We have updated our lists to include these new releases and style numbers.

... Viruses - Stay Alert
A friend has informed me that she received an email from me, apparently with a virus attachment (from the email address news@doodlespage.com). I keep Norton Antivirus updated constantly, and have scanned both computers this morning again. Although there is no virus on my computer, I simply wish to warn you ... Keep your antivirus program updated with the latest virus definitions. Don't open ANYTHING that looks suspicious. A virus can even mask itself as coming from someone else, as this particular one did. BE CAREFUL! Stay Alert!

... Pictures of Newbies
10:30 am EDT ... Sue (Queeniebeanie) was able to snag some photos of Frankenteddy, Woody and Rusty Beanie Babies. She has sent them to Ms. Janie; they can be viewed at the following link:
Click here to view

... NEC (UK) News
1:10 am EDT ... Information and pictures have now been posted on the 'Beans and Bears' site of new Chubbley Bears ... very cute! And your favorite? (I'm kind of partial to the Halloween bear :)
... Ty news to follow.
Click here for NEC (UK) Show News

9:00 am EDT ... Update: Nothing new was introduced by Ty at the Show, as reported by Daphne Roberts (editor of Bean Bag Magazine). It was, however, reported that 'Jingle Beanies' would be back again this year, and BBOC items will be coming to the UK soon. You can click on the above link for full details.

5:00 pm EDT ... Added note: Additional Chubbley pics, as well as some Celebrity Bears news has also been added now. You can view them all at the above link as well.