A Note from: Cindy L. Malchoff, TBAI Chairman

This is a show with a heart. Share a smile, make a friend. Working together as one, we raise funds for the Ross Park Zoos' Endangered Species Program, the fifth oldest zoo in the United States. “Make new friends, but keep the old, one is silver and the other gold!” Ok, so that takes me back to my girl scout days. But it is something we all thrive on at TBAI! We are a show to be proud of! Millie Gage, founder of this old fashioned style show did it right!!! TBAI will always be Millie’s legacy, a gift to the artists and collectors of the bearworld. It is in following her path and continuing her legacy that I am proud to be able to continue the work begun by Millie Gage. Though we all miss Millie, her hard work and dreams will continue to flourish.  I know in my heart, Millie IS proud!

"Extinction lies in the hands of man... Preservation lives in the heart of Humanity." - Millie Gage

Why change words or ways …. It can’t be said any better!! I am repeatedly told “You have big shoes to fill.” While this is true, because of Millie’s great foresight they are a very comfortable fit! I have seen changes in the past couple of years. They are changes for the good! I have seen more of the artists and collectors become involved the the workings of this show. And working together is what it’s all about. This spectacular show is a commitment of artists and collectors working to bring you the best in the industry in a heartwarming fashion! Together, more than ever, we offer you an opportunity to join us for a wonderful weekend! Where else can you see so many gathered together working to preserve our Endangered Species, and having so much fun while doing it! And the best of all….we can see what our efforts have done first hand!

Speaking of fun, this year will be like no other!! In addition to the the "Children's Classics (in film and literature)", TBAI will be running a background theme of Alice In Wonderland's own Mad Hatter's Tea. We will be having fun playing games Alice style too....where else would one play "Flamingo Croquet?" Wearing our hats will be an integral part of the entire week-end for artists and collectors (your participation will greatly enhance the setting) including the Gallery opening, Dinner, auction and even during show hours on Saturday and the picnic!  Don't be left out!  It will conclude with a judging by your peers for the BEST HAT!

We can be very proud of our accomplishments is assisting the Ross Park Zoo with their Endangered Species Programs. Collective funds generated in 2006, 2007 and 2008 were combined with grants and local contributions to rebuild the entire lower portion of the zoo grounds. This project is called “Wonders Of Nature Exhibit.” This new exhibit, opened for the 2009 season (May 2009), and features snow leopards and cougars in large outdoor exhibits and various smaller animals in inside exhibits.  Among these there are golden lion tamarins, meerkats, Gila monsters, hellbenders and various species of birds, snakes and endangered frogs from around the world.  We again enjoy seeing how our contributions make a difference

BE PROUD TO SAY "WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!!" We do it time and time again!

Support of our treasured endangered species comes from the heart of each TBAI collector, artist, and supporting magazine. Looking back, TBAI 2005 provided a renovated backup housing unit for the Amur Leopards as well as new heating units for several of the endangered species at the Zoo. Looking farther back, TBAI funds have contributed to the endangered spectacled bears, golden lion tamarins, creation of a penguin habitat, and provided sole financial support for the protection of endangered ruffed lemurs. TBAI provided funds to bring in a breeding pair of highly endangered Amur Leopards to Ross Park Zoo and refurbish a habitat for them, as well as additional enhancements to benefit our treasured creatures. TBAI has also been a major contributor in the construction of a Rain Forest habitat at Ross Park Zoo. In this extraordinary exhibit there is no fence, no screen, no glass...just you and the wonderful creatures that call the habitat home. TBAI's generosity, collectively, has truly left a wonderful mark on endangered species and Ross Park Zoo, the fifth oldest zoo in the United States; continuing to achieve our mission to support endangered species.

Teddy Bear and Friends and Teddy Bear Review along with other industry publications around the globe have joined us in support of endangered species. Sincere and heartfelt appreciation for your continued dedication to TBAI's mission.

TBAI 2010 promises to be filled with excitement and simply wonderful surprises. From our Thursday evening benefit gala, to the incredible international artistry, and scrumptious feasts you can count on a magical experience! Artists from across the US, Canada, Hong Kong, and United Kingdom will be joined by collectors from around the globe for a fabulous event. Consider this your personal invitation to join us this year!! !

TBAI has been defined as a show with a heart. Please open your heart and join your peers at TBAI 2010. Share in contagious camaraderie, a show of treasures, and experience the magic of TBAI. Together we can make a difference in our world. Who knows, you may even see the Mad Hatter, the White Rabbit, Alice or even the Queen of Hearts!

With hugs & gratitude, Cindy