Shining Stars

International Star Registry

Each of the plush toys has an embroidered logo and star on its paw pad. This ensures that the stuffed animal you purchased is genuine. Each one has a secret code hidden in a hangtag. Take the secret code and log onto the Shining Stars website. After registering, you will be able to enter your name into the International Star Registry. The system chooses a star, and you will receive the exact coordinates of its location. You can print this information onto a certificate to prove that you have a star in your name.

More Fun with Shining Stars

Not only are they plush animals, but they are virtual pets. At the official website, children 4-12+ can register as a member and participate in many fun activities. Children can send e-cards of their particular stuffed animal to friends and family. They can participate in different games, learning programs and online chat.

Glow Points

The site teaches children different skills such as reading, counting, and even money management. For every game or other activity your child participates in, he or she will earn Glow Points. Once the child builds up enough Glow Points, she will be able to use them towards a Flicks Theatre or can donate it to charity. When a child donates her Glow Points, it turns into real money. The money is donated to Starlight Foundation.

The Starlight Foundation

The Starlight Foundation helps seriously ill children. They provide many programs and activities to help these kids cope with their illness. Donations help provide family activities and outings, playrooms and special events, technology-based programs and educational programs. The Starlight Foundation strives to give these kids their spirit back in the midst of their illness. Russ Berrie and Company Inc. will donate at least $50,000 to the charity in the next two years.

Safe Online Environment

The website is a safe, controlled environment. Russ & Berrie and Company, Inc. know the dangers of the Internet for kids, so they made their site a fun, friendly and safe place for children to play, learn and interact with other plush animal owners. Personal information will never be visible to other members. Monitored environments ensure that their site remains appropriate for all members.

Keeping Up with Events

These virtual pets always have something going on in cyber world. You can find the latest happenings by visiting the Russ news blog. Managed by the manufacturers, this blog provides you with the newest additions to the family of animals. You can see photos of people with their new toys and hear about events around the county. This site will discuss any updates to the site as well.

Places to Purchase

Find these lovable animals in many toy stores or online. Their regular retail cost is $14.99. Some Internet retailers are selling them for less than what they sell for in stores. If you are looking for a deal, here are some places to look.

• Amazon – You can find many of them here for half the cost of a regularly priced one.
• PriceGrabber– This site searches the

Internet for lowest prices and then directs you to the e-tailer that is selling it.

• Buy.com – A site with a large selection of the plush animals available for reduced prices.
• Toys R Us – You can purchase them at Toys R Us online or in the store.
• Store Locator– This link will take you to the main website where you can search for stores in your area.