Disney Pixar Cars - Todd The Pizza Planet Truck Rules

Our poll results show that if people could only own ONE Car among these Big Three...Frank the Combine, Elvis the RV, and Todd the Pizza Planet Truck, that Todd came out the winner by a 2 to 1 margin! Frank and Elvis tied for second, while a few people voted for other. I'm going to speculate that the "Other" choices would likely be the Apple Car due to its high popularity. They didn't post what their choices were. Maybe they'll post them after reading this.

I personally chose Todd because to me, he signifies Pixar's history. He has purposely been put into all of Pixar's films, and is the thread connecting each director from Toy Story through each ensuing film! My second choice would be Elvis.

I recently reported that Frank has finally been put into production, and that he is likely on his way to the U.S. via a cargo ship from China while you read this. Once I get pictures, I promise I'll post them for all to see. I know I can't wait to see how he'll look. He will be part of the Oversized line. I have no "Official" release date, but am speculating we may see him appear in stores at the end of February. We shall see. You know how these things go.

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Pixar Stock - A Piece Of Pixar History

I had to go into my "Treasure Room" and get this great piece of Pixar history to show you! Before Pixar merged with Disney, I got myself a share of Pixar Stock and had it framed with a quote by Steve Jobs. You could put any quote, but I found one I thought was just right! You can't read it in the photo, so I'll tell you what it says..."Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become." Steve Jobs

The stock certificate has Woody, Tinny the One Man Band, Luxo Junior, Red the Unicycle and Buzz. It is a wonderful piece of Pixar history that I wouldn't trade for anything. Do you have any cool Pixar things the average bear doesn't own?

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Disney Pixar Cars - Frank The Combine Cruising From The Orient

I talked to one of my contacts from Mattel today and brought up my latest poll about Frank, Elvis and Todd. I've long known that Elvis is coming out as an Oversized, and Todd is coming out as a 1:55th die cast. I told him that now they just needed to get Frank done and everyone would be happy. I was told Frank is already in production as part of the Oversized line. More importantly, I was told he was probably on a ship heading to the United States as we spoke! No pictures yet, but as soon as I get any I'll post them for you to see.

When can we expect to see Frank hit the stores? Well, that's like having a Carny guess your weight! I may be close, or I may be way off in making a prediction. So, I'd conservatively say we may see Frank by the middle of February. The great thing is we will finally get Frank! I'm off to do some Tractor Tipping.

Coming Next...A Piece of Pixar History (Ok, Manana)!

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Disney Pixar Cars - Shake 'n Go Mater Could Damage A Child's Hearing

I read an important story about Fisher-Price's (Mattel subsidiary) Shake 'n Go Mater that I felt was important to bring to the attention of those of you who are parents. Here's an excerpt from the Daily Herald's article...
"The Sight & Hearing Association's Noisy Toys 2008 list names 18 toys that make sounds over 90 decibels -- equivalent to a lawn mower, which over time could lead to noise-induced hearing loss. Of those, 14 are over 100 decibels, or louder than a chain saw; six are over 110 decibels, where an average rock concert measures in; and one -- the Fisher-Price Shake 'n Go! Disney/Pixar's Cars Mater toy -- hits a high of 120.8 decibels, slightly louder than a jet plane taking off."

With it being Christmas Eve, some of you may have purchased this toy, or had someone give it as a gift to your young child. This is important news for you to consider since they are still developing and will usually play with toys on the floor in close proximity to their head. The article points out that Shake 'n Go Mater topped the list as the loudest toy with a decibel reading of 120.8, which is louder than a jet plane taking off! Here's a link to the full article from the Daily Herald...Loudest Toys 2008

I hope bringing this to your attention helps you avoid potential problems that could hurt your child. If it is as bad as the Sight & Hearing Association's research states, then I'd bring that toy right back to the store for a refund.

Have a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Coming Next...A Piece of Pixar History (I think I'll get to it on Friday)!

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Disney Pixar Cars - The Big Three Cars Characters

I can confidently say that there are three big Cars characters that are supremely wanted by collectors...Frank the Combine, Elvis the RV and Todd the Pizza Planet Truck! The question I'll pose to you is this...You can own ONLY ONE! Which would you choose for your collection? I can give you my answer, but I'll wait until I see what you answer and what my next poll yields! Let's take a quick look at the three heavyweights...

Frank has long been wanted by Collectors!


Elvis has been a Hunka, Hunka, Shakin' Metal!


Todd has had a long and illustrious film career!

Now, an in depth look at the contenders!

The common thread these three contenders have is they are only in the
film for a moment. Frank has the most screen time as he gets to act with
stars Lightning McQueen and Mater during the tractor tipping scene.



Elvis was hired to shake his fenders to the musical opening by
Sheryl Crow as he hits her accent "Uhhh!" during "Real Gone!"



Finally, Todd the Pizza Planet Truck has just a small cameo, but
wanted us to see his whole reel of cameos! You'll also see some
other hidden Pixar Easter Eggs of Wall•E and other surprises!

So, it comes down to the big muscle of Frank, the graceful Graceland god Elvis, or the reliable ole Japanese native Todd! Which of these Contenders gets your Vote, if you can ONLY OWN ONE?!

Coming Next...A Piece of Pixar History (When I dig it out & photograph it)!

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Disney Pixar Cars - Todd The Pizza Planet Truck In Ratatouille & Wall•E

When I wrote my initial article about Todd the Pizza Planet Truck, I only covered his appearances up through Cars. I figured it was time to update our cameo driven star's last two films...Ratatouille and Wall•E! It is interesting how the directors chose to put him in each film. Brad Bird made him tough to find by having him drive over a bridge in the distance while we focused on Skinner chasing Remy on a scooter. Andrew Stanton put Todd square in our face as Eve scanned the Earth for plant life!

Todd drives over a French bridge in the background in Ratatouille


Todd looks a bit "Trashed" as Eve scans Earth for plant life in Wall•E

It is cool how Todd has been, and will be, in every Pixar feature. Where will he appear in "Up?" You can count on me to let you know! I wonder if we'll see the die cast version of Todd by the time "Up" comes out on May 29th next year. Will Pete Doctor make him easy to find? I'm guessing we may see him from above as Carl Fredrickson's (Ed Asner as Carl) house floats over the city. Can't wait to see it and look for Todd!

Coming Next...A Piece of Pixar History (When I dig it out & photograph it)!

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Disney Pixar Cars - For "Customizers" Who Don't Get It

I love genuine, respectful debate. When people disagree and can discuss things in a calm and mature manner, hopefully we all gain some grain of insight. We may not ultimately agree, but hopefully become better enlightened to the issue being discussed. What I don't appreciate is people who flame, insight, insult and act belligerent towards me, or others when they can't stay focused on the topic and resort to making it personal.

This is the last time I'll make this clear...Make all the "Customs" you want for yourself. However, I strongly suggest you don't use copyrighted images and likenesses of Cars items, sell them on Ebay or elsewhere, otherwise you are PROFITING from the illegal use of those images and likenesses.

Nobody needs my permission to do anything. I'm simply writing articles informing the public that it is unwise to be selling "Customs" using Apple's logos, characters from Cars, or any other intellectually protected image because it is copyright infringement.

People keep trying to attack this blog's author by bringing up the fact that I use the Walmart, Toys R Us or Cars logos. I'll site the U.S. Copyright "Fair Use" Doctrine, and direct you to it so you can be better informed. Here's an excerpt from the government's site. "Section 107 contains a list of the various purposes for which the reproduction of a particular work may be considered “fair,” such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research." Visit this link to become further enlightened...Fair Use Doctrine

If I was using the Toys R Us logo and selling items with their logo on them, I'd certainly be infringing on their copyright and trademark. I'm not making a cent, and am in fact promoting them through comment and news reporting! Frankly, I'm a publicity machine for Pixar's Cars!!

People selling "Customized" hauler after hauler and making thousands of dollars, are doing it illegally! People selling bogus Franks over and over and making thousands of dollars, are doing it illegally. So are the people making ONE item and selling it. The only issue is whether the owner's of those copyrights, Pixar in this case, are going to spend thousands to go after the people selling the illegal items. Anyone with a brain realizes there's a cost/benefit to spending thousands of dollars prosecuting small time thieves. That's why people sell these bogus items. Yet, the fools selling dozens and dozens are far more likely to be prosecuted due to their high visibility and blatant disregard for the law. And simply put, they are making a lot of money doing so. This is the point!

Why do I care? Because it is wrong! Because I'm warning you! Because you shouldn't do it! It doesn't matter what the issue is, if I were to write about the fact that you shouldn't shoplift, you shouldn't rape someone, you shouldn't commit battery, it is all to discuss the reasons why you shouldn't do those things. Maybe discussing it will enlighten someone. Maybe it will stop someone from doing something that could get them in trouble. Maybe it will teach someone about something important.

I have obviously struck a nerve! And, I love it!! Thanks Roger X, you prompted me to write another great article. I'm outta here.

http://CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - The Stores To Find Cars

Walmart and Target have been major disappointments for the last couple months. Promises of pallets filled with Cars toys are more like dreams of sugarplums in some whacked out kid's head! They have let us down! No supply and nothing new!

Who are the New heros of Cars collectors?! That old dump of a store...Kmart! Right there with old glue horse Kmart is Toys R Us! Come on, you agree with me, you walk into a Kmart and it is like a morgue! You keep waiting to hear when they are going to file Chapter 11! Yet somehow, the old Blue Light Special keeps its doors open. Heck, Toys R Us isn't much better really! I don't know how they stay in business. BUT, in spite of the fact Kmarts always look like they are going Out of Business and Toys R Us hardly every has customers, they have come through strong in the last couple of weeks!

Toys R Us has been a consistent supply of New releases! I've found Impound Boost, Chief RPM, and Tank Coat Pitty! I've yet to find the next case with Impound Snot Rod, but I have a strong feeling they will have them very soon as well! So, kudos to Toys R Us for meeting collector demand over the last few weeks! It certainly made it easier to buy five Cars for the N2O promotion!

Today I had a feeling I should go into Kmart and voila! There were the two Over Sized Characters I've been searching weeks for...Mack and Marco! And, they had two of each, which is what I always buy! Not only did I find Mack and Marco, but I also found another Impound Boost! So, guess where I'll be going in search of Cars die cast toys? Well, it's safe to say I won't be going to Walmart until they get their act together!

Hope this gives you some help in your search for the elusive toys! You know, I paid $8.79 for each Over Sized and could care less. They had the darn things I wanted and I was happy to pay Kmarts price! Wouldn't you?

http://CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Alternator Valley's New Original Logo

Unveiling for the first time...Alternator Valley's New Original logo! Here's your first look at it in its clean, rough form! Designed by my friend Martin Arriola, Mattel Senior Manager of Product Design! Martin is also a fine artist who creates Original Paintings in Oil, Pastel and Watercolor. I urge you to learn more about Martin's art at this link...MartinArriola.com

The final cleaned up version will be done at the start of the year. Another talented friend of mine, Mark Mc Intyre, is a former Disney Design Group artist and one of the co-founders of Hitch Critters. Check out his cool animated hitch ball covers at this link...HitchCritters.com

Our logo as been developed to further enhance our identity, and to connect to our loyal readers around the globe! T-Shirts will be available for purchase after the New Year! We may offer other logo emblazoned merchandise as well.

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Disney Pixar Cars - Luigi & Guido Hallmark Keepsake Ornament 2008

Real news about Cars die cast toys is pretty much stagnant. With this in mind, I figured I'd talk about ancillary Cars items. I went to a Hallmark store last week and looked for this year's Cars ornament. It was Guido and Luigi. It costs $15.00 and honestly, it isn't worth it. It is the same boring scene of them as fans. Why doesn't Disney get that we want Originality!! How many Franks would they have blown out the door if they made him?! I know I would have grabbed one of those up! I know you reading this would have wanted one! Anything but the same damn, old, tired designs!! Are you people in business to sell product or not?! Oh well, expect those stupid ornaments to gather dust and end up being discounted because they won't sell.

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Disney Pixar Cars - Disney Pixar Monopoly On Clearance At Toys R Us

I dropped by Toys R Us yesterday and found the Monopoly Disney Pixar Special Edition on Clearance for $14.99! It normally sells for $30.00. I remember when I got the First Edition of the game a few years ago and it cost $45.00. If you can get one, I'd strongly advise you to do so! The game is very cool!

The tokens are really fantastic. I will certainly have to take Lightning McQueen! Kachow!! You can also choose from Mr Incredible, Nemo, Sully with Boo, Buzz Lightyear, and Remy. They are all done in pewter.

The game board has some interesting spots...there's Zurg's Planet, Edna Mode's Mansion, and Andy's Room. You better not speed or the Sheriff will fine you $75.00! You may have to draw a Piston Cup card and pay a fine of $50 because gas goes up again!

I plan on building Al's Toy Barns as far as the eye can see! High roll goes first!

http://www.CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - Mattel Counterfeits Seized In Raid

I started writing an article last year titled, "Customs versus Counterfeits." It was about this time of year that I saw too many people making what they wanted to call "Customs," appearing on Ebay in large numbers. Honestly, there's only one name to call them...COUNTERFEITS!

I haven't finished that article because for a year I've been doing research and talking to Disney Legal, Mattel and trying to get in touch with a number of lawyers. So, the article is still in the works and may be finished soon.

The reason I am discussing this is because of the big bust made a few days ago of 125 thousand bogus toys from China! Toys created to look like Barbie and Winnie the Pooh. Toys that infringe on Mattel and Disney's legal rights.

Richard de Anda, vice president of global security and investigations for Mattel, said the company conducts raids about twice a week in Chinese factories where counterfeit products are manufactured.

Take a look at the official Mattel manufactured Haulers and compare them to this ripoff "The King" counterfeit. Tough to tell which is authentic and which is bogus. These need to be stopped dead in their tracks and the people making them prosecuted for copyright infringement.

There have also been stolen Cars items from manufacturing plants in China showing up on Ebay as well. I've said before that people should avoid buying contraband. People have over paid for these stolen goods and just encourage the illegal behavior by creating a market for the stolen items. Think about this as well...the illegal Chinese counterfeits may also be made with lead based paints. Do you want to give your child toys that could harm them?

http://www.CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - Is The Economy Impacting Your Collecting

KB Toys just declared bankruptcy, Circuit City, Linens and Things, and many more have recently done the same. Mattel, Yahoo, Citibank, even LucasArts have laid off thousands! Unemployment is at a twenty-six year high, the Dow is down 39%, while we carry the largest deficit in the country's history! The globe has fallen into recession as well. Sounds very positive, doesn't it?!

The question I have for you is, "Have these developments caused you to pull back on your spending of Cars collectibles?"

I've chosen to stop wasting time running around like I'm looking for Easter Eggs at Walmart, Target, etc. Thus, I'm saving money on gas. I'm also considering changing my collecting of two of each Car, to just one of each Car. I blame this on the lame supply that both Mattel and the retailers have failed to address to meet collector's demands. I'm getting sick of trying to track down toys like a dog chasing its tail!!

Collecting should be fun, not work! Don't you agree? I'm out for today!

http://www.CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - Tokyo Mater Drifts Into Theatres Today

Is "Tokyo Mater" enough to tempt you to see Bolt?

As much as I'd love to see the fourth of "Mater's Tall Tales,"
I have to say seeing Bolt is not on my to do list.

What I'd love to know is...
when will "Mater's Tall Tales" be available on DVD?

1. Rescue Squad Mater
2. El Materdor
3. Mater The Greater
4. Tokyo Mater
   

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Disney Pixar Cars - KB Toys Auto Purchase Was One Thing Done Right.

KB Toys just filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy. They blamed the economy, but I can tell you it was due to poor management, lousy toy selection and filthy stores. A good friend worked in management for years, and left nearly a year ago as he couldn't take the pathetic management from above. The store near my house is always filthy, disheveled, and has the worst people working there. They literally had Hispanics working there who couldn't speak a single word of English!! This was the majority of the workers who dealt with customers! And, the area was not an Hispanic area. Reminds me of the story my uncle told me about the Mc Donalds near him that had a Russian girl working the drive through who couldn't speak English. Can you say "Happy Meal" in Russian?!!

The only thing KB Toys did right was to have a Cars pre-purchase list. You'd buy a gift card and load it with the approximate amount for the Cars you wanted to buy. For instance, if we were waiting for Tumbleweed McQueen, Sally with Cone and Impound Boost, they'd put you down for those three and call you when supply came in. I did this for nearly a year! I had to wait, but always got what I needed! This was a very smart move at the store I'd go to. They had a long list, and it generated consistent sales for them. The list was stupidly dropped when my friend resigned, as he kept it organized and running.

I guess I better go cash in my gift cards for some discounted toys before they go away for good!

http://www.CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - Tokyo Drift Mater And Lightning McQueen Open For Bolt

When I broke the News about Tokyo Drift back on November 18th (Click to Read), I didn't have any pictures for you. Here's a look at our heros Mater and Lightning McQueen all tripped out for some "Drifting" Tokyo style!

Starting on December 12, 2008 you'll be able to see "Tokyo Drift," the fourth and final short from "Mater's Tall Tales" as an intro to Bolt in 3D! My sources indicate this is likely to be the final "Interstitial," and it appears to me to be a bridge to "Cars 2, The Global Race!"

You can also count on seeing these versions of Mater and Lightning added to the 1:55th scale die cast "Mainline" in the future! Yeah man! More cool toys to add to your growing collection.

You can bank on breaking Cars news to be seen here first on Alternator Valley! Sign up for our RSS Feeds so you can be notified as New articles are published!

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Disney Pixar Cars - Which Car Would You Like To Get From Santa

News has been slower than a drippin' radiator! I was thinking about which ONE Car I would love to get from Santa, and there's quite a few of them. I figure a lot of you wouldn't mind seeing a number of the Cars I'll throw at you in your stocking as well!

I think I'd love to see Elvis the RV striking a pose under the tree this year! He's the one Car that is going to be hot beyond belief! I know many people who don't collect Cars who are already salivating at the thought of getting that little hunk a, hunk a, shakin' metal!!

I would certainly love to see Todd the Pizza Planet Truck peering out from the top of my stocking! This is another Car that will be very sought after. Todd has been in every Pixar film and his appearance as a die cast has been eagerly anticipated by John Lasseter! I bet John has long had a Todd prototype sitting in his office!

The one Car I've long wanted is that chubby cheeked Jay Limo! I've seen Jay's Tonight Show live many times, he's a Bostonian like moi, and he loves cars in general! His cameo was super fun and I would love to see him in some wrapping paper.

I would also really love to see the face of the white Walmart hauler pop out of a box this Merry Ex-mas! I've owned Walmart stock, spend mucho dinero there, and have to have the company hauler in my collection!

So, Which Car would you love to get from Santa? Everybody has their own favorite. We can wish can't we?!

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Disney Pixar Cars - N2O Welcomed By Racing Committee

N2O Cola Welcomed by Race Official Tom & Nitroade

All the pomp and circumstance deserved by a celebrity was given to N2O Cola as he arrived in town today! Race Official Tom was the first to welcome N2O on behalf of the Piston Cup staff. Nitroade did the honors as the representative of the Race Cars. N2O was honored and felt like part of the circuit immediately! He was quoted as saying, "I just hope we have a good season, and I quickly become one of the boys!"

I bet you didn't know N2O's real name is Manny Flywheel! He's been a fervent spokescar for his sponsor N2O Cola. The ironic thing is Manny can't drink N2O because it is illegal on the racing circuit. N2O Cola gives engines an extra pop through the ingredient of nitrous.

N2O is expected to make stops in many other towns while on the racing circuit. Don't forget you have until December 31, 2008 to get N2O Cola to drop by your home track. Read all about it at this link N2O Cola Promotion! This is Orlandog Ken for RSN!

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Disney Pixar Cars - Selling Cars On Ebay Is A Waste Of Time

I want to address the selling of Cars die cast toys on Ebay. From the start, people have been hoarding Cars and foolishly selling them for very little profit. I'm going to show you how people selling Cars on Ebay have little to no business smarts!

I got an extra Edwin Kranks at the Kmart Collectors Day back in October. Let me show you how much of a waste of time it was for me to sell it on Ebay! The first time I listed it, I had a starting price of $9.99 with a Buy It Now price of $12.99. It did not sell. The second time I listed it, my starting price was $2.00 with a Buy It Now price of $9.99. This time someone paid the Buy It Now price of $9.99 with $2.95 Shipping and Handling.

Here's how my costs broke down and what I made...The first time I listed it, I paid an Insertion fee of $0.35, a Buy It Now fee of $0.10, for a total of $0.45 cents. The second time I listed it, I paid an Insertion fee of $0.35, a Buy It Now fee of $0.10, a Scheduled fee of $0.10, and a Final Value fee of $0.87 cents. Now, the Insertion fee of $0.35 was refunded because it sold the second time I listed it. My total Ebay fees were $1.45 and constituted a 16% piece to Ebay. The person paid by Paypal and those fees were $0.68 cents, and totalled a 5% piece to Paypal. The cost of shipping was $1.86, and the large bubble envelope cost me $0.50. The cost of the Edwin Kranks Car was $3.72. Total Fees came to $8.21. My gross amount was $12.94 and I netted $4.73 after expenses.

Now, this might seem ok on the surface, but let's look at other unrealized expenses. First, the time I spent going to Kmart and the cost of gas...I spent about two hours dealing with the event. Who knows how much gas I used. The store was about five miles from my house. Now, add to this my time spent listing Edwin for sale, the preparing of the picture, relisting it, packing it and ultimately mailing it. I'd estimate another one and a half hours. Total time spent to make a lousy $4.73...three and a half hours! That means I made $1.35/hour! That is absolutely stupid from a common sense business approach!!

The dumb thing I've heard for years from people selling like this is "I do it for fun!" When I spell it out for you, I ask you, "What is your life worth to you?!" All those hours spent to make so little. I'd really rather have spent those three and a half hours with friends, learning something, or even volunteering my time to enrich another's life. Remember, we have a finite time here. Do you want to spend it so foolishly? These points alone are enough to convince people with a brain to stop doing such fruitless selling. Additionally, think how this hoarding and greed has created shortages of supply. We've all seen those pictures people post that intimate bragging when they show a photo of two dozen of one Chase Car!

The only positive, is that you can often get the Cars you want for a good price. The majority of the Cars toys have never sold for much more than twice their cost. I looked at how many nuts bought the Mac Transporter and opened it to sell Bumper Save. Within a day, the dummies flooded the market with over eighty auctions selling the same darn car! Too many ding dongs have no clue as to what they are doing.

Will addressing this make the selling stop? Of course not! It will ONLY enlighten those with a brain. I don't care what you want to sell, it needs to be profitable and worth your time. Heck, if you really want to waste your time to track Cars down and sell them to me for three or four bucks over retail, go right ahead! You save me tons of time that I can use to sleep, watch movies, workout, and do productive things. Maybe you selling Cars on Ebay is not a waste of my time? Hmmm! ;-) I am Over and OUT!!

http://www.CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - Feeling Like A Mouse In A Maze Chasing Cheese

I've been quite sick over the last four days, thus my lack of recent entries. Add to this fact that there hasn't been much to write about! I could rehash old news so you'd have something to read every day, but that's not my style. I write when I have something substantive to tell you.

After that ridiculous "Black Friday," I feel like we as collectors, have been running around like the proverbial mouse in a maze chasing an elusive piece of cheese! I know a large number of you are getting fed up with the baloney of wasting gas and time chasing Mattel's Cheese. It isn't fun, it isn't making anyone happy, it is simply insulting. If anyone thinks running from Walmart to Toys R Us, from Target to KB Toys, from Walgreens to Kmart, is a productive use of your time, when the result of hours of running around end in disappointment, then you need to get a life!!

Christmas is just over four weeks away. Where the heck is Night Vision McQueen and the Collector's Guide? Where are the Haulers? What about NEW Cars like Sally With Cone, Dexter Hoover, Tumble Weed McQueen, Chase Boost, Chase Snot Rod, Tank Coat Pitty and Chief RPM? What's the story with the "Oversized" Cars?

I have not seen, nor have any idea where Night Vision McQueen is being sold. No one else seems to either. The "Haulers" must be under the mismanagement of General Motors, because who knows if we'll ever see them! Sure, some of the recent New Cars have come out...if you live, sleep and do nothing but sit in the aisles of Walmart or Target 24/7!! How about the stupidity of Walmart's Black Friday circular? The ad shows three "Oversized" Cars; Mack, Marco and Lightning Storm McQueen. People all over the country arrive at 5:00 A.M. and find Walmart has NOTHING, or if they do, they don't have Mack and Marco! Are you a satisfied customer? Or do you feel like a mouse that hasn't been fed, so you'll run through a maze for a stinking piece of cheese?! I think you know how I feel.

Let me tell you something straight up...I write what I observe and what's truthful. If something warrants praise, then I write positive things and give credit where credit is due. On the obverse, if I see garbage and poor management, then I'll criticize and point out issues that need to be addressed and rectified.

My next article will focus on the stupidity of Ebay Sellers who've hoarded the die cast Cars from the start. Have a good one! I'm outta here!

http://www.CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - Black Friday Had Many Collectors Seeing Red

If you followed me on Twitter today, you got a sense of just how frustrating and worthless going to Walmart at 5 A.M. proved to be. I went to a Walmart that caters more to tourists visiting Orlando, while one of my reporters went to a Walmart near the University of Central Florida. We both arrived about 4:30 A.M. and the stores were packed and chaotic. The store I visited had only one pallet with Mack Transporters. The toy department manager called me a few days ago and told me that he got Oversized Cars, but when I arrived he said he didn't get them. My reporter visiting the other store found two pallets, one with Mack Transporters and one with new singles such as Chief RPM, Tank Coat Pitty and Impound Boost (Chase). The toy department manager at that store called a few days ago to tell me that he got Oversized Cars, but when my reporter arrived he told her he couldn't find them. All I got was the Tank Coat Pitty and Chief RPM, as that was all my reporter was able to find. It was quite a disappointing waste of our time!

Earlier at midnight, I went to KB Toys and they had absolutely nothing! Once I left Walmart, I went to Toys R Us and again found absolutely nothing! Cars are one of the hottest toy lines in the world and where the hell is the supply?! Just a month until Christmas, and the busiest shopping day of the year is void of supply!! Whoever is to blame, Mattel or the store buyers, get your act together! You are losing millions by not meeting the high demand around the globe. You are not creating demand if the lack of supply is actually purposely calculated to "Keep People Hungry!" You are angering your customers.

I finally went home and went to bed. I woke to find a voice mail from the toy department manager of the Walmart I went to. He told me he found four cases of the Oversized and told me to come back to get them if I wanted some. I ended up with Barney Stormin', Lightning Storm McQueen, and Al-Oft the Blimp. The infuriating thing was he put out a second pallet hours after I left with the large talking Mack Transporter, Launchers, and New Single Packs. The Single Packs were picked over and I got nothing else. He told me he saw that two more Cars pallets were coming in any day now. So, who knows what they'll be and when they'll come in.

I left Walmart about 1:30 P.M. and headed to my last useless stop, a different Toys R Us location. Again, nothing new at all! Five different stores and literally nothing to buy! I was told the same happened with a friend in the Austin, Texas area. Taking a look at the collecting community, I found that the same disappointment held true across the country. I don't know what brilliant managers made the poor decisions that led to thousands of collectors coming up empty today, but they should be fired. This running around to store, after store, after store, has gotten beyond OLD! People are getting fed up! There is far more to life, than chasing around Cars toys that aren't available.

If Walmart and Mattel want to do something for their image, they should make damn sure there is plenty of supply of the Haulers and the Newest Singles available SOON! People are over the fact that Sarge hasn't been re-released, that they can't find the Oversized Cars, and that they are Cases behind the latest releases! The supply has never met the demand since the line started in June of 2006! I won't even discuss MattyCollector! Au Revoir for tonight!!

http://www.CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - Last Minute Walmart News For Black Friday

So, are you thankful for your health? How about someone who loves you? Maybe the freedoms you enjoy by living in the United States! Don't forget what Thanksgiving is really about, and the sacrifices that have been made for over 232 years to give them to you.

I have some last minute news about Black Friday at Walmart. I got a call today from another toy department manager who's on the ball. He told me he was going to have 36 (only 6 cases) of the Oversized Cars Die Cast Toys. They will sell for $5.00 starting at 5:00 A.M. on Friday morning. He also told me he got in the new Mack Transporters with Nitro Ade, Bob Cutlass, and the Newly released Bumper Save. He said he got quite a few in, and doesn't expect them to be gone as fast as the Oversized. They will sell for $10.00, again starting at 5:00 A.M on Friday morning. He didn't see a single thing about the Haulers, he couldn't tell me anything about a pallet at his store and essentially told me that was that!

Black Friday can bring out some Monsters, so just keep your cool, have a list with you, and just take it easy. It is only stuff! Be courteous to others and all will go well!

For those of you who'd like to follow me as I arrive at Walmart and take in Black Friday, I'll use Twitter to do LIVE Updates from the insanity as I did for the Kmart Cars Event. Visit Twitter.com and sign-up for free, then you can follow me under my name of orlandogken. I'll give you real time updates on what I find, how crazy it is at Walmart, if anything unexpected is released, and advice as it makes sense. Good luck with your quest for the latest Cars die cast toys, and drive safely!

http://www.CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - International Collectors Will Be Happy

Thanksgiving is tomorrow in the United States. I thought I'd write for all of you International Collectors today! I've been told that your issues about getting product will be addressed next year through MattyCollector.com I can't tell you exactly what you'll supposedly be able to buy because it hasn't been totally confirmed. I'll tell you that if Mattel does what they've told me, that you'll be happy! I'd expect to see some developments later in the summer. Matty has been sitting dormant and will hopefully be awakened by then.

http://www.CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - The Walmart Pallets

I got a call today from one of my Walmart toy department managers, and was told he saw three Cars pallets coming. He couldn't tell me anything more about the contents or expected date they'd be in. He and I discussed things about Black Friday and surmise they may be for the big sale. We discussed what time I should arrive and what to expect. He promised to call me and fill me in as soon as he knows anything further. Therefore, all I can do for now, is to promise I'll fill you in as soon as I know anything of importance. Until then, keep thinking of that delicious turkey, stuffing, gravy and pie that you'll eat on Thursday!

http://www.CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - Tokyo Drift May Be A Lead In To Cars 2 The Global Race

I told you I heard how incredible Mater's Tall Tales "Tokyo Drift" turned out! It may be the last interstitial, and a very important one. It may give us a clue as to a bridge between Cars and Cars 2! I heard it was a much longer Cars Toons episode at approximately five to six minutes long. This is twice as long as the first three. I was told it is the best of "Mater's Tall Tales!" I also heard it has dialogue that may indicate John Lasseter is using this as the bridge to "The Global Race" by taking us to Japan!

With this intriguing info, let me tell you a bit more...the die cast toys from "Rescue Squad Mater," "Mater The Greater," "El Materdor," and "Tokyo Drift" are expected to be part of the "MAINLINE." They are expected to start showing up in the summer next year. I've also heard we MAY see a NEW Collector Guide with Dragon Lightning McQueen (He's in Tokyo Drift), similar to the recently released Collector Guide with Night Vision Lightning McQueen! Yes, I wish I had pics of Tokyo Drift! For now, enjoy the news. Once I can post pictures, you can be sure I'll happily share them!

http://www.CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - BLACK FRIDAY is THE DAY OF THE SHOPPING ZOMBIES!

People have been going nuts for weeks looking for some rumored pallet at Walmart, new Race O Rama cases that have been misglued, Oversized Cars that have been hardly seen, and they are frustrated to say the least! Well, here's what I advise you to do...Spend a peaceful, happy Thanksgiving with friends, family or whoever matters in your life. Sleep in, catch some of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, eat delicious home cooked food, watch the Lions game, go out and play some tag football to work off all that chow, come back in and eat some more, watch a great DVD like Wall•E, then hit the sack early. Tommorrow you have to get up at 4:00 A.M. and head off to Walmart for "BLACK FRIDAY!"

At 5:00 A.M. the shopping will begin!! The shopping Zombies will attack the stores by the millions! You have to be ready to deal with them. As many of you probably know, Walmart is advertising the Oversized die cast toys. I'll speculate that you'll find many of the single Cars you've been looking for lately, and maybe you'll be lucky and find some of the Haulers! I wouldn't sweat things for the next week, because frankly, I don't think you'll find anything until Black Friday anyway. I'd just relax for the next week and see what happens on the 28th. That's my plan!

http://www.CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - The Pixar Story by Leslie Iwerks

I just watched Wall•E's Disc 2 feature, "The Pixar Story" by Leslie Iwerks, and it is SUPREMELY INSPIRING! It compelled me to write this article to tell you that this one story alone, makes purchasing the Wall•E 3-DISC Special Edition a MUST!! If you've been a fan of Pixar, John Lasseter, and Steve Jobs, you'll be highly inspired by their passion and triumph in building the animation power house that produced Cars!

The piece documents everything from John's time at CalArts, to his being fired because he was ahead of his time in seeing the potential of computer animation. It endears you to Ed Catmul, who is now head of Disney/Pixar Animation. It takes you on his journey from a being a fan of animation, to working with George Lucas, to being the head of Pixar, and culminating with his position at Disney today! It shows how critical Steve Jobs was in making key entrepreneurial decisions that would move the fledgling company along, and allow the team to do what it had to in order to succeed! You see Joe Ranft and Pete Doctor, Andrew Stanton and Brad Bird, and learn more about them! You are taken through time from the shorts to Cars. It is a superb story by Leslie Iwerks that I bet you'll watch over and over again!

I've been fortunate to meet and talk to John Lasseter and Joe Ranft. I asked Pete Doctor about UP at a press conference at Comic-Con this year! I hope someday soon I'll meet Ed Catmul and Steve Jobs! Maybe get a chance to sit down and chat with Andrew Stanton and Brad Bird some time! I share a passion for what they do, and how they do it! If you want to be inspired, buy Wall•E's 3-DISC Special Edition, pop in Disc 2, and watch "The Pixar Story!!" All I could do was smile, cheer, and shed a tear of happiness for their progress and triumphant success! I hope it touches you in the same way!

http://www.CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com