After years of fierce lobbying2 and months of secrecy, Beijing unveiled five mascots for the 2008 Olympics on Nov. 11, opening a marketing blitz that is expected to reap record profits.3 In an elaborate, nationally televised gala4 at a Beijing sports arena5 to mark the 1,000-day countdown6 until the Games, senior Chinese leaders introduced the mascots-Beibei, Jingjing, Huanhuan, Yingying and Nini- which, put together, translates to "Beijing welcomes you!"