Abstract: An anchor-valve stem assembly has a valve stem, having a bore formed therethrough and a valve formed within the valve stem, preferably a check valve. At least one attachment member or anchor is formed upon the valve stem so as to facilitate attachment to at least one tether, preferably formed of elastic. The anchor(s) preferably comprise generally cylindrical arms and are preferably formed integrally with the valve stem. A cap is optionally attached, preferably via a tether, to the valve stem so as to close the bore thereof. The use of such an anchor-valve stem assembly facilitates the efficient fabrication of inflatable items such as balls to which it is desirable to attach at least one tether.