October 2008 Notable Toys — Gifts

With Crosley’s Memory Master turntable and CD recorder combo system, simply put on an LP or pop in a cassette, load a blank CD and press “record.” For computer savvy collectors, the Memory Master is USB-enabled for connection to Windows-equipped Macs™ and PCs, and includes a software suite for ripping and editing audio content. The Memory Master also allows one to spin records, play cassettes and CDs, or tune in to a favorite swing or big-band station on the analog AM/FM tuner, using the full-function remote control for hours of nostalgic enjoyment. "Reintroductions of original vintage radios and turntables feature the newest technologies graced by unforgettable Crosley stylings," Director of Marketing Elizabeth Braun of Crosley Radio told TDmonthly. Launch date: August 2008.

This Crosley 2/3 scale CD Jukebox is the finest replica of the most famous juke box ever produced, the Wurlitzer 1015. Updated for our times, it features a state-of-the-art, 10 compact disc changer, an AM/FM radio, a full-function remote control and a 42-disc storage base. The Crosley Jukebox is also equipped with four speakers and four transformers, each appropriately thermostatically controlled to keep the internal components cool for hours of endless enjoyment. Each unit is individually checked and tested extensively to meet the highest standards of quality workmanship. "Today, the Crosley name lives on with superbly detailed replicas that truly transcend time," Elizabeth Braun, director of marketing for Crosley Radio, told TDmonthly. Launch date: 2001.

The Autorama CD represents a vintage icon, mimicking the clean, streamlined stylings of a classic 1950s automobile. From the sleek lines to the chrome grill side-mounted speakers, this beauty takes one back to the days of drive-ins and diners, but adds a hint of technological advance with a CD player. The Autorama CD features an AM/FM Radio, a three-speed turntable, a compact disc player and enough sophistication to render most enthusiasts speechless. Launch date: 2001.

Vinyls can be converted to CDs in minutes with just a few simple steps. The Keepsake allows old albums to be recorded in a digital audio format for high quality sound on a smaller, more modern compact disc. It easily interfaces with the USB port on any computer by utilizing the supplied software suite. However, if one still wants to enjoy albums old-style, Crosley’s Keepsake offers a three-speed turntable for listening enjoyment.

The Crosley Traveler Turntable is designed to reflect the portable stylings of yesteryear. This fan favorite is a three-speed, belt-driven turntable that plays 33 1/3, 45 and 78 RPM records. The Traveler includes modern conveniences, such as a diamond stylus needle and dynamic full-range stereo speakers. "Rich lines, retro designs and authentic crafting have made Crosley today’s premier vintage electronics manufacturer. True to the Crosley tradition, these replicas are as fabulous as they are functional, providing a delightful dose of nostalgia," Elizabeth Braun, director of marketing for Crosley Radio, told TDmonthly. Launch date: 2001.

This heavy-duty decorated pint (pub) glass features vintage graphics from the Mexican game "Loteria." Launch date: August 2008.

Dressed in his signature green corduroy overalls, this Touch-activated plush gently moves his head back and forth while he reads the endearing story of Corduroy bear in a sweet childlike voice. "A perfect bedtime - or anytime - companion, children will love to listen to this irresistible character's heartwarming tale over and over again," said Stephanie Araujo, marketing director for Russ Berrie. Launch date: 03/01/2008

The 2008 White House Christmas Ornament honors the administration of President Benjamin Harrison. Mr. Harrison is considered to be the Centennial president, celebrating the 100 years of the American Experiment during his term in office. He was the grandson of our 9th President, William Henry Harrison. The 2008 ornament features a Christmas tree in the White House. "Our attention to detail, unique designs and outstanding customer service make us the #1 company in our field of expertise," said Lee Rush, marketing executive for ChemArt. Launch date: 06/01/2008

Kids can create miniature works of art that celebrate their four-legged family members. The kit contains four papier-maché shapes (star, rectangle, square and circle) and lots of colorful and shiny decorating materials (paint, brush, glitter glue, gem stones, gloss varnish, alphabet stickers). Kids can add their own photos and creativity to the included materials to personalize their pet ornaments. It is a fun and easy project that provides a creative way for kids to express their love for their pets. "Pet Ornaments are perfect for holidays or anytime," Co-President Mike Greenwald of BowWowMeow told TDmonthly. Launch date: August 20, 2008.

This 11 oz. ceramic coffee mug with Loteria graphics is distinctive because it is "decorated with classic (vintage) graphics from [the] famous Loteria game of Mexico," Owner Alonso Flores of Xochico told TDmonthly. Launch date: September 2008.

An unassuming colored dome a little bit larger than an egg, the zOrb packs powerful magnification once plugged in by simple USB connection. This tiny microscope zooms the viewer in from 35 to 53x magnification depending on the size of the computer screen. Focus can be refined by twisting the top half of the zOrb one way or the other, and pictures can be easily captured for later use. Also takes video footage. Includes software on CD, two base adaptors, and instruction manual. USB cable attached.

Trampoline®’s colorful posters featuring theme-based Spanish vocabulary and phonetic pronunciations can be used to complement a Spanish program. Posters come in 23 themes, including Alphabet, Days of the Week, Months of the Year, Shapes, The House, Transportation, Numbers 1-20, Numbers 21-100, Opposites 1 and 2, Colors, Parts of the Classroom, School Supplies, Family, Food, Fruit, Vegetables, My Body (1) – The Face, My Body (2) – The Body, Clothing, Weather, Animals (1) – Farm/Pets and Animals (2) – Zoo. "Spanish words with phonetic spellings make second language acquisition a possibility in ANY classroom," Angelica J. Menefee, president of Trampoline Inc., told TDmonthly. Launch date: May 30, 2008.

Through engaging and practical exercises, this guide teaches young girls valuable lessons to help them lead financially secure and independent lives. It is "written by The Women's Foundation of California with an introduction by Kathleen Brown, former Treasurer of the State of California," Cathleen Brady, senior manager of children's publicity for Chronicle Books, told TDmonthly. Launch date: May 2008.

Much more than an atlas, this book is a virtual travel experience. It includes more than 40 maps, 30 feature articles on impressive places, more than 50 eye-popping 3-D photos of the world's most interesting sights, and two pairs of 3-D glasses. It "brings geography to life," Cathleen Brady, senior manager of children's publicity for Chronicle Books, told TDmonthly. Launch date: October 2008.

This one-of-a-kind set includes 12, 8" figurines made of exquisitely polished resin. It features intricate detailing and whimsical style. "They are aimed at collectors, whether tweens, teens or adults," CEO & Creative Director Lynette Opoku of Littlelyn Entertainment told TDmonthly.

This versatile, attention-grabbing product is a twist on classic building blocks, designed to engage the imagination as the slits on each cube interlock to create an unlimited number of three-dimensional structures. The "interlocking" takes on a whole new dimension as the Cubes go Pink to connect for a cause — the company donates 10 percent of profits to cancer research on behalf of the seller. "[It's a] great promotion for October's Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In addition to being loaded with educational benefits, Dado Pink can be used as a centerpiece, sculpture, or design-centered art, adding to its versatility as an already-proven product. [It is] made in the USA," Shannon Wallingford of Fat Brain Toy Co. told TDmonthly. Launch date: September 2008.

This design of this plush coin purse is based on a famous Mexican pastry, so should appeal to Latin-American customers. Launch date: September 2008.

The most informative calendar one will ever own, The 2009 Learning Calendar presents 17 full months of history and trivia that make learning fun. Two major themes abound, with Innovations, Inventions & Ideas, plus Best-Loved Toys. Science, geography, landmarks, sports, presidents, weather, music and more are sprinkled throughout. Large-size images, fascinating details, and time-capsule activities keep kids coming back to learn something new every day. "It's the most all-emcompassing collection of history available in one easily-accessible resource. [It] truly provides a 'mini' well-rounded education in every detailed date for more than a full year of excitement in learning," Shannon Wallingford of Fat Brain Toy Co. told TDmonthly. Launch date: August 2008.

NutQUACKER plush duck is dressed in his felt soldier outfit complete with embroidered details. "This Christmas plush entertains as it waddles around and quacks out the Christmas tune, 'The March Of The Wooden Soldiers,'" explained Stephanie Araujo, marketing coordinator for Russ Berrie U.S. Gift, Inc. Launch date: 2008

Kidorable's latest girls' design is sure to please even the smallest adventurer. Let a child experience her next rainy day as a Mermaid. "This new and innovative design is sure to keep the girls feeling adventurous," said Nancy Gut, assistant operations manager for Kidorable. "This is way more than just a rain ensemble but rather a new way for a little girl to express herself and use her imagination. The practicality of it is the added bonus." Launch date: 11/1/2008.

This beautifully illustrated and designed music box features four drawers for storing treasures as well as a main compartment for jewelry, etc. "The unique design and illustration of our products make them ideal for the specialty market," said Liz Bjornstad, sales administrator for Enchantmints. This product won a Creative Child Magazine top toy award for 2008. Launch date: 2008.

This vibrant and simple snowflake blends classic design with innovative treatment. The Shimmering Snowflake is the twelfth in a series of snowflakes dating back to 1997. Vivid shades of green, yellow, blue and pink epoxy blend seamlessly to create a three-dimensional, stained-glass keepsake. Launch date: 2008.

Capture the team spirit of a dozen schools with this unique design. Friends, family and fans alike can catch the wave with this collection. Choose from the following schools: University of Alabama, University of Florida, University of Michigan, Michigan State, University of North Carolina, North Carolina State, University of Notre Dame, Ohio State, Penn State University, University of Texas, University of Virginia and Virginia Tech. "Our attention to detail, unique designs and outstanding customer service make us the #1 company in our field of expertise," Marketing Executive Lee Rush of ChemArt told TDmonthly. Launch date: July 2008.

The Birth Day Box is the perfect way to celebrate a new arrival. Each ultra-stylish three-piece gift set contains a combed cotton hat and long-sleeved lap tee accented with plush trim and matching plush diaper cover. Fabulous touches such as tiny footprints that adorn the back of each tee, soft satin detailing and cozy flannel lining finish each extraordinary piece. The rich chocolate toned Birth Day Box is intricately crafted with a nature-themed design and accented with thoughtful words to inspire any mom to be. Each set is machine washable/dryable and comes in two sizes (0-3 months and 3-6 months). The sets are available in Pink Lamb, Blue Leopard and White Swirl varieties. "Bloomers Baby creates beautiful and stylish newborn essentials that are ready for gift-giving, and all designs are proudly made in the USA," Michelle Caruso, owner of Bloomers Baby, told TDmonthly. This product received a 2008 Top Choice of the Year Award from Creative Child Magazine. Launch date: 2008.