TOYS

FAO Schwarz® Unwraps Magical Holiday Shopping Experience With Extraordinary Playthings and The 2011 Ultimate Holiday Collection Catalog

Nov 8, 2011 05:00 ET

In the Spirit of the Season, Legendary Toy Store Helps Give Back Kids In Need Through Partnership With Marine Toys for Tots Foundation

WAYNE, N.J., Nov. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — With families everywhere already starting their Christmas shopping, FAO Schwarz® has unwrapped its plans to provide a magical holiday season to its customers. Beyond trimming the windows of its world-famous Fifth Avenue store with lighted versions of its iconic toy soldier, FAO Schwarz is now stocking its shelves with wonderful, new and classic playthings. The ultimate assortment of items featured in the store and online at FAO.com is showcased in The 2011 Ultimate Holiday Collection , a 40-page display of wondrous toys. The collection includes product presentations from iconic brands, the world of fashion, baby products, specialty toys and more. Additionally, to help New Yorkers, and visitors to FAO Schwarz Fifth Avenue, get into the Christmas spirit by helping children in need, the store is now accepting cash contributions to benefit the Marine Toys For Tots Foundation through Christmas Eve.

“For New Yorkers and tourists alike, a special part of any holiday season is a visit to see the amazing toys at FAO Schwarz,” said Richard Barry, Vice President, General Merchandising Manager, Toys”R”Us, Inc. “To offer a preview of the wondrous playthings featured in our world-famous store, The 2011 Ultimate Holiday Collection catalog takes customers on a magical journey of the unique items available this year, from classic playthings to limited edition items.”

The 2011 Ultimate Holiday Catalog – In Mailboxes Now and Available Digitally!

Now landing in mailboxes nationwide, The 2011 Ultimate Holiday Collection from FAO Schwarz features toys beyond kids’ wildest imaginations, along with items that will catch the eye of discerning collectors. Presented in thematic pages, the 40-page book presents statements dedicated to FAO Schwarz collectibles, over-the-top toys, playthings from Paul Frank, Lionel Trains, life-sized plush animals, baby items and more. Customers can view the entire catalog online at FAO.com/2011Holiday.

Those who cannot visit the store in-person can experience all of the items in The 2011 Ultimate Holiday Collection catalog online at FAO.com. This fully interactive version of the catalog, with flippable pages, allows customers to begin browsing the assortment of classic toys, incredible games and extraordinary items beginning Friday, November 11. Items featured in The 2011 Ultimate Holiday Collection catalog can also be ordered via phone by calling 800-426-8697.

Additionally, fans of the store’s official Facebook Fan page at Facebook.com/FAO can tune in every Monday to find additional information about products displayed in the catalog.

FAO Schwarz Fifth Avenue Helps Children in Need

This holiday season, the legendary toy store is once again serving as a donation headquarters for the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. Now through Christmas Eve, customers visiting FAO Schwarz Fifth Avenue can donate to Toys for Tots, in any amount starting at $1. With more than 16 million kids living in poverty in the United States, according to recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau, funds donated at FAO Schwarz will help purchase toys for children who might otherwise go without a gift on Christmas morning.

To help celebrate the partnership with Toys for Tots, on Thursday, December 1 and Friday, December 2, FAO Schwarz Fifth Avenue will host a kickoff for the program from 9 am – 4 pm. During this time, Marine representatives will report for duty at the iconic toy store to greet customers as they enter the store and encourage them to donate cash and toys. This will be the only time that FAO Schwarz Fifth Avenue will collect toys for Toys for Toys, which will be distributed within the local community. To help visitors get into the holiday spirit, carolers will provide musical accompaniment in the donation area while offering complimentary candy canes, while supplies last.

Unique Toys, Classic Playthings and Limited Edition Items

A sampling of exquisite playthings and baby items available at FAO Schwarz Fifth Avenue, in The 2011 Ultimate Holiday Catalog and online at FAO.com, includes:

2011 Collectible Bear from FAO Schwarz®

The 14th addition to the FAO Schwarz signature series of annual collectible and lovable teddy bears will enchant both kids and adults. Adorably outfitted in a faux leather jacket, this soft oatmeal-colored bear is ready for snuggling or to be displayed among a collection. His left foot is embroidered with the FAO Schwarz logo and “2011,” while the company’s whimsical mascot Wit is featured on his right.

The Big Piano from FAO Schwarz®

One of the highlights of the legendary FAO Schwarz Fifth Avenue store is the bigger-than-life piano that everyone can dance on. Now, kids can take the experience home and tickle the ivories with their feet on this replica Big Piano. Ideal for budding musicians to practice their talents, the soft dance mat has 24 keys and allows kids to play classic tunes, record and playback unique masterpieces, and more.

Busytown Big Town Playset from The Bridge Direct

The beloved books of Richard Scarry come to life in a collection of wood vehicles and figures. With curiosities to discover everywhere, the set encourages social interaction between kids as they explore and play in their own version of Busytown, in which vehicles can travel on a double oval roadway layout. Bringing the full story to life, this playset comes with the Town Hall, Hilda’s Pencil Car, Banana’s Banana Car, Huckle’s classic Blue Car, Lolwy’s Apple Car, Mr. Frumble’s Pickle Car, Mr. Fixit’s Van, the Town Home with Garden and the Town Gas Station. For added fun, kids will also find signs and figures, along with 12 roadway pieces that connect with most wooden train track systems.

Calico Critters® Cloverleaf Manor from International Playthings™

This super-deluxe dream house features enough space to play home to an entire community of Cloverleaf Critters in this house that opens and closes for lots of pretend play, as well as fun and easy storage. Featuring nine large rooms on three floors, spacious is the keyword for this elaborate mansion. Beyond spending time indoors, the residents can lounge outside on the spacious balcony or the railed rooftop patio. Those looking for illumination will also find a chandelier that can be placed in any room. The manor measures 36-1/2″ x 20″ x 9-1/4″ when opened and 18-1/2″ x 20″ x 14.5″ when closed.

Dancing with the Stars Prototype dolls from Mattel®

FAO Schwarz is giving lucky Dancing with the Stars fans the chance to own one of the original prototype Barbie dolls, inspired by real costumes from the show! Barbie is ready to dance in each of three dolls, sold separately, including an elegant Waltz featuring a gown with a strapless pink bodice that is trimmed with diamonds; the Paso Doble doll, dressed in a bodice and red satin and black lace skirt that has hoops that link the skirt to Barbie’s hand for a dramatic, sweeping effect; and Samba featuring an orange two-piece costume with a short, open skirt that is accented with yellow feathers and pink and orange organza. With the purchase of each prototype doll, customers will also receive two coveted tickets to see a taping of Dancing with the Stars in Los Angeles! Airfare is not included.

Digital 1:24 Scale Custom Rods Racing Set from Carrera

Slot car enthusiasts can get their motors running with this racing set that comes with two classic automobiles with this FAO Schwarz exclusive item. Racers can speed through straights, curves, change lanes and pass opponents while racing either of the included ’34 and ’41 Hotrods. To add to the excitement, the set can accommodate additional cars, allowing four separate drivers to race. With digital enhancements, this set allows users to add a Ghost Car, as well as alter the speed, braking and fuel level (when used in conjunction with Pit Stop Lane) of each car.

Donkey from Bugaboo

This convertible stroller is designed to grow with any family. Whether walking about the neighborhood with one child or two, this stroller fits any family configuration. With just three simple clicks, the Bugaboo Donkey converts from a full-size mono to a full-size duo stroller and back again. Plus, flexible luggage options make it spacious enough to fit travel gear for a family on the go.

Ellowyne Wilde: Woeful Romance from Robert Tonner Doll Company

Inspired by goth and anime influences, this FAO Schwarz exclusive doll has dark brown hair and inset blue eyes with applied lashes and is the perfect doll to add to any collection. Outfitted in a designer bodysuit with faux pearl buttons, embroidered skirt, matching decorative cape with organza ribbon, belt, knit tights and designer shoes, Elloywne stands 16-inches tall and has 12 points of articulation.

Hello Kitty® Signature Diamond Jewelry from Placeholder Request

Hello Kitty fans can show off their favorite cat with this collection of diamond encrusted jewelry. Sure to dazzle on any occasion, fans can find Hello Kitty’s adorable, diamond encrusted face adorning a charm bracelet or acting as a pendant. Each sold separately.

I’m The Boss Dino Ball Pit from K’s Kids

Toddlers will dive right into this friendly, stuffed dinosaur whose back opens to reveal a play space filled with 60 soft plastic balls. Vibrant colors, fun textures and patterns on the outside make this dinosaur a valued friend for children, while the inside hosts a world of crawl-through fun.

Jeweled Classic Etch-A-Sketch from Ohio Arts

The world’s favorite drawing toy has become the ultimate display piece, with over 10,000 dazzling handset sapphire Swarovski crystals in this FAO Schwarz exclusive. With only six available in the world of this sparkling blue plaything, this Limited Edition bejeweled Etch-A-Sketch combines can’t stop playing value with over-the-top luxe, making it the perfect gift with super glam!

The Muppet Whatnot Workshop Kit from Disney®

Kids and Muppet aficionados looking for hands-on, crafting fun can create their very own quirky Whatnots – the extras of the Muppet world, exclusively at FAO Schwarz. After choosing from three different body styles creators can customize their Muppet with 14 sets of eyes, 16 noses and 23 hairstyles. Fifteen unique fashions are also available to choose from to outfit a Whatnot for any occasion.

The Polar Express O-Gauge Ready To Run Train from Lionel

All aboard! Now kids can take home the Polar Express train featured in both the best-selling book and the hit movie. Designed to be true to the page and film, this set features a die-cast metal Berkshire steam locomotive with a larger pilot, a headlight lens cap, and a unique whistle. Following the locomotive’s lead are two lighted coach cars and an observation car that features a rounded observation platform. The four main characters also make an appearance as articulated figures with turning heads, movable arms, bendable waists, and jointed knees. Ready to run out of the box, this set comes complete with a generous loop of Lionel’s patented FasTrack track system and a powerful CW-80 Transformer.

Soft Character Dolls from Madame Alexander Doll Company

Children can recreate scenes from their favorite books with these 14-inch soft-bodied versions of classic storybook characters. Fancy Nancy comes from her stylish book and is ready to play dress-up, while Angelina Ballerina is ready to pirouette into her next adventure. And, Pinkalicious steps out of her newest story, Goldilicious, in a sparkly ensemble, complete with her magic wand and princess cone hat.

24-inch Uglydoll® from Pretty Ugly™, LLC

From the creative minds of two love-struck artists, David Horvath and Sun-Min Kim, what started as a drawing of a quirky, playful orange character known as Wage has turned into a whole new world of fun. After Sun-Min sewed Wage into a plush toy as a surprise gift for her then boyfriend, the couple soon pulled more characters from the Uglyverse to create the now iconic world of Uglydoll. Featuring unique shapes and silly expressions, these 24-inch soft characters have special personalities.

Yottoy 30-inch Knit Julius the Monkey from Paul Frank

Even though he’s world-famous, this curious monkey is ready to come home with kids everywhere. Designed with a soft-knit fabric to evoke a nostalgic look and feel, this monkey is the coolest cuddle companion on the block and is always ready for an imaginary adventure!

Amazon Reveals the 2011 Holiday Toy List

Simple and easy-to-use navigation helps customers find this season’s must-have toys at every price

SEATTLE, Nov 02, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) –

(NASDAQ:AMZN)–Amazon.com, Inc. today announced its 2011 Holiday Toy List (www.amazon.com/holidaytoylist), where customers can find this season’s most popular toys, video games, sporting goods, electronics, movies and more. The Holiday Toy List features easy-to-use search tools, allowing customers to quickly narrow and expand search results, sort by “bestselling,” “price” or “average customer review” and then simultaneously filter by age, category, gender, price range, discount and brand. Additionally, this year’s Holiday Toy List includes customized gift guides to help customers find the perfect toys for the kids on their list.

“Holiday toy shopping has never been easier,” says John Alteio, director of Toys & Games for Amazon.com. “We’re excited to offer parents, friends and family a destination where they can easily find the coolest new toys at the best prices. Customers can use the Price Check by Amazon App for iPhone when shopping this season, to make sure they’re getting the best possible prices.”

In addition, most of the items on the Holiday Toy List are eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping* or FREE Two-Day Shipping with Amazon Prime**. The Holiday Toy List features leading brands like LEGO, Razor, Fisher-Price, Mattel, LeapFrog, Nerf and many more. Items from the Holiday Toy List that are expected to be among customer favorites include:

LEGO Mindstorms NXT 2.0 $269.99
LeapPad Explorer Learning Tablet $99
Let’s Rock Elmo $57.14
Hot Wheels Wall Tracks Starter Set $27.99
Monster High Dead Tired Lagoona Blue Doll and Hydration Station Playset $34.99
Beyblade Metal Masters Triple Battle Set $28.88
Spy Net: Stealth Video Glasses $39.99
FIJIT Friends $39.97
Cloud b Twilight Turtle Constellation Night Light $22.41
Skip Hop Owl Hug and Hide Activity Toy $17.99
Nerf Vortex Nitron $40.99
Raskullz Go-Rilla Helmet $21.95
Razor Graffiti Chalk Scooter $48.93
Shaun White Supply Co. Street Complete Skateboard $59.99
Singing Machine Karaoke Machine $50.88
Just Dance 3 $33.96
Madden NFL 12 $50.99
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever (Available November 15) $6.96
Heroes of Olympus: The Son of Neptune [Book 2] $10.75
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 1 [DVD] $5.99
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2 [DVD] (Available November 11) $14.99
Cars 2 [Blu-ray 3D/Blu-ray/DVD/Digital Copy Combo] $26.99
Star Wars: The Complete Saga (Episodes I-VI) [Blu-ray] $86.99
Kodak EasyShare Sport $66.28
Nikon COOLPIX Waterproof Digital Camera $317.95

Please note that prices and availability are subject to change. Prices and availability were accurate at the time this release was sent; however, they may differ from those currently on Amazon.com or the Holiday Toy List at www.amazon.com/holidaytoylist.

For more gift ideas, Amazon customers should check out the Gift Ideas page (www.amazon.com/giftideas) to see the most popular items ordered as gifts. The page is updated daily to reflect the most current gift giving trends in popular gift categories like toys, cameras, kitchen gadgets, music, jewelry and many more.

*FREE Super Saver Shipping is available on eligible orders $25 or more.

**Amazon Prime is an annual membership program that gives customers fast shipping on millions of items for only $79 a year. Members receive Free Two-Day Shipping on millions of items sold by Amazon.com and upgrades to one-day shipping are only $3.99 per item. To become a member of Amazon Prime, or to learn more about the membership program, customers can visit www.amazon.com/prime. The free trial offer is not available to all customers.

Camera Plus Pro v4.0 Revolutionizes iPhoneography with Live Filters for Photos and Videos

UDUPI, India–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Global Delight is pleased to announce the exciting new upgrade to their hit iPhone camera app, Camera Plus Pro. The latest version 4.0 boasts of unique and never seen before full screen live filters for photo and video capture with incredible speed and great performance that gives users beautiful photos and videos to last a lifetime. The app, now 30x faster, has received a UI makeover and has resurrected the jerk-free Smooth Video Zoom feature that can be enjoyed on an iPhone 4, 3GS and iPod touch.

The Video Recording feature has been re-written to create the best possible videos on an iPhone. Usage of live filters is a new addition that brings a total new shift to video making on the iPhone. The Smooth Video Zoom feature enables shooting beautiful videos without any jerks. Creation of interesting and funny time-lapse videos will be even more fun with the live filters and Smooth Zoom feature of the video camera.

Highlights of Camera Plus Pro v4.0 with new User Interface:

18 Live Photo Filters. Preview in full screen and capture photos at full resolution of your iPhone camera
9 Live Video Filters. Preview in full screen and record smooth videos at 640×480 resolution with 17 fps
Smooth Video Zoom. Record jerk-free videos on your iPhone 4, 3GS & iPod touch
30x Faster. Instant saving ensures that you don’t miss a photo or video moment. Capture 40 back-to-back photos at full resolution.
Camera effects like grid lines, touch exposure, white balance lock to give you beautiful photos and videos always
Choose from over 36 Photo Filters and 9 Distortion Effects to make your photos look beautiful along with borders
Live photo editing to have better control over brightness, contrast, saturation, hue, sharpness, tint and temperature of your final image
Easy re-touching of photos with a slider control for changing the filter intensity
Re-adjust, rotate, crop and modify your photos with one single motion
Share photos and videos instantly via Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, Picasa, YouTube, or Mail
Transfer photos and videos from your iPhone to your desktop through WiFi
Password-protected private photo & video collection
Tag photos and videos to have a better-managed collection, so you know where to find them easily

To celebrate the release, Camera Plus Pro v4.0 is on sale for one week and can be purchased from the iTunes App Store at $0.99 before the price goes back to $2.99.

Camera Plus Pro can be downloaded onto iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4 and iPod touch. iPhone 3G users will enjoy all other features except for live filters and a few special photo effects.

iTunes link: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/camera-plus-pro/id345752934?mt=8
Overview video: http://www.youtube.com/camerapluspro
Camera Plus Pro website: http://www.globaldelight.com/camerapluspro

Disney Introduces Appmates Mobile Application Toys – First Toy to Allow Kids to Use Apple iPad® as Virtual Play Mat

September 27, 2011 09:43 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Cars 2 Appmates Let Kids Explore the World of Cars, Perform Missions, and Compete In Action-Packed Races

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–In an industry first, Disney introduced today Disney AppMATesTM Mobile Application Toys, a new toy line that comes to life digitally when used with an Apple iPad by allowing kids to use the tablet’s screen as a virtual play mat. Developed in collaboration between Disney Consumer Products (DCP) and Disney Mobile and featuring patent-pending technology, the Appmates toy line features miniature Disney•Pixar Cars 2 vehicles with sensors on the base of each toy that are recognized as a unique footprint by an app with no cable or Bluetooth connection required. Simply download the free Cars 2 Appmates app from the iTunes app store, place your favorite Appmates toy character on the screen and play.

“We believe iPad is becoming a critical canvas for the next generation of storytelling, and with Appmates we’re bringing Disney characters to life in a way never previously imagined”

“We have cracked the technology code in changing the way kids play with their toys,” said Sunny Lauridsen, director of digital toys for DCP. “Kids will always use toys to play out their favorite Disney stories, but Disney Appmates now allows them to include technology which has become a way of life for them through a beautifully rich app.”

The magic begins when kids place their vehicle on the iPad and begin to explore the world of Cars. Available for download in early to mid-October, Cars 2 Appmates app is a free app created by Disney exclusively for use with Appmates toys. By guiding the Appmates vehicle on the screen, the iPad becomes a virtual play mat where kids can experience the world of Radiator Springs.

“We believe iPad is becoming a critical canvas for the next generation of storytelling, and with Appmates we’re bringing Disney characters to life in a way never previously imagined,” said Bart Decrem, general manager of Disney Mobile.

Cars 2 Appmates features include:

Exploration – Drive around the world of Radiator Springs to discover landscapes and hidden secrets by simply placing the Cars toy character on the screen and turning it in any direction. Drive through mud and up ramps, visit friends at Flo’s V8 Café or check out your Car’s reflection, showing off your latest gear and gadgets.
Directed Game Play – Perform missions unique to each character. Completed missions – like helping bring a tow hook back to Mater – gain hubcaps, the virtual currency. Collect enough hubcaps to personalize each car with special features like a unique horn sound, customized tire tracks, and cool gear like a rocket launcher or spy vision goggles.
Racing – Rev up the action by racing against World Grand Prix opponents and your Radiator Springs friends. Five racetracks are available at launch. Race around Willy’s Butte, jump off Carburetor Mesa and roar through downtown Radiator Springs earning hubcaps in day or night races.

Each toy unlocks different features and content within the app specific to the character, allowing kids to come back over and over to enjoy an imaginative, open-ended play experience using the Appmates toys. Fans can download and test the app by simply using their fingers to drive a virtual car through the world, but the play experience is optimized to come to life with the Appmates toy vehicles.

Created in collaboration with Spin Master, Disney Appmates toys are available starting Oct. 1 at national retailers, Apple Store, Apple Store online, Disney Store and DisneyStore.com with vehicle two-packs (SRP $19.99) featuring four characters including Lightning McQueen, Tow Mater, Finn McMissile, and Holley Shiftwell. Two additional characters – Francesco Bernoulli and Shu Todoroki – will launch in November and be available exclusively through Apple Store and Apple Store online.

With dominant market share, the Apple iPad has become the leading tablet and a shared family device. Just in time for the holiday season, DCP will also introduce an expanded line of ‘appcessory’ products to engage and inspire creativity with kids using the iPad. Products include a durable and protective iPad case featuring a Disney•Pixar Cars design (SRP $49.99); Disney Pix Camera that allows kids to take their own pictures and connect them back to the iPad to personalize photos and create albums (SRP $79.99); and Disney Spotlight mic that gives kids a fun way to sing along – karaoke style – with their favorite Disney music (SRP $59.99 wired mic, $99.99 wireless mic).

The Time to Play Holiday 2011 ‘Most Wanted’ Revealed, Jim Silver and Chris Byrne Announce the Top Toys Kids Will Be Asking for This Holiday Season

Key Industry Players Exhibit the Latest and the Best in Holiday Family Entertainment at Annual Time to Play Holiday Showcase Event

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–During a toy industry press conference in New York City today, TimetoPlayMag.com, a playful destination website which provides information, entertainment, and services on what’s fun for children and their families, announced its Holiday 2011 Most Wanted list, naming the 18 toys predicted by the editors to top holiday wish lists.

“Companies recognize that families are looking for value”

Hosted by Jim Silver, editor in chief, and Chris Byrne, content director aka The Toy Guy®, the press conference kicked off a day-long event featuring a “who’s who” of manufacturers and entertainment companies. Participating companies exhibited a wide range of new toys, video games, and entertainment products that will hit store shelves in time for the holiday crunch.

Recognized as the official kick-off to the holiday family entertainment editorial season, the press conference addressed the current state of the toy industry, consumer trends, and those toys that will be exciting kids and the culture at large in the fourth quarter. In addition to unveiling the Most Wanted list, the Time to Play team announced its annual hot list for family friendly video games, The Power Ups. Games featured on the list are predicted to be the hottest titles this holiday season with fun appropriate content for kids of all ages.

“Companies recognize that families are looking for value,” said Jim Silver, editor in chief TimetoPlayMag.com. “Parents – and kids – can find value in a $10 toy or a $100 toy but what makes something a ‘keeper’ is whether or not kids will play with it for more than 15 minutes; true value is about providing longevity in the home.”

“We are excited to see manufacturers continuing to respond to the realities of the economy and offering a low cost of entry into their hottest brands without compromising play,” said Chris Byrne, content director TimetoPlayMag.com. “That means that virtually all kids can engage with the hottest properties and be part of something that’s cool in their world and in the culture at large.”

Predicted to be the most popular and best selling toys of Holiday 2011, the products named to the Time to Play Most Wanted list appear in alphabetical order:

ANGRY BIRDS KNOCK ON WOOD GAME

(Mattel/Ages 5 years & up/ Approx. Retail Price: $16)

BEYBLADE METAL FUSION

(Hasbro/Ages 8 years & up/ Approx. Retail Price: $5.99 – $39.99)

BIG ACTION CONSTRUCTION SITE

(Fisher-Price/Ages 3 years & up/ Approx. Retail Price: $59.99)

DAGEDAR

(Cepia/Ages 4 years & up /Approx. Retail Price: $4.99 – $19.99)

FYRFLYZ

(iStar Entertainment/Ages 8 & up/Approx. Retail Price: $10)

HOT WHEELS WALL TRACKS

(Mattel/Ages 4 & up/ Approx. Retail Price: $29.99)

INNOTAB

(VTECH/Ages 3 & up/ Approx. Retail Price: $79.99)

LALALOOPSY SILLY HAIR DOLL

(MGA/Ages 4 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $34.99)

LAZER STUNT CHASER

(Thinkway Toys/Ages 4 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $39.99)

LOGO BOARD GAME

(Spin Master/Ages 12 & up/Approx. Retail Price: $24.99)

LEAPPAD EXPLORER

(LeapFrog/Ages 4 & up/Approx. Retail Price: $99.99)

LEGO ALIEN CONQUEST & NINJAGO LINES

(LEGO/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $3.49 – $119.99)

LITE SPRITES

(WowWee/Ages 4 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99)

MONSTER HIGH DEAD TIRED LINE

(Mattel/Ages 6 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $14.49)

NERF VORTEX LINE

(Hasbro/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $12.99 – $49.99)

REDAKAI

(Spin Master/Ages 6 years & up/Approx. Price: $5.99 – $19.99)

SPY NET STEALTH VIDEO GLASSES

(Jakks Pacific/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $39.99)

3D BREAKTHROUGH PUZZLE

(MEGA Brands/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99)

Independent Consumer Group, toyportfolio.com, Announces Platinum Awards for Best Toys of 2011

Sep 27, 2011 06:18 ET

Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, (www.toyportfolio.com), releases their findings and reviews of this year’s best toys. Co-founder Stephanie Oppenheim will launch the list on NBC’s TODAY Show September 27th

NEW YORK, Sept. 27, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — The independent consumer organization, Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, announces their annual awards for the best toys of 2011 on their website www.toyportfolio.com.

“Our award list is bigger than ever this year. It’s full of outstanding toys, games, and props for pretend. However, our overall grade to the toy industry this year is a B+, as a result of the industry playing it safe with less innovation and cutting edge technology,” notes Joanne Oppenheim.

Stephanie Oppenheim adds: “With budgets tight this year and toy prices high, we know our list will be particularly helpful. Our goal is to help toy shoppers bring home engaging products that will be a hit with their kids and not be a waste of their hard-earned money.”

The organization’s top award, the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award is given to the most outstanding and innovative products of the year. Other notable awards: the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award is given to highly recommended products; Blue Chip Award honors classic products; and the Special Needs Adaptable Product Award recognizes toys most appropriate for kids with special needs. Complete reviews of all toy winners, as well as awards for best books, audios, and DVDs are online at www.toyportfolio.com.

Top Tech to Help Mom This Back to School 2011

Sep 23, 2011 08:00 ET

Brett Larson looks at technology to keep mom fit and organized

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., Sept. 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — With Back to School in full swing for the kids, the early mornings, new schedules and lots of after school activities will have mom looking for ways that help her make the grade this year!

Brett Larson, Technology and Trends Expert and host of “Killer Apps”, offers advice on what technology mom will need by visiting the set of nationally syndicated “Better” TV series September 23, 2011. To check local listings or to view the segment online, visit www.better.tv.

Our top ideas for mom this Back to School 2011 are:
The SanDisk Sansa® Clip Zip™ MP3 player is perfect for active music fans looking for a feature-rich, affordable and easy-to-use way to enjoy music on the go. The sub-$50 player includes a large color screen, a memory card slot for extra storage, a stopwatch, an FM radio and other features. www.sandisk.com

TiVo Premiere is the world’s first Smart DVR, giving families access to all their favorite cable TV shows plus virtually endless web entertainment from big brands like Netflix, Pandora, Hulu Plus, BLOCKBUSTER, Amazon Instant Video and more. And all these choices are served up on a single, easy-to-use menu. www.tivo.com

The Keurig® Platinum Brewing System brews the perfect cup of Keurig Brewed® beverages including coffee, tea, and other specialty varieties in under one minute at the touch of a button. This brewer features a backlit LCD display that allows you to program water temperature, Auto On/Off and five brew sizes. www.keurig.com

Eye-Fi automatically organizes your photos & videos into date-based folders on your computer. Wirelessly transfer photos & videos to your computer right from your digital camera. No cables required. Get the Eye-Fi Connect X2 SDHC memory card. http://www.eye.fi

Shutterfly – Classroom Share Sites are free, safe and secure, password-protected personalized websites that make it easy for parents to stay engaged with classroom activities. Classroom Share Sites give parents and teachers a central place to connect with tools like a shared class calendar, contact list, pictures, and videos. www.shutterfly.com/connected

To find more information about these featured products, visit “Killer Apps” at www.killerapps.tv

Father’s Day Gift Ideas for the Outdoors Enthusiast

NORMAN, Okla., May 25, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — This Father’s Day, consider one of these great gift ideas when shopping for a father who loves to spend time outdoors. And while you’re at it, pick something up for yourself. Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Help dad enjoy the smaller things in life with the Smith & Wesson (www.smith-wesson.com) M&P15-22 tactical rifle. Now available in a Realtree® APG HD® camo finish, this dedicated rimfire semi-automatic rifle will let dad get back to basics as he enjoys countless hours of shooting with the economical .22 LR ammunition. Lightweight, accurate and extremely versatile, this is one rifle the entire family will enjoy. Built to mirror the standard M&P15 centerfire rifle, the M&P15-22 is capable of handling an application. From training to competition to small game hunting, the M&P15-22 is a proven rifle in any category. Available in state compliant models, the M&P15-22 will be a welcome addition to any father’s collection. (MSRP $549, 800-331-0852)

Coleman Instant Tents Save dad time and frustration of setting up camp with the new Coleman Instant Tents (Coleman.com). Available in 4-, 6- and 8-person sizes, the cabin-style Coleman Instant Tents are durable and spacious – ideal for extended-stay camping – and set up or tear down in a minute or less. Featuring pre-attached poles secured to the ultra-durable 150D tent fabric, the Instant Tent needs only to be removed from its bag, unfolded and have its poles extended and clicked into place. (MSRP $136.99-$241.99, 800-835-3278)

Abu Garcia Revo Spinning Reel Give dad the gift he’s always deserved – the Abu Garcia® Revo® Premier spinning reel (www.abugarcia.com). With its NanoShield™ plating, the Revo Premier spinning reel is perfect for the dad that needs a day on the water. The Revo Premier spinning reel can be configured for right- or left-hand retrieve. The MSRP is $249.95.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation You can’t give Dad a snowy peak, dark timber basin or a grassy meadow, but you can certainly give the gift of habitat conservation with a membership to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (www.rmef.com). For just $35, an annual membership includes a subscription to the award-winning magazine, “Bugle,” and supports initiatives that have conserved or enhanced almost 6 million acres of elk country. Most work occurs on public lands. And nearly 600,000 private acres have been opened or secured for public access including hunting. (800-CALL ELK).

Coleman Ultra High Power LED Aluminum Flashlight Give dad the ability to light up the night with the Ultra High Power LED Aluminum Flashlight from Coleman (www.Coleman.com). Never before has so much power been contained within a single flashlight, which produces 500 night-shattering lumens with six regular AA batteries. Using a Cree® MC-E™ LED, among the brightest and most powerful LEDs available, the new Coleman aluminum flashlight is weather resistant, making it perfect for camping and other outdoor activities. (MSRP $79.99, 800-835-3278)

Berkley Classics 7-inch Aluminum Pliers Are dad’s fishing pliers rusted and deteriorating quickly? The Berkley® Classics™ 7-inch Aluminum Pliers (www.berkley-fishing.com) can stand the test of time even in the toughest conditions. The spring-loaded handle makes for easy, one-hand use – even when hands are worn out from fighting big fish. MSRP for a pair of Berkley Aluminum Pliers is $49.99.

Smith & Wesson Gear Package Help dad make a strong impression at his local range with the new Smith & Wesson (www.smith-wesson.com/) Range-Proven Protection Package. Combining all of the essential gear needed for a day of shooting, this package provides dad with a Smith & Wesson range bag, set of hearing protectors, a navy twill hat and a pair of clear Code 4 shooting glasses. Practical, durable and of the highest quality, this protection package will keep dad safe while looking good at any shooting event. (MSRP $58.35, 800-331-0852) SOURCE Blue Heron Communications

Be Master of Your TV Universe With My TV Remote

My TV Remote Two-In-A-Box Now Available At Selected Retail and Online Stores
The new iTunes app controls TVs, Set-top boxes, DVDs, Receivers right from your iPod Touch, iPhone or iPad. New retail package provides end-users with 2 IR Hardware devices for just $19.95.

WILMINGTON, Del., Oct. 7 /PRNewswire/ — Ryz Media has elevated the 20th century Couch Potato to the 21st century with its new Apple iTune App and hardware, My TV Remote. Now any owner of an iPod Touch, iPhone or iPad can not only easily control their home theatre hardware, but also have instant access to their own personalized Electronic Program Guide (EPG) in the palm of their hands. At the same time, they can share and communicate what they are watching with their friends and family.

Unlike other more expensive solutions on the market, My TV Remote is a bargain at $19.95. But Ryz Media goes a step further by offering two infrared transmitters in the box. This way, any two people at home, in their office or dorm can use their iPhone, iPod touch or iPad to be master of their TV universe.

Launching today through select United States resellers and online stores, My TV Remote lets you experience TV in a whole new way, by combining:
Full Electronic Program Guide (EPG) in the palm of your hand. The EPG is customized to your cable TV or satellite provider, so you get all the broadcast and cable channels on your system.
Full device control of your TV, set-top box, DVDs, receivers and other devices. Your favorite channels, programs and shows just one click away.
Share your choices with your family and friends via Facebook Connect right with the app itself. My TV Remote makes any TV viewer an active viewer.

Behind My TV Remote is a cloud based service, which means each time you turn on the My TV Remote app you are getting the latest program guide information for your particular system. The service also makes available automatically device codes for new equipment you buy for your home theatre or TV viewing, wirelessly sent to your iPhone, iPod touch or iPad. And you don’t have to aim your old remote device at the iPod or iPhone or iPad to have it learn the code.

My TV Remote believes that watching TV is a social experience, that’s why it’s easy to connect with your friends and family via Facebook right within the My TV Remote app. Through your Facebook wall and Alert Notifications, other friends and family who have My TV Remote will immediately see what you are watching and can join you in chat.

My TV Remote changes everything … Your TV channels and the way you watch TV.

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