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Whitni WatkinsProblem 1I’m interested in learning about educational toys for children. There may be other terms, you can uncover through pearl building such as electronic toys or smart toys. Questions: What are some of the name brands and/or top rated/ popular toys for children under the age of 12. Which toys have received awards?Search SummaryBefore I started my search I first went to the Dialog Pocket Guide to learn more about what DialIndex offers and how it should be used along with common commands it supported. Once I became more familiar with the file I looked at the blue sheet for DialIndex and went through all the category acronyms and based on their brief description and what I was looking for I selected files I felt would yield relevant results; please see list of files search after the search summary. Once I decided on the files I began my initial search. I took the problem and separated it into sections; section one was I’m interested in learning about educational toys for children. I started with the basic keyword searching because I did not want to eliminate results too quickly.Search: (educational OR smart)(w)toy? AND child? AND py=>2010This strategy brought back a significant amount of set files. My next step was to rank the files and choose the top files with the greatest amount of hits. Then I began my search within those files. This is where I started section two of the problem which was to narrow results down to name brands and/or top rated/ popular toys for children under the age of 12. To start this I resulted to doing a quick Google search to get an idea of different terms used in articles and advertisement for educational toys. Then I began building my search strategy from the outside in. I started searching the basic terms from the problem and truncated them as needed.Search: popular/de OR top/de()rate?/de AND toy?(n)child?This search brought back a significant 132,299 hits so I narrowed the Publication year to 2009 and after narrowing results to 59,041. I felt confident in my strategy as my results were narrowing at an acceptable but not overwhelming rate. Then I narrowed continually by including popular and top rated children toy companies and then included the descriptor toy()industry which concluded my results to just under a 7,000 hits. As I felt this was an overwhelming amount hits I narrowed further to include the last part of the question, which toys received awards. Search: (award/tx(w)winning/tx OR award?/tx)The hits were narrowed to a thousand and I viewed them in format 8 to assess what the results entailed. Unfortunately, while my confidence was strong as I went through the first twenty results I noticed a lot of them included smart phone apps and games instead of smart toys or educational toys. To eliminate this I reiterated the basic keywords.Search: s7 AND (educat? OR smart)()toy? NOT smart()phone?This brought results down to 44 with duplicates removed to 26, a considerable amount of hits to find relevant information. After scanning I noticed that I was still getting hits from articles from 2005, this I concluded to be because of when they were possibly added or updated. I added in the publication year restrictions to include only items published between 2009 and 2012; this left me with six results, five of which included information on educational toys who had won awards.One command I took great use off was the log off hold command. While working through this multiple part problem it was important to document and write up my steps thoroughly before moving on to the next section and this feature allowed me the time I needed to do this without having to start completely anew. Files searched20:DIALOG GLOBAL REPORTER 1997-2012/JUL 0716:GALE GROUP PROMT(R) 1990-2012/JUL 03148:GALE GROUP TRADE & INDUSTRY DB 1976-2012/JUL 04636:GALE GROUP NEWSLETTER DB(TM) 1987-2012/JUL 04608:MCT INFORMATION SVC. 1992-2012/JUL 07781:PROQUEST NEWSSTAND 1998-2012/JUL 0780:TGG AEROSPACE/DEF.MKTS(R) 1982-2012/JUL 05325:CHINESE PATENTS FULLTEXT 1985-20120620258:AP NEWS JUL 2000-2012/JUL 06649:GALE GROUP NEWSWIRE ASAP(TM) 2012/JUL 06Display SetsSet Items DescriptionS1 132299 POPULAR/DE OR TOP/DE()RATE?/DE AND TOY?(N)CHILD?S2 59041 S1 AND PY=>2009S3 94637 S2 AND FISHER()PRICE OR VTECH OR LEAP()FROG OR HASBROS4 6998 S3 AND TOY()INDUSTRY/DES5 11983400 S4 AND AWARD()WINNING OR AWARD?S6 1000 S4 AND (AWARD/TX(W)WINNING/TX OR AWARD?/TX)S7 52 S6 AND (EDUCAT? OR SMART)(2N)TOY?S8 1 S7 AND SMART?()TOYS NOT SMART()PHONESS9 44 S7 AND (EDUCAT? OR SMART)()TOY? NOT SMART()PHONE?S10 26 RD (unique items)S11 6 S10 AND PY=2009:2012Results11/9/1 (Item 1 from file: 16) DIALOG(R)File 16: Gale Group PROMT(R)(c) 2012 Gale/Cengage. All rights reserved.0017604107 ? ?Supplier Number: 248945413 (THIS IS THE FULLTEXT) Toy Industry Pays Tribute to the Best in Toys and Games at TOTY Awards Celebration. PR Newswire , p NA Feb 12 , 2011 Language: English ? ?Record Type: Fulltext Document Type: Newswire ; Trade Word Count: 895 Text: The Sing-a-ma-jigs!(TM) from Mattel Inc. Takes Home Top Honors NEW YORK, Feb. 12, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Hundreds of Toy Industryexecutives gathered to honor their peers tonight at the 11th Toy of theYear (TOTY) Awards program and Hall of Fame induction ceremony. A Toy Industry Association, Inc. (TIA)-administered event in supportof the Toy Industry Foundation, the gala served as the kick-off to the108th American International Toy Fair. Held in The Allen Room at New YorkCity's Jazz at Lincoln Center, the evening paid tribute to the best in toysand children's entertainment and the outstanding achievements made byindividuals and companies. Interspersed with presentations of the TOTY Awards were twoinductions to the Toy Industry Hall of Fame. Established in 1984, the Hallof Fame honors individuals who have made a significant mark on the toyindustry. Joining the more than 55 people already on the distinguishedroster are Al Verrecchia, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Hasbro, Inc.and the late Donald Duncan, Founder of Duncan Toys Company. Theirbiographies can be viewed on the Toy Industry Hall of Fame website. "Tonight's event was a wonderful way to launch Toy Fair 2011," saidCarter Keithley, TIA president. "The TOTY Awards is a great place forcolleagues to gather in celebration of the creativity and playful spiritupon which the Toy Industry is based." For the first time in TOTY history, consumers were invited to votefor their favorite toys; nearly 12,500 unique votes were cast by familiesat from mid-November 2010 through mid-January, 2011. Alongwith the consumer ballot, four other ballots determined the winners:retailers (mass and specialty), media and members of the Toy Industry. The Sing-a-ma-jigs!(TM) by Mattel Inc. received the coveted "Toy ofthe Year" title and was awarded Preschool Toy of the Year and InnovativeToy of the Year. The awards program included 11 categories with 70finalists. *** Recognizing an outstanding toy that inspires creative playthrough various forms of activity, the Activity Toy of the Year waspresented to Crayola Color Wonder Sound Studio(TM) by Crayola, LLC. *** Recognizing an outstanding toy developed for boys of any age,the Boy Toy of the Year was presented to NERF N-Strike Stampede ECS Blasterby Hasbro, Inc. *** Recognizing an outstanding toy that helps children developspecial skills and knowledge through play, the Educational Toy of the Yearwas presented to Leapster Explorer(TM) Learning Experience by LeapFrog. *** Recognizing an outstanding children's board, card, CD-ROM orelectronic game, the Game of the Year was presented to Scrabble Flash byHasbro, Inc. *** Recognizing an outstanding toy developed for girls of any age,the Girl Toy of the Year was presented to Squinkies(TM) Cupcake Surprize!Bake Shop by Blip Toys. *** Recognizing an outstanding toy developed for infants andtoddlers up to 36 months, the Infant/Toddler Toy of the Year was presentedto My Own Leaptop by LeapFrog. *** Recognizing an outstanding toy that combines innovation and playvalue, the Innovative Toy of the Year was presented to TheSing-a-ma-jigs!(TM) by Mattel, Inc. *** Recognizing an outstanding toy that is designed for outdoorplay, the Outdoor Toy of the Year was presented to NERF Super Soaker ShotBlast by Hasbro, Inc. *** Recognizing an outstanding toy developed for preschool-agedchildren (ages 3-5) the Preschool Toy of the Year was presented to TheSing-a-ma-jigs!(TM) by Mattel, Inc. *** Recognizing a property that has had the greatest successspreading its brand throughout the industry, Property of the Year waspresented to Toy Story 3 by Disney Consumer Products. *** Recognizing an outstanding toy that is distributed primarilythrough specialty toy retailers, the Specialty Toy of the Year waspresented to HEXBUG Nano Habitat Set by Innovation First Labs, Inc. A record 500+ toys, games and properties were submitted forconsideration. The finalists were selected by Nomination Committees - onefor each category - comprised of high-stature experts such as journalists,toy trend experts, play therapists, toy inventors and designers and toyretailers. Descriptions of each TOTY-nominated toy and links to eachmanufacturer's website can be found online at . The TOTY Awards is a TIA-administered event in support of the ToyIndustry Foundation. Event sponsors for the evening were Spin Master (goldlevel), Colorforms and Dallas Market Center (silver level), and Locker,Greenberg & Brainin P.C. (friends level). About the Toy Industry Association (TIA) TIA is the not-for-profit trade association for producers andimporters of toys and youth entertainment products sold in North America,representing more than 500 companies who account for approximately 85% ofdomestic toy sales. Toy safety is the number one priority for the toyindustry. TIA has a long history of leadership in toy safety includingdevelopment of the first comprehensive toy safety standard more than 30years ago, and working with government, consumers and industry on ongoingprograms to ensure safe and fun play. For more information, please , or the Toy Industry Hall of Fame website. SOURCE Toy Industry AssociationCOPYRIGHT 2011 PR Newswire Association LLCCOPYRIGHT 2011 Gale, Cengage LearningPublisher Name: PR Newswire Association LLC Company Names: *Mattel Inc._Achievements and awards Descriptors: *Toy Industry--Achievements and awards; Toys--Achievements and awards Product Names: *3944000 (Games, Toys & Children's Vehicles); 3944200 (Toys); 3940000 (Toys & Sporting Goods) Industry Names: BUSN (Business); NEWS (News, opinion and commentary ) NAICS Codes: 339932 (Game, Toy, and Children's Vehicle Manufacturing); 3399 (Other Miscellaneous Manufacturing ) 11/9/2 (Item 2 from file: 16) DIALOG(R)File 16: Gale Group PROMT(R)(c) 2012 Gale/Cengage. All rights reserved.0017419694 ? ?Supplier Number: 243716729 (THIS IS THE FULLTEXT) Reveals "America's Wish List": The Must-Have Toys, Games, and Video Games as Chosen by Consumers. Business Wire , p NA Dec 7 , 2010 Language: English ? ?Record Type: Fulltext Document Type: Newswire ; Trade Word Count: 506 Text: NEW YORK - Just in Time for the Holidays, Popular Family Website Announces The2010 People's Play Awards Winners Voted on by Families Across the Country NEW YORK -- If American families were given a chance to create their own'Wish List' of toys, games, and video games for the holiday season, whichplaythings would make the cut? Today, answers thatquestion by revealing the winners of the 2010 People's Play Awards! The annual People's Play Awards program gives the public a forum toselect the toys, games, and video games they are hoping to receive thisholiday season. Throughout the months of October and November, consumerswere encouraged to log on to and vote for theirfavorite toys to create 'America's Wish List.' Nominees in 17 categorieswere carefully reviewed and selected by the Time to Play editorial teamheaded by Jim Silver, editor in chief, and Chris Byrne, content directoraka The Toy Guy(R). To learn more about the winning products, consumers can visit to watch demonstration videos hosted by theeditorial team. Each video showcases the winning toy's highlights andexplain why consumers voted it as one of the season's best. The team at Time to Play will kick off The People's Play Gift-Away,12 days of great giveaways just in time for the holiday gifting season!Beginning December 8th and running through December 19th, the site willgive away one People's Play Award-winning toy each day, for a total of 12prizes. Click here for more details on how to enter. The votes have been tallied and without further ado, following isthe list of the toys and games that make up 'America's Wish List' for the2010 holiday season. For additional information including a video review, product detailsand images, please click on the live links below or visit. * Activity Toys: Crayola Glow Explosion, Crayola * Boys Action: Kung Zhu Pets, Cepia, LLC * Construction Toys: Toy Story 3 Trash Compactor Escape, LEGOSystems * Educational Toys: Leapster Explorer, LeapFrog * Fashion Dolls: Monster High Dolls, Mattel * Games: LEGO Games, LEGO Systems * Girls Toys: Zoobles, Spin Master * Large Dolls and Baby Dolls: Lalaloopsy, MGA Entertainment * Party Games: Monopoly Revolution, Hasbro * Preschool Toys: Bigfoot the Monster, Fisher-Price * Radio Control: Spy Video TRAKR, Wild Planet * Riding Toys: Power Wheels Smart Car, Fisher-Price * Sports and Outdoor Toys: Nerf N-Strike Stampede ECS Blaster,Hasbro * Stocking Stuffer: Silly Bandz, BCP Imports, LLC * Tech Toys: Paper Jamz, WowWee * Vehicles: Hot Wheels Toy Story 3 Cars, Mattel * Video Games: Xbox Kinect, Microsoft About is a playful destination website whichprovides information, entertainment, and services on what's fun forchildren and their families. Over the past fifteen years, Silver, Byrne and their seasonededitorial team have accurately predicted each season's hottest,best-selling toys and correctly identified the industry's most prevalentproduct and financial trends. Visit Time to Play on Facebook and Twitter.COPYRIGHT 2010 Business WireCOPYRIGHT 2010 Gale, Cengage LearningPublisher Name: Business Wire Company Names: *LEGO Systems Inc. Descriptors: *Toy Industry--International economic relations; Toys; Video games Event Names: *950 (International economic relations ) Geographic Names: *1U2NY (New York ) Product Names: *3944000 (Games, Toys & Children's Vehicles); 3944200 (Toys); 3940000 (Toys & Sporting Goods); 3651920 (Electronic Games) Industry Names: BUSN (Business); INTL (Business, international ) SIC Codes: 3944 (Games, toys, and children's vehicles); 7372 (Prepackaged software ) NAICS Codes: 339932 (Game, Toy, and Children's Vehicle Manufacturing); 3399 (Other Miscellaneous Manufacturing ) 11/9/3 (Item 3 from file: 16) DIALOG(R)File 16: Gale Group PROMT(R)(c) 2012 Gale/Cengage. All rights reserved.0017383772 ? ?Supplier Number: 242609108 (THIS IS THE FULLTEXT) Toy Industry Unveils Nominees for Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards; Launches Consumer Voting Website, and Announces Inductees into Toy Industry Hall of Fame. PR Newswire , p NA Nov 22 , 2010 Language: English ? ?Record Type: Fulltext Document Type: Newswire ; Trade Word Count: 1097 Text: NEW YORK, Nov. 22, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- New York Cityserved as the backdrop today for the unveiling of 70 highly anticipatednominees for the 2011 Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards. Along with theannouncement, the Toy Industry Association, Inc. (TIA) launched a newwebsite, , that allows kids of all ages to vote for theirfavorite toys. Now through January 14, 2011, families can vote, download aHoliday Gift Guide, and register to win fantastic prizes. "The TOTY Awards not only celebrate the creativity and innovation of theToy Industry," said Carter Keithley, TIA president, "they also support thephilanthropic efforts of the Toy Industry Foundation whose mission it is togive the gift of play to children in need." The finalists were selected by Nomination Committees from a record500+ toys, games and properties submitted for consideration across 11 TOTYcategories. The committees - one for each category - were comprised ofhigh-stature experts such as journalists, toy trend experts, playtherapists, toy inventors and designers, and toy retailers. In addition to the consumer vote, ballots were launched forretailers, media, and members of the Toy Industry. Each will be weightedand used to determine the TOTY 2011 winners, including the coveted overall"Toy of the Year" award. Winners will be announced during the TOTY Awardsceremony on Saturday, February 12, 2011, as the kick-off to the 108thAmerican International Toy Fair. 2011 Hall of Fame Inductees Join Toy Industry Icons Also announced today were the next inductees into the esteemed ToyIndustry Hall of Fame. Al Verrecchia, chairman of the Board of Directors atHasbro, and the late Donald Duncan, founder of Duncan Toy Company, will berecognized for their outstanding contributions and service to the toyindustry during the TOTY Awards ceremony in February. The TOTY Awards is a TIA-administered event in support of the ToyIndustry Foundation. More information about the TOTY Awards (includingproduct images and descriptions), the Toy Industry Hall of Fame, the ToyIndustry Association and the Toy Industry Foundation can be found in theonline pressroom Press. Follow TOTY on Twitter at #TOTY11. About the Toy Industry Association TIA is the not-for-profit trade association for producers andimporters of toys and youth entertainment products sold in North America,representing more than 535 companies who account for approximately 85% ofdomestic toy sales. Toy safety is the number one priority for the toyindustry. TIA has a long history of leadership in toy safety includingdevelopment of the first comprehensive toy safety standard more than 30years ago, and working with government, consumers and industry on ongoingprograms to ensure safe play. NOMINEES FOR THE 2011 TOTY AWARDS ACTIVITY TOY OF THE YEAR Toys that inspire creative play through various forms of activity * Crayola Color Wonder Sound Studio (Crayola, LLC) * LEGO Atlantis Neptune Carrier (LEGO Systems, Inc.) * LEGO Toy Story Western Train Chase (LEGO Systems, Inc.) * Paper Jamz(TM) Guitar (WowWee) * Play-Doh Mega Fun Factory (Hasbro, Inc.) * Real Construction(TM) Deluxe Workshop (JAKKS Pacific, Inc.) BOY TOY OF THE YEAR Toys developed for boys of any age * Air Hogs Hawk Eye (Spin Master Ltd.) * Hot Wheels RC Stealth Rides (Mattel) * NERF N-Strike Stampede ECS blaster (Hasbro, Inc.) * Real Construction(TM) Deluxe Workshop (JAKKS Pacific, Inc.) * Spy Net(TM) Video Watch (JAKKS Pacific, Inc.) * Toy Story 3 Blast Off Buzz Lightyear (Thinkway Toys) * TRON: Legacy Zero Gravity Light Cycle (Disney and Spin Master) EDUCATIONAL TOY OF THE YEAR Toys that help children to develop special skills and knowledgethrough play * Alphie (Hasbro/ Playskool) * Furnished School Building (Playmobil USA) * iXL(TM) Learning System (Fisher-Price, Inc.) * Leapster Explorer(TM) Learning Experience (LeapFrog) * Math Dice Jr. Kid's First Mental Math Game (ThinkFun Inc.) * MobiGo(TM) (VTech Electronics North America) * V.Reader(TM) (VTech Electronics North America) GAME OF THE YEAR Children's board, card, CD-ROM or electronic game formats. (NOTE:All electronic games must have an ESRB "Early Childhood" rating) * 5 Second Rule (Patch Products) * LEGO Games Creationary (LEGO Systems, Inc.) * LEGO Games Minotaurus (LEGO Systems, Inc.) * LOOPZ(TM) (Radica) * Rory's Story Cubes (Gamewright) * Scrabble Flash (Parker Bros.) * SPOT IT! (Blue Orange Games) GIRL TOY OF THE YEAR Toys developed for girls of any age * Barbie Video Girl (Mattel) * Furreal Friends GOGO, My Walkin' Pup (Hasbro, Inc.) * Justin Bieber Music Video Collection Singing Figures (The BridgeDirect, Inc.) * Monster High(TM) Doll Assortment (Mattel) * Princess & Me 18" Dolls (JAKKS Pacific, Inc.) * Squinkies(TM) Cupcake Surprize! Bake Shop (Blip Toys) * Zoobles(TM) (Spin Master Ltd.) INFANT/TODDLER TOY OF THE YEAR Toys developed for infant children and toddlers (ages up to 36months) * Explore N' Grow Musical Gear Center (Playskool) * Laugh & Learn(TM) Learn & Move Music Station(TM)(Fisher-Price, Inc.) * LEGO DUPLO Play with Numbers (LEGO Systems, Inc.) * Lil' Zoomers(TM) Spinnin' Sounds Speedway(TM) (Fisher-Price, Inc.) * Mega Bloks Pull Along Musical Pirate Ship (MEGA Brands) * My First Disney Princess Baby dolls (Tollytots, a division ofJAKKS Pacific, Inc.) * My Own Leaptop (LeapFrog) INNOVATIVE TOY OF THE YEAR Toys that combine innovation and play value * iXL(TM) Learning System (Fisher-Price, Inc.) * LEGO Games Minotaurus (LEGO Systems, Inc.) * Paper Jamz(TM) Guitar (WowWee) * Scrabble Flash (Parker Bros.) * Spy Net(TM) Video Watch (JAKKS Pacific, Inc.) * The Sing-a-ma-jigs!(TM) (Mattel Inc.) * V.Reader(TM) (VTech Electronics North America) OUTDOOR TOY OF THE YEAR Toys designed for outdoor play * Flickin' Chicken (Haywire Group, Inc.) * Makin' Mudpies (Little Tikes) * Nerf Super Soaker Shot Blast (Hasbro, Inc.) * Razor Siege(TM) Caster Scooter (Razor USA, LLC) * Sky Ball and Bat (Maui Toys ) * Whiplash(TM) (Street Surfing) * YBIKE (National Sporting Goods) PRESCHOOL TOY OF THE YEAR Toys developed for preschool-aged children (ages 3-5) * Dance Star Mickey (Fisher-Price, Inc.) * iXL(TM) Learning System (Fisher-Price, Inc.) * My Take Along Puppet Theater (Playmobil USA) * The Sing-a-ma-jigs!(TM) (Mattel Inc.) * Tonka Chuck & Friends Chuck's Stunt Park (Hasbro, Inc.) * V.Reader(TM) (VTech Electronics North America) PROPERTY OF THE YEAR Property that had the greatest success spreading its brandthroughout the industry * Ben 10 Ultimate Alien (Cartoon Network Enterprises) * Chuggington(TM) (Ludorum) * Dinosaur Train (The Jim Henson Company) * Monster High(TM) (Mattel) * Thomas & Friends(TM) (HIT Entertainment) * Toy Story 3 (Disney Consumer Products) SPECIALTY TOY OF THE YEAR Toys primarily distributed through specialty retailers * Furnished School Building (Playmobil USA) * HEXBUG Nano Habitat Set (Innovation First Labs, Inc.) * My Take Along Puppet Theater (Playmobil USA) * Shrinky Dinks Deluxe (Creativity for Kids/Faber-Castell USA) * Solitaire Chess(TM) (ThinkFun Inc.) * UPPY(TM) Uglydoll (Pretty Ugly(TM) LLC/Uglydoll) SOURCE Toy Industry AssociationCOPYRIGHT 2010 PR Newswire Association LLCCOPYRIGHT 2010 Gale, Cengage LearningPublisher Name: PR Newswire Association LLC Company Names: *LEGO Systems Inc._Achievements and awards; JAKKS Pacific Inc._Achievements and awards; Fisher-Price Inc._Achievements and awards; Mattel Inc._Achievements and awards; VTech Electronics_Achievements and awards Descriptors: *Toy Industry--Achievements and awards Geographic Names: *100NA (North America ) Product Names: *3944000 (Games, Toys & Children's Vehicles) Industry Names: BUSN (Business); NEWS (News, opinion and commentary ) NAICS Codes: 339932 (Game, Toy, and Children's Vehicle Manufacturing ) Ticker Symbols: JAKK 11/9/4 (Item 4 from file: 16) DIALOG(R)File 16: Gale Group PROMT(R)(c) 2012 Gale/Cengage. All rights reserved.16594994 ? ?Supplier Number: 218889307 (THIS IS THE FULLTEXT) Toy Industry Celebrates the Best of the Best at Annual TOTY Awards Celebration. Business Wire , p NA Feb 14 , 2010 Language: English ? ?Record Type: Fulltext Document Type: Newswire ; Trade Word Count: 1119 Text: NEW YORK - Cepia, LLC Sweeps with Top Honors and Two Category Awards for Zhu ZhuPets; John Lasseter and Sam Walton Inducted into Toy Industry Hall of Fame NEW YORK -- More than 400 executives from across the Toy Industrygathered to honor their peers tonight at the tenth annual Toy of the Year(TOTY) Awards program and Hall of Fame induction ceremony. Well-recognizedas the "Oscars(R)" of the Toy Industry, the annual gala paid tribute to thebest in toys and children's entertainment; outstanding achievements byindividuals, teams, and companies; and the creativity and playful spiritupon which the Toy Industry is based. Hosted by the Toy Industry Association, Inc. (TIA) at New YorkCity's Chelsea Piers/Pier 60, the event was the kick-off to the 107thannual American International Toy Fair. Zhu Zhu Pets by Cepia, LLC was named as the overall "Toy of theYear" winner and captured two category awards. The coveted TOTY awardsprogram included twelve categories with more than 80 finalists; winnersincluded a tie for Preschool Toy of the Year: * Recognizing an outstanding toy that inspires creative play throughvarious forms of activity, the Activity Toy of the Year was presented toCrayon Town by Wild Planet Entertainment * Recognizing an outstanding toy developed for boys of any age, theBoy Toy of the Year was presented to Bakugan 7-in-1 Maxus Dragonoid by SpinMaster * Recognizing an outstanding toy that helps children develop specialskills and knowledge through play, the Educational Toy of the Year waspresented to Mindstorms NXT 2.0 by LEGO Systems * Recognizing an outstanding toy that merges high-technology withcreativity and imagination, the Electronic Entertainment Toy of the Yearwas presented to Rubik's TouchCube(TM) by Techno Source * Recognizing an outstanding children's board, card, CD-ROM orelectronic game, the Game of the Year was presented to Sort It Out! byUniversity Games * Recognizing an outstanding toy developed for girls of any age, theGirl Toy of the Year was presented to Zhu Zhu Pets by Cepia * Recognizing an outstanding toy developed for infants (ages 0-2),the Infant Toy of the Year was presented to Crayola Beginnings Color Me ASong by Crayola, LLC * Recognizing an outstanding toy that combines innovation and playvalue, the Innovative Toy of the Year was presented to Zhu Zhu Pets byCepia * Recognizing an outstanding toy that is designed for outdoor play,the Outdoor Toy of the Year was presented to My 1st Scooter by Radio Flyer * In the evening's only tie, the Preschool Toy of the Yearrecognized two outstanding toys that are developed for preschool-agedchildren (ages 3-5): Tonka Chuck & Friends Chuck My Talking Truck byPlayskool and Bilibo by Active People. * Recognizing a property that has had the greatest success spreadingits brand throughout the industry, Property of the Year was presented toBakugan by Cartoon Network * Recognizing an outstanding toy that is distributed primarilythrough specialty toy retailers, the Specialty Toy of the Year waspresented to Captain Owen's Dolphin Explorer Boat by Sprig Toys TOTY nominations represented a broad cross section of the toyindustry, covering products for both specialty and mass market retailsectors. The toys featured on the ballot were selected by members of theTOTY Nominations Committee, a group comprised of industry professionalsincluding major retailers, academia, toy journalists and inventors. Awardswere determined by a vote of the TIA members and associate members (onevote per member organization). Descriptions of each TOTY-nominated toy and links to eachmanufacturer's website can be found online at . Photos ofthe event can be found on the Toy Industry Association's Facebook page. Interspersed with presentations of the TOTY Awards were twoinductions to the Toy Industry Hall of Fame. Established in 1984, the Hallof Fame honors individuals who have made a significant mark on the AmericanToy Industry. Joining the more than 50 people already on the distinguishedroster are John Lasseter, chief creative officer, Walt Disney Company andPixar Animation Studios, and principal creative advisor of Walt DisneyImagineering and Sam Walton, founder, Walmart Stores (posthumous award). Chief creative officer of Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studiosand principal creative advisor, Walt Disney Imagineering, Lasseter is atwo-time Academy Award(R)-winning director and oversees all films andassociated projects from Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios. Hedirected the groundbreaking and critically acclaimed Toy Story trilogy, ABug's Life and Cars; additionally, he executive produced Monsters, Inc.,Finding Nemo, and The Incredibles. A posthumous award was presented to Sam Walton, the founder ofWalmart Stores. In remarks during the presentation ceremony, AlanHassenfeld, chair of the Hall of Fame Committee and Chairman of theExecutive Committee, Hasbro, Inc. commended Walton for his special affinityfor toys and rapid expansion of toy departments in Walmart Supercenters.From the debut of Walton's first discount merchandise store in 1962 to hisdeath in 1988, the retailing giant had opened more than 1,700 stores in theUnited States. By the end of the 20th century Walmart had become theworld's largest retailer. Walton's award was accepted by Laura Phillips onbehalf of the Walton family. "Gathering with colleagues from across the industry and comingtogether in celebration of the TOTY Award winners and the Toy Industry Hallof Fame inductees is a wonderful way to kickoff Toy Fair 2010," said CarterKeithley, TIA president. "Tonight's event pays tribute to the creativeprofessionals and fun and innovative products that make our industry sogreat." Event sponsors for the evening were Razor and Spin Master (goldlevel), the American National Standards Institute, Dallas Market Center andLoeb and Loeb (silver level) and Global Events Group (event partner). About TIA TIA is the not-for-profit trade association for producers andimporters of toys and youth entertainment products sold in North America,representing over 500 companies who account for approximately 85% ofdomestic toy sales. Toy safety is the number one priority for the toyindustry. TIA has a long history of leadership in toy safety includingdevelopment of the first comprehensive toy safety standard more than 30years ago, and working with government, consumers and industry on ongoingprograms to ensure safe play. For more information, visit ,, or the Toy Industry Hall of Fame website. Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: 2010 Business WireCOPYRIGHT 2010 Gale, Cengage LearningPublisher Name: Business Wire Descriptors: *Toys--Achievements and awards; Toys--Rites, ceremonies and celebrations; Toy Industry--Achievements and awards; Toy Industry--Rites, ceremonies and celebrations Geographic Names: *1U2NY (New York ) Named Persons: Walton, Sam_Achievements and awards Product Names: *3944200 (Toys); 3940000 (Toys & Sporting Goods); 3944000 (Games, Toys & Children's Vehicles) Industry Names: BUSN (Business); INTL (Business, international ) NAICS Codes: 339932 (Game, Toy, and Children's Vehicle Manufacturing); 3399 (Other Miscellaneous Manufacturing ) 11/9/5 (Item 5 from file: 16) DIALOG(R)File 16: Gale Group PROMT(R)(c) 2012 Gale/Cengage. All rights reserved.15614818 ? ?Supplier Number: 193775370 (THIS IS THE FULLTEXT) Toy Industry Association Celebrates the Best in Toys at Annual Awards Celebration. Business Wire , p NA Feb 16 , 2009 Language: English ? ?Record Type: Fulltext Document Type: Newswire ; Trade Word Count: 1022 Text: Spin Master Receives "Toy of the Year" Honors for Bakugan BattleBrawlers Battle Pack Series 1 Spheres NEW YORK -- The Toy Industry Association (TIA) honored leaders of theindustry tonight at the 2009 Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards program and Hallof Fame induction ceremony. The annual gala pays tribute to the best intoys and children's entertainment; outstanding achievements by individuals,teams, and companies; and the creativity and playful spirit upon which theToy Industry is based. The event was held in New York City at Pier60/Chelsea Piers and was attended by more than 450 guests representing adiverse cross-section of the Toy Industry. The TOTY awards presentation included winners in each of elevencategories; nearly 75 unique products were nominated. Of these winners, oneproduct is recognized as the overall "Toy of the Year." The 2009 award recipients include: * Activity Toy of the Year, recognizing a toy that inspires creativeplay through various forms of activity - Crayola Color Wonder(TM) MagicLight Brush(TM) - Crayola LLC * Boy Toy of the Year, for toys developed for boys of any age -Bakugan Battle Brawlers Battle Pack Series 1 Spheres - Spin Master * Educational Toy of the Year, recognizing a toy that, through play,helps children develop special skills and/or knowledge - LeapFrog TAG(TM)Reading System - LeapFrog * Girl Toy of the Year, for toys developed specifically for girls ofany age - Playmobil Horse Farm - Playmobil USA, Inc. * Electronic Entertainment Toy of the Year, for toys that mergehigh-technology with creativity and imagination - FurReal Friends BiscuitMy Lovin' Pup - Hasbro * Game of the Year, including board, CD-ROM, electronic and cardgame formats - Bananagrams(R) - Bananagrams LLC * Infant/Preschool Toy of the Year, for toys designed for infantand/or preschool children - Elmo Live - Fisher-Price, Inc. * Most Innovative Toy of the Year, for the most outstanding, uniqueand creative toy - Air Hogs Zero Gravity Micro - Spin Master * Property of the Year, for the licensor that had the greatestsuccess spreading its brand or property throughout the industry whilegenerating interest and excitement -- Bakugan Battle Brawlers - CartoonNetwork * Outdoor Toy of the Year, focused on toys designed for outdoor play- Crayola(R) 3D Sidewalk Chalk - Crayola LLC * Specialty Toy of the Year, for toys distributed primarily throughspecialty retailers - Create Your Own Pop-Up Books - Creativity forKids(R)/Faber-Castell USA * And finally, the Toy of the Year - Bakugan Battle Brawlers BattlePack Series 1 Spheres - Spin Master Interspersed with presentations of the TOTY Awards were twoinductions to the Toy Industry Hall of Fame: Joan Ganz Cooney, theco-founder of Sesame Street Workshop, and Jack Pressman (deceased), founderof Pressman Toy. * Joan Ganz Cooney is the one of the visionaries and the chiefmoving force behind the creation of Children's Television Workshop (CTW)and the most successful children's television show in the history of eithercommercial or educational television, Sesame Street. Before Sesame Street,successful children's programs were entertainment oriented and appeared oncommercial television; educational programs were thought to be boring andpedantic and appeared on public television which garnered a smaller, butmore affluent audience. Ms. Cooney recognized that television could do morethan entertain . . . it could provide supplementary education at a fractionof the cost of classroom instruction and established an organization whichcontinues to produce innovative programming for all ages. Via SesameStreet, she brought public television to the forefront of the nationalconsciousness and demonstrated that quality educational programming couldattract and hold a mass audience. * Jack Pressman (deceased), founder of Pressman Toy in 1922, was aleader and early creative force in the Toy Industry. Under Jack'sleadership, Pressman Toy was among the first to introduce licensed productssuch as toys and games featuring Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Disney1937), Dick Tracy, Little Orphan Annie and Groucho Marx. He is alsocredited with discovering and bringing Chinese Checkers to the masses in1928. A consummate innovator, Jack was one of the first manufacturers touse plastic in his toys and to promote his products on television. He diedin 1959, leaving behind a footprint on toy makers, children and consumers.The posthumous award was accepted by Mr. Pressman's wife, Lynn PressmanRaymond, and his youngest son, Jim. Established in 1984, the Hall of Fame honors individuals who havemade a significant mark on the American Toy Industry. More than 50 personsare already on the Toy Industry Hall of Fame roster. "The Toy Industry Association is pleased to honor the greatcompanies and ingenious individuals who create products that delightchildren of every age," said Carter Keithley, president of TIA. "Gatheringwith colleagues from across the industry and coming together in celebrationof the TOTY Award winners and the Toy Industry Hall of Fame inductees is awonderful way to kickoff the first day of Toy Fair 2009." The TOTY Awards and Hall of Fame induction ceremony is sponsored byTIA and held in conjunction with the 106th American International ToyFair(R). An estimated 20,000 persons kicked off Toy Fair 2009 during itsopening earlier today at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. Additional information about the TOTY Awards and the Toy IndustryHall of Fame can be found online. About TIA TIA is the not-for-profit trade association for producers andimporters of toys and youth entertainment products sold in North America,representing over 500 companies who account for approximately 85% ofdomestic toy sales. Toy safety is the number one priority for the toyindustry. TIA has a long history of leadership in toy safety includingdevelopment of the first comprehensive toy safety standard more than 30years ago, and working with government, consumers and industry on ongoingprograms to ensure safe play. For more information about TIA, visit. For more information about the TSCP, visit.COPYRIGHT 2009 Business WireCOPYRIGHT 2009 Gale, Cengage LearningPublisher Name: Business Wire Descriptors: *Toy Industry Association--Rites, ceremonies and celebrations; Toys-- Achievements and awards; Toys--Rites, ceremonies and celebrations; Toy Industry--Achievements and awards; Toy Industry--Rites, ceremonies and celebrations Product Names: *3944200 (Toys); 3940000 (Toys & Sporting Goods); 3944000 (Games, Toys & Children's Vehicles) Industry Names: BUSN (Business); BUS (Business, general ) SIC Codes: 3940 (Toys and Sporting Goods); 3944 (Games, toys, and children's vehicles); 3942 (Dolls and stuffed toys); 5092 (Hobby equipment industry ); 5945 (Hobby, toy, and game shops ) NAICS Codes: 339932 (Game, Toy, and Children's Vehicle Manufacturing); 3399 (Other Miscellaneous Manufacturing ) Material Used:Bluesheet for file 411Dialog Pocket GuideExercise #2 Problem 2Question: How far back are press releases for LeapFrog available on Dialogs? Their website only goes back to 2007.Search SummaryWhen starting this search I started out writing down keywords and synonyms to use when searching. I went to LeapFrog’s website and looked at a few press releases, one which told me that the company started in Emeryville, CA in 1995. The question only stated that the website releases only went back to 2007; this told me the company existed sometime before 2007, which is why I searched further to find the start-up date. I took this information and I went to the DialIndex blue sheet and selected category acronyms that I felt would be most likely to retrieve the results I was looking for. I chose the following acronyms: BUSWIRE, NEWSWIRES,PAPERSCA, PAPERSMJ, USNEWSWI. I chose PAPERSCA (California newspaper) and PAPERSMJ (major newspapers) because the company started in California so I did not want to miss any opportunities for information. Once I selected the files I conducted two searches:Search one: co=LeapFrog AND py=1995:2007 (files 813, 649, & 613 had hits)Search two: LeapFrog AND py=1995:2007 (files 258, 649,613,610,640 & 813 had hits)I went with search two because there were more files with greater amounts of hits and search two included all my files yielded in search one as well as including the San Francisco Chronicle. This was a deal sealer because in the background information of the problem it states: LeapFrog, a company that sells education toys, is located in the San Francisco Bay Area. Please refer to the list of files used, located after the search summary, for more details. Once I had my files selected and I was comfortable with them I started my search. I started with some descriptors, titles and text indexes. Search: COMPANY()NEWS/DE AND LEAPFROG/TI,DE,TXThis yielded zero hits so I made the terms more general in hopes of getting some hits. My second set was: LEAPFROG/TI,DE,TX AND TOY?/DEI knew I wanted LeapFrog to be in the title and text of the result and since it was a toy company I added the descriptor toy. This yielded an acceptable 360 hits. I viewed these hits and realized that I had not limited my search by publication year yet so that was my next step. Since the company started in 1995 I knew that I wanted to include a date range from 1995 to another date. I started out with: S2 AND PY=1995:2007Then I realized that I knew 2007 was on the website so I did not want to include that year in my results and narrowed it again this time the range was 1995:2006. I viewed my results and after going through about thirty results I noticed I was getting articles from Amazon and a few other companies also so I added in the Company Name descriptor, which I got from the expand command of CO. S4 AND CO= LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES INC? I was sitting on 200 results. The question asked how far back press releases for LeapFrog were avialble in Dialog so my next step was to search publication years from oldest to newest. I started in 1995 and yielded no hits, likewise for ranges 1996:2000 and 1995:2001. Instead of continuing to this process of elimination I used the sort command: Search: Sort S5/ALL/PD,AThis allowed me to view the oldest results from 1995:2006 first; the first result was published in October 11, 2002 the latest article, based on my date range was published December 14, 2006. Edit: [After conducting my search and writing up my summary I realized that maybe I should have used the sort command on my first search including a date range. I had already logged off so I logged back on and redid my search and sorted where I thought might be best. This was important because I received better results; results that included an earlier date, December 26, 1995. ]I learned that it is important to always analyze your work and the steps you took to get the results you did. The sort command was feature I learned how to use and appreciate. Another lesson learned is that if you feel that your results are good but not great and you know a way to get to great do it, it is important that the results you produce are worth looking at.Files Used?258:AP NEWS JUL 2000-2012/JUL 09?649:GALE GROUP NEWSWIRE ASAP(TM) 2012/JUL 06?613:PR NEWSWIRE 1999-2012/JUL 09?610:BUSINESS WIRE 1999-2012/JUL 09?640:SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE 1988-2012/JAN 30?813:PR NEWSWIRE 1987-1999/APR 30Display SetsSet Items DescriptionS1 0 COMPANY()NEWS/DE AND LEAPFROG/TI,DE,TXS2 360 LEAPFROG/TI,DE,TX AND TOY?/DES3 270 S2 AND PY=1995:2007S4 243 S2 AND PY=1995:2006S5 200 S4 AND CO= LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES INC?S6 0 S5 AND PY=1995S7 0 S5 AND PY=1996:2000S8 0 S5 AND PY=1995:2001S9 200 Sort S5/ALL/PD,AAfter writing my summary I thought maybe I should have sorted on S3, so I redid my search exactly to S3 and sorted them by publication date, ascending. Which I am glad I did this, because the San Francisco Chronicle had a press release for LeapFrog in December of 1995. Set Items DescriptionS1 360 LEAPFROG/TI,DE,TX AND TOY?/DES2 0 S2 AND PY=1995:2007S3 270 S1 AND PY=1995:2007S4 270 Sort S3/ALL/PD,AResults4/9/1 (Item 1 from file: 640) DIALOG(R)File 640: San Francisco Chronicle(c) 2012 Chronicle Publ. Co. All rights reserved.08360050 BERKELEY TOY MAKER HAS WOODEN ROOTS San Francisco Chronicle ( SF ) - TUESDAY, December 26, 1995 By: Arthur M. Louis, Chronicle Staff Writer Edition: FINAL ?Section: Business ?Page: C4 Word Count: 302 Memo: RELATED STORYText: Mike Wood, an attorney with a leading San Francisco law firm, wantedto help his 3-year-old son learn to read, so he bought a wooden puzzlecontaining all the letters of the alphabet, and tried to teach him whichsounds each letter makes. But the lesson didn't work as well as he had hoped, because woodenletters don't make sounds unless they are dropped on the floor, and thenall they say is ``clunk.'' So Wood, who knew someone who makes talkinggreeting cards, decided to develop a talking toy that could teach phonics. His first thought was to put voice chips into each of 26 large,squeezable letters. Squeeze a ``B'' and it would say ``Buh.'' Squeeze an``R'' and it would say ``Ruh.'' But after conferring with experts at theSandia National Laboratories in New Mexico, he conceded that there might beless awkward and less expensive solutions. Sandia gave Wood a $20,000 grant, and he later raised $2 million inventure capital. Wood recruited Robert Calfee and Kristy Dunlap, experts in``early learning'' at the Stanford Graduate School of Education, to developthe lessons. And a Texas-based design company called Ignition, whichspecializes in computerized toys, created a prototype of what is now knownas the Phonics Learning System. Last February, less than three years after he bought that woodenpuzzle, Wood -- no longer a practicing attorney but an incipient toy tycoon-- demonstrated his prototype at a toy fair, where it captivated severalmajor retailers, among them Toys R Us, F.A.O. Schwarz, Sesame Street Storesand Hammacher Schlemmer. The product has been a big hit this Christmas season. Since September,Wood's Berkeley-based startup, a seven-employee operation called LeapFrog,has shipped 80,000 units with a total retail value of close to $4 million.Copyright 1995 The San Francisco Chronicle Descriptors: PHONICS; BUSINESS; TOYS; TECHNOLOGY; BIOGRAPHY; EDUCATION; CHILDREN; HISTORY; MIKE WOOD; SANDIA NATIONAL LABORATORIES; LEAPFROG; PHONICS LEARNING SYSTEM 4/9/2 (Item 2 from file: 640) DIALOG(R)File 640: San Francisco Chronicle(c) 2012 Chronicle Publ. Co. All rights reserved.08360049 TALKING TOY NEEDS ADULT HELP KIDS, PARENTS SHOULD USE PHONICS SYSTEM TOGETHER San Francisco Chronicle ( SF ) - TUESDAY, December 26, 1995 By: Arthur M. Louis, Chronicle Staff Writer Edition: FINAL ?Section: Business ?Page: C4 Word Count: 721 Memo: RELATED STORY Katherine A. Louis and Elizabeth I. Louis contributed to this report.Text: Phonics Learning System, the talking toy from Berkeley-based LeapFrog,materialized in The Chronicle offices the other day. Although its voicechips weren't programmed to say so, we figured that it wanted us to do aproduct review. The system, which is designed to teach spelling and pronunciation, isfor ages 3 and up. Although I fit in that category, I thought it might bemore fruitful to test it on someone close to the minimum age. I found two such people at home -- my 9-year-old and 2-year-olddaughters. (I stretched the point for the 2-year-old, who turns 3 inJanuary and looks old for her age.) The toy, which retails for $49.95 in the standard version and $29.95 ina travel-size version, consists of: -- A plastic case containing the voice chips and other technologicalwonders. -- Colorful plastic letters which nestle in slots on the surface of thecase. -- Twenty computer-coded ``talking word cards,'' which the user insertsin a holder on the right-front of the case; they contain letter-shapedperforations that spell out the objects pictured on the card. A basic Phonics Learning System is limited to three-letter words thatwould be familiar to almost any child. But you also can buy five differentpackets of advanced cards -- featuring longer and more difficult words --at $12.95 each for the large (Desk) version and $6.95 for the portableversion (the Traveler). When the machine is turned on, a cheery voice exclaims: ``Ribbit,ribbit, let's play!'' (After all, the company's name is LeapFrog.) When aword card is inserted, the voice, which never loses its enthusiasm, spellsout the word and pronounces it: ``K-I-D -- Kid!'' A child is supposed to find the letters that fit in the card'sperforations, and insert them. As each letter is inserted, the voice makesthe appropriate sound -- ``Kuh,'' ``Ih,'' ``Duh'' -- and when the word iscompleted the voice spells and pronounces it again and yells phrases ofencouragement, such as ``Awesome!'' or ``Yes!'' or ``You got it!'' or``You're on a roll!'' My oldest daughter, a fourth-grader, is always enthusiastic about new,computerized gadgets, but after fiddling with the Phonics system for awhile she concluded that it couldn't teach her anything she didn't alreadyknow. She often expresses similar sentiments about her parents. That left the soon-to-be-3-year-old, who found the toy very much to hertaste. In fact, it's almost impossible to tear her away from it. With minimal guidance she learned to match the correct letters with theperforations, and also to put the letters back in their correct slots onthe case. She shrieks with delight when the voice rewards her with``Awesome!'' or ``You got it!'' My wife is amazed at the expansion of hernormal attention span. After a few days, however, my daughter still doesn't seem to havelearned the names or phonics of the individual letters. When I asked her,at random, to show me which plastic letter was a K, she didn't know. Whenthe computer voice announced: ``D-O-G, Dog! Yes!'' I pointed to the word onthe card and asked her what it was. She replied: ``Yes.'' Since she possesses an intellect that would put Albert Einstein toshame, I had to conclude that she needed more adult supervision -- that thetoy is not really a self-teaching device, at least not at that age level. My conclusion was seconded by Bob Lally, LeapFrog's chief financialofficer. The Phonics Learning System is ``a tool for interaction betweenchildren and parents,'' he stressed. ``It's not the kind of toy you want tojust set there and then walk away. Children need help with this difficultstep.'' Parents who might want to buy the Phonics Learning System must firstdecide whether they have time to sit patiently with their children, helpingthem distinguish the letters and their sounds and how they form words. Thetalking toy will grab their attention, but you have to do plenty oftalking, too. If you don't, then you probably won't get your $49.95 worth.Caption: PHOTO? The Phonics Learning System is designed for ages 3 and up/BY DEANNE FITZMAURICE/THE CHRONICLE Copyright 1995 The San Francisco Chronicle Descriptors: PHONICS; BUSINESS; TECHNOLOGY; TOYS; EDUCATION; CHILDREN; REVIEW; PHONICS LEARNING SYSTEM; LEAPFROG 4/9/3 (Item 3 from file: 649) DIALOG(R)File 649: Gale Group Newswire ASAP(TM)(c) 2012 Gale/Cengage. All rights reserved.02327948 ? ? Supplier Number: 19108970 (THIS IS THE FULL TEXT ) Developer of Interactive Electronic Learning Toys Names Top Industry Veterans As Senior Executives PR Newswire , p211LATU028A Feb 11 , 1997 Language: English Record Type: Fulltext Word Count: 365 ? ?Line Count: 00034 Text: EMERYVILLE, Calif., Feb. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- The pioneering andaward-winning developer of interactive electronic reading and learningtoys, LeapFrog, has appointed two major Toy Industry veterans, BradCrawford, previously of Little Tikes, and Ransom Peek, previously ofGaloob, to the posts of Vice President of Sales & Marketing and VicePresident of Engineering & Manufacturing. "We're delighted to have such exceptional talent as a part of the LeapFrogteam," said Michael Wood, president and founder of LeapFrog. "We're lookingforward to tremendous growth and making LeapFrog synonymous with learningand fun." As Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Brad Crawford, 36, willbe responsible for overseeing LeapFrog's sales and marketing efforts, witha concentration on reaching new markets abroad and penetrating the largeretail market. He brings with him experience managing major retailaccounts, including Wal-Mart, K-Mart, Target, Service Merchandise andJCPenney. His international sales management expertise will help thepioneering, two-year old toy company to grow and gain a great national andinternational presence along with brand name recognition. Ransom Peek, 41, joins LeapFrog as Vice President of Engineering& Manufacturing after four years at Galoob serving the same post. Mr.Peek will oversee operations and systems management for the expanding toymanufacturer. While at Galoob, Mr. Peek managed their strategic rise toprofitability, concurrently doubling their sales volume. Says Mr. Peekabout his objectives, "I want to further develop the product line anddistribution channels to the point where the LeapFrog name isinternationally recognized for play value, educational content andquality." LeapFrog's phonics learning toys are used in 10 countries around theworld. Founded three years ago by Michael Wood, the company has experienced300% growth in its last 12 months. SOURCE LeapFrog ____-0-_____________________________02/11/97 /NOTE TO EDITORS: For interviews, B&W photographs or completemedia kit, contact Weis Public Relations at 510-841-9347./ /CONTACT: Brian Gardner of Weis Public Relations, 510-841-9347, orfax, 510-548-6636, for LeapFrog/ CO: LeapFrog ST: California, New York IN: MLM SU: PER RB-CL -- LATU028A -- 2166 02/11/97 10:30 EST 1997 PR Newswire Association, Inc. Company Names: LeapFrog--Officials and employees Descriptors: Toy Industry--Officials and employees Industry Codes/Names: BUS Business, General; BUSN Any type of business Product/Industry Names: 3944200 (Toys) SIC Codes: 3944 Games, toys, and children's vehicles File Segment: NW File 649 9/9/1 (Item 1 from file: 649) DIALOG(R)File 649: Gale Group Newswire ASAP(TM)(c) 2012 Gale/Cengage. All rights reserved.04756430 ? ? Supplier Number: 132324845 (THIS IS THE FULL TEXT ) LeapFrog Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System Named One of Top Twelve Toys of The 2002 Holiday Season by Toy Wishes. PR Newswire , NA Oct 11 , 2002 Language: English Record Type: Fulltext Word Count: 1126 ? ?Line Count: 00112 Text: LeapFrog Dominates Educational Picks for Holiday And Wins ALL STAR Honorsin Three Categories LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. , a leading developer of innovativetechnology-based learning products, announced that the Quantum Pad(TM)learning system was named one of the twelve hottest toys of the 2002holiday season. Toy Wishes recognized the product this week as a HOT DOZENselection at a news conference in New York on October 8th. In addition,LeapFrog earned six ALL STAR distinctions in various product categories inthe Toy Wishes holiday guide, dominating the Educational & LearningToys category with three of the four overall best ALL STAR ranked products. Top industry experts Jim Silver, publisher of the Toy Book, and GarebShamus, chairman of Wizard Entertainment, test and review thousands of newtoys, games, puzzles and gifts each year to identify the very bestchildren's products for the upcoming holiday season. These selections areannounced through Toy Wishes, the only consumer publication devoted solelyto toys. The very best of the best -- the top 12 products predicted to bethe season's bestsellers -- receive the HOT DOZEN distinction. "LeapPad and My First LeapPad learning systems have been huge hitsover the past two years," said Jim Silver, co-publisher of Toy Wishes."LeapFrog has extended that success to the Quantum Pad learning system,which brings the educational curriculum and fun to another level." In addition to winning a spot in the Toy Wishes HOT DOZEN, severalother LeapFrog products were selected as ALL STARS in the Education &Learning, Infant and Preschool categories -- indicating the top fourbest-overall products in each category. In all, seven LeapFrog productswere selected in the Educational & Learning Category, accounting forone-third of all picks in this area and the LeapPad was selected as a'Neo-Classic' lasting favorite. LeapFrog 2002 Toy Wishes Honors Infant Category ALL STAR -- LeapStart(TM) Learning Table: Nurtures an infant's natural love ofmusic through a fully interactive musical play experience. Preschool Category ALL STAR -- Pretend & Learn(TM) Shopping Cart: Enhances traditionalshopping role-play with interactive learning activities that encourageimagination and creativity. Educational & Learning Category - Three of Four ALL STARS -- Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System: Incorporates interactive gamesand activities to make learning school subjects enjoyable. -- Learn to Read Phonics Desk(R) System: Helps children masterphonics and learn to read through a proven multi-sensory method combiningsight, sound and touch. -- iQuest(TM) Interactive Talking Handheld: Engaging and effectiveway for sixth, seventh and eighth graders to study for tests in math,science and social studies. Education & Learning Category Selections -- Turbo Twist(R) handheld BRAIN QUEST(R) edition: Incorporates allnew questions from the popular BRAIN QUEST game into challenging,fast-paced interactive games and activities to help kids master importantsocial studies, English, and science facts. -- Leap's Phonics(TM) Railroad: The only motorized train set thatteaches preschoolers the alphabet and phonics as they engage in a richtrain-play experience. -- Imagination Desk(TM) Learning System: Engages children with acreative way to learn core preschool skills, including letters, phonics,counting, shapes and colors, through their favorite activity -- coloring. -- "Neo-Classic" Lasting Favorite LeapPad(R) Learning System: Bringsto life the magic of books and reading while developing phonics awareness,spelling and vocabulary. "LeapFrog is extremely excited to be recognized by Toy Wishes with somany honors for our interactive learning products this holiday season,"said Tom Prichard, vice president of marketing for LeapFrog Enterprises,Inc. "We believe that these new holiday offerings will impact learning andplay experiences for children well into the New Year." About HOT DOZEN Pick: Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System Also Top 4 in Educational & Learning Toys Category The Quantum Pad learning system harnesses the power of NearTouch(R)technology to spark students' enthusiasm for mastering school subjectswhile encouraging them to learn at their own pace. Fun stories, games andactivities make learning fundamental subjects, such as math, science andsocial studies, enjoyable. Books in the Quantum Pad FUN-damentals(TM)Series teach core skills specific to third, fourth, and fifth grades, suchas math, science, reading, language arts, and social studies. The Above& Beyond(TM) Series lets students explore fascinating topics. And forimproving reading fluency and comprehension, the Great Reader(TM) Serieshelps children build skills through popular titles such as the Magic TreeHouse(TM). Product Availability and Pricing LeapFrog's products are available now at major retailers nationwide,including Toys "R" Us, Target, and Wal-Mart. Product Ages/Grades MSRP Availability LeapStart(TM) Learning Table 6 months & up $39.99 Now Pretend & Learn(TM) Shopping Cart 2 years & up $45.99 Now Leap's Phonics(TM) Railroad 2 years & up $59.99 Now Learn to Read Phonics Desk(R) System 3 years & up $39.99 Now Imagination Desk(TM) Learning System 3 years & up $39.99 Now LeapPad(R) Learning System 4-8 years $49.99 Now Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System Grades 3-5 $49.99 Now iQuest(TM) Interactive Talking Handheld Grades 5-8 $59.99 Now Turbo Twist(R) handheld BRAIN QUEST(R) edition Grades 1-6 $29.99 Now Additional information on LeapFrog and its products can be found at. About LeapFrog LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer andmarketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and relatedproprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging.Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, morethan 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactivebooks, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music,geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educationalcurricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, andeffective. LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards fromeducators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups andindustry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toyindustry, the first-ever PEOPLE'S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARDfor the best-selling LeapPad(R) Learning System, as well as the BESTEDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades fromthe Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes 'sHoliday HOT DOZEN and the National Parenting Center. In addition tonational distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrogproducts are available in more than 25 countries and produced in fivedifferent languages. NOTE: LEAPFROG is a registered trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises,Inc. IQUEST, NEVER-ENDING LEARNING, LEAPSTART LEARNING TABLE, PRETEND & LEARN SHOPPING CART, LEARN TO READ PHONICS DESK, QUANTUM PAD, LEAPPAD, TURBO TWIST and MIND STATION are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. CONTACT: Leah Davis, +1-916-983-7729, or leah.davis@; or Lorie Appelbaum, +1-415-364-3805, or lorie.appelbaum@, both of Manning Selvage & Lee, for LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. Make Your Opinion Count - Click Here Contact: Leah Davis, +1-916-983-7729, or leah.davis@; or Lorie Appelbaum, +1-415-364-3805, or lorie.appelbaum@, both of Manning Selvage & Lee, for LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. Website: 2002 PR Newswire Association LLC Company Names: LeapFrog Enterprises Inc. Descriptors: Toy Industry Industry Codes/Names: BUSN Business; BUS Business, general Geographic Codes/Names: 1USA United States Product/Industry Names: 3944000 (Games, Toys & Children's Vehicles) SIC Codes: 3944 Games, toys, and children's vehicles NAICS Codes: 339932 Game, Toy, and Children's Vehicle Manufacturing File Segment: NW File 649 9/9/3 (Item 3 from file: 649) DIALOG(R)File 649: Gale Group Newswire ASAP(TM)(c) 2012 Gale/Cengage. All rights reserved.04752201 ? ? Supplier Number: 132320246 (THIS IS THE FULL TEXT ) LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. Reports Record Net Sales, 3rd Qtr Net Income Up 89%. PR Newswire , NA Oct 22 , 2002 Language: English Record Type: Fulltext Word Count: 1436 ? ?Line Count: 00173 Text: Gross Margin Expands as Content Sales Surge as a Percent of Net Sales LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. , a leading developer of innovativetechnology-based educational products, today reported financial results forthe third quarter ended September 30, 2002. Net sales for the third quarter of 2002 were $182.1 million, up 62.1%compared with $112.4 million in the third quarter of 2001. Net sales from the U.S. Consumer segment, which represents 88% oftotal net sales for the third quarter of 2002, were $161.0 million, up50.9% from $106.7 million in the third quarter of 2001. Net sales from theInternational segment, which represents 9% of total net sales for the thirdquarter of 2002, were $15.8 million, up 277.3% from $4.2 million in thethird quarter of 2001. The Education and Training segment, which represents3% of total net sales for the third quarter of 2002, produced $5.3 millionof net sales, up 251.3% from $1.5 million in the third quarter of 2001. The company recorded net income for the September 2002 quarter of$26.7 million, or $0.50 per diluted share, up 89.4% compared with netincome of $14.1 million, or $0.37 per diluted share for the September 2001quarter. The company's fully diluted share count increased significantly inthe September 2002 quarter, primarily as a result of the company's July 25,2002 initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange. "I am delighted to report solid financial results for our debutquarter as a public company," said Mike Wood, president and chief executiveofficer of LeapFrog Enterprises. "We are committed to the idea thateducational products for children can be fun and engaging. It is thereforeparticularly gratifying to see our products so well received by parents andteachers around the world. "We believe that our financial results for the third quarter of 2002reflect a very positive reception of our products this Fall, and bode wellfor a very promising holiday season," said Wood. "This year we are seeingthe benefit of the first true implementation of our LeapFrog LearningCenters within some of our retail partners' stores. The LeapFrog LearningCenter is a dedicated section of our full line of education-based productsarranged by age and school grade, from infant to college test preparation.We believe the LeapFrog Learning Center will become a destination forparents seeking education-based content and products, not just in theholiday season, but throughout the year." Net sales from the Company's library of proprietary software andcontent (interactive books and cartridges) increased to 26.8% of total netsales in the September 2002 quarter from 15.5% of total net sales in theSeptember 2001 quarter. "The increase in our content sales in the thirdquarter of 2002 demonstrates the viability of our educationplatform/content model," said Wood. "We have sold over 9 million platformsto date, and we now offer over 95 software titles for use with thoseplatform products. As we continue to expand our content offering, webelieve our education-based platform products will become more attractiveto parents and grandparents this holiday season and beyond." The company's SchoolHouse segment sells assessment and instructionalproducts to U.S. classrooms and teachers. "We have recently launched ourLeapTrack Learning System, an exciting product that allows teachers toperform ongoing assessment and deliver personalized content for eachstudent," said Wood. "As we gain traction in this market, I believe we canhave a significant impact on the ability of teachers throughout the UnitedStates to give individual attention to each child in a classroom and seethat no child is left behind as judged by state education standards." Financial Guidance for Fourth Quarter Ending December 31, 2002 The company anticipates that net sales in the seasonally strongfourth quarter will be between $185 million and $200 million. Net salesgrowth is expected to come from both the U.S. Consumer and Internationalsegments. Gross margin for the fourth quarter is expected to be between 50% and52% of net sales. Earnings per share are expected to be between $0.30 and $0.38 in thequarter ending December 31, 2002. Conference Call A conference call will be held tomorrow, Wednesday October 23 at 8:00a.m. Eastern time (5:00 a.m. Pacific time) to discuss these announcementsand to provide further discussion of results for the quarter and outlookfor the next quarter. A live webcast of the conference call will be offeredon LeapFrog's investor relations website at and on . A replay ofthe webcast will be available on these websites through November 23, 2002.To participate in the call, please dial 706-634-0183. About LeapFrog LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer andmarketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and relatedproprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging.Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, morethan 55 stand-alone educational products and more than 95 interactivecontent titles, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math,music, geography, social studies and science. All products containeducational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun,engaging and effective. LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards fromeducators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups andindustry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toyindustry, the first-ever PEOPLE'S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARDfor the popular LeapPad(R) Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONALT.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from theOppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes Magazine'sHoliday Hot Dozen and the National Parenting Center. In addition to national distribution at retailers across the UnitedStates, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries andproduced in five different languages. NOTE: LEAPFROG, LEAPTRACK, and LEAPPAD are trademarks of LeapFrogEnterprises, Inc. Safe Harbor Cautionary Statement Under The Private Securities Litigation ReformAct Of 1995: Except for the historical information contained herein, this newsrelease contains forward-looking statements, including the company'santicipated sales, gross margin or earnings results and performance in thequarter ending December 31, 2002 or future periods. These forward-lookingstatements involve risks and uncertainties, including the company's abilityto invent, develop, and market products, the existence, number andeffectiveness of Learning Centers established at the company's customers'stores, and the acceptance of its products in the market. These and otherrisks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the company's SECfilings, including its Registration Statement on Form S-1, as amended onJuly 26, 2002, and its report on Form 10- Q filed on August 29, 2002 couldcause the company's actual results to differ materially from thosediscussed in this release. All forward-looking statements are based oninformation available to the company on the date hereof, and the companyassumes no obligation to update such statements. CONTACT: Jim Curley, Chief Financial Officer, +1-510-420-5000, orChristopher Bunn, Director, Investor Relations, +1-510-420-5150, both ofLeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (In thousands, except share and per share data) (Unaudited September 30, December 31, 2002 2001 2001 (Unaudited) ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $57,848 $17,136 $8,269 Accounts Receivable (A) 130,137 86,385 115,499 Inventories net 92,337 56,988 46,103 Other Current assets 19,772 7,051 9,107 Total current assets 300,094 167,560 178,978 Property and equipment, net 20,449 17,995 16,857 Other long term assets 6,520 1,868 2,816 Intangible assets, net 23,353 22,310 23,322 Total assets $350,416 $209,733 $221,973 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities: Accounts payable $68,031 $40,541 $34,412 Accrued liabilities 16,606 9,990 9,342 Deferred revenue 3,853 1,027 2,250 Cooperative advertising 9,300 3,224 5,380 Income taxes payable 13,730 -- 9,634 Total current liabilities 111,520 54,782 61,018 Long term debt -- 67,860 61,163 Other long term liabilities 4,868 1,955 2,805 Redeemable convertible Series A preferred stock (B) 24,139 24,139 24,139 Total stockholders' equity 209,889 60,997 72,848 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $350,416 $209,733 $221,973 (A) Accounts Receivable are presented net of allowances of $11,343, $7,783, and $9,854 at September 30, 2002 and 2001 and December 31, 2001, respectively. (B) Redeemable convertible series A preferred stock, $0.0001 par value; 2,000,000 shares authorized at September 30, 2002 and 6,000,000 shares authorized at September 30, 2001 and December 31, 2001; 2,000,000 issued and outstanding, net of $861 of issuance costs. (Liquidation preference of $25,000 at September 30, 2002 and 2001 and December 31, 2001) LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (In thousands, except share and per share data) (unaudited) Three Months Nine Months Ended September 30, Ended September 30, 2002 2001 2002 2001 Net Sales $182,127 $112,382 $283,325 $160,828 Cost of Sales 86,377 59,043 138,914 87,727 Gross Profit 95,750 53,339 144,411 73,101 Operating expenses:Selling, general and administrative 22,865 12,256 53,958 32,407 Research and development 14,137 8,571 39,810 28,032 Advertising 11,925 7,954 20,953 12,855Depreciation and amortization 2,445 1,029 5,940 2,664 Total operating expenses 51,372 29,810 120,661 75,958 Income (loss) from operations 44,378 23,529 23,750 (2,857) Interest expense (127) (823) (822) (1,931) Interest income 259 128 459 471 Other (expense) income (38) (265) 85 326 Income (loss) before provision for income taxes 44,472 22,569 23,472 (3,991) Provision (benefit) for income taxes 17,789 8,482 9,389 (2,142) Net income (loss) $26,683 $14,087 $14,083 $(1,849) Net income (loss) per common share - basic $0.65 $0.42 $0.39 $(0.06) Net income (loss) per common share - diluted $0.50 $0.37 $0.30 $(0.06) Shares used in calculating net income (loss) per share - basic 41,274,608 33,471,287 36,275,667 33,398,495 Shares used in calculating net income (loss) per share - diluted 53,384,455 37,677,628 47,221,080 33,398,495 Make Your Opinion Count - Click Here CONTACT: Jim Curley, Chief Financial Officer, +1-510-420-5000, orChristopher Bunn, Director, Investor Relations, +1-510-420-5150, both ofLeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. Web site: 2002 PR Newswire Association LLC Company Names: LeapFrog Enterprises Inc. Descriptors: Toy Industry Industry Codes/Names: BUSN Business; BUS Business, general Geographic Codes/Names: 1USA United States Product/Industry Names: 3944000 (Games, Toys & Children's Vehicles) SIC Codes: 3944 Games, toys, and children's vehicles NAICS Codes: 339932 Game, Toy, and Children's Vehicle Manufacturing File Segment: NW File 649 9/9/4 (Item 4 from file: 649) DIALOG(R)File 649: Gale Group Newswire ASAP(TM)(c) 2012 Gale/Cengage. All rights reserved.04749429 ? ? Supplier Number: 132317412 (THIS IS THE FULL TEXT ) LeapFrog LeapPad(R) Learning System and LeapStart(TM) Learning Table Receive Top Honors at PlayDate 2002. PR Newswire , NA Oct 24 , 2002 Language: English Record Type: Fulltext Word Count: 848 ? ?Line Count: 00080 Text: Retailers Recognize LeapFrog Learning Products for the Fourth StraightYear LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. , a leading developer of innovative technology-based learning products, took top awards for its engaging learning productsat PlayDate 2002: the LeapPad(R) learning system was honored as the "#1Best- Selling Toy Sold in Specialty Stores" and a "Top 10 Best-Selling ToyOverall," and the LeapStart(TM) Learning Table was chosen as a "Top 10Best-Selling Toy Sold in Specialty Stores." In addition, the company wasnamed a "Top 10 Best- Selling Brand." PlayDate, the exclusive showcase ofthe best-selling toys and games for the holiday season based on thepredictions made by the nation's top retailers, announced this year'swinners on October 22 in New York. PlayDate's best-seller lists reflect the results of an annual surveyof retailers from a broad selection of toy stores, software stores,specialty stores, national retail chains and online retailers. Each year,these retailers predict the best-selling toys and games for the comingholiday season. Since the event's inception in 1999, LeapFrog products havemade the PlayDate best-seller lists. "LeapFrog breaks through the holiday fad barrier once again," saidSean McGowan co-founder of PlayDate. "As LeapPad hits our best-seller listfor the third year in a row, LeapFrog continues to prove that fun andinnovative toys that provide educational value are the winningcombination." "We are honored to receive PlayDate best-seller accolades for thefourth straight year," said Tom Prichard, vice president of marketing forLeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. "This is a testament to the value parents see inlearning toys and the great fun children experience -- a secret toLeapFrog's success - - which is why our products will last well into theNew Year." LeapFrog 2002 PlayDate Accolades LeapPad -- Top 10 Best-Selling Toy Overall & #1 Best-Selling ToySold in Specialty Stores The LeapPad(R) learning system brings to life the magic of books andreading. Children touch the page with the "magic" pen and LeapPad bookscome to life with delightful characters, music and activities. LeapFrogcontinues to engage young readers with an exciting library of more than 40books, including the NEW LeapPad(R) Phonics Program. The program includes10 storybooks and four activity books, which provide a fun step-by-stepapproach to teaching children the fundamentals of reading. Other greattitles in the LeapPad library, include Bob the Builder, Thomas the TankEngine, and Scooby Doo. LeapStart Learning Table -- Top 10 Best-Selling Toy Sold in SpecialtyStores LeapFrog's LeapStart Learning Table helps children learn their waythrough music play. Parents can introduce their children to instrumentsounds and upbeat melodies with each instrument on the table. Flip thecenter page on the table to transform the instruments from musicalactivities to learning discoveries that familiarize infants and toddlers tothe entire alphabet, counting 1 to 10, shapes, colors and more.Furthermore, the table grows with the child, helping babies to achieve thedevelopmental milestone of pulling up to stand and keeping them engagedinto the toddler years. LeapFrog -- Toy 10 Best-Selling Brand LeapFrog has been recognized by retailers for its commitment todeveloping products that are not only engaging and interactive, but arealso effective learning tools tailored to a child's specific age and level. "Year after year, LeapFrog has provided us with top-selling products,including PlayDate best-sellers like the LeapPad Learning System andLeapStart Learning Table," said Jim Feldt president of Toy "R" Us marketingand merchandising. "Our customers appreciate LeapFrog's promise to deliverquality products that engage, educate and entertain children from infancythrough high school." Product Availability and Pricing LeapFrog's products are available now at major retailers nationwide,including Toys "R" Us, Target, and Wal-Mart. The products can also be foundonline at . Product Ages/Grades MSRP Availability LeapStart(TM) Learning Table 6 months & up $39.99 Now LeapPad(R) Learning System 4-8 years $49.99 Now LeapPad Phonics Program and 4-7 years $14.99/book Now other books Additional information on LeapFrog and its products can be found at. About LeapFrog LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer andmarketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and relatedproprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging.Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, morethan 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactivebooks, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music,geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educationalcurricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, andeffective. LEAPFROG and LEAPPAD are registered trademarks of LeapFrogEnterprises, Inc. LEAPSTART LEARNING TABLE is a trademark of LeapFrogEnterprises, Inc. Contacts: Leah Davis Lorie Appelbaum Manning Selvage & Lee Manning Selvage & Lee 916-983-7729 415-364-3805 leah.davis@ lorie.appelbaum@ Make Your Opinion Count - Click Here CONTACT: Leah Davis, +1-916-983-7729 or leah.davis@, orLorie Appelbaum, +1-415-364-3805 or lorie.appelbaum@, both ofManning Selvage & Lee, for LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. Web site: 2002 PR Newswire Association LLC Company Names: LeapFrog Enterprises Inc. Descriptors: Toy Industry Industry Codes/Names: BUSN Business; BUS Business, general Geographic Codes/Names: 1USA United States Product/Industry Names: 3944000 (Games, Toys & Children's Vehicles) SIC Codes: 3944 Games, toys, and children's vehicles NAICS Codes: 339932 Game, Toy, and Children's Vehicle Manufacturing File Segment: NW File 649 9/9/5 (Item 5 from file: 649) DIALOG(R)File 649: Gale Group Newswire ASAP(TM)(c) 2012 Gale/Cengage. All rights reserved.04747231 ? ? Supplier Number: 132315170 (THIS IS THE FULL TEXT ) LeapFrog Joins With AstraZeneca to Develop First Customized Health Education Book for The LeapPad Platform. PR Newswire , NA Nov 6 , 2002 Language: English Record Type: Fulltext Word Count: 790 ? ?Line Count: 00072 Text: Interactive Book Brings Asthma Education Alive for Children LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. , a leading developer of innovativetechnology-based learning products, joins with AstraZeneca , one of the topfive pharmaceutical companies in the world, to develop a 24-page LeapPad(R)book on asthma education, for children between the ages of 4 and 8. Theinteractive book will be the first in a series of health education LeapPadbooks for children from the Education and Training Group at LeapFrogEnterprises. This educational book will help young children with asthma understandand manage their illness and has the potential to reach the more than fivemillion homes and 7,500 classrooms across the country that are alreadyusing the award-winning LeapPad platform. The LeapFrog Education andTraining Group will work with Learning Tek, LLC, a children's healtheducation company, based in Elizabethtown, PA, to develop the book'scontent. "This is the first time the award-winning LeapPad technology has beenused to deliver health education messages for specific illnesses tochildren," said Bob Lally, LeapFrog co-founder and executive vice presidentof the Education and Training Group. "Understanding the critical need forchildren's health education, we are excited about combining a provenmulti-sensory approach to learning with life-saving information." As the most common childhood chronic illness, asthma affects morethan five million children in the United States and has reached epidemicproportions. Research has repeatedly demonstrated the role patienteducation plays in improving patient and family adherence to prescribedmedical treatment and improved adherence often leads to better patientoutcomes. "This simple, enjoyable and creative program for teaching childrenabout asthma is a huge 'leap above' any other asthma education program I'veever seen before. It makes learning about controlling asthma fun and a loteasier," said Diane Schuller, MD, Professor of Pediatrics and DivisionChief of Allergy, Immunology and Pulmonology at Penn State UniversityChildren's Hospital. The LeapFrog asthma education book is the first in a proposed seriesof health and safety books that the LeapFrog Education and Training Groupis currently developing. The book is expected to be available by May 2003for Asthma Awareness Day. Commenting on the LeapFrog and AstraZeneca initiative, Nancy Sander,President and Founder of Allergy and Asthma Network Mothers of Asthmaticsenthused, "AANMA is very excited about the first interactive asthmaeducation book on the LeapPad system. We look forward to the launch of theeducational and entertaining new product for children with asthma on AsthmaAwareness Day, May 6, 2003." About LeapFrog Enterprises Established in 1995, LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leadingdeveloper of innovative, technology-based educational products and relatedproprietary content dedicated to making learning effective and engaging.Based in Emeryville, Calif., the company's product line is comprised ofinteractive educational products covering important subjects such asphonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. Allproducts are based on sound pedagogy and reflect a teaching style designedto be fun, engaging, and effective. NOTE: LEAPFROG is a registered trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises,Inc. LEAPPAD is a trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. About AstraZeneca AstraZeneca is a major international healthcare business engaged inthe research, development, manufacture and marketing of ethical(prescription) pharmaceuticals and the supply of healthcare services. It isone of the top five pharmaceutical companies in the world with healthcaresales of over $16.4 billion and leading positions in sales ofgastrointestinal, oncology, anesthesia (including pain management),cardiovascular, central nervous system (CNS) and respiratory products. Inthe United States, AstraZeneca is an $8.7 billion healthcare business withmore than 10,000 employees. About Learning Tek, LLC Learning Tek, LLC is a children's health education and marketingcompany committed to developing quality pediatric patient educationproducts and resources for the medical, educational and home audiences.Based in Elizabethtown, PA, the company was formed by three mothers withthe desire to teach kids how to lead healthier lives by betterunderstanding their health conditions. The company has developed a seriesof products to teach children about health and wellness issues in a fun andengaging manner. Products include a programmable, interactive doll with achronic illness, chronic illness activity books and interactive children'slearning books. Phone 717-361-8934 or visit formore information. CONTACT: Cherie Stewart of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc., +1-510-596-3343, or cstewart@. Make Your Opinion Count - Click Here CONTACT: Cherie Stewart of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc., +1-510-596-3343, or cstewart@ Web site: Web site: 2002 PR Newswire Association LLC Company Names: LeapFrog Enterprises Inc. Descriptors: Toy Industry Industry Codes/Names: BUSN Business; BUS Business, general Geographic Codes/Names: 1USA United States Product/Industry Names: 3944000 (Games, Toys & Children's Vehicles) SIC Codes: 3944 Games, toys, and children's vehicles NAICS Codes: 339932 Game, Toy, and Children's Vehicle Manufacturing File Segment: NW File 649 9/9/196 (Item 196 from file: 649) DIALOG(R)File 649: Gale Group Newswire ASAP(TM)(c) 2012 Gale/Cengage. All rights reserved.05405897 ? ? Supplier Number: 154014923 (THIS IS THE FULL TEXT ) LeapFrog Presenting at Bear Stearns Conference. PR Newswire , NA Nov 7 , 2006 Language: English Record Type: Fulltext Word Count: 266 ? ?Line Count: 00029 Text: EMERYVILLE, Calif., Nov. 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises,Inc. , a leading developer of innovative technology-based educationalproducts, will be presenting at the Bear Stearns Smid-Cap InvestorConference in New York City on Tuesday, November 14th. The presentationwill be web cast and can be accessed at LeapFrog's investor web site at. About LeapFrog LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer andmarketer of innovative, technology-based learning products and relatedproprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engagingfor all ages, at home and in schools, around the world. Emeryville,California-based LeapFrog has developed a family of learning platforms thatcome to life with more than 100 interactive software titles, coveringimportant subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, socialstudies, spelling, vocabulary and science. In addition, the company hascreated more than 35 stand-alone educational products for ages six monthsto 16 years. LeapFrog's award-winning U.S. consumer products are available in sixlanguages at major retailers in more than 25 countries around the world.The LeapFrog SchoolHouse curriculum programs are currently in classroomsacross the U.S. with more than 200 interactive books and over 450 skillcards representing more than 6,000 pages of educational content. Contact Information: Investors: Media: Eileen VanEss Sara Lanza Hickman Investor Relations Corporate Communications (510) 420-5361 (510) 596-5406 evaness@ shickman@ CONTACT: investors, Eileen VanEss, +1-510-420-5361, orevaness@, or media, Sara Lanza Hickman, CorporateCommunications, +1-510-596-5406, or shickman@, both of LeapFrogEnterprises, Inc. Web site: 2006 PR Newswire Association LLC Company Names: LeapFrog Enterprises Inc.--Conferences, meetings and seminars; Bear Stearns Companies Inc.--Conferences, meetings and seminars Descriptors: Toy Industry--Conferences, meetings and seminars; Securities industry-- Conferences, meetings and seminars Industry Codes/Names: BUSN Business; BUS Business, general Product/Industry Names: 3944000 (Games, Toys & Children's Vehicles); 6200000 (Securities & Commodities Services) SIC Codes: 3944 Games, toys, and children's vehicles; 6211 Security brokers and dealers NAICS Codes: 339932 Game, Toy, and Children's Vehicle Manufacturing; 523 Securities, Commodity Contracts, and Other Financial Investments and Related Activities Ticker Symbols: LF; BSC File Segment: NW File 649 9/9/198 (Item 198 from file: 649) DIALOG(R)File 649: Gale Group Newswire ASAP(TM)(c) 2012 Gale/Cengage. All rights reserved.05452200 ? ? Supplier Number: 155515994 (THIS IS THE FULL TEXT ) LeapFrog Announces Key Management Hires. PR Newswire , NA Dec 5 , 2006 Language: English Record Type: Fulltext Word Count: 631 ? ?Line Count: 00059 Text: Company Signs Industry Leaders EMERYVILLE, Calif., Dec. 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog(R)Enterprises, Inc. , a leading manufacturer of technology-based learningproducts, today announced its hiring of three new senior executives, a keystep in focusing Company resources and investments on its strategicbusiness initiatives. Joining the leadership team are: Steve Anderson, vicepresident of software engineering; Jeff Grant, vice president of Webproducts; and Hilda West, senior vice president of human resources. "Our recent business review highlighted the need to quickly buildcapabilities in key business areas," said Jeffrey G. Katz, president andchief executive officer of LeapFrog. "By recruiting top-notch talent tolead our human resources and to key technology roles, we are making stridestoward completing the team that will rebuild our business in the near-termand position LeapFrog for profitable growth in the coming years." New Leadership Brings Successful Track Record to LeapFrog Steve Anderson, newly appointed vice president of softwareengineering will lead the development of LeapFrog's software architectureand development team. Anderson will assume an active role in the technologyand product development process. Prior to joining LeapFrog, Anderson spentsix years with Electronic Arts in executive operations and technology, andmost recently worked with The Mforma Group, a cell phone games provider,where he was senior vice president of global operations. In a newly created position as vice president of Web products, JeffGrant will have responsibility for the development and marketing ofLeapFrog's strategic Web initiatives. He brings a wealth of experience inthis domain from his previous positions at Orbitz, where he served inseveral key senior management positions since 2001 including VP of ProductMarketing. Hilda West has joined LeapFrog as senior vice president of humanresources. West is responsible for advancing LeapFrog's strategy byattracting top-tier talent to the Company and helping to create a moremetrics and results driven culture. A former executive at the globalsoftware provider, Autodesk, she served in several human resourcesleadership positions during her tenure there, most recently heading itsglobal talent management efforts and helping to drive company-wide humanresource strategy. About LeapFrog LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc., is a leading designer, developer, andmarketer of innovative, technology-based learning products and relatedproprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engagingfor all ages, at home and in schools, around the world. The company wasfounded in 1995 and is based in Emeryville, California. LeapFrog hasdeveloped a family of learning platforms that come to life with more than100 interactive software titles, covering important subjects such asphonics, reading, writing, math, music, geography, social studies,spelling, vocabulary, and science. In addition, the company has createdmore than 35 stand-alone educational products for children from birth to 16years. LeapFrog's award-winning U.S. consumer products are available in sixlanguages at major retailers in more than 35 countries around the world. LeapFrog SchoolHouse's multisensory products currently reach studentsin more than 100,000 classrooms across the U.S. with more than 200interactive books and 500 skill cards, representing more than 6,500 pagesof educational content. LeapFrog SchoolHouse is a business division withinthe Education & Training Group of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. NOTE: LEAPFROG, the LeapFrog Logo and FLY are trademarks orregistered trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. Contact: Sara Lanza Hickman Shannon Eis LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. Kaplow Communications 510-596-5406 212-221-1713 shickman@ seis@ CONTACT: Sara Lanza Hickman of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.,+1-510-596-5406, or shickman@; or Shannon Eis of KaplowCommunications, +1-212-221-1713, or seis@, for LeapFrogEnterprises, Inc. Web site: 2006 PR Newswire Association LLC Company Names: LeapFrog Enterprises Inc. Descriptors: Toy Industry Industry Codes/Names: BUSN Business; BUS Business, general Product/Industry Names: 3944000 (Games, Toys & Children's Vehicles) SIC Codes: 3944 Games, toys, and children's vehicles NAICS Codes: 339932 Game, Toy, and Children's Vehicle Manufacturing Ticker Symbols: LF File Segment: NW File 649 9/9/200 (Item 200 from file: 649) DIALOG(R)File 649: Gale Group Newswire ASAP(TM)(c) 2012 Gale/Cengage. All rights reserved.05462430 ? ? Supplier Number: 155884278 (THIS IS THE FULL TEXT ) LeapFrog Announces New Direction and New Leadership for Schoolhouse Division. PR Newswire , NA Dec 14 , 2006 Language: English Record Type: Fulltext Word Count: 913 ? ?Line Count: 00103 Text: School Business Will Focus on Technology-Based Early Literacy and Reading EMERYVILLE, Calif., Dec. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrogEnterprises, Inc. , today announced changes in its SchoolHouse(TM) divisionto return it to profitability and to more closely align it with theCompany's consumer strategy. "Going forward, the SchoolHouse division will focus on what we dowell and what we are known for -- innovative technology-based approaches toearly literacy and reading," explained Jeffrey G. Katz, president and chiefexecutive officer of LeapFrog. "As a result, we are reducing the size ofour SchoolHouse organization and focusing our sales and product developmentresources on reading curriculum for core grade levels. With these changeswe expect the division to be profitable in 2007." Highlights of the plan that began its implementation today are: -- LeapFrog's successor products to the LeapPad(R) Learning System, whichare in development for introduction in 2008, will also be sold in theschool market. The LeapPad platform will continue to be sold andsupported as required by current school customers. -- The SchoolHouse division will continue to create and market curriculum-based content developed specifically for schools. Thedivision will continue to market and support core products including: LeapTrack(R) system, The Literacy Center, Language First!(TM), the Interactive Library, key pre-kindergarten programs, and other new products offerings that strengthen the reading product line. -- The LeapTrack(R) system, LeapFrog's assessment tool for standards-basedassessment and instruction, will be adapted as an online tool for 2008launch. LeapFrog's research and development teams will continue tosupport the product's capabilities to ensure that schools using themwill see improved student achievement, as required by their annualyearly progress goals under the No Child Left Behind Act. -- LeapFrog's curriculum, editorial, and state standards alignment processes, which are core to both its consumer and SchoolHouse products, will be integrated into the Company's overall product development organization. -- Though smaller in size, the SchoolHouse division will continue to have a significant direct sales force to support its key accounts across thecountry. Additionally, the Company will strengthen its catalog and Websales efforts to more effectively cover smaller accounts where a directsales force proved too costly. With these changes, Jessie Woolley-Wilson has decided to leaveLeapFrog to pursue other interests. Mike Lorion will replace her as head ofthe LeapFrog SchoolHouse division, effective immediately. Mike brings withhim nearly 30 years of sales and marketing experience in the education andtechnology industries with companies such as Palm Computing and AppleComputer. As a result of these actions, the Company will cut the division'soperating expenses in half, mostly through a headcount reduction ofapproximately 60 people. To effect this change, the Company expects toincur a charge in the fourth quarter of 2006 of about $3 million, or $0.05per share. "SchoolHouse remains an integral part of our business and adifferentiating capability that also supports our consumer business, and assuch, is an important investment priority for LeapFrog," confirmed Mr.Katz. "However, the division's profitability was not satisfactory andtherefore was something we had to address. The actions that we have takenwill provide a solid foundation for profitability and growth." About LeapFrog LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer andmarketer of innovative, technology-based learning products and relatedproprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engagingfor all ages, at home and in schools, around the world. The Company wasfounded in 1995 and is based in Emeryville, California. LeapFrog hasdeveloped a family of learning platforms that come to life with more than100 interactive software titles, covering important subjects such asphonics, reading, writing, math, music, geography, social studies,spelling, vocabulary, and science. In addition, the Company has createdmore than 35 stand-alone educational products for children from birth to 16years. LeapFrog's award-winning US Consumer products are available in sixlanguages at major retailers in more than 25 countries around the world.The LeapFrog SchoolHouse curriculum programs are currently in more than100,000 classrooms across the US with over 200 interactive books and over450 skill cards representing more than 6,000 pages of educational content.LeapFrog SchoolHouse products have won numerous awards from the educationindustry, including the Golden Lamp Award and Distinguished AchievementAward from the Association of Educational Publishers, the Award ofExcellence from Technology & Learning magazine, and the Teacher'sChoice Award from Learning magazine. NOTE: LEAPFROG, the LeapFrog Logo, LEAPPAD, LEAPFROG SCHOOLHOUSE,LEAPTRACK and LANGUAGE FIRST are trademarks or registered trademarks ofLeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. Forward-Looking Statements Cautionary Statement under the Private Securities Litigation ReformAct Of 1995: Except for the historical information contained herein, this newsrelease contains forward-looking statements, including statements regardingthe Company's expected 2006 financial results; anticipated financialperformance improvements such as expense reductions, expenses incurred andfuture profitability; anticipated product launches and the availability offuture product features; the effectiveness of the Company's products,services and features; and expected future business capabilities. Theseforward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including theCompany's ability to develop and launch new products, services and featureson time and at anticipated margin and profit levels; the Company's abilityto develop and market products, services and sales channels that areaccepted by teachers and schools at sales and profit levels to justify thedevelopment investment; the Company's ability to retain effectively keypersonnel in the SchoolHouse division with capabilities integral to thedivision's strategy; and the ability of the SchoolHouse division to competeeffectively with its competitors, many of whom have longer operatinghistories, greater brand recognition and more resources than the division.These and other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in theCompany's SEC filings, including its 2005 annual report on Form 10-K filedon March 7, 2006, could cause the Company's actual results to differmaterially from those discussed in this release. All forward-lookingstatements are based on information available to the Company on the datehereof, and the Company assumes no obligation to update such statements. Contact: Sara Lanza Hickman Eileen VanEss LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. 510-596-5406 510-420-5361 shickman@ evaness@ CONTACT: Sara Lanza Hickman, +1-510-596-5406, orshickman@; or Eileen VanEss, +1-510-420-5361, orevaness@, both of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. Web site: 2006 PR Newswire Association LLC Company Names: LeapFrog Enterprises Inc. Descriptors: Toy Industry Industry Codes/Names: BUSN Business; BUS Business, general Product/Industry Names: 3944000 (Games, Toys & Children's Vehicles) SIC Codes: 3944 Games, toys, and children's vehicles NAICS Codes: 339932 Game, Toy, and Children's Vehicle Manufacturing Ticker Symbols: LF File Segment: NW File 649 Material Used:Bluesheet for file 411Dialog Pocket GuideExercise #2 Directions ................
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