FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Folkmanis Line-up Reflects 25 Years of Innovation, Realism

Puppet maker celebrates milestone with award-worthy introductions

(EMERYVILLE, CA—November 20, 2000) Marking its 25^th anniversary in 2001, Folkmanis, Inc.—which began on a kitchen table and went on to become the nation’s foremost puppet maker—will introduce what co-founder Judy Folkmanis calls “some of our finest puppets ever.”

The new line—which features extraordinary larger-sized puppets along with a whimsical collection of unusual and popular animals—debuts at spring 2001 gift shows and the American International Toy Fair in New York in February.

“Reaching this anniversary is an incredible milestone for us,” says Judy Folkmanis, who began the business making puppets for her children before “expanding” to street sales in Berkeley. “We are always proud of our designers. But they have outdone themselves this year—making it obvious why Folkmanis is the leader in the specialty puppet category.”

Folkmanis has been recognized by nearly every major award and parenting publication for its true-to-life, high-quality designs. Folkmanis has won awards from such groups as: Parents’ Choice, National Parenting Center, Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, Dr. Toy, National Parenting Publications, Parents, Child, Family Fun, Sesame Street Parents, Early Childhood News, Museum Store Association, and many more. “We expect that many of this year’s designs will win awards, as their predecessors have done,” says Ms. Folkmanis.

Leading off this year’s marvelous introductions are:

· Panda

· Red Dragon

· Cougar

· Large Rabbit

· Jack Russell Terrier

True to the Folkmanis tradition of bringing endangered species onto store shelves as timeless puppets, Folkmanis introduces a remarkable 23-inch PANDA puppet. As if brought over straight from the bamboo forests of China, this soft puppet is designed in realistic black-and-cream fur with the sleepy eyes that make the Panda so recognizable around the world.

Available: Spring 2001

Suggested retail price: $56

Age appropriate: 3 and up

Every day of the year will feel like Chinese New Year when children and adults pick up the Folkmanis RED DRAGON. This remarkable puppet is nearly 4-feet long and made of vibrant red-and-gold satin-like fabric. Complete with dragon horns; safe, plastic teeth; long tongue; and moveable, bulging eyes, the fantasy play value of this astounding puppet is endless.

Available: Spring 2001

Suggested retail price: $60

Age appropriate: 3 and up

The famous big cat of the American West—the COUGAR—has become the latest feline star of the Folkmanis puppet line-up for spring 2001. Green-flecked eyes and a long tail accentuate his golden sand-colored fur. You can find this 25-inch cat roaming the shelves of specialty toy stores nationwide.

Available: Spring 2001

Suggested retail price: $56

Age appropriate: 3 and up

Sure to hop off store shelves as fast as they are displayed; the Folkmanis LARGE LOP-EARED RABBIT brings one of the world’s favorite animals to life in spectacular fashion. Designed in larger-than-life size, the Large Rabbit features fluffy, velvety off-white fur, weighted hind feet, moveable mouth, and measures more than 21-inches long. So cuddly and soft, kids will want to hold onto this puppet even at bedtime.

Available: Spring 2001

Suggested retail price: $40

Age appropriate: 3 and up

The design of the distinctive JACK RUSSELL TERRIER is executed superbly by Folkmanis in a 15-inch puppet. This life-sized, Jack Russell puppet will pleasantly surprise even the biggest terrier fan with his unique coat and facial features. Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1997, the Jack Russell is destined to capture Best of Show in 2001!

Available: Spring 2001

Suggested retail price: $26

Age appropriate: 3 and up

Folkmanis^® Puppets are recommended for ages 3 and up. They are available at specialty toy and gift stores, including: FAO Schwarz, Discovery Channel Store, Natural Wonders, science/nature museums, zoo and aquarium gift shops, and thousands of independent toy and gift stores and specialty retailers nationwide and in over 15 countries around the world. You can also find Folkmanis^® Puppets online at Amazon.com and eToys.com. For more information call Folkmanis at 800.654-8922 or go to www.folkmanis.com.

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