Press Releases

The American Business Awards are the nation’s premier business awards program. All organizations operating in the U.S.A. are eligible to submit nominations – public and private, for–profit and non–profit, large and small.

More than 3,000 nominations from organizations of all sizes and in virtually every industry were submitted this year for consideration in a wide range of categories, including Most Innovative Company of the Year, Management Team of the Year, Best New Product or Service of the Year, and Corporate Social Responsibility Program of the Year, among others. K’NEX was proud to be nominated in the Consumer Marketing Campaign of the Year category and to receive the Gold Stevie Award for their impressive and extensive K’NEX Mario Kart Wii Building Set product launch campaign.

Nicknamed the Stevies for the Greek word for “crowned,” the trophies were presented to honorees during a gala banquet on Monday, June 18 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York. More than 500 nominees and their guests attended. The presentations were broadcast live by the Business TalkRadio Network.

“We are thrilled to be recognized by the American Business Awards by being awarded Gold Stevie,” said Michael Araten, president and CEO K’NEX Brands. “It is an honor to be recognized by our peers and the award is truly a testament to the hard work of our outstanding K’NEX team.”

Stevie Award winners were selected by more than 270 executives nationwide who participated in the judging process this year.

Details about The American Business Awards and the list of Finalists and Winners in all categories are available here.

About the Stevie Awards

Stevie Awards are conferred in four programs: The American Business Awards, The International Business Awards, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, and the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about The Stevie Awards at www.stevieawards.com.

The relationship combines the popularity of figure packs, the award–winning K’NEX building system and the well known images of the legendary rock band, KISS, bringing them from the stage to the construction aisle for the first time. KISS is one of America’s top gold–record champions who recorded 37 albums over 36 years and sold more than 100 million albums worldwide! The KISS legacy continues to grow, generation after generation. By combining the legendary KISS with the popularity of figure packs and the award-winning K’NEX building system, the KISS buildable figure packs are sure to appeal to music and building fans of all ages.

“We are stoked to be able to bring The Demon, Starchild, Spaceman and The Cat to life in a new way,” said Michael Araten, president of K’NEX Brands. “With buildable figure sets from K’NEX, fans of all ages can get in on the action and rock the ultimate in KISS memorabilia!”

Each buildable figure features iconic black & white make–up, trademark hairstyle, and platform boots of one of the band members! Sets include all four band members and their instruments, like guitars and drums, to recreate the full band experience. The package even doubles as a stage!

“This is a great new edition to the KISS Army of licensed products.” added Janet Dwoskin, executive director of licensing with Live Nation Merchandise. “Now KISS fans of all ages can build KISS toys while creating enjoyable memories using the interactive products from KNEX.”

Designed for children ages 5+, the KISS figure packs bring the fun of the stage show to the child and cement their appeal through a rewarding, age–appropriate K’NEX building experience. KISS buildable figure packs will be available exclusively at Target, target.com and knex.com in Fall 2012.

About KISS

KISS, the legendary American rock band was founded in 1972. Four decades later KISS remains one of the most influential bands in the history of Rock and Roll. Their achievements include the release of approximately 44 albums, sales of over 100 million albums, sold out concerts tours around the world and the incredible support of over 6 million Face Book fans worldwide. KISS has performed at the Super Bowl, 2002 Winter Olympics, 2009 Finale of American Idol, 2005 Rockin’ The Corps Concert. In 2009, KISS was nominated for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. KISS is currently in the recording studio recording their 2012 Album “Monster”. For all things KISS, visit www.KISSONLINE.com .

Hurricane Alley will celebrate their grand opening on May 12th and is Corpus Christi, Texas’ newest water park. The water park boasts an extreme thrill tower six stories high with twin slides–the only ride of its kind in Texas! On May 18th, during Hurricane Alley’s Education Extravaganza, students will have an opportunity to build & play at the K’NEX booth. While there, they will be able to complete the contest entry form for their age group and provide answers to the questions. Age categories and their prizes are: Elementary (grades K–2), K’NEX Classics Gas Station set, a $10 retail value; Intermediate (grades 3–5), K’NEX Collect & Build Micro Amusement Park Octopus Ride, a $10 retail value; Middle School (grades 6–8), K’NEX Super Cyclone Coaster, a $30 retail value; and High School (grades 9–12) K’NEX Light&ndashUp Ferris Wheel, a $50 retail value. Please see official rules for details here.

A pop culture force, The Beatles redefined music for their own generation and generations to come; they also redefined art, fashion and entertainment. The Beatles were responsible for several films that were well ahead of their time, including their only animated and possibly most recognizable film, the animated classic – Yellow Submarine. By combining the well–known images of the beloved Beatles, the popularity of figure packs, and the award–winning K’NEX building system, K’NEX has captured the essence of Yellow Submarine in all of its musical and whimsical charm in a new collectible line that launches with a four–piece buildable figure set.

“The Beatles Yellow Submarine buildable figures from K’NEX will bring John, Paul, George & Ringo to life in a new and exciting way that kids love,” said Michael Araten, president of K’NEX Brands. “Fans of all ages will have the opportunity to build and collect The Beatles Yellow Submarine!”

Buildable figure packs will feature authentic adornments from the unforgettable Yellow Submarine movie. The figures are faithful to the lads’ song-driven adventure. Each is wearing his own respective groovy outfit, a black mop–top unique to the 1968–era of Beatles history, and features the face that captures the look and persona specific to each Beatle. Sets also include instruments, such as guitars and drums, to recreate the full band experience and packaging that doubles as a stage!

Designed for children ages 5+, the figure packs bring the fun of the Yellow Submarine movie to the child and expand their appeal through a rewarding, age–appropriate K’NEX building experience. The Beatles Yellow Submarine buildable figure packs will be available exclusively at Target, target.com and knex.com in Fall 2012.

The sweepstakes, which started Tuesday, January 3rd, 2012 at 8:00 am EST and continues through December 17th, 2012 at 3:59pm EST, has already received nearly 100,000 entries! K’NEX fans can log on and sign up for their chance to win the K’NEX–Beaches Resorts Vacation Sweepstakes. The sweepstakes is open to individuals 18 years and older in the US and Canada, and they can enter once per day either through the K’NEX Facebook page or directly through KNEX.com See official rules for details www.knex.com/20thanniversary/Beaches.

“We are so excited to be working with Beaches Resorts on this fantastic promotion,” said K’NEX President and CEO Michael Araten. “What better way to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of our award winning building sets in 2012 than by offering a chance to win a Caribbean vacation at one of Beaches Resorts award–winning destinations.”

The winners’ stay will include luxurious accommodations, unlimited gourmet and casual dining, a variety of land and water sports including scuba diving & snorkeling, gratuities and airport transfers. Kids of any age will enjoy outrageous Pirate Island waterparks featuring wild waterslides, swim–up soda bars and kiddie pools, supervised Kids Camps with certified nannies, the year–round activities of the Beaches Resorts Caribbean Adventure with Sesame Street, including stage shows with your favorite furry friends & character parades. Plus XBox 360® Game Garage centers with the hottest games and now featuring Kinect for XBox 360® and so much more!

For more information, complete rules and to enter the sweepstakes visit www.knex.com/20thanniversary/Beaches . No purchase necessary.

About Beaches® Resorts

With four spectacular locations in Turks & Caicos and Jamaica, Beaches Resorts is the ultimate getaway for every member of the family. With outrageous waterparks, XBOX® 360 Game Garages, the Scratch DJ Academy, exclusive Kids Camps, teen nightclubs, Certified Nannies, Butler service, and Red Lane® Spas, Beaches Resorts provides an unrivaled experience in the Caribbean. As a proud sponsor of Sesame Street, Beaches Resorts also offers the Caribbean Adventure with Sesame Street®, where kids can spend their vacation with their favorite friends from the Sesame Street gang with daily activities and weekly stage shows. Beaches Resorts are also the perfect destination wedding and vow renewal venue, offering unrivaled choices for your most special day and the opportunity for the whole family to celebrate together with FamilyMoons®. For more information, please visit www.beaches.com.

Dinosaurs Alive! On Adventure Island at Cedar Point Amusement Park is a prehistoric-themed attraction featuring nearly 50 life-size animatronic dinosaurs! The interactive exhibit offers the sights and sounds of prehistoric dinosaurs and can be enjoyed by adults and kids alike. Every day, guests will be able to participate in an interactive dino dig where they will have a chance to win a K’NEX set simply by uncovering the one white classic K’NEX connector that has been hidden at the dig site! The contest is open to all who attend the Dinosaurs Alive! exhibit. Please see official rules for details here.

“One of our first and most popular motorized builds was the K’NEXosaurus. We learned that kids, dinosaurs and K’NEX are a natural combination! We are excited to be partnering with Cedar Point for this fun and educational contest and proud to be part of the Dinosaurs Alive! exhibit,” said K’NEX President and CEO Michael Araten. Dinosaurs Alive! is open to the public during Cedar Point Amusement Parks regular operating hours from May 12, 2012 until the park closes for the season. For more information on Dinosaurs Alive! exhibit or Cedar Point Amusement Park click here. To view official rules for the “Cedar Point Dinosaurs Alive” contest click here. No purchase necessary.

Cedar Point will open for its 143rd summer on Saturday, May 12 and will be open daily through Labor Day, Sept. 3, plus Friday nights, Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 7 through Oct. 28. For a complete operating calendar and more information about the 2012 operating season, guests can log on to www.cedarpoint.com or call the park’s general information line at (419) 627-2350.

• Regional media contact: Annie Zelm, marketing programs representative
  Phone: 419-609-2067	Email: azelm@cedarpoint.com

• National media contact: Bryan Edwards, marketing programs manager
  Phone: 419-609-2220	Email:bedwards@cedarpoint.com

Hurricane Alley will celebrate their grand opening on May 12th and is Corpus Christi, Texas’ newest water park. The water park boasts an extreme thrill tower six stories high with twin slides–the only ride of its kind in Texas! On May 18th, during Hurricane Alley’s Education Extravaganza, students will have an opportunity to build & play at the K’NEX booth. While there, they will be able to complete the contest entry form for their age group and provide answers to the questions. Age categories and their prizes are: Elementary (grades K-2), K’NEX Classics Gas Station set, a $10 retail value; Intermediate (grades 3-5), K’NEX Collect & Build Micro Amusement Park Octopus Ride, a $10 retail value; Middle School (grades 6-8), K’NEX Super Cyclone Coaster, a $30 retail value; and High School (grades 9-12) K’NEX Light-Up Ferris Wheel, a $50 retail value. Please see official rules for details.

Entrants can enter once per day either through the K’NEX Facebook page (which links to the K’NEX 20th Anniversary Celebration page of the Knex.com website), or directly through KNEX.com. Contestants must be 18 years or older to enter. Please see official rules for details.

“We are happy to give back to our K’NEX fans who have shown such great support for us over the past twenty years,” said K’NEX President and CEO Michael Araten.

For more information, to view official rules and to enter the sweepstakes visit http://www.knex.com/20thanniversary/20BigPrizes/Cedar-Point.php. No purchase necessary.

Every month on the 20th day, through December 2012, K’NEX will be giving away 20 products to 20 lucky fans! On the 1st weekday of every month a prize will be revealed and a new “mission” is assigned. Missions can be found on the K’NEX website: www.knex.com/20thanniversary/Mission20on20/ which directs participants how to find secret codes. Once a code is found, participants must return to the K’NEX site and enter the code. If correct, they are eligible to be entered for a chance to win a prize. On the 20th of each month, when the contest closes, 20 winners will be randomly chosen from those eligible entries.

April’s clue seekers will be vying for the 20 prizes, a K’NEX Pirate Adventure 20 Model Building Set, an approximate retail value of $25.99! Twenty of March’s lucky clue seekers each won a Monster Jam Grave Digger 30th Anniversary Intro set.

“We love interacting with our fans,” said K’NEX President and CEO Michael Araten. “As K’NEX celebrates 20 years of being an American owned and operated company with the majority of our products manufactured in the United States, our focus continues to be on our fans, and the many fun ways we can give back to them for all the support they have given us.”

This contest is open to K’NEX fans ages 6 and up and participants can enter once per day. For more information and to enter visit www.knex.com/20thanniversary/Mission20on20/. For official rules visit www.knex.com/20thanniversary/Mission20on20/mission_rules.php. No purchase necessary.

From Friday, March 16, through Friday, April 13, 2012, teachers can register online to win the Energy, Motion & Aeronautics set. Upon the conclusion of the sweepstakes 5 lucky teachers will be randomly chosen, on or around April 20th, to receive a free Energy, Motion & Aeronautics K’NEX education set. With the Energy, Motion & Aeronautics set three groups of students can simultaneously explore Newton’s Laws, mechanical systems, projectile motion, airplane flight surfaces, aeronautic and aerospace training devices, parachute technology, optical illusions, and much more.

The first 500 teachers to register will receive a free United States Space & Rocket Center informational Poster. The poster features a 10 ¼ foot tall big build of the Intrepid Space Shuttle Stack made from over 40,000 K’NEX pieces in addition to information about USS&RC and Space Camp. The United States Space & Rocket Center, recognized as one of the most comprehensive U.S. manned space flight hardware museums in the world, also boasts an education center that offers Space Camp programs for children and adults.

For more information, complete rules and to enter the sweepstakes visit http://www.knex.com/Educators/USS-and-RC.php. No purchase necessary.

“I’ve been lucky enough to attend several Monster Jam live events with my family over the past two years and gained an appreciation for the exciting family friendly entertainment that Monster Jam offers,” said Michael Araten, president of K’NEX Brands. “We look forward to sharing that unique experience with our fans and their families in Las Vegas!”

The first K’NEX Monster Jam building sets debuted in stores and online in July 2010 and the success of the line has expanded to include more Monster Jam branded monster trucks in 2012 and even inspired the Grave Digger® 30th Anniversary K’NEX Big Build, a life–size replica of the famous monster truck built from over 250,000 K’NEX pieces. The Big Build will be on hand for fans to visit at the event as part of the Grave Digger® 30th Anniversary Experience. Monster Jam, owned by Feld Motor Sports, is the largest and most popular touring monster truck property in the world, entertaining over 4 million fans yearly across the globe.

Tickets are still available for Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam World Finals presented by NGK Spark Plugs at Sam Boyd Stadium. Log on to http://www.monsterjam.com/Events/2012/03/23/Las_Vegas,_NV/ for event and ticket information.

About Feld Motor Sports®
Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is the world leader in specialized arena and stadium-based motor sports entertainment.  Feld Motor Sports, Inc. productions include Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam®, Monster Energy Supercross, AMA Arenacross Series, Freestyle Motocross, Nuclear Cowboyz® and IHRA® Nitro Jam®.  Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is a division of Feld Entertainment, the world’s largest producer of live family entertainment.  For more information on Feld Entertainment, visit www.feldentertainment.com.

“K’NEX building sets have long been a favorite of parents, and kids and consumers living outside the US and Canada contact us asking how to purchase our building sets,” said Michael Araten, President of K’NEX Brands. “We’re excited to be partnering with Bongo International’s Checkout Solution to be able to respond to these brand fans.”

Consumers from over 200 different countries, from France to Belarus to Tahiti will be able to purchase K’NEX manufactured building sets by going to knex.com and selecting their country from a list. They will then be able to view the building sets that are available to them: because of licensing and distribution agreements, not all sets are available in all countries. Export compliance is one part of the service being provided through Bongo. Consumers simply place their orders as they would on any local website. They receive their purchases in 3–5 days.

At the most basic level, selling internationally involves offering international shipping and accepting various methods of payment. Bongo enables this and much more. The Checkout solution provides a seamless customer experience while removing a tremendous burden from Retailers. The process includes everything from HS classification for accurate duty & tax calculation to complete fraud protection. This allows K’NEX to focus on maintaining their products’ high quality and continued success– wherever they go.

Entrants can enter once per day either through the K’NEX Facebook page (which links to the K’NEX 20th Anniversary Celebration page of the Knex.com website), or directly through KNEX.com. Contestants must be 18 years or older to enter. Please see official rules for details.

“We are very happy to give back to our loyal K’NEX fans who have shown such great support for us over the past twenty years,” said K’NEX President and CEO Michael Araten.

For more information, to view official rules and to enter the sweepstakes visit http://www.knex.com/20thanniversary/20BigPrizes/20lb-knex.php. No purchase necessary.

Fans wishing to become part of the Class of ’92 are invited to share K’NEX related stories & photos on the Class of ’92 page, found on KNEX.com. K’NEX is seeking memories from adult builders’ own childhoods and anecdotes on how they have shared their love of building with their children. Class of ’92 also invites K’NEX fans to share their memories on the K’NEX facebook page and interact with other adult fans.

“We are excited to be celebrating the 20th Anniversary of our award winning building sets,” said K’NEX President and CEO Michael Araten. “We are thrilled to invite both parents of K’NEX fans and life–long K’NEX fans to share photos and stories of their building experiences with fellow K’NEX fans.”

The Class of ’92 photo gallery can be viewed on KNEX.com throughout 2012 and fans are invited to share as many memories as they like! For more information on the Class of ’92 promotion, to share a story or view submitted entries please log on to: http://www.knex.com/20thanniversary/Classof92/

Rippin’ Rocket 2 Coaster™
The Rippin' Rocket Returns! Build an amazing coaster that soars 4 feet high! Loaded with over 500 K'NEX pieces including classic rods and connectors, this model boasts over 20 feet of twists, turns, and daring loops. A special motorized blaster launches the coaster car into its exciting journey around the track. For more fun kids can go to knex.com to download instructions for a 2nd cool coaster. Suggested retail price $59.99. Available fall 2012.

Atomic Coaster™
Clocking in at over 4 feet tall and with more than 37 feet of track, the Atomic Coaster is “explosive” building fun for every K’NEX fan! With exciting twists & turns, bright colors, and motorized action this dueling coaster set will leave kids wondering who will make it to the bottom first! Includes over 850 K’NEX pieces, a motorized, vertical chain lift to launch the 2 dueling coasters, and 2 tracks guaranteed to induce a jaw-dropping building and racing experience. Step-by-step, color-coded building instructions also included. Suggested retail price $69.99. Available fall 2012.

Son of Serpent Coaster™
Fans of the classic K’NEX Screamin’ Serpent Coaster will not be able to contain their excitement when they catch a glimpse of our new Son of Serpent Coaster! In celebration of the K’NEX 20th Anniversary this coaster set includes over 5000 fan-requested, American Made, classic K’NEX pieces, builds over 5 feet tall and 7 feet wide and is modeled after authentic steel coasters! This vintage style coaster includes 53 feet of original K’NEX track, 2 motorized chain lifts, 5 rail-huggin’ cars, 14 K’NEXmen figures, and color-coded building instructions. Also includes speakers for your MP3 player! (MP3 player not included) Ages 16+.  Suggested retail price $999.99. Available fall 2012.

The new K’NEX Thrill Ride building sets will be available on knex.com and at toy retailers nationwide.

NASCAR Micro-Scale Car Assortment #3
Kids ages 5+ will enjoy the latest edition of these easy to build micro-scale versions of their favorite NASCAR driver’s car, complete with updated paint schemes. Cars are packaged two to a set for  head-to-head racing fun! Sets include: Dale Jr.’s 88 National Guard™ vs. Jeff Gordon’s 24 Drive to End Hunger™, Joey Logano’s 20 The Home Depot® vs. Kyle Bush’s 18 M&M’S®, and a new addition to the line up - Jimmie Johnson’s 48 Lowe’s® vs. Dale Jr.’s 88 Amp Energy®. Sets also include 28 pieces and step-by-step building instructions. Suggested retail price: $6.99. Available spring 2012.

Motorized NASCAR Car Assortment
Young NASCAR fans better buckle their seatbelts because K’NEX NASCAR Car Building Sets now include motors for real racing action! Each set allows kids to build, and race, one of their favorite teams and drivers--choose from No. 88, No.24, No.18 & No.48. In addition to the battery-operated high-speed motor the set also includes a K’NEXman in the driver’s likeness, authentic logos and step-by-step building instructions. Batteries not included. Suggested retail price: $16.99. Available fall 2012.

All NASCAR sets are appropriate for children ages 5 and up. Each package includes the official NASCAR hologram and step-by-step building instructions.

About NASCAR

The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, Inc. (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for one of North America's premier sports.  NASCAR is the No. 1 spectator sport – with more of the top 20 highest attended sporting events in the U.S. than any other sport, and is the No. 2 rated regular-season sport on television. NASCAR races are broadcast in more than 150 countries and in 20 languages. NASCAR fans are the most brand loyal in all of sports, and as a result more Fortune 500 companies participate in NASCAR than any other sport.

NASCAR consists of three national series (the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series™, NASCAR Nationwide Series™, and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series™), four regional series, and one local grassroots series, as well as two international series.  Also part of NASCAR is Grand-Am Road Racing, known for its competition on road courses with multiple classes of cars. NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races at 100 tracks in more than 30 U.S. states, Canada and Mexico. Based in Daytona Beach (Fla.), NASCAR has offices in New York, Los Angeles, Charlotte (N.C.), Concord (N.C.), Conover (N.C.), Bentonville (Ark.), Mexico City, and Toronto.

Intro Truck Assortment #3
Kids can build six of the world’s most popular Monster Jam monster trucks: 30th Anniversary Grave Digger®, Grave Digger The LegendTM, Avenger, GrinderTM, Maximum Destruction®, and Son-uva Digger™! Each set comes with over 30 parts, including a buildable body shell, a working suspension, big, chunky tires and a K'NEXman driver!  Logos and graphics add to the authenticity. Builders can even use the wedge-shaped box as a ramp! Once built, the monster trucks represent 1:43 scale and perform like the real thing.  Suggested retail price: $8.99. Available now.

Micro-scale 2 Pack Assortment #2
Children will enjoy these easy to build micro-scale versions of their favorite Monster Jam monster truck! The monster trucks are packaged two to a set, include step-by-step building instructions and can be built at the same time for instant Monster Jam crashing fun. Sets include Grave Digger The LegendTM vs. Mohawk WarriorTM, Air Force AfterburnerTM vs. Grinder®, and Grave Digger® vs. Avenger. Suggested Retail Price: $7.99 Available now.

Grave Digger® Action Pack™
Young builders can bring the extreme action of Monster Jam into their home with the Grave Digger® Action Pack Building Set.  Set includes a silver Special Edition Grave Digger monster truck and a bonus traditional black Grave Digger monster truck body. The Action Pack includes a monster truck chassis with real working suspension, 12 tires to crash into, 2 ramps to jump over, and 4 cars to crush, to create your own freestyle events! Also comes with step by step instructions, and a wedge shaped box that can be used as an additional ramp. Suggested retail price: $11.99. Available now.

Micro Mania Collection™
With the Micro Mania Collection you can build five different Monster Jam micro monster trucks at one time-- Grave Digger®, Maximum Destruction®, Monster Mutt®, Bounty Hunter, and 2011 Monster Jam World FinalsSM edition Avenger! Monster trucks feature authentic logos and graphics—just like the full size versions! Set includes 110 pieces, big, chunky tires, working suspension, step-by-step building instructions and the wedge-shaped package doubles as a ramp! Suggested retail price: $16.99. Available Fall 2012.

Monster Jam building sets are appropriate for children ages 5 and up and available for purchase at Target.com, Walmart, Toys ‘R’ Us, and online retailers including knex.com and monsterjamstore.com.

About Feld Motor Sports®
Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is the world leader in specialized arena and stadium-based motor sports entertainment.  Feld Motor Sports, Inc. productions include Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam®, Monster Energy Supercross, AMA Arenacross Series, Freestyle Motocross, Nuclear Cowboyz® and IHRA® Nitro Jam®.  Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is a division of Feld Entertainment, the world’s largest producer of live family entertainment.  For more information on Feld Entertainment, visit www.feldentertainment.com.

K’NEX Classics Strike Force Bomber Building Set™
Kids will have a blast building – and then playing with - a bomber with bomb bay doors that open! The Strike Force Bomber Set Building Set includes 137 pieces, including 129 classic K’NEX pieces made in the USA.  Set includes ideas for two alternate builds and is perfect for builders ages 7+. Suggested retail price is $12.99. Available spring 2012.

K’NEX Classics Rally Sport Racer Building Set™
Ready? Set? Build! Youngsters will enjoy building--and then racing - the new rally sport racer! The set is Made in the USA and includes 113 classic K’NEX pieces plus ideas for 2 alternate builds.  Perfect for builders ages 7+. Suggested retail price is $12.99. Available spring 2012.

K’NEX Classics Transport Chopper Building Set ™
Have fun building, and then “flying”, the new Transport Chopper! Set includes a motor for spinning propellers and 342 pieces, including 341 classic K’NEX pieces made in the USA. Ideas for 2 alternate builds also included. Combine with the K’NEX Classics 4 Wheel Drive Truck™ to build a race car with working pistons and tail lights!  Ideal for builders ages 7+. Suggested retail price is $24.99. Available fall 2012.

K’NEX Classics 4 Wheel Drive Truck Building Set ™
Build and then drive the 4 wheel truck that features motion-activated lights and all wheel steering! Set includes 313 parts including 312 classic K’NEX pieces made in the USA.   Ideas for two alternate builds also included.  Combine with the K’NEX Classics Transport Chopper™ to build a race car with working pistons and tail lights! Ideal for builders ages 7+. Suggested retail price is $24.99. Available fall 2012.

K’NEX Classics 50 Model Building Set™
Classic K’NEX pieces mean big building fun! Kids can let their imaginations run with this set loaded with 700 pieces. The K’NEX Classics 50 Model Building Set is Made in the USA and includes ideas to build 50 models from a Hot Air Balloon, to a Sand Castle to a Lighthouse and more!  Or kids can create their own one of a kind models!  Perfect for ages 7+. Suggested retail price is $34.99. Available fall 2012.

Specially designed for children ages three years and older, the new sets are filled with colorful, chunky, Made in the USA KID K'NEX® rods, connectors, and blocks. Each set comes with creative building ideas to spark little builders’ imaginations.

Undersea Friends Building Set™
The KID K’NEX® Undersea Friends Building Set will make a splash with young children!  The set is loaded with 48 pieces including rods, blocks, connectors, and personality parts, plus two buildable scuba diver KID K’NEX® figures to encourage more after-building play! Includes building idea sheet with ideas for 10 models.  Suggested retail price is $19.99. Available now.

Farmyard Friends Building Set™
The KID K’NEX® Farmyard Friends Building Set will provide young children with barnyards of farm fun! The set is loaded with 47 pieces including rods, blocks, connectors and personality parts plus three buildable figures including a farmer, a pig and a cow.  Includes building idea sheet with ideas for 10 models.  Suggested retail price is $19.99. Available now.

KID K’NEX Build A Bunch Building Set ™
Encourage young minds and small hands with the new KID KNEX Build A Bunch Building Set. Includes 66 colorful, chunky KID K'NEX rods, connectors, blocks and special personality parts, like eyes and wheels -  that are easy for little hands to stack, snap and plug together!  Also includes a building idea sheet with ideas for 30 models - vehicles, bugs, animals, undersea creatures and more!  The easy-open packaging doubles as a handy storage case for easy clean-up and take-along fun! Works with all KID K’NEX® building sets. Suggested retail price is $19.99. Available Fall 2012.

The new KID K’NEX building sets are available on knex.com and at toy retailers nationwide.

“Celebrating our 20th year by sharing our new product line with the media and our valued retail partners is exciting,” said Michael Araten, President and CEO of K’NEX and The Rodon Group. “K’NEX is proud to be able to offer consumers high–quality toys at a reasonable cost–90% of which are made right here in the USA.”

Founded in 1992, K’NEX maintains its commitment to continued manufacturing in the United States. At a time when most toys are made overseas, K’NEX has become America’s Building Toy Company–&ndashover 90% of its parts are manufactured by its sister company, The Rodon Group. The Rodon Group has been in business since 1956, and is an eco-friendly manufacturing facility in Hatfield, PA that has manufactured over 30 billion parts for K’NEX over the past twenty years.

Products being shown in the K’NEX booth (#5279) at NY Toy Fair are developed for children ages 2–12 and include the highly anticipated Angry Birds®–licensed K’NEX building sets in addition to new product launches from K’NEX, KID K’NEX®, K’NEX Classics, Sesame Street®, NASCAR®, Monster Jam®, Tinker Toy®, and Mario Kart Wii®&ndash&licensed K’NEX building sets.

About The Rodon Group
The Rodon Group is an ISO 9001–2008 certified plastic injection molder. In business since 1956, the Rodon Group makes billions of parts each year in its 125,000 square foot facility. With over 106 injection molding presses, Rodon is one of the largest family-owned and operated injection molders in the United States. The Rodon Group serves a diverse group of industries including consumer products, medical, construction, pharmaceutical and toys. Since 1992, Rodon has manufactured over 30 billion parts for the K’NEX building toy system, and is a subsidiary of K’NEX Brands, L.P. For more information please visit www.rodongroup.com.

Every month on the 20th day, through December 2012, K’NEX will be giving away 20 products to 20 lucky fans! On the 1st weekday of every month a prize will be revealed and a new “mission” is assigned. Missions can be found on the K’NEX website: www.knex.com/20thanniversary/Mission20on20/ which directs participants how to find secret codes. Once a code is found, participants must return to the K’NEX site and enter the code. If correct, they are eligible to be entered for a chance to win a prize. On the 20th of each month, when the contest closes, 20 winners will be randomly chosen from those eligible entries.

March’s clue seekers will be vying for the 20 prizes, a Monster Jam Grave Digger 30th Anniversary Intro set, an approximate retail value of $8.99! 20 of February’s lucky clue seekers each won a NASCAR® #88 Prize pack, each comprised of a car, pit crew and transporter rig, an approximate retail value of $46.99.

“We love interacting with our fans,” said K’NEX President and CEO Michael Araten. “As K’NEX celebrates 20 years of being an American owned and operated company with the majority of our products manufactured in the United States, our focus continues to be on our fans, and the many fun ways we can give back to them for all the support they have given us.”

This contest is open to K’NEX fans ages 6 and up and participants can enter once per day. For more information and to enter visit www.knex.com/20thanniversary/Mission20on20/. For official rules visit www.knex.com/20thanniversary/Mission20on20/mission_rules.php. No purchase necessary.

“We’re proud to support the United Way again this year,” said Michael Araten, president of K’NEX Brands. “The positive feelings brought on by the recent holiday season remind us of the importance of gratitude and giving back. Raising funds for an organization like the United Way, which provides vital aid to those both around the world and around the corner, is important now more than ever.”

The partnership allows K’NEX to support the North Penn United Way’s goal of producing results in the areas of student success, keeping older adults living independently and as community connected as possible, and providing safety net services for residents in crisis. The funds raised will further the United Way’s mission to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities to advance the common good.

Consumers who wish to donate can do so simply by logging on to www.knex.com and purchase any K’NEX item. 10% of every completed sale made from February 1st–February 29th will be donated to the North Penn United Way. At checkout, consumers will be given the option of making an additional donation in the amount of $1, $5, $10 or $20 increments. Donations can also be made without the purchase of a product at http://www.knex.com/Shop/home.php?s=united-way.

About North Penn United Way
The North Penn United Way (NPUW) is a volunteer–driven organization that works to increase the financial resources for the community’s non&ndashprofit organizations. Founded in 1945 by the business community, the North Penn United Way improves people’s lives by mobilizing the caring power of donors, volunteers and communities. Through collaboration, programming and a tradition of leadership, United Way focuses on producing results in the areas of education, income, and health. The North Penn United Way is comprised of you, your neighbors, your friends, and your coworkers. The North Penn United Way is one of approximately 1,400 affiliated United Ways nationwide. Each United Way is independent, separately incorporated, and governed by local volunteers. Visit www.npuw.org for more information.

The relationship combines the award-winning K’NEX building system with beloved Angry Birds characters, bringing them from the smartphone to the construction aisle for the first time. With more than 600 million downloads, Angry Birds is the #1 mobile game worldwide and appeals to male and female audiences across multiple age ranges.

“Angry Birds Building Sets from K’NEX will bring Rovio’s popular and recognizable characters to life in a new way,” said Michael Araten, president of K’NEX Brands. “Children of all ages will have the opportunity to build the Angry Birds world they love right in their own home. And just like in the video game, the birds face off against the pigs! I am excited to see how fans will take their digital game skills and use them in the real world!”

While K’NEX will provide a sneak peek of the products at NY Toy Fair in February 2012, the K’NEX Angry Birds product line will not be widely available until Fall 2012. Building sets will include the most popular Angry Birds characters, buildable launchers and other recognizable elements from the game. Designed for children ages 5+, the building sets will bring the fun of the video game to life and expand its appeal through a rewarding, age-appropriate K’NEX building experience.

About Rovio
Rovio is an industry-changing entertainment media company based in Finland, and the creator of the globally successful Angry Birds franchise. Angry Birds, a casual puzzle game for touchscreen smartphones, became an international phenomenon within a year of release, and is now the number one paid app of all time. Following this success in mobile gaming, Angry Birds has expanded rapidly in entertainment, publishing, and licensing to become a beloved international brand. For more information, please visit www.rovio.com.

“I was very surprised by the visit! It’s not every day that Captain America & Super Girl show up at the office” said Michael Araten, president of K’NEX Brands. “Community is one of our core values, so K’NEX works with local organizations that provide support to our community. I am honored and humbled to have been recognized by the North Penn United Way.”

Mr. Araten, one of 20 “Super Heroes”, will be celebrated at the Pine Crest Country Club in Lansdale, PA during a “super-fun” special event to be held on the evening of April 20th. Nearly 300 community members and superheroes alike will join forces with a single goal in mind–to help all children in the North Penn and Indian Valley communities succeed in school. For more information on the Super Heroes Unite for Kids event, please log on to http://www.npuw.org/.

About North Penn United Way
The North Penn United Way (NPUW) is a volunteer–driven organization that works to increase the financial resources for the community’s non–profit organizations. Founded in 1945 by the business community, the North Penn United Way improves people’s lives by mobilizing the caring power of donors, volunteers and communities. Through collaboration, programming and a tradition of leadership, United Way focuses on producing results in the areas of education, income, and health. The North Penn United Way is comprised of you, your neighbors, your friends, and your coworkers. The North Penn United Way is one of approximately 1,400 affiliated United Ways nationwide. Each United Way is independent, separately incorporated, and governed by local volunteers. Visit www.npuw.org for more information.

Virtual Piggy’s system provides eCommerce merchants a secure mechanism for children to shop online in a parent controlled, parent monitored, COPPA compliant environment. Free for all parents, the Virtual Piggy service will allow parents to set pre–authorized approvals and limits for their child’s online spending. Kids will then be able to manage their online budgets and to buy products from approved companies like K’NEX by clicking on the Virtual Piggy icon at checkout. Parents can choose to receive e–mail or text messages allowing them to approve or deny purchases.

“K’NEX is the only building toy company making toys on a mass scale in America”, said Michael Araten, President and CEO of K’NEX. “We supply creative innovative construction toy kits to children of all ages from 2–16. We are excited to integrate Virtual Piggy’s secure parent–controlled payment solution to help ensure the safety and security of our online customers.”

The Virtual Piggy service is expected to be available on www.knex.com in early March.

About Virtual Piggy, Inc.
Virtual Piggy, Inc. delivers a technology platform designed for the management of the Under 18 age group in the global online market. The Virtual Piggy technology enables online businesses to function in a manner consistent with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (“COPPA”) and similar international children’s privacy laws. Virtual Piggy technology enables the Under 18 audience to play, transact and socialize in a secure online environment guided by parental permission, oversight and control.

Operation Big Build was a huge undertaking that took months of planning and a professional team of builders at the Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI), an organization committed to improving the lives of vulnerable and disadvantaged people, in Southeast England. The team, led by David Church, a long time K’NEX builder in the UK, spent over 1,000 hours building this gigantic project, and used approximately 226,000 K’NEX pieces to do it. The Grave Digger 30th Anniversary Big Build then set forth on its trans–Atlantic voyage on December 1, 2011 to arrive in San Antonio, TX, just in time for the Party in the Pits at the Alamodome on January 14th, 2012. Thousands of fans were there for the unveiling, and they couldn’t believe their eyes!

“We’re very excited to have partnered with Monster Jam on the 30th anniversary Grave Digger Big Build.” said K’NEX CEO & President, Michael Araten. “Building a life-size version entirely out of USA made K’NEX pieces seems like a perfect way to honor this American icon.”

Monster Jam and K’NEX fans can participate in the Grave Digger 30th Anniversary celebration by guessing the weight of the Grave Digger 30th Big Build and enter for a chance to win the Ultimate Monster Jam K’NEX prize pack. For more details log on to: www.MonsterJam.com/THEBIGBUILD for more information and rules.

About Feld Motor Sports®
Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is the world leader in specialized arena and stadium-based motor sports entertainment.  Feld Motor Sports, Inc. productions include Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam®, Monster Energy Supercross, AMA Arenacross Series, Freestyle Motocross, Nuclear Cowboyz® and IHRA® Nitro Jam®.  Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is a division of Feld Entertainment, the world’s largest producer of live family entertainment.  For more information on Feld Entertainment, visit www.feldentertainment.com.

About Royal British Legion Industries
RBLI is a Not–for–profit Charity that was established in 1919 to provide health and occupational support for troops returning from the Great War. RBLI continues to support veterans and their families, and in recent years the organization has developed its client base to include people with disabilities. A well–established Social Enterprise, RBLI offer a unique, bespoke service in activities such as fulfillment and assembly with a growing product portfolio that ranges from display toys to furniture. They also offer a specialist service in pallet and signs manufacture, mailing, print and distribution services. RBLI re–invests the successes made from commercial activities, to increase the number of beneficiaries it can support and develop charitable programs such as LifeWorks – an innovative guidance service for the Armed Forces Community, enabling them to build on their existing skills beyond the Armed Forces and achieve sustainable work. For more information about RBLI, visit www.rbli.co.uk, email enquiries@rbli.co.uk, or follow @RBLI on Twitter.

“We couldn’t be happier that WFMZ has decided to include K’NEX in their “Made Right Here” series,” said Michael Araten. President and CEO of K’NEX and The Rodon Group. “We are proud to manufacture in nearby Hatfield and honored to be included.”

The Made Right Here segment includes footage shot in Hatfield, Pennsylvania at both K’NEX and The Rodon Company’s headquarters this past fall.  WFMZ has profiled 12 local companies in their Made Right Here series since it began airing in 2009. Check out the www.knex.com homepage to watch the entire K’NEX Made Right Here segment.

Founded in 1992, K’NEX is pleased to celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2012 and maintains its commitment to continued manufacturing in the United States. At a time when most toys are made overseas, K’NEX has become America’s Building Toy Company--over 90% of its parts are manufactured by its sister company, The Rodon Group. The Rodon Group has been in business since 1956 and is an eco-friendly manufacturing facility in Hatfield, PA. that has manufactured over 30 billion parts for K’NEX.

About The Rodon Group
The Rodon Group is an ISO 9001-2008 certified plastic injection molder.  In business since 1956, the Rodon Group makes billions of parts each year in its 125,000 square foot facility.  With over 106 injection molding presses, Rodon is one of the largest family-owned and operated injection molders in the United States.  The Rodon Group serves a diverse group of industries including consumer products, medical, construction, pharmaceutical and toys.  Since 1992, Rodon has manufactured over 30 billion parts for the K’NEX building toy system, and is a subsidiary of K’NEX Brands, L.P.  For more information please visit www.rodongroup.com.

Based on our dynamic, open-ended, spatial building system, K'NEX Education provides manipulatives, ideas and lesson plans that promote student engagement in math, science, engineering and technology (STEM). Our new Energy, Motion & Aeronautics set helps students learn about these real-world concepts and principles and how they fit within the continually expanding field of engineering.

Energy, Motion & Aeronautics™
Three groups of students can simultaneously explore Newton's Laws, mechanical systems, projectile motion, airplane flight surfaces, aeronautic and aerospace training devices, parachute technology, optical illusions, and much more. Realistic and fun models include: Rocket Launcher, Centrifuge, Rubber Band Powered Dragster, Airplane and more. The comprehensive teacher's guide includes lesson plans, background information, teacher notes and re-producible worksheets and is aligned to state and national standards.

Energy, Motion & Aeronautics was developed in partnership with the NASTAR (National AeroSpace Training and Research) Center, a world-class aerospace training facility that provides state-of-the-art simulation equipment, training courseware, and professional services to support the training, research, and educational needs of the aerospace industry.

Suggested retail price for the new K’NEX® Education Energy Motion & Aeronautics™Set is $179.99 and it is available now at education retailers.

About NASTAR Center
The National AeroSpace Training And Research (NASTAR®) Center is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Environmental Tectonics Corporation (ETC®) (Pink Sheets: ETCC.PK). NASTAR Center is a state-of-the-art aerospace training, research, and educational facility dedicated in improving the health and safety of humans in extreme conditions. NASTAR Center serves military aviation (fixed and rotary wing), civil aviation (fixed and rotary wing), space travel (government and private) and provides research support for component and human factors testing. For more information, please visit www.nastarcenter.com

Every month on the 20th day, through December 2012, K’NEX will be giving away 20 products to 20 lucky fans! On the 1st weekday of every month a prize will be revealed and a new “mission” is assigned. Missions can be found on the K’NEX website: www.knex.com/20thanniversary/Mission20on20/ and direct participants how to find secret codes. Once a code is found, participants must return to the K’NEX site and enter the code. If correct, they are eligible to be entered for a chance to win a prize. On the 20th of each month, when the contest closes, 20 winners will be randomly chosen from those eligible entries.

January’s clue seekers will be vying for the 20 prizes, each comprised of: 2, Made in the USA, K’NEX Classics items: Strike Force Bomber™ and Rally Sport Racer Building™ Sets, a $25.98 approximate retail value!

“We love interacting with our fans,” said K’NEX President and CEO Michael Araten. “As K’NEX celebrates 20 years of being an American owned and operated company with product manufactured in the United States, our focus continues to be on our fans, and the many fun ways we can give back to them for all the support they have given us.”

This contest is open to K’NEX fans ages 6 and up and participants can enter once per day. For more information and to enter visit www.knex.com/20thanniversary/Mission20on20/. For official rules visit www.knex.com/20thanniversary/Mission20on20/mission_rules.php. No purchase necessary.

Entrants can enter once per day either through the K'NEX Facebook page (which links to the K’NEX 20th Anniversary Celebration page of the Knex.com website), or directly through KNEX.com.  Contestants must be 21 years or older to enter.  Transportation and accommodations not included. Please see official rules for details. [insert link to rules] 

“This is only the first of many exciting promotions we have planned for our 20th Anniversary,” said K’NEX President and CEO Michael Araten. “We are happy to give back to our K’NEX and Monster Jam fans who have shown such great support for us over the past few years.”

For more information, complete rules and to enter the sweepstakes visit [insert web page address].  No purchase necessary.

About Feld Motor Sports®
Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is the world leader in specialized arena and stadium-based motor sports entertainment.  Feld Motor Sports, Inc. productions include Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam®, Monster Energy Supercross, AMA Arenacross Series, Freestyle Motocross, Nuclear Cowboyz® and IHRA® Nitro Jam®.  Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is a division of Feld Entertainment, the world’s largest producer of live family entertainment.  For more information on Feld Entertainment, visit www.feldentertainment.com.

The new K’NEX Education Discover Control™ and K’NEX Computer Control™ Sets are specially designed for students in grades 2 through 8. Using the included software, control box and interface, students can build, program, and control fully-functioning K’NEX models. Key concepts include: linear thinking and programming, critical thinking and problem solving, optimization, testing, evaluating and modifying and much more.

Discover Control™
STEM concepts come to life as students build and control K’NEX models using the K’NEX Discover Control™ Box. Build 5 K’NEX models, one at a time. Models are fully functioning replicas of exciting real-world amusement park themed models and include Gateway, Spinning Carpet Ride, Double Ferris Wheel, Swing Ride and a Tramcar. Control box stores up to 64 actions and allows for multiple outputs (motors, LED’s, buzzer) to be controlled simultaneously. Compatible with interactive whiteboards and PC’s. Suggested retail price is $249.99. Recommended for grades 2-6.

K’NEX Computer Control™
This dynamic STEM set challenges students to build and control K'NEX models using the K'NEX Computer Control™ interface. Students write programs to control on-screen K'NEX models using the software included, then download into the interface's memory and use to operate student built K'NEX models. Build 5 K'NEX models, one at a time. Models are fully functioning replicas of real-world machines and include a Sliding Door, Elevator, Bascule Bridge, Oscillating Fan and Amusement Park Ride. Compatible with interactive whiteboards and PC’s. Suggested retail price is $449.99. recommended for grades 3-8.

Both K’NEX Education Controlled Sets are available January 2012 through education cataloguers.