One brisk winter day in New York City, I was standing in a toy closet looking for a specific product. I was so amused and giddy that I was even inside something called a “toy closet,” filled with endless products that looked familiar and those I had yet to learn about.
My task? I was looking for a Slinky to create an Instagram post. An eager intern wanting to impress, I searched high and low through overflowing shelves filled with toys and games categorized by company. Eventually, my surrender outweighed my stubbornness and I turned to the closest person nearby to ask who the heck makes the Slinky.
“Alex Toys,” Marissa Silva replied without skipping a beat. “Don’t worry, soon you’ll learn what company makes every single toy in here.”
And since that day in 2014, that wholeheartedly came true (and, of course, I know that Just Play makes Slinkies now). In fact, I didn’t stop learning — and it wasn’t long before I fell in love with the magic of the toy industry.
I learned how to report in the toy and licensing industries, have a sharp editing eye, spot toy trends, play with toys on TV, and so much more. I learned how to achieve my goals, reach for the stars, and surprise myself with how much I am capable of — both personally and professionally. And none of that would have been possible without the love and guidance from every single person on the Adventure Media & Events staff. Thank you to:
- Laurie Schacht, our heroic leader who has always believed in me and taught me that there’s always a way to make something happen;
- Jackie Breyer, who took a chance on me and taught me that you can be a boss and lead with compassion;
- Marissa Silva, who has taught me to be fearless when I set my eyes on a goal and not lose sight of it;
- Ali Mierzejewski, who has taught me to stand up for myself and my beliefs;
- Charlene DeLoach, who has kept me sane more times than I can count and has taught me to be confident in my decision-making;
- Jackie Cucco, who has taught me that it’s OK to be bold;
- Madeleine Buckley, who has taught me to strive to always be a better version of myself;
- JD Yoda Shark, who has taught me more life lessons through jokes that I will always remember;
- Joe Ibraham, who has taught me that it’s important to be kind, no matter what;
- Bill Reese, who has taught me to acknowledge my self-worth;
- Nicole Savas, who has taught me that a little humor goes a long way;
- Hannah Sacks, who has taught me that teamwork does make the dream work;
- Annabelle Canela and Elena Sorce, who have taught me that you don’t have to know someone for long before creating a meaningful friendship;
- Stephanie Infantino, who has taught me to always look on the bright side;
- and Lori Rubin, who is the office cheerleader and taught me how to stick to my guns.
And, of course, to my successor James Zahn (and the deputy to my sheriff): I could have not asked for a more passionate person to take over the Toy Book. My heartfelt congratulations on your new role, and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I would not be where I am today without the support and inspiration from every single member of this team. Everyone needs such people in life, and I am so fortunate to have found mine so early in my career. I will always cherish the memories we have made.
Thank you to all of my friends who I have made along the way — and for everyone who has helped build the Toy Book into what it is today. It has been an honor to lead this magazine these past four years and I am looking forward to everyone’s bright future ahead.
Play on,
Maddie Michalik
