Hall Of Fame
2009
John Naisbitt
John started out in the toy industry in 1974 helping his mother Jane, who was opening Thinker Things in the fall. He helped build fixtures and put up shelving, etc. He has worked for Thinker Things (his mom) ever since. He is now president and majority stock holder, but mom is still boss. The most valuable lesson learned in their 34 year family business is ……when mama’s not happy, nobody’s happy.
Date of Retirement: Still Active
Hall M. Simons
Hall began his toy career in October 1946 as a salesman for Miseller Co; June 1953 founded Hall Simons Associates. In February 1969 expanded to 13 western states and changed the name to S&F Assoc. From 1974-1981 opened branch offices in Seattle, Salt Lake City, Denver and Tustin. In February 1981 he sold the California facility to Coleco. In 1981 started manufacturing Cabbage Patch dolls. In 1986 retired from Coleco and started work as a freelance toy consultant. And from 1986-2001 established an international distribution for Intex worldwide.
Date of Retirement: February 2001
Bob Soriano
Originally Bob was a 5th grade school teacher. He went to work as a sales rep for Tonka Trucks in 1973; District Sales Manager at Matchbox; National Sales Manager/VP of Sales at Kusan; Publisher at Playthings Magazine, where he directed the largest edition in February, 2000; VP Sales at Hope Ind. His last two positions: National Sales Manager for Safari and Enchantmints. He has attended the WTHRA show for 27 years.
Date of Retirement: Still Active as of 2009
King K. Tanaka
King initially was a toy rep for Reeves International in NY for a short time, then moved his career to the San Francisco area in 1969. He started the Charm Company importing plush, stuffed animals in 1969. He received a letter from Governor Pete Wilson dated July 1, 1996, congratulating him on founding his successful business 18 years ago. He sold the business in 1996.
Date of Retirement: June 1996
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