Latest news with #Schylling
Boston Globe
16-05-2025
- Business
- Boston Globe
At Cambridge toy store, Markey blasts Trump for ‘toying with our economy' with tariffs.
Advertisement Senator Ed Markey celebrates Henry Bear's Park's newest storefront after discussing the impacts of tariffs on small businesses May 16. Maren Halpin Last month, the Trump administration Get Starting Point A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday. Enter Email Sign Up 'It requires some very real, hard decisions to be made,' he said. 'Do we pass the costs onto our customers? If we do, how will that impact access to learning resources for families?' Advertisement Under even the 30 percent tariff, many classic toys could see substantial price increases, said Meghann Ellis, chief financial officer of North Andover-based toy manufacturer Schylling Inc. While the company designs their products here, they are manufactured in China, much like 80 percent of all toys in the United States, she said. The tariffs mean that a jack-in-the-box that today costs $25, for example, will jump to $32, while a $35 tea set rises to $45, said Ellis, holding up her company's products that are sold in the Cambridge store. Last week, And the economic consequences could go well beyond kids having fewer toys. Half of toy stores in the United States, the majority of which are small businesses, fear they will be forced to close in the coming months, Schylling has been forced to temporarily pause manufacturing and shipping, reduce staff, and raise prices to remain in business with the flexibility to handle more unexpected changes to international trade, said Ellis. They have 'cautiously restarted' manufacturing, she said, but more questions than answers remain. Local business owners, including Henry Bear Park owner Kas Sharma and CFO of toy manufacturer Schylling Inc. Meghann Ellis, join Senator Ed Markey to discuss the impact of economic uncertainty on small businesses. Maren Halpin 'Which items should we make now, and which should we wait to see if the tariffs decrease? What if they increase? Should we ship as much as possible in the next 90 days? What prices should we charge our customers if we don't know how much something will ultimately cost?' Ellis said. 'This uncertainty not only makes it impossible to plan, it's bad for business.' Advertisement Standing amid the store's brightly colored shelves filled with science kits, stuffed animals, and dolls, Markey announced he will be working next week to enact legislation on the Senate floor to exempt all small businesses from Trump's tariffs, he said, 'freeing small business from the cloud of uncertainty hanging over their head.' 'Right now, Trump's tariffs are turning 'Main Street' into 'Pain Street' for small businesses,' said Markey. Maren Halpin can be reached at
Buzz Feed
15-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
26 Gifts From Amazon Our Readers Are Loving In 2025 So Far
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page. From birthdays and thank-yous, to "just because" and "treat yourself" — we've got you covered. 1. Murdle, Volume 1, a book packed with brain-teasing, murder mystery–themed logic puzzles that'll have them feeling like the main character in a cozy detective series. They'll gather the clues, use their big brain, and solve each case like the sleuth they were born to be. Sorry, Sherlock — there's a new detective in town. There are 100 puzzles total, and four different levels of difficulty to tackle —each puzzle features a logic grid to help them solve it! Promising review: "The puzzles are a lot of fun, but the characters, storylines, and other details take the Murdle experience to another level. I have no idea how the author came up with all of this creativity! You can Murdle solo or with friends. I look forward to future volumes, but this one will keep me busy for a while!" — Liz Gately Price: $10.25 If you want to help them keep the fun going, you can *also* get them Murdle: Volume 2 and Murdle: Volume 3 for more puzzling. 2. A set of pastel glitter highlighters that likely just stopped you mid-scroll because…how dare something be this cute. If they're the type who loves to zhuzh up their planner, annotate their latest book club pick, or make their journal entries sparkle (literally), these subtle, shimmery shades are here to serve. Go ahead, help them make their margins ✨fabulous✨. Promising review:"These are amazing!!! Beautiful colors and the sparkle/shimmer is more than I imagined it would be. Mr. Pen did it again! If you don't have these pens, you need to get them!! Great addition to my journaling supplies!" — FBJH12 3. A NeeDoh "Dream Drop," aka the latest must-squish from the fidget toy hall of fame. This gooey little gem is designed to help them chill out, refocus, and live their best life — one satisfying squish at a time. Bonus: it's got that perfect slow-rise feel *without* the weird stickiness that turns their desk dust into a permanent accessory. Consider their zen restored. Schylling is a small business that specializes in modern and retro toys, games, and sets. Promising review: "Great, and I love that it has a tray to sit on. I love how firm this is to squeeze, and the slow release is really relaxing. The included dish is a great touch — it keeps it clean and gives it a dedicated spot to rest." — AZMOM Price: $6.75 (the color is either blue, pink, or purple and gets selected for you at random) Check out the rest of the Needoh fidget toy options on their Amazon storefront! 4. Pocket World, a stress-relief coloring book that's basically like stepping inside a tiny, cozy dreamland — minus the plane ticket. Think Polly Pocket vibes, but make it grown-up, with pages of whimsical little worlds just waiting for them to bring it to life. One minute they're shading a fairy garden, the next they're adding pastel tones to the cutest hygge living room they've ever seen. Instant serotonin, no assembly required. Promising review:"One of my favorites ever!!! The idea is perfect, and the pages are all unique and fun to color, with no repetition, and the details aren't too tiny. Great if you're coloring for stress relief. (I hate the pages that are just tiny patterns repeated endlessly. Makes me more stressed.)" — Ezra Johnson 5. A luxe Lulu Candle for that friend who treats the TJ Maxx candle aisle like a sacred ritual. Made with vegan soy wax and a 100% cotton wick, it's giving major 'I have my life together' energy — plus, it smells incredible. Gift it, light it, vibe. Amazon Lulu Candles is a small biz that makes all of their delicious scents right in the USA. Promising reviews: "These candles are AMAZING. It smells like home, and comfort, and coziness. Even after burning, the scent is still noticeable. I got this as a gift because I am a coffee lover. ☕️ Highly recommend." — Cynthia Tefft "I've purchased more than five of these in two months: five palo santo, a lavender one, and the rose sandalwood. The appearance is elegant and chic, perfect for gifting, and the throw is amazing — even when unlit. The actual scents are sublime. Highly recommend, which is why three of the palo santo candle are gifts for others." — Niquey 6. An "Everyday Mindfulness"-themed word search book that's basically the chillest way to give their brain a little workout. The puzzles are just tricky enough to keep them focused but not so hard they end up rage-quitting. All they need to do is grab a cup of tea, get cozy, and zone out (in the best way possible) as they hunt for words like breathe and serenity. Self-care, but make it a vibe. Amazon, Promising review: "This is exactly what I was looking for! It lays flat to easily complete the word search and not have to fight with the book. There are different types of puzzles, and some have extra secret searches! It's great for the slow days at work!! I will definitely be buying more of these word searches!" — Roy H Hahn Price: $11.68 7. A"Gracula" garlic crusher because who better to help them pulverize garlic than a tiny vampire with a sense of humor? Turns out, the Count is more than happy to lend a hand in the kitchen (ironic, we know). Just twist, crush, and boom — freshly minced garlic in seconds. Dracula could never. Promising review: "I love this little guy. I found him on a BuzzFeed list and had to have it as soon as I saw it! I've minced as many as five cloves in it in seconds. It's a little tricky getting all of the garlic out once minced (I use a silicone basting brush to get most of it, but I always use more than the recipe calls for anyway, so it's not a dealbreaker). Cleanup is a breeze because he goes right in the dishwasher!" — Barbie 8. A keepsake statue kit you can give as a DIY love note…but, like, in 3D. Grab your partner, hold hands (literally), and create a super sweet, ultra-sentimental sculpture that'll have them lovin' you ~hand over fist~. This kit includes a plastic molding bucket, molding powder, a casting stone, fine sandpaper, course sandpaper, a demolding stick, detailing pin, and detailed instructions. Promising review:"I bought several of these as gifts for my family. We helped my mom and dad do theirs tonight and it turned out better than we could have ever hoped for! The detail this cast gives is amazing. We were all really stunned at how lifelike it looks and how even the smallest details were captured. I cannot wait to do this with my husband! The directions were very easy and simple to follow. I don't think we could have messed this up. I highly recommend this keepsake! My mom said it was the best present she has ever received." — Rachel Hukill 9. A compact Shiatsu massager because what's a better gift than a portable spa day??? Neck? Back? Legs? It's got them covered with deep, satisfying kneads to work out all those 'I've been sitting weird' aches. And yes, there's a heat setting, because obviously we're going all in on the relaxation. Promising review:"Incredible. I use it every night. Warning: I def used it longer than the 20 minutes recommended on my first night. It has auto-shut-off, but I just hit it again (and again). No issue in overheating. It was a great massage everywhere. The warning is I was sore the next day! Good sore, but really, really sore. So, when you buy it, keep that in mind. Slow start will benefit you in the long run. ENJOY! I love the product so much that I sent it to my sister, my colleague, and a few other work friends as gifts. They said it's the best gift EVER." — MH 10. A mini Bob Ross paint-by-numbers kit for the friend who fully embraces their "happy accidents" era. This teeny-tiny set has everything they need to create three adorable little masterpieces and channel some serious chill Bob Ross energy while they're at it. All they need to add are good vibes and maybe a snack. Amazon, The kit comes with three different numbered canvas designs, seven paint pots, a mini brush, and an easel. Promising review: "I have to admit I was skeptical because of the price and size. However, I got these for my husband for his birthday (he loves Bob Ross), and what a find!! We had so much fun mixing colors and painting. Would definitely recommend. The fact that they are small makes them even more special. I wish there were more to paint!" — slb m Price: $6.80 11. An AirFly Pro wireless transmitter here for anyone who refuses to let a little thing like being on a plane get in the way of marathon-watching their fave shows. Just plug it in, sync up your Bluetooth headphones, and stream from 30,000 feet like the legend you are. Flight delays? Couldn't be bothered. It also comes with a USB-C charging cable, travel pouch, keychain holder, quick-start guide, and a manual. Twelve South is a small business that has been creating innovative tech accessories since 2009. BuzzFeed editor Chelsea Stuart has this gadget and is a fan: " Last year, I splurged on some AirPod Maxes, and for the amount of money I threw down on them, I was determined to get as much use out of them as possible, and that included on plane rides. With the AirFly Pro, I can connect my headphones via Bluetooth and use the seat-back screen without having to fiddle with the free wired headphones they hand out that 1.) have horrible sound quality and 2.) don't fit my ears in the slightest (I swear my ear canals are tiny or something??)." 12. Sol de Janeiro hair and body fragrance mist for the person who's already ride-or-die for their Brazilian Bum Bum Cream and won't rest until they smell like a tropical daydream at all times. One spritz = instant vacation mode. Go ahead, bottle up that sunshine. Promising review:"If you're searching for a fragrance that captures the essence of summer and leaves you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, look no further. It's a must-have addition to any beauty routine and a delightful treat for the senses." — Sonny 13. Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, the chaotic, laugh-out-loud card game that'll finally give their group a break from the same old NSFW party decks. Easy to learn, safe for literally everyone, and guaranteed to get weird in the best way. Bonus points if they manage to say the name without messing it up mid-game. Amazon Recommended for ages 8+. As soon as there is a match between a card and a spoken word, they race against their component to slap their hand on the central pile of cards. The last one to do so must take them all. They need to be quick to be the first to get rid of all their cards. Promising review:"This game is more mind-bending than you think. Don't let the cuteness fool you. This game is by far the most competitive and fun party game to play with friends!! The special cards mess with your mind! Pros: hours of fun, cute drawing style, unique packaging, easy to play. Cons: may result in red hands and strain of voice from intense playing" — Hani Price: $9.84 And if their household already has this game, consider Moose Match Mayhem, a fun, family-friendly matching card game from the makers of Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza. 14. A sinfully silky satin-lined beanie that keeps their head warm and their hair looking like they didn't just wrestle with a static-filled wool cap. No more awkwardly leaving their hat on indoors to hide the chaos underneath — this beauty protects their strands while keeping them cozy. 15. A copy of The Book of Myself: A Do-It-Yourself Autobiography in 201 Questions — a guided journal packed with 201 thoughtful prompts to help them document their life story, from the little moments to the big milestones. It's basically like giving future them the ultimate keepsake of memories, reflections, and everything that makes them them. Time to get nostalgic. Hachette Books Promising review:" This is a great gift to give to someone that is retiring and has the time to reflect on their life. Excellent questions that search the memory for an answer. I think that the children would appreciate the gift of understanding their parents' previous life. The only downside is that you have to be careful not to write too much. Practice writing on a sheet of paper and see how that would fit the question page. That's the only advice I would give. Overall, the quality was good, and I'm glad I got the hardcover for this retiree." — sirduluth Price: $16.50 16. A simple paper clip necklace here to prove minimal can still be major. It's the effortless upgrade their everyday outfits didn't know they needed — suddenly, their plain white tee and jeans combo? Yeah, it's serving. Promising review:"This is a substantial-looking piece of jewelry. It looks quite expensive. I truly do not care about that. I was attracted to the necklace because it had a quirky look that I had not seen before. I like quirky and unusual. I have received compliments on it every time I have worn it." — Kathryn Franklin 17. A shaved sheep plushie giving the gift of two cute friends in one. Keep it cozy in its fuzzy little jacket, or unzip it to reveal a freshly sheared, smiling sheep underneath. It's soft, silly, and frankly, an emotional support animal in plushie form. BRB, getting myself a whole family. 18. The Book of Unusual Knowledge — 704 pages of weird, wonderful facts and trivia for the person in your life who treats Wikipedia rabbit holes like a competitive sport. With articles, anecdotes, lists, and games, it's basically a playground for anyone who loves knowing random stuff. Promising review:"We gave The Book of Unusual Knowledge to my husband, and it was an instant hit! This book is packed with fascinating facts, quirky trivia, and unexpected information that keeps him entertained for hours. It's a perfect gift for anyone who loves to learn random, offbeat facts. The hardcover edition is beautifully made, making it not only informative but also a great addition to any bookshelf. Highly recommend for a fun, thought-provoking gift!" — Rducan2727 19. A screaming goat figurine for the chaos agent in your life who thrives on keeping the vibes…unpredictable. They just have to give it a click anytime their workday drags, and boom—a tiny goat scream to jolt them back to reality. Annoying? Maybe. Hilarious? Absolutely. Amazon It also comes with a teeny tiny book any goat-lover will appreciate. Promising review:"This little piece of screaming plastic has created an excellent outlet for resolving frustrations in our home. Every time a conflict or struggle arises, we push the little goat, get a gratifying screech, chuckle, and move on throughout our day. No regrets on purchasing this. When you get one, get four or five because you're going to want to share with family and friends." — Ashley Price: $7.96 20. A fan-fave Laneige lip mask packed with vitamin C, coconut oil, and shea butter to help their lips live their softest, glossiest, most hydrated life. It's one of those rare splurges that actually deserves the hype. Consider this their ticket to pillow-soft lips, 24/7. Amazon BTW, some people use it as a daily lip balm or lip protectant over their lipstick too! Laneige is an Asian-owned brand that has been in the beauty game for years. (Seriously, since the '90s!) The luxury brand prides itself on being affordable, too, and has many fan-favorite products because of it. Promising reviews: " I'd have a hard time pulling the trigger on this for the cost, but when you have seasonally dry lip irritation you can't escape, you get desperate. I finally decided to splurge, glad I did! A little goes a long way, so it should last a good while, and I never had a quicker turnaround on fixing dry lips. My kids are now asking for it, definitely worth the splurge." — Michelle 21. A set of affordable lavender shower steamers to turn their nightly rinse into a full-on relaxation ritual. They just need to pop one in the shower, let the soothing scent work its magic, and suddenly, they're washing off the chaos of the day. Officially entering chill mode. Read more about aromatherapy and stress and tension at Johns Hopkins. Promising review: "Hubby bought these for me because I work full time and just decided to go back to school full time, and he figured I'd be a little stressed, haha. They all smell wonderful, they work great, they'll definitely help me calm down, especially during exam time at school or budget season at work." — Tyleena Gloeker Price: a set of six for $12.99 (available in three styles) 22. A buildable Lego cherry blossom that's part cute decor, part satisfying project, and 100% guaranteed to brighten someone's day. Whether adding a little whimsy to their desk or surprising your favorite Lego lover with a cheerful pick-me-up, this tiny bouquet is proof that flowers (and plastic bricks) make everything better. 23. A Walk in the Wood: Meditations on Mindfulness with a Bear Named Pooh — the gentle reminder we all need to slow down, stay present, and lead with kindness (just like our favorite honey-loving icon). It's sweet, simple, and honestly? If this book doesn't make them tear up at least once, I don't know what will. Disney Editions Promising review:"I thought this looked intriguing; I love Winnie the Pooh and am a newcomer to the practice of mindfulness. This book is an absolute joy! I will be gifting this to everyone I can think of because, at the heart of it, it's about peace of mind and kindness. The short practices are easy to put into use every morning. What's even better is that when I'm reading it, I once again feel some of the happiest moments I had as a child. I've been starting every morning with a couple of pages to get my day moving in the right direction. What an interesting combination of playfulness, joy, and mindful awareness! The illustrations are also stunning. This is a precious gift! Many thanks to Dr. Parent for this beautiful book!" — D. Leon 24. The Saem Iceland Hydrating Eye Stick — a swipe-and-go cooling stick made with real Icelandic glacial water to help de-puff those tired under-eyes. It's like an instant wake-up call for their honestly, it just feels ridiculously refreshing. Tell them to keep it in their bag and thank you later!! 25. A set of 2-in-1 magnetic rechargeable hand warmers non-negotiable if they're trying to survive cold weather without turning into an icicle. They can pop them in their pockets for that full-body, roasty-toasty warmth we all crave. Oh, and they double as chargers for their phone because, of course, they do. Functional and fabulous. Promising review: "These are amazing! I use them when I volunteer at the outdoor food bank, and they keep my hands nice and toasty. I keep them in my coat pocket, and they warm me right up! They are easy to charge and easy to use!" — Karen 26. An interactive Fingerlings baby monkey so outrageously adorable, don't be surprised if it starts family fights over cuddle time. This tiny sidekick responds to their touch, loves being fed and petted, and even has a little glowing heartbeat when it's perched on a finger. Basically, it's the pocket-sized BFF they never knew they needed.
