Creating a Buzzz -- even on rainy days

When Gail Gustave began telling her children bedtime stories, she never dreamed that simple gesture would lead to the creation of a multi-media enterprise that would ultimately impact families all over the country. The driving force behind this remarkable evolution was a clear mission: to combine fun and learning in a way that truly engaged toddler/pre-school audiences.

After several years of research and development Creative Buzz Industries LLC was launched in December, 2005. That's also the official "birthday" of Buzz E. Bee, the playful animated character who stars in a set of innovative DVDs called The Rainy Day Series. Each title in the series finds the energetic, unpredictable Buzz guiding young viewers through all sorts of adventures with everything from astronauts to zebras.

The Rainy Day Series DVDs combine animation with live action video content, shot and edited by broadcast industry professionals. Rhyming narration and original music add to the universal appeal of each story. Additionally, the DVDs include interactive elements to help engage young viewers more fully while bolstering learning and retention. For example, after viewing "The Rainy Day Zoo," a child can explore "Animal Facts" or click on "The Buzz Link" for (need info: what is Buzz Link).

At every turn, Buzz's irrepressible nature endears him everyone he meets. He's often fearless, sometimes awkward, but always mindful of other people's feelings and his own emerging sense of responsibility.

Gail first created Buzz for the amusement of her two young children. "The idea of this little wayward bee was an instant success with them, and so I just thought, why wouldn't other kids like to hear his story?"

Although Buzz has developed and grown significantly (much like her children) since Gail first came up with the idea, she was determined to retain the essence of those original bedtime stories. "From the very beginning, I have always imagined Buzz having those innocent, childlike qualities. He's sort of clumsy and a little naive about the world, but at the same time he can't wait to get out there and explore it." The bedtime stories evolved into a book, then a video, and finally The Rainy Day Series educational/entertainment DVDs.

The concept behind The Rainy Day Series is simple and embraces myriad possibilities. "Buzz takes children on learning adventures that might not be available to them for any number of reasons," explains Gail, "if, for example, on a particular day it's raining or too cold or if the location of the adventure is too far away." Each DVD in the series showcases an exciting site-specific journey to locations like a zoo, an art museum, a sporting event, even under the ocean and into outer space. Says Gail: "The idea isn't to replace these actual outings. Rather, these DVDs can be an option when it's just not practical to do the real thing. I want the DVDs to be an opportunity for kids to learn and have fun at the same time, and to help expand their world. I believe that's every parent's wish."

Taking The Rainy Day Series to the public prompted the launch Creative Buzz Industries LLC, the company Buzz E. Bee calls home. Today, Creative Buzz produces and markets a range of products including DVDs, toys, clothing and even cookies -- all bearing the endearing image of Buzz E. Bee. The complete product line can be viewed and purchased at www.creativebuzz.net.

The first DVD in The Rainy Day Series is titled "The Rainy Day Zoo." Currently in production are "The Rainy Day Art Museum" and "The Rainy Day Sports Adventure." Other titles will follow.

For more information contact 847-604-1230.

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