News

Have you heard of Oompa? If you haven’t—you will soon. The child-friendly store opened in Middleton November 1, and it is, simply put, awesome.
Owner Milanie Cleere’s motto: “No batteries. No blinking lights. No cartoon-themed toys. Period.”
The store specializes in European children’s toys and room decor. Check out adorable all-natural wool stuffed animals, beautiful artwork, wooden toys and room décor, all for an uber-fashionable Junior. Heck, I don’t even have a child and I coveted many of the items because they were so beautiful.
Cleere founded Oompa.com in 2004 and she’d been running the business in L.A. After visiting a vendor in the Madison area a few years ago, Cleere and her husband fell in love with the area and moved here a year ago to open Oompa’s first storefront.
More on Oompa soon…
Oompa, 1970 Cayuga St., Middleton. oompa.com

Toys!

Barbie was my favorite toy growing up. I know—surprise, surprise. I still like fashion today, and I think I have credit Barbie for that with all of her interchangeable outfits! Mattel, maker of Barbie, is opening a brand-new Mattel Toy Store in Middleton on Monday, November 19. This is Mattel’s seventh toy store (the rest are located in California or Texas).
On Mattel’s website, you can print out some great coupons to start saving on holiday shopping. Since Mattel makes the brands Hot Wheels, Barbie, Matchbox, Tyco and Fisher-Price, you can start stocking up on presents for your favorite little boy or girl.

The Mattel Toy Store, 8400 Fairway Place, Middleton. 836-7200. matteltoystore