For Kadon's 30th anniversary celebrated in 2010, Kate designed a special commemorative "30" puzzle by adding a reversible tray to the back of Poly-5, with a special arrangement of the pieces surrounding the number 30. Since 30th anniversaries are traditionally pearl, the frame and "30" were done in a pearlized acrylic:
This limited edition is sold out. You can still custom-order it for special occasions of your own, for $45. To reach the order page, simply click on the picture above.
Kadon's 30th Anniversary party was held on May 8, 2010, at Kadon headquarters, attended by most of our helpers, crew, staff and shareholders. For the occasion, we set up an exhibit in the large mirrored ballroom of most of the products Kadon has created since 1979.
Photo by Richard Jones
Others were displayed elsewhere throughout the building. These playable-art pieces, from the smallest to the largest, greet people at the entry:
Photo by Manuel Garcia
Thomas Atkinson in kilt poses with some of the puzzles and games his laser skills have produced. Note the bare feet—Kadon is a no-shoes venue. The strange cart in the corner is from a Coney Island ride.
Photo by Richard Jones
The president, Kate Jones, thanked the gathering for their fantastic support through the years and presented, amidst much merriment, a copy of the 2009 Annual Report, giving the historical totals of all the products and the chronological list of their introduction. A summary "Bottom Line" page traced how the company has grown over the three decades, and how the last two years have, indeed, been depressed by the general economy and by the unfortunate bad weather that reduced attendance at the major sources of sales: art shows and the Maryland Renaissance Festival. But our spirits are undaunted, and all look forward to prevailing for the next 30 years.
Photo by Manuel Garcia
For this 30-year milestone, the company awarded the shareholders 30 shares each of Kadon stock. The president is about to hand them to the individuals present.
Photo by Richard Jones
A special cake decorated with rainbow balloons and a cut-out of the Kadon logo topped off a delicious meal catered by Ayubi's Afghan restaurant of Glen Burnie, MD.
Photo by Manuel Garcia
After dinner, the guests relaxed in the various spacious rooms. Our friend Armin, below, always reserves the big round chair for his nap. The hand-built Christmas tree has stayed up for three years now.
Photo by Manuel Garcia
Guests also received large souvenir mugs decorated with the Kadon "W" logo formed with various different gamepuzzles sets. Here's a sampling:
Photo by Manuel Garcia
The party went on long past midnight, and on this day, at least, our mug of happiness ran over. Next stop: the 35th anniversary in 2015.
