06/22/08: Bible Toys Shine Heavenly Hopes for East Aurora Economy

Original YNN Buffalo Air Date: 06/22/09
“What better stories to learn than the greatest stories ever told,” said one2believe owner David W. Socha
The North Tonawanda native shares gospel stories through his toy company one2believe. It’s a line of biblical action figures and stories that feature everyone from Jesus Christ to David and Goliath.
Socha also owns the Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Company and recently moved his shipping operation from the west coast to Western New York. Unlike many other area companies, he’s hiring!
He says more companies should consider setting up shop in smaller communities like the village of East Aurora where he says the quality of life and property values are very attractive.
“Moving back to the area, my wife and I looked at all the different possibilities. We looked at what was the best for family first, and then business second. East Aurora seemed to fit those very nicely,” added Socha
“The opportunity for new businesses to come and locate here take advantage of the investment that the state has already made is going to be very similar to what has taken place in Hamburg,” said East Aurora Mayor Clark Crook.
East Aurora lawmakers say the village has a long history of attracting businesses to Western New York. After all the Fisher Price toy company once set up shop here, along with Moog, Astronics and the Roy Croft Publishing House.
Officials say the Main Street construction project shows the village is transforming into a beacon for business.
Socha says the one2believe toys are made in China. The business development and some administrative studio work are handled out of LA. But the sales, marketing and creative production happens here in WNY.
“We ship all over the country, all over the world, from East Aurora,” he added.