DIC Entertainment, the U.S. licensor for Madeline, and Penguin Putnam Books will commemorate the French schoolgirl’s 60th year as a publishing property by throwing 2,000 birthday parties at select kids retailers in the U.S. Starting in January 1999, all 38 stores in the FAO Schwarz chain will begin holding Madeline shindigs. Other retailers participating in the celebrations include Dayton’s, Hudson’s, Marshall Fields, Zany Brainy, Noodle Kidoodle, Learningsmith, the Museum Company and some bookstores yet to be announced. Each of these retailers will receive a party kit from DIC and Penguin containing instructions on how to organize the event, as well as Madeline premiums and signage. Party attendees are encouraged to bring presents for Madeline, which will be donated to Kids in Distressed Situations (K.I.D.S.), a national charity made up of retailers and manufacturers that’s committed to helping kids in need.