USA TODAY Shares “Eureka” Moments

In early April, I wrote an article urging readers to monitor Monday editions of USA TODAY as they began a series of articles of “Commemorative Top 25 Lists” to celebrate their 25th Anniversary. You can find their full-page specials in the paper or online every week from now until September. Thus far, they’ve been very informative and entertaining.

I find their content to be terrific material for discussions between parents and their children and/or grandchildren. For instance, this week the full-page coverage focused on “25 Years of ‘Eureka’ Moments.” They point out that we’re a nation of inventors from neighborhood garages to corporate labs, creating gadgets and services that have changed the world. Some delight us and some drive us crazy, but they’re all very memorable. USA TODAY chose some of the most unique inventions that have surfaced since their arrival on the scene in 1982. Below you’ll find a list of those distinctive choices, but I suggest you visit the USA TODAY web site for a more descriptive explanation of each. This particular article is excellent research material for teachers as well. It’s really interesting to see all 25 on a single page as you suddenly realize how things have really changed in such a short span of time. Check it out yourself and continue monitoring this very informative series each Monday. They’re doing a great job.

Cellphones
Laptop Computers
BlackBerrys
Debit Cards
Caller ID
DVDs
Lithium Rechargeable Batteries
iPods
Pay at the Pump
Lettuce in a Bag
Digital Cameras
Doppler Radar
Flat-panel TVs
Electronic Tolls
PowerPoint
Microwavable Popcorn
High-tech Footwear
Online Stock Trading
Big Bertha Golf Clubs
Disposable Contacts
StairMaster
TiVo
Purell (hand santizer)
Home Satellite TV
Karaoke

Harry K. Jones is a motivational speaker and consultant for AchieveMax®, Inc., a company of motivational speakers who provide custom-designed seminars, keynote presentations, and consulting services.