Slinky: low-tech, high fun

Let us all take a moment to remember the woman who gave the name to Slinky, one of the great all-time toys. Betty James, who died last week at the age of 90, found the word in the dictionary in 1943 and used it to describe the springy device her husband, Richard, invented. She also saved the company after Richard left the family in 1960 to join a religious cult.

There's hardly a baby boomer who didn't play with the toy that magically seemed able to "walk" by constantly shifting its weight through the spring. In a simpler time, it provided hours of fun.

And you can still get one for your children (or grandchildren, or yourself). The original Slinky now sells for about $3.50. No Wi-Fi, batteries or extension cords are required. 

-- David Colker

Photo: Betty James with the toy she named. Credit: J.D. Cavrich / Associated Press