Encyclopedia Dubuque
"Encyclopedia Dubuque is the online authority for all things Dubuque, written by the people who know the city best.”
Marshall Cohen—researcher and producer, CNN
Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
"SWAT-N-SCOOP"
"SWAT-N-SCOOP. Invented by Dubuque resident Scott Putnam, the invention is about the size of a standard fly swatter. The invention, however, contains a narrow ventilated "scoop" between the double-sided swatter. The device can be used like a fly swatter to kill the bug and scoop it up to throw it out. In addition, the scoop aspect of the invention can be used to scoop up a living insect to be then released outdoors.
In October, 2024, the "Swat-N-Scoop" was available at 700 retailers nationwide including local retailers like Theisen's and HARTIG DRUG COMPANY. Putnam expected increased sales after an appearance on the new Amazon Prime show "Buy It Now." Panelists on the program gave each of the contestants business advice.
Scott Putnam has also started Inventors Edge, a company dedicated to mentoring other inventors.
---
Source:
Strzalka, Konrad, "Father-Daughter Duo Pitch Invention in new Amazon Prime," Telegraph Herald, October 19, 2024, p. 2A