"We all know you can spend big bucks for a digital camera. We also know many folks don't have money to burn when gas is three bucks a gallon. Fortunately there many cameras from the top companies that do a good job and don't break the bank.And please don't even think about going really cheap with digicams from folks like Vivitar or GE --they're awful. Canon's A series is aimed for buyers who don't want to spend a lot yet want decent quality.The A series has models ranging from the hundred-dollar 5-megapixel A460 up to $399 USD for the 12MP A650 IS.The $249 USD A720 IS tested here is an 8-megapixel model with a potent 6x zoom and a 2.5-inch LCD screen.The camera also has the much preferred optical image stabilization to help eliminate blur in low-light situations."I am not particularly psyched by the look of this camera.I think that Canon's sleek body design (e.g.: SD 870 IS) is much more convenient that and A series'.And while the price point is pretty nice, at $225, it looks like most reviewers including this one are firmly in the this-is-a-solid-but-not-a-great-camera camp (yeah, big name for a camp, no? ) .

Handheld Material Analyzer utilizes x-ray fluorescence.

Niton XL3t can analyze alloy grades in less than 2 sec. Device features waterproof, dustproof construction and rugged housing along with 50 kV x-ray tube. Niton Data Transfer software allows users to produce certificates and reports, monitor or operate instrument remotely from PC or PDA, and document test results. Product can be equipped with small-spot sample analysis for switching between full area analysis for large samples and 3 mm small-spot for small sample areas.

Related categories: Sensors, Monitors and Transducers | Test and Measuring Instruments .

Community Calendar: Christkindl market in Canton, fish-fry in Stow, Farmhouse supper at Hale Farm & Village etc.

To have an event listed, send a fax to 330-376-9235 or an e-mail to newsroomemail@thebeaconjournal .com at least a week in advance.

TODAY Christkindl Markt — 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. today and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, the Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N., Canton. Premier fine arts and fine crafts show. $6. 330-453-7666. Waiting for the Motivation Fairy? Self-Management Skills Program — 11 a.m. to noon today, Simmons Hall 306, College Street and Buchtel Avenue, University of Akron. Free. Akron Press Club and American Association of University Women-Akron Branch — 11:45 a.m. today, Martin University Center, 105 Fir Hill, University of Akron. Eric D. Fingerhut, chancellor of Ohio Board of Regents, will speak about the Ohio university system. $10 for Press Club members, $15 for others.

Treats for under the tree

BLOOMINGTON -- Nothing is more nerve-racking during the holidays than deciding what to get the person on your list who loves the outdoors.That's especially true if you don't share their passion for fishing, hunting, hiking, cycling or whatever hobby or pastime they do.Where to start? A complete list of gift ideas could be as long as a Bass Pro catalog. But here are a few ideas to bring smiles on Christmas morning;For anyoneDon't spend a lot of money to give someone a gift that could prove invaluable. How's $8 sound for a 4 Function Sport Tool that includes a compass, thermometer, magnifying glass and loud safety whistle? It comes in a compact, lightweight package suspended by a lanyard. A perfect stocking-stuffer for anyone, including kayakers, and it floats.Swiss Army Knives make terrific presents.